REDCOAT #16: Old Friends.

Simon has it all: his family, a stable job, and his old friend Einstein is even back! However, Albert does not come with good tidings but with news of the return of none other than Benedict Arnold. They thought he was buried at the bottom of the ocean, and the return of his old friend Benedict could threaten Simon’s perfect life.

Creative Team: Geoff Johns and Bryan Hitch (CREATORS), Bryan Hitch (INKS and COVER), Brad Anderson (COLORS and COVER), Andrew Currie (INKS), and Rob Leigh (LETTERS).

*SPOILERS AHEAD*

The Story:

We have known Simon to always be selfish and uncaring; this particular issue brings out something for the first time, and that is a sense of fear within Simon. He cannot die, and he has always acted in his best interests. Bryan and Geoff have given Simon something to live for now, and with Benedict’s return, there is a true sense of fear felt. Benedict comes offering an olive branch and promising that the past is forgiven. However, with the help of Rob’s lettering, there is something that just does not sit well with his words. Having spent time with Albert and Simon’s family at breakfast, it raises the stakes immensely.

The Art and Letters:

There are a lot of subtle details in the artwork, such as the shot overlooking the city with the bridge in the foreground. It allows our imagination to wander about what life is like for everyone. There are more fun details, such as seeing Albert as an older adult now with his hair and mustache. It is slowly inching towards the Einstein we know in the history books while showing him in his prime and developing his character more. The conversation between Benedict and Simon instills fear and unease within us due to Rob’slettering that gives voice to Benedict in a cunning and untrustworthy way. The art continues to nail the historical elements and bring in new details, such as Simon sporting a beard or the backdrop showing the slow changing in time as we continue our adventures.

Final Thoughts:

Redcoat #16 raises the stakes for Simon. Up until now, we have followed him on a selfish journey, which has changed with him having a family and the return of Benedict Arnold. Can Benedict be trusted, and is the clock simply ticking on Simon’s perfect life? I cannot get enough of this run. I could read it daily if it released! Get your hands on the trades and catch up if you haven’t already!

Overall Grade: 10/10

For more from Matt at the Hops “Geek” News podcast!

Check out the interview Matt and Lauren did with Rob!