REVIEW: REDCOAT #5

Redcoat #5 from Ghost Machine is a gripping continuation of a tale that intertwines historical figures and fantastical elements in a richly imagined narrative. This issue delves deeper into the perilous mission of Simon Pure, a reluctant immortal, as he grapples with the daunting challenge of averting the destruction of America. With a blend of intense action, intricate world-building, and deeply human characters, Johns has crafted a story that captivates from the first panel to the last. This issue picks up where the previous one left off, with Simon Pure narrowly escaping the clutches of the enigmatic Grand Architect. Accompanied by the brilliant young Albert Einstein and the enigmatic Benedict Arnold, Simon faces a dire situation: the Grand Architect, revealed to be none other than George Washington, seeks to end Simon’s immortal life and set America ablaze in a purifying fire.

The story begins in a quiet barn, where Simon, Einstein, and Benedict plan their next move. The tension is palpable as Einstein suggests fleeing to avoid the deadly Axe of Lies, a weapon that has already struck Simon twice, leaving him one cut away from death. However, Simon and Benedict reveal that fleeing is not an option; leaving America’s borders would lead to their instant demise.

Johns takes this moment to establish the magical rules that govern Simon’s world, deepening the lore and adding layers of complexity to the narrative. Immortals, we learn, are bound to America’s soil, and stepping beyond its borders results in a swift, irreversible death. This revelation adds a new dimension to Simon’s predicament, raising the stakes considerably. The planning session is abruptly interrupted by the sudden arrival of the cult, leading to a thrilling chase scene that showcases Johns’ mastery of pacing and suspense. As Simon, Einstein, and Benedict flee into the night, the urgency of their situation becomes increasingly apparent. The Axe of Lies strikes Simon’s hand, marking the second cut, and heightening the sense of impending doom.

Benedict, displaying his deep knowledge of the arcane, insists that Einstein hand over a mystical book. Reluctantly, Einstein complies, allowing Benedict to cast a spell that facilitates their escape. This scene not only advances the plot but also deepens the mystery surrounding Benedict’s true intentions and his understanding of the book’s power. Once safely away from their pursuers, the trio returns to the remnants of Benedict’s home, where they devise a daring plan to break the spell that threatens Simon’s life. Einstein, ever the intellectual, discovers a loophole in the curse: if they can retrieve the Axe of Lies and spill someone else’s blood with it, the spell will be broken.

The story reaches a critical juncture as the trio stumbles upon an invitation revealing George Washington’s presence at an upcoming event aboard the S.S. Majestic. Their plan is audacious: infiltrate the Majestic, confront Washington, and use the axe to draw his blood, thus breaking the spell and ensuring their survival. This plan sets the stage for an intense climax, where personal motivations and historical grudges intertwine. Simon’s selfishness is tempered by the gravity of the situation, and Einstein emerges as a voice of reason, grounding the story in a humanistic perspective despite its fantastical elements.

The artistic team of Bryan Hitch, Andrew Currie, and Brad Anderson delivers an exceptional visual experience in Redcoat #5. Every panel is meticulously crafted, with detailed backgrounds, dynamic action sequences, and expressive character designs that bring the story to life. The art perfectly complements Johns’ narrative, creating a seamless blend of storytelling and visual spectacle. Ghost Machine, the creator-owned imprint responsible for Redcoat, has consistently delivered high-quality comics, and this issue is no exception. The visuals in this series thus far stand out as some of the best in contemporary comic art, rivaling any title on the shelves today.

Redcoat is more than just a standalone story; it’s part of an interconnected universe alongside titles like Geiger and Junkyard Joe. While these connections are subtle, they enrich the narrative by providing a larger context for the events unfolding in Redcoat. Simon Pure’s brief appearances in other titles hint at a broader, more complex storyline that will undoubtedly come to the fore in future issues.

This issue of Redcoat marks a significant turning point in the series, transforming a once unlikable protagonist into a character worth rooting for. Geoff Johns masterfully blends historical intrigue with supernatural elements, crafting a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. The artistic team’s stunning visuals only enhance the narrative, making this issue a must-read for fans of quality comics.

As Simon Pure’s journey continues, readers are left eagerly anticipating the next installment, where the stakes will undoubtedly rise even higher. Redcoat #5 is a testament to the power of storytelling, proving that even the most reluctant hero can find redemption when faced with insurmountable odds.

SCORE:
3.5/5

Publisher: Image Comics
Writer: Geoff Johns
Artists: Bryan Hitch, Andrew Currie
Colorist: Brad Anderson
Letterer: Rob Leigh
Cover Artists: Bryan Hitch, Brad Anderson