FREE PLANET #9 (IMAGE COMICS)
The world of Lutheria is complex to say the least.
After fighting for its’ independence, one would think complete freedom would be a gift. It feels like a curse for the Freedom Guard who fight to protect it.
An embargo is crushing Lutheria’s food supply. This is causing the people to riot in the streets. Is the Guard ready for this overwhelming challenge or will they be torn down from within?
FREE PLANET #9 by Aubrey Sitterson, Jed Dougherty, Vittorio Astone and Taylor Esposito (Image Comics) kicks off a brand new arc.
Let’s take a closer look at the struggles of complete freedom.
FREE PLANET #9 by Aubrey Sitterson, Jed Dougherty, Vittorio Astone and Taylor Esposito (Image Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Sitterson wastes no time in jumping into the escalating chaos. Watching the people revolt causes much strain on the Guard. Readers notice how certain members react in trying to find a solution to this matter. The Guard’s meeting allows a few key voices to take the stage. None might be greater than Jackson Crater. The controversial voice usually sparks conflict with his thoughts. In this situation, it looks like he might have an ally in getting his point across.
The writing shows more cracks in the Guard’s foundation. There is no unified front. Sitterson lays out the view of the people which further widens with each day. The details involved in this story continue to impress. This leads into a heated confrontation between Gloria and a notable prisoner. One of the strongest pieces in this issue, their talk walk a fine line. Other Guard members get page time to further their sub-plots, most importantly Keen and Fweha. Once in the stages of the closing pages, a choice has been made with more ramifications that thought. It’s never a dull moment in dealing with Lutheria’s finest.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Dougherty is back on art duties after a two issue break. He brings back the exceptional two page spreads. From the riot to the team discussion, the pages are overflowing with details. Readers need to do double reads just to appreciate what’s on the pages. There’s no shortage of tension when the Guard speaks, Even when Crater gets backup form another member, the uneasy choices discussed never leave readers’ sight.
The breakdown of a spaceship is prime example of what these pages pack. Dougherty’s attention to detail is unmatched. Once the attention moves into character side-plots, the reactions jump of the pages. This is very clear in Gloria’s meeting. Seeing the breakdown of the Great Sun’s influence is haunting and impactful. This spirals into a very strong closing page. Panels take readers on a very rocky road to conclude one issue. The art shows the painful loss and cold business expressions needed to survive in Lutheria’s fight for freedom. Always an impressive visual ride.
FINAL GRADE: 8.8
The people have spoken and the Freedom Guard must decide a course of action in this new arc. Sitterson ‘s writing unveils the multiple factors in remedying this challenge. Dougherty and Astone unveil magnificent work with the rising drama. This high level storytelling never shies away from its ever-evolving look at complete freedom & what is needed to protect it. Don’t miss it.
Let me know your thoughts on Free Planet #9 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
