REDCOAT #18 (GHOST MACHINE/IMAGE COMICS)

Bennedict Arnold has been taken by the Founding Fathers Cult as Simon and Albert are just left behind. With Bennedict gone, this hampers the plans of turning Simon’s family into immortals as well. Now Simon has to face the possibility of not being able to have his family forever. How will he handle this, and will he continue to try and save Bennedict Arnold?

Redcoat #18 - Created By Geoff Johns & Bryan Hitch - Inks By Andrew Currie & Bryan Hitch - Colors By Brad Anderson - Letters By Rob Leigh - Edited By Brian Cunningham - Published By Ghost Machine/Image Comics

Credit: Ghost Machine/Image Comics

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

STORY OVERVIEW:

Simon comes to in time to see some hooded members of the Founding Fathers Cult taking the unconscious body of Bennedict Arnold. As he tries to stop them, they point out that Albert is in danger of drowning. So, Simon chooses his friend Albert and lets the cult members take Arnold. Once back to Simon’s house, the realization of without Benny his family can’t be turned into immortals. This makes him decide that he needs to go and save Arnold, even though Albert’s against it. But before he goes, he decides to tell his wife the truth, and her reaction to this news none of us are ready for.

WRITING:

This issue definitely picked up from the previous issue and adds a bit of intrigue and emotion to the story. Geoff Johns really brought the emotion to this issue and makes us feel the uncertainty that Simon is feeling. After thinking he had everything figured out and he would finally be happy forever. Johns pulls the rug from underneath him and throws not just one, but two wrenches in his plans. The parts of the story involving Bennedict Arnold are good and what we’ve become accustomed to in this series. However, the parts involving Simon’s wife are heavy in their emotion, and the dire consequences that they imply. This part of the story truly tugs at your heartstrings and makes you feel for what Simon’s going through.

ARTWORK:

The artwork vividly captures the early 20th century, with Bryan Hitch and Andrew Currie creating an immersive world that pulls readers into the story’s historical setting. Their visuals firmly establish the era and alternate-history backdrop while giving the characters distinct, recognizable designs that still feel fresh and unique.

Brad Anderson strengthens the art with a thoughtful color palette that reinforces the era’s atmosphere. His use of brown tones gives the visuals a weathered, aged quality that enhances the period feel. Together, the art team consistently brings the world of Redcoat to life and never disappoints.

Check Out My Review of REDCOAT #17

Final Thoughts:

Redcoat #18 bounces back from the disappointment that I felt with the last issue. Bringing heart back to the story and making the reader truly feel for Simon and his plight really makes this issue stand out. What this issue lacked in action, it more than makes up for in the drama department. The ending leaves you wanting more and excited for the next issue.

FINAL GRADE: 8.3/10

Let me know your thoughts on Redcoat #18 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!