[Editor’s Note: This review may contain spoilers]
Writer: Robert Venditti
Art: Eddy Barrows & Eber Ferreira
Colors: Adriano Lucas
Letters: Andworld Design
Summary
Uncle Sam appears in Philadelphia, making his first public appearance in years! He handles some Nazi cops and impresses the citizens in the process. It makes it onto the TV which enrages Adolph, Jr. who calls for Overman. Sam eventually links ups with the Freedom Fighters after narrating an emotional and thoughtful history of the Spirit of ’76- defining freedom in real terms, warts and all.
Upon seeing Uncle Sam orders the deployment of Overman…this world’s Nazi Superman, but it doesn’t seem all is right with Overman….
Positives
The concept of freedom is nicely stated both through specific examples throughout the history of the world, not just the American Revolution, but also as an idea. It’s especially nice to see this concept demonstrated while at the same time acknowledging the failures of countries. It raises an ideal above any particular country or hegemony, showing that political philosophies have merit even if they aren’t always practiced perfectly in the real world. This issue plays well following the previous one in which the Freedom Fighters could be perceived as terrorists from a different viewpoint.
There seems to be a reticence by the Third Reich to use Overman. There have been little suggestions along the way, hes’s not been seen as the FF have been making their appearances. It seems from this issue, he may be under some sort of reprogramming. It’s not clear, but it’s an exciting idea to consider that Adolph II may not be 100% sure of Overman’s fidelity to the Reich.
The art by Barrows, Ferreira and Lucas is excellent. There is a lot of texture in their work that adds to the tone of the book. Lucas uses grays judiciously to communicate the power of the Reich that contrasts effectively with the star-spangled Uncle Sam.
Negatives
This issue seems a little short. It would be nice to see some more of Overman’s current status before he is thrust into the story next issue. While Sam’s return is welcomed, it feels a little flat. Either the FF need to show a little more emotion, or Sam needed a grander entrance to make a larger impact.
Verdict
This title continues to provide a deeper look at the meaning of freedom and how it impacts the world. The notion of Uncle Sam as the Spirit of ’76 is an idea that is worthy of more exploration. Venditti is not afraid to show the mistakes made by the United States in its history, and it feeds right into the idea of freedom in 2019. Venditti finds a truth that is present in the philosophical ideals, despite the errors of humans.
