by Matt Sernaker, Managing Editor
The launch of Ghost Machine begins now! Three new titles are kicking off this week from Image Comics, and ComicsOnline is pleased to share our advance review of these new stories.
Creators Geoff Johns & Bryan Hitch, Inkers Bryan Hitch & Andrew Currie, Colorist Brad Anderson, and Letterer Rob Leigh present Redcoat #1. Enter the world of the immortal Simon Pure (former British Soldier) as he sets out on adventure, attempting to traverse the secret magics of the world and deal with some of history’s greatest figures as he does it. What exactly caused his immortality on that fateful day in December of 1776, and what does it have to do with Benjamin Franklin?!?
Official Synopsis:
Immortal. Mercenary. Kind of a tool. Meet Simon Pure, the newest UNNAMED hero, created by comic all-stars GEOFF JOHNS (GEIGER) and BRYAN HITCH. British redcoat and all-around rogue, Simon mysteriously became immortal in 1776 after a run-in with the clandestine cabal known as the Founding Fathers, which included George Washington, John Hancock, and many other prominent American Revolutionary War leaders. Since that fateful day, Simon has led a life of adventure and avarice, rubbing elbows (and sometimes fists) with many of history’s most renowned figures, including his nemesis Benedict Arnold, Albert Einstein, Annie Oakley, and many more. One thing they all agree on: they never want to see him again! But what are the true origins and extent of Simon’s power and the mysterious organization behind them? And how has it secretly shaped America and the world? Simon’s on a quest to find out!
When Pure stumbled into a gathering by a secret society/cult, his world would be forever changed. Following a time jump, we pick up over 100 years later (with some great commentary equating to “maybe I’ll tell you about that later”) and learn that Pure has led an interesting life of scandal and thievery. His latest adventures bring him into contact with a young Albert Einstein, setting the stage for the most interesting team-up. What does a 12-year-old Einstein want with Pure? Why are the cultists still after him? And what is the secret of his immortality? Stay tuned!
Redcoat is currently in the lead as my favorite of these new titles. Pure has a bit of a Captain Jack Sparrow vibe, and I am a sucker for stories that include mythology or historical elements. The best comparison would be The Pirates of the Caribbean + National Treasure + League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. Adding a young Albert Einstein to the mix was not something that I saw coming, and the teases about other historical figures being included as the search for more information on the secret magical world of the Founding Fathers has me more than intrigued. Hitch and Currie’s art styles really complement the narrative, and Anderson’s colors once again work perfectly in tandem with the designs to make this book shine. Having Leigh provide the lettering for these titles provides a bit of consistency and comfort between readings, but the stylistic choices for each story help to reinforce their individuality.
There is a sense of wonder in this book that makes it an absolute joy to read, and I can’t wait to explore more of this world.
Rating: 
ComicsOnline gives Redcoat #1 – 4.5 out of 5 immortal adventures.
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