DC Comics reviews for the week of 1/23/19

Freedom Fighters #2

The second issue of Freedom Fighters wasn’t big on plot, but it featured some nice, destructive action and incredible artwork from Eddy Barrows. That’s more than enough to chalk this one up as an easy win.

As teased last issue, writer Robert Venditti puts the Freedom Fighters against a Nazi robot. This seems like a pretty simple formula to make for a fun issue. Venditti really doesn’t do a lot of heavy lifting here besides showcasing the team in action. That’s not a bad thing as Venditti shows the FF as a very formidable fighting unit while versed in teamwork. How did they perfect those skills and just how they came together will hopefully be revealed later, but for now it’s just exciting watching them in action.

Venditti hints that not only is Uncle Sam on the way back, but another mainstay member of the team. Off these first two issues, I like the team dynamic. I’m not quite sure what to make of the Mr. Smith like version of Plastic Man who reveals an absorption-like power that can override others.

The highlight of this issue though is Barrows’ art. Barrows is one of those artists who excels in team books with an emphasis on action. So far that’s exactly what we’re getting in Freedom Fighters, which gives Barrows a chance to cut loose with some big double spread pages. Ordinarily, I’d feel a little cheated about not getting enough story over 22 pages, but the work here more than makes up for it.

I’m ready for more insight on the characters and how they endured a Nazi-run America and the month-long wait will seem even longer thanks to the high quality of this book.

Rating: 9 out of 10