What is the definition of “Free”? For the upstart people of Lutheria, that is the question they look to answer. They have just fought and won independence. The Freedom Guard stands over them to protect their resources. A possible utopia is great dream to have. Dreams are also never what they always seem to be.
FREE PLANET #1 by Aubrey Sitterson, Jed Dougherty, Vittorio Astone and Taylor Esposito sets course on its’ multi-layered epic.
Let’s take a closer look at the high cost of Freedom.
FREE PLANET #1 by Aubrey Sitterson, Jed Dougherty, Vittorio Astone and Taylor Esposito (Image Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Whenever attempting world-building, it can be a true challenge to immediately connect with the reader. Sitterson pulls this off with ease. There are many levels and themes to this book. Political, Social and Sci-Fi immediately jump out. Nothing is overwhelming to a negative point. Oliver Gracchon’s proclamation of new freedom is detailed. Readers get a very clear picture of what has transpired. The introduction of the Freedom Guard feels bold and full of promise. Little do readers realize that optimism is not without complications.
Events shift towards the Guard’s first mission. Instead of the typical “punch kick shoot” one may expect, Sitterson throws a curve. Keen Surroko handles it with diplomacy and political gloves. This leads into spotlights on the remainder of the group. none my be more complicated than Tal un. The robotic member gets a very layered deep dive leaving many questions in its wake. There will be some surprises thrown in his journey but none more greater than the ending. It is a strong action that looks to set everything on its axis. A perfect way to conclude and plant notions for the readers to answer next chapter.
Dougherty and Astone break down events with extreme detail. Each page is maxed out with a distinct sense of the struggle for freedom. The two page spread of Gracchon’s speech illustrates the sacrifices made in the fight. It’s complemented by another two page showcasing the Freedom Guard. Readers watch each character is on the stage before the reality of their new stat quo sinks in.
Their first mission is given another two page image. Readers watch as Keen takes over the conflict. A full page image teases the impact his presence makes as the conflict dissolves. Tal Un’s path is filled with a varying reactions from other members. The moments with Gloria Sunandez are unexpected but throw a diversion. This leads into the closing panels. A near full page image pushes the story into an uncharted direction. The art locks in readers for the long haul as the path to complete freedom hits the ground running.
OVERALL GRADE: 10
How high is the cost of true Freedom? Free Planet is a thought provoking take on that concept via multi level storytelling. Sitterson weave in many themes while laying a solid foundation to grow the story. Dougherty and Astone craft superb imagery as the goals of the Freedom Guard come into focus. There is really nothing like this at the comic shops so don’t miss out.
Let me know in the comments below your thoughts on Free Planet #1. Thanks for reading!