Pistolfist:

Preliminary cover art by Joel Robinson

The American Revolution was a tumultuous affair which helped forge a nation while leaving behind a slew of heroes and victims. When the United States of America was finally founded in 1776, it was clear to all that the events leading up to that moment would not be soon forgotten. This comic keeps that assurance alive.

By revisiting the events of the past, comics can breathe new life into them, making the subject more palatable to today’s fickle audiences. The very first panel of Pistolfist (see below) establishes that it is a period piece, but it is by no means a run of the mill construction of historical fiction.

In weaving historical drama and superheroics together, writers Earls and Flanary synthesize two worthy genres into a work that is ambitious in scope. The story begins with Benjamin Franklin returning to America from England. At his side is Edward Bancroft, one of history’s most infamous double agents.

the first page, without text

As Franklin makes his way to port, a battle rages on in a Lexington, Massachusetts field. Revolutionaries are outnumbered by the Redcoats, and bodies fall all around. Exploding onto the battlefield, a masked man flips off a horse with his guns blazing. It is the title character, Pistolfist – a figure shrouded in complete mystery until the conclusion. I do not wish to spoil anything for readers, so I will refrain from revealing any secrets.

The dialogue is middling but never boring. With Pistolfist shouting “Will your bloodlust ever cease?” as he pummels a redcoat, one is immediately reminded that the concept of the book is fun, if not a little ridiculous. Outside of some of the more foolhardy dialogue, the plotting is well paced, and the characterization is more than competent.

Just like the writing, much of the art is strong, but there are moments where it clearly loses its footing. When Benjamin Franklin’s daughter, Sally, is introduced, her face looks absurd. It lacks any definition, and carries the appearance of a doodle. Even the horse that stands alongside her looks better.

page 5

As the story continues to unfold, Sally’s appearance matches the strong art that surrounds her. I sincerely hope that artist Andres Guinaldo gets a chance to redo one or two panels of Sally before the book’s release. During the scene where Franklin recounts his love for his deceased wife, the pencils provide strong details, increasing the poignancy. The final panel of the page features a restrained point of view, and the imagery is very emotionally evocative. The contents of Franklin’s suitcase lay about the room, and in the middle of it all, we look down from above as Sally comforts her father, sitting at the edge of his empty bed.

Pistolfist: Revolutionary Warrior contains elements of action, drama, suspense, and slapstick comedy (featuring everyone’s favourite comedian, Ben Franklin). The art is generally strong, with a few hiccups along the way. The same can be said for the writing. The book is clearly an origin story, and it is understandable that it has a lot of ground to cover. It hits all its marks and plants the seeds from which a great series could very well blossom. If you are feeling even the slightest bit adventurous, give Pistolfist a chance. You may like what you see, soldier.

7.5/10

Pistolfist: Revolutionary Warrior #1 is slated to be released in late September.