Broken Frontier

A magical story of brotherhood amidst the backdrop of World War II.

Peter Panzerfaust #1, written by Green Wake scribe Kurtis J. Wiebe, is far from a typical World War II adventure.  Though the Axis and Allies wage war and deploy destructive weapons across the French city of Calais, Peter Panzerfaust instead focuses on a newly formed brotherhood of friends, making the danger that surrounds Peter and his band of misfits all the more perilous, while their narrow escapes from doom bring cheers and fun.

Caught in the midst of brutal tank bombardments and rifle blasts, Peter makes his heroic entrance as he rescues his newfound journeymen from a bombed-out orphanage.  With the Axis closing in, Peter guides his companions over rooftops, across unbelievable (even to his company) gaps, all the while tanks blast out buildings and corridors.  Not only is this high-stakes chase a blast to watch unfold, it also points to the mysterious nature of Peter himself; his grand solo arrival amidst a raging battle, his tenacity at avoiding death, and his reasons for being in France all point to something much greater behind his friendly appearance.

Not only is Peter’s story a great read, but artist Tyler Jenkins’ masterful understanding of the comics medium makes the title all the more fantastic to behold.  The numerous silent sequences that chronicle Peter and his followers over and through the destroyed city of Calais are great examples of excellent staging and structure.  Not only are the settings staged well, but the characters themselves are all memorable and clearly capture the emotions of the group, though Peter’s numerous heroic stances stand out amongst the stressed crowd.

Peter Panzerfaust captures the magic of Peter Pan and transports it into a story of brotherhood during war.  Not only is Kurtis J. Wiebe story a great introduction to his new project, but Tyler Jenkins' art masterfully brings that tale to life.  Peter Panzerfaust #1 was an unexpected treat to find.