Broken Frontier

Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters must face down the evil android Gonzo and the forces of S.H.A.D.E. to save the people of America!

Through eight issues, writers Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti have taken readers on a tumbling ride into a world of super heroics, super-science, patriotism, and drama. Now, as this series comes to a close, all of the disparate elements come together and we learn what has been at the heart of this story all along.

Gonzo the Mechanical Bastard has been revealed before the entire country but the forces of S.H.A.D.E. are still under his command and they are willing to take out every innocent bystander to get to Uncle Sam. Of course Uncle Sam is not alone. Former Freedom Fighters Ray Terrill, A.K.A, The Ray and Joan Dale, A.K.A. Miss America join the new Doll Man, Phantom Lady, Firebrand, Black Condor, Red Bee, and Human Bomb in defending the people of America. Gonzo has a fight on his hands... at least until Father Time reveals his true nature...

Although the characters of Uncle Sam and the various Freedom Fighters have their fans, the characters had been largely marginalized in recent years. With this mini-series Gray and Palmiotti restore this group to prominence and importance; reminding readers that Uncle Sam is more than just a promotional image. Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters are above political agendas – they exist by the people, of the people, and for the people of America.

At the same time, this mini-series has been an exploration of the making of heroes as well as the making of a team. Many of these new Freedom Fighters began as unlikable, cold-hearted agents of S.H.A.D.E. itself. With the help of the truth these individuals have come to learn selflessness, compassion, honor and respect – not only respect for the people but also respect for one another.

Artist Daniel Acuña was a relative newcomer to American mainstream comics before this series but Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters has brought him to the attention of readers and he has quickly developed fans. His style is certainly unique with its thick, dark inked outlines and shiny surfaces. While it may take a little bit for the eye to adjust, there is a dynamic, fascinating quality to the artwork that draws readers’ eyes unerringly to where they are supposed to go. Acuña also works well with lights and darks in both colors and shading.

From start to finish Gray and Palmiotti have kept readers on their toes, turning, twisting and surprising with this mini-series. There is a lot of heart here as well as quite a bit of wisdom. For a team once limited to guest appearances, Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters have a new and more prominent role in the DC Universe and it couldn’t happen to a more fun and quirky cast of characters.