Summary: A man fighting evil in armored suit made of metal. Sounds familiar, right? Except that this one is not as technologically advanced as you might think. As a matter of fact, this one was built during World War II to help fight Nazis. This is the setting where the graphic novel begins. A man in a metal suit shows up on the battlegrounds of Europe to the delight and gratitude of the American troops. We soon learn what the suit can do and why it's an asset. The suit is a powerful weapon and immediately gives the power advantage to the Allied Forces. However, we also discover that the suit is only as good as the man inside. When the suit's operator is harmed and is unable to function, the suit then becomes a liability. It's too heavy and too cumbersome for the soldiers to carry and they can't leave it behind for the Nazis to find, so what do they do? Well, as would be expected, one of the other soldiers, Redding, takes over, but it's not in the manner that one would think. To find out how Redding takes ownership, about the other adventures of the armored suit against the Nazis, and about its battle against the nefarious Black Flame, you need to read the novel to find out. Trust me, you won't be able to put it down.
Reference: Arcudi, John; Mignola, Mike (2014). Sledgehammer 44: Vol 1. Dark Horse Comics, Milwaukie, Oregon.
Impressions: I remember reading about this comic book series in my Previews magazine and was intrigued by its write up. I waited for the trade paperback so that I could buy the entire series and, let me say, it did not disappoint. From the opening panels, the storyline gripped me. The fight against the Nazis, the destruction of the enemy, and the magnitude of the suits power, kept me riveted. Admittedly, the characters may not have been as fully developed as I would have liked, but the stories themselves were well-written. Also, a few of the scenes were a bit horrific, so I'm not entirely sure that the story would be for younger readers; I'd recommend middle school on up.
The art was drawn by two different people, which explains the style change, but both artist do a great job. The character of Black Flame is drawn disturbingly and somewhat vague. I was able to recognize what he is, but a part of me wanted to see a more detailed illustration. However, as I said that, I realized that the elusiveness of description is what added to its mystique; that which I didn't know, drew me in. The overall drawing, writing, and creativity of character are all aspects to be admired.
I don't want to give away too much, because I would prefer it be read. Rest assured though, this is one graphic novel that is destined to be read on the living room sofa.
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