It's been a decade since the Civil Defense Corps was exposed as a fraud created by the U.S. Government for propaganda purposes. While most of the heroes who survived the catastrophe have retired or disappeared, the New American still carries on, trying to keep communities safe amid the social turmoil of the 1970s. But with the nation split in two over civil rights and the changing political landscape, this isn't easy. Some of the American's former colleagues are on opposite sides of the law: Amber Waves joined a group of domestic terrorists, while Missy, a.k.a. Ole Miss, has thrown her hat into the political ring. As the ground shifts beneath more
Make no mistake: this story is not lighthearted and it doesn't need to be, as it is the start of something that dares to explore saddening realities but so far without using common notes of dehumanization, exploitative oppression, or simply lack of awareness. This new chapter for American Way is going to be challenging, but also shows why difficult stories can be worth it when done with consideration for others. Read Full Review
An amazing beginning that has me excited to see what Ridley will deliver in the subsequent issues and a set up that feels like we'll get the depth he's delivered elsewhere in comic form. Absolutely amazing on every level and it matches my anticipation in every way. Read Full Review
John Ridley lays the groundwork for a second thought-provoking comic book series that proves even super powers can't fix society's problems easily. Read Full Review
I really enjoyed this one. American Way reads like Rising Stars with a big ensemble slowly coming together for a big payoff. I'm hooked after the first issue and ready to see how this story evolves. Read Full Review
Apart from that and the drug-pusher villain that Jason is out to take down being a bit too broad of a caricature (he's also a cold-blooded killer who flat-outenjoys the taking of human life rather than viewing it as unfortunate reality of his chosen "profession"), though, there is very nearly flawless comic-booking going on in the pages ofThe American Way : Those Above And Those Below #1. Topical and provocative without being preachy, accessible to new readers without resorting to "info-dump" condescension, and smart without feeling the need to call attention to its own intelligence, this is supremely effective, thought-provoking, resonant stuff. I'm down for the whole ride " and I respectfully suggest that you should be, as well. Read Full Review
Even if you're not familiar with the original America Way, this sequel is well worth checking out. It balances out biting, insightful social commentary with thoughtful characterization and engaging visuals. Even with as many deconstructionist superhero stories as we've seen over the years, The American Way has something important to add to the mix. Read Full Review
Gripping story by Academy Award Winnder John Ridley in this alternate American history. As usual, automatic bonus for being alternate history. The art feels a little meeeeeeeeeh but it does not detract. On my to read list going forward. Read Full Review
Georges Jeantys work is gritty for the period covered and full of action. His storytelling is also very clear. I feel that the colouring overpowers the artwork but this is how most comic books feel nowadays. Read Full Review
The wheels that turn beneath the surface are propelling a story forward that's critical for today's world. American Way should pique the interest of any political science buff, armchair or academic. It can go anywhere from here, but the reader can count on walking away from it wiser than they were at the start of the journey. Read Full Review
While this isn't exactly easy to jump into without havingread the previous Wildstorm run, it does give you just enough backgroundinformation to make the characters interesting. It's not a lighthearted storyby any means, and it's not trying to be. I personally like a little more fun inmy comics, but that doesn't make this a bad story by any means. It balancessuperhero powers and gritty realism really well, and is sets up a potentiallygreat story moving forward. Read Full Review
I wish this book had received more promotion; I hadn't heard about it until browsing new books on this site. I decided to give it a shot and, wow, am I glad I did! What a timely, relevant comic. I dare you to read this and not have a strong reaction. The writing and art are also both top-notch. I'll be adding this to my pull list, without hesitation.
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