The Rocketeer At War #1–3 – Comic Book Review and
Overview
Genre
Action, Historical Fiction, War, Superhero, Adventure
Main Characters
- Cliff
Secord / The Rocketeer – A former stunt pilot turned jetpack-wielding
hero, now enlisted in World War II.
- Betty
– Cliff's devoted and spirited girlfriend who brings emotional grounding
to his war-torn journey.
- Colonel
Gordon – A commanding officer in the Allied forces who recognizes
Cliff’s unique talents.
- Axis
Villains – Various agents of the Nazi regime and Axis powers who serve
as primary antagonists.
Writer
Marc Guggenheim – Known for his work on Arrow,
The Flash, and several Marvel and DC comics, Guggenheim brings sharp
dialogue and grounded storytelling to this wartime chapter of The Rocketeer
saga.
Artist
Dave Bullock – Bullock delivers a dynamic visual
style reminiscent of Golden Age comics, with clean lines, expressive character
work, and kinetic action scenes that evoke pulp serials.
Editor Details
Scott Dunbier – A respected figure in the comic book
industry, Dunbier ensures narrative cohesion and historical authenticity while
preserving the nostalgic charm of the Rocketeer universe.
Publisher and Brand
IDW Publishing – A publisher celebrated for
revitalizing classic characters and franchises, bringing The Rocketeer back to
life with rich storytelling and vintage aesthetic appeal.
Release Year
2015
Brief Plot Summary
Set against the backdrop of World War II in 1942 Europe, The
Rocketeer At War sees Cliff Secord trading Hollywood skies for war-torn
battlefields. Determined to do his part for the Allied cause, Cliff enlists and
soon finds himself swept into the chaos of front-line combat. Whether dodging
bullets or flying into danger with his jetpack, Cliff is forced to rely on more
than just technology—his quick thinking, unwavering courage, and loyalty to
those he loves are his greatest weapons. This mini-series blends classic
wartime heroism with high-flying pulp adventure, putting a uniquely human twist
on superhero storytelling.
Notable Arcs or Storylines
- "Cliff
Goes to War" – The primary narrative thread follows Cliff’s
internal and external conflicts as he transitions from civilian life to a
wartime hero. His struggle to adapt, protect innocent lives, and uphold
his values amidst brutality becomes a central arc.
- "Beneath
the Propaganda" – A subplot involving enemy agents masquerading
behind propaganda tactics adds layers of espionage and intrigue to the
action-driven narrative.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
Some fans interpret Cliff’s wartime journey as a metaphor
for America’s transition from isolationism to global responsibility during
WWII. Additionally, the absence of overt superhero tropes allows readers to
reflect on Cliff’s humanity—his flaws, fears, and resilience in a world more
grounded in reality than fantasy. Others speculate that this arc subtly
critiques the glorification of war by showing Cliff's emotional toll and moral
dilemmas.
Review Summary
The Rocketeer At War #1–3 stands as a stylish, well-paced tribute to both the pulp era of comics and the historical heroism of World War II. Marc Guggenheim’s script is crisp and heartfelt, balancing character development with thrilling action. Dave Bullock’s art perfectly captures the vintage aesthetic, echoing the golden days of aviation adventure comics. Together, the creative team revives the spirit of The Rocketeer while placing him in a gritty new context. This limited series doesn’t just tell a war story—it shows how heroism comes in many forms, even without superpowers.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
