Does this count as a metaphor? "when he came to, there was a funny new look on his face, almost sheepish, as if he'd been caught committing some terrible crime."

no

Explanation:

because the word "as" is used. this is more of a simile

can you provide the statments and i will answer!

the use supports it by making it seem like the dictators are not bad to the people when the truly are.