Star Wars: Vader Down – Part 2 of 6

Loving this story!

This issue continues where Part 1 of the cross-over left off. Luke and Vader are both stranded on Vrogas Vas, the site of an ancient Jedi temple. Vader is being engaged by rebel forces under the direction of Princess Leia, who is determined not to let this opportunity to capture or kill Vader slip. Meanwhile, Luke is among the temple ruins, getting a sense of his past, when he is captured by Vader’s accomplice Dr. Aphra and her sadistic robots.

While there are no zinger quotes in this installment that warrant pointing out, the writing is solid throughout the entire issue. All the characters are fleshed out well, the dialog is engaging, and the story drives itself well. If you’re a Star Wars fan and looking for something to fill the void before the release of the film, consider checking out this graphic novel series.

Thanks for stopping by!

Star Wars: Vader Down – Part 1 of 6

It’s a great time to be a Star Wars fan!

I’ve been reading the latest Star Wars comics, getting myself psyched for the release of the new film. I’ve particularly been enjoying the Darth Vader comics, since he is such an iconic villain.

This issue is the beginning of a cross-over series, that will connect the Darth Vader arc with the main Star Wars arc. I have to say that this first issue is better than anything I have read in either of the other two arcs.

The premise is that Luke has gone to Vrogas Vas, a desolate planet that contains the ruins of an ancient Jedi temple. He has gone there to seek answers regarding his Jedi roots. Vader has discovered that Luke is there and has ventured there on his own to confront Luke, who he knows is his son, and turn him to the Dark Side. During an aerial battle, Luke crashes his fighter into Vader’s, causing both to crash-land on the planet. The tension builds as the stage is set for the father and son to confront each other.

The writing and the artwork in this comic are outstanding. I already have the next two issues in the series (yes, I’ve fallen behind in my reading), and I am ready to delve right into those. As I said, it’s a great time to be a Star Wars fan. Expect my thoughts on Part 2 very soon.

Star Wars Shattered Empire: Issue 3

I wasn’t much impressed with Issue 1 or Issue 2, but this one really pulls the story together. It’s like the frayed threads of the storyline have come together and it now feels more cohesive. In addition, I love that this installment features three strong women working together: Princess Leia, Shara Bey, and Queen Soruna. And I am also pleased that the women are not portrayed as sexual objects. As a parent of two daughters, I understand how important it is to have strong women role models, and this graphic novel delivers that.

I really don’t have a whole lot more to say about this issue. It’s very plot-driven and would be hard to say more without giving spoilers, and I avoid spoilers at all costs. I will say that it is worth reading this arc. It really does seem to be setting the stage for the new film, which is only a month away. I can’t wait! My geek heart is all aflutter.

Thanks for stopping by, and be sure to read some cool stuff today.

Star Wars Shattered Empire: Issue 1

This new series is dubbed “Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” My friend Nikki at the comic store told me it ties in to the upcoming film and recommended I read it. How could I refuse?

The story picks up at the conclusion of the Battle of Endor (that would be the “Return of the Jedi” film, for those who are wondering). The Galactic Empire is defeated, but it is discovered that there is a hidden base on Endor’s moon. The rebels attack, intending to finish off the Empire for good. But they discover something…

My feeling is that this is great if you are really into Star Wars; if not, you can probably skip it. The writing is mediocre. Lots of snippets of conversation where you do not actually know who is speaking. I give the writers credit for trying to do something creative, but it just didn’t quite work for me.

The story is definitely driven more by the illustrations than the text. Lots of interstellar fighting, which while I can appreciate the artwork (which is very good, by the way), there is only so much spaceship/lasers/explosions I can handle before my interest begins to wane.

I will say that this did make me more excited about the upcoming film. I’ll continue reading this arc (I believe it is only slated for four issues), mainly because I am curious how this will tie into the movie. I’ll let you know my thoughts on the second issue when it comes out in about a month or so.

Cheers!

Happy Free Comic Day! Review of Star Wars: Issue 3

Today is Free Comic Day. I went and joined all my nerdy friends at Comic Envy and got a nice stack of freebies, and I also purchased a few. It warmed my geek heart to see so many people out there in costume.

Anyway, I’m finally getting caught up on my Star Wars issues. This one has Han, Leia, and Luke fighting their way out of Cymoon 1. They barely manage to escape and Luke succeeds in destroying the weapons facility.

Since I am a big fan of Darth Vader, it should come as no surprise that my favorite part of this comic is the scene where Vader muses about Luke and the boy’s undeveloped Jedi powers.

The boy. The boy is your last great hope, isn’t he, Obi-Wan? He is what you died to protect. He may be strong in the force, but he is untrained, and who is there left to train him now? No one but me. When I find him… and I will find him… he will be my weapon, not yours. The dark side always wins, Obi-Wan. You should know that by now.

I’m definitely enjoying these comics and they are fueling my excitement for the upcoming film.