With a steady stream of weekly books returning to shelves after a couple months break, I was excited to see Marvel’s flagship Star Wars book on my reading stack. Thus far, this series has charted a safe course for fans of the series, building on existing lore from the original trilogy, following the escapades of Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader and other effortlessly identifiable favorites. Everything about the issue is competent and rewarding for committed fans, although it plays it safe in virtually every manner possible.
As for the plot, we see Luke looking for answers upon learning his father’s origin, bringing him to a planet seen in a vision. Meanwhile, the Skywalker name seems to carry cache with smugglers, as a Luke imposter is seen using his successful run on the Death Star as a marketing tactic to increase business. The imposter falls victim to the Empire and Darth Vader’s hand as they pursue the young Jedi in training.
Charles Soule is a mainstay in comics, and his writing is sharp and to the point. Jesus Saiz clearly captures the definitive characters with his realistic designs and ability to capture motion and action commendably. Arif Prianto and Dan Brown bring a colorful, digital palette to the pages, giving the book an expensive looking veneer. Everything about the book is meant to please fans of the original trilogy and it’s done proficiently.
This is a fine issue in a fine series, but it is very safe in its design and execution. When compared to the interesting developments in the Star Wars mythos being charted in Doctor Aphra, this book feels unfortunately inconsequential. The talent at the book’s helm is strong, but it leaves one wanting a more unique adventure in a galaxy far, far away.
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