With the entire Star Wars line of comics getting a relaunch in the coming months, the Skywalker Saga developed by Charles Soule still stands as a great example of how to give new life to the renowned, timeless cast of characters. Star Wars Vol. 8: The Sith and the Skywalker is another great installment in the monthly Star Wars title, giving even casual fans interested in well written characters and beautiful art a reason to pick up this collection.
Collecting issues #42-55 and the Free Comic Book Day title, this chapter of Luke Skywalker’s journey has him face the challenge of preparing for an inevitable confrontation with Darth Vader. Lacking the skills of a fully trained Jedi, Luke must find a way to improve his combat abilities, even if it means seeking out another Sith. Meanwhile, Lando Calrissian’s past actions catch up with him, putting him on trial for crimes against the Alliance. Surprisingly, his only hope for redemption may come from an unlikely source: Vader himself.
Marvel Comics
Charles Soule keeps readers hooked with his complex character portrayals and multi-layered storylines. His strengths are in keeping the larger plot structured and comprehendible, while giving its core cast ample personal moments to interact and grow (a difficult task when considering the god-like stature these characters operate within our collective fandom). When Leia confronts Lando about his earlier betrayal, it helps build the relationship between them without radically reworking their larger arcs. Thus, Soule’s characters feel real and worth reading, rather than cardboard cutouts of these iconic figures.
I like Soule’s interpretation and expanding of the Sith in this storyline, giving Luke an almost religious-like journey within the force to heal the Red Kyber crystal, all while a rogue Sith pursues him. I always enjoy these more otherworldly explorations of the force and its impact on its users. Luke’s storyline contrasts well with the court-room drama of Lando’s trial, which is also plotted well and with ample fun moments throughout.
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Steven Cummings and Madibek Musabekov both provide excellent art in their respective issues, giving this book a polished and expensive coating. They both demonstrate an understanding of Soule’s script, allowing their visuals to provide the small character nuances necessary to produce the strong character moments.
With issue #50, this Star Wars title will end, which is a shame. While I am excited for what will come next, Star Wars Vol. 8: The Sith and the Skywalker is a testament to how good we Star Wars fans have had it in the comics lately. With its tight and interesting narrative and strong art, this Star Wars book can be enjoyed by casual and ravenous fans alike.
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