In the previous issue of Star Wars: Legacy of Vader, I mentioned that the one thing that took me out of the issue was the revelation that Kylo Ren was hunting down yet another Jedi who survived Order 66. I wasn’t expecting every Jedi to die at the clone troopers’ hands, but even my suspension of disbelief was stretched. It turns out I shouldn’t have doubted Charles Soule, because Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #7 actually does something interesting with the survivor named Grandea.
Grandea actually serves as the answer to a question that’s probably crossed Star Wars fans’ minds: how could a Jedi survive during the rise of the Galactic Empire? The way Soule addresses this is brilliant, and it lets him to expand on a Jedi staple: the Jedi mind trick. The way Grandea uses the Force to bend people’s minds will leave readers impressed, if a little frightened, and it’s a reminder of why Soule has become one of the best Star Wars writers as he’s willing to take a unique look at nearly every element of the Star Wars mythos.
Soule’s gift for character work is on full display, especially where Kylo’s concerned. Grandea barely touches his mind, and she can see the rage, the confusion, the turmoil broiling within. Whatever you can say about the sequel trilogy, it did offer a compelling character in Kylo and Soule shows that despite his desire to kill the past, he’s no closer to finding the peace he desperately seeks. This is the energy we need more of in future issues.
Marvel
I also wouldn’t be opposed to more of Luke Ross’s work. Ross has a real gift for detail, showcasing the pure rage and loss crackling between Kylo’s eyes – a direct contrast to Grandea’s serene expression. One of the more impressive moments comes when Grandea flashes back to a past moment in her life; over time, Ross shows a shift between her present day form and her younger visage when she was a Jedi Knight. It’s a great moment, which stands out due to the hazy red filter that Nolan Woodward uses for the past scenes.
Ross also gets the chance to draw Vader himself later in the issue; it turns out that the Dark Lord of the Sith found out Grandea was alive and sent his Inquisitors after her. What follows is an intense chase scene (made even more intense by the fact that Grandea doesn’t have a lightsaber to defend herself), yet it’s Vader that will draw the eye. He stands immensely tall, his cape flapping in the wind, projecting an air of confidence and menace. Again, it’s a direct contrast to Kylo’s current state of mind, and shows how far he has to go to surpass his grandfather.
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #7 offers a unique look at certain parts of the Star Wars mythos, while also delivering some excellent character work. Soule and Ross are cooking with gas here, and I hope they bring that same energy to future issues.
You must be logged in to post a comment.