SKYWALKER STRIKES

It is a period of renewed hope for the Rebellion.

The evil Galactic Emprie’s greatest weapon, the Death Star, has been destroyed by the young Rebel pilot, Luke Skywalker.

With the Imperial Forces in disarray, the Rebels look to press their advantage by unleashing a daring offensive throughout the far reaches of space, hoping to defeat the Empire once and for all and at last restore freedom to the galaxy….

So begins the “opening crawl” of the new Star Wars title from Marvel comics. Written by Jason Aaron with art by John Cassady the title is fully “canon” and takes place between A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back. In the story, Luke is still gaining his confidence and the crew is learning to trust Han Solo. Our ragtag band of rebels finds themselves on Cymoon posing as emissaries for Jabba the Hutt. They are waiting for the Empire’s negotiator, and let’s just say it is a familiar “face”

Jason Aaron’s story features some great moments including Luke trying to use a Jedi mind trick and Han trying to hot wire an Imperial Walker. The story finds itself as one of many presumed adventures that take place after the destruction of the first Death Star. With the Rebel Alliance emboldened after their victory, they are seeking out more ways to stick it to the Empire before it strikes back.

Any fan of Star Wars will love how this book begins. While Jason Aaron may be best known for his super-hero work, his story features several nods to Star Wars lore. Thanks to some assistance from the Lucasfilm Story Group, the book is completely canon. The book’s tone and iconography makes it feel as though it is part of Star Wars.

There are no major new characters and no major additions or changes to the Star Wars mythos in the book. This helps make the book feel familiar. We don’t feel bombarded with new ideas and concepts which may make the book feel like it is straying from its Star Wars roots. This not withstanding, Aaron is still able to weave an interesting a new tale. They have wisely chosen to keep the book small in scope so we can get reunited with our old friends, Luke, Leia, and Han first.

Cassady’s art also helps make the book feel “Star Wars.” The characters appearance are familiar, while not being creepily over-realistic. Colorist Laura Martin uses a palette that is comforting and familiar to any Star Wars fan.

In conclusion, I really enjoyed the first issue of what I hope is a long run for Jason Aaron on a Star Wars title. When it comes to my anticipation of future issues, all I can say is that “I have a good feeling about this.”