Published: May 24, 2023
Rating: Rated T
Writer: Jason Aaron, David Pepose, Victoria Ying
Artists: Leonard Kirk, Alessandro Vitti, Marika Cresta
Colourist: Romulo Fujardo Jr
Letterer: VC’s Joe Caramagna
Cover Artist: Adam Kubert
The synopsis;
JASON AARON CONTINUES HIS RETURN TO THE GREATEST VILLAIN IN THE GALAXY! Along with artist LEONARD KIRK, these two titans of comics tell a tale of horror and intrigue! PLUS, David Pepose makes his STAR WARS debut!
The review;
The opening issue of this series was like a breath of fresh air. A collection of short stories that showed a vast range of styles and art, with Vader making small yet memorable experiences in them all. It’s definitely the sort of series that the Dark Lord deserves, and I have been eager to see what delights we will have for the follow up issue. Of course, we see a return of Jason Aaron and Leonard Kirk, continuing their story based around the technology of Vader’s suit. This week we also have writer David Pepose, who is known for other Marvel works, joining the galaxy for the first time with artist Alessandro Vitti, who I’m very excited to see his take on Vader since seeing his work on BRZRKR. Finally, author Victoria Ying is joined by Marika Cresta, who is no stranger to the world of Star Wars. I can’t wait to see the variety that these authors and writers will bring this week, so without further ado, let’s delve in.
For our first tale, we return to Hard Shutdown by Aaron and artwork by Kirk. Last issue I was really impressed with the direction this tale seemed to be heading and part two picks straight up from where we were left. Aaron quickly gives Vader, and in doing so us readers, a quick recap of the first part. It doesn’t feel forced but flows very nicely with the story. Sendvall’s son is such an interesting character. His father saw him as the epitome of his work and wanted his son to be even better. This led to his son being abused by his father as his father continually strived for greatness, to improve his son every way he could. There is a perverse logic to it all which is what makes the character of Sendvall’s son so fascinating.
Aaron then moves forward to what I think is perhaps the most interesting thing about this part of the story, taking down Vader. We all know it’s never going to happen, but what I really liked is that Sendvall’s son has the same aim as Luke, to stop Vader. Luke approaches this from a direction of love and belief that there is still good in Vader. Sendvall comes about it from hate, like Luke would have done if he had succumbed to the dark side. It also proves Yoda correct about hate leading to suffering, for that is exactly what ensues. We see Vader, without lifting a finger, get himself out of decapitation. Compared with what he does in The Empire Strikes Back, this is Vader at 100%. It demonstrates that in the film, Vader was holding back because of the love of his son. If Luke had gone in differently, if he had stayed entering with hate, this could have been his fate. It’s how Luke knew there was still good in him. In such a short few pages Aaron has all this wrapped up beautifully with what is some rather deep themes. I think the word I’m looking for is masterful!
The artwork by Kirk, the use of the red within the black and white frames is gorgeous, that old style Marvel style you can feel emanating from each panel. The look of absolute panic on each character’s face adds even more weight to the events going on. In that regard, neither Kirk or Aaron disappoints, and I can’t wait to carry on reading the next part when the following issue is released.
The Endless Mercy by Pepose and illustrated by Vitti is next. Straight away you can’t escape the Alien/Event Horizon atmosphere that permeates this story. A derelict ship, no communication, no idea what has happened, it’s enough to give you goosebumps immediately. This is further reinforced by that artwork by Vitti. The use of red in the panels works so well to highlight the threats and draw your focus that Vader and his troopers find themselves.
As we delve further and further into the story, the Alien theme keeps coming back. This is a horror story through and through and I’m astonished at how much Pepose was able to fit into such a small number of pages. I love the reference to the Tagge Corporation, that we are starting to really see do so much development in terms of technology for the Empire. Doctor Sera Lemare’s motives are an interesting take and for once, I like that this has nothing to do with the Rebellion or revenge, it’s something completely different. It’s a really enjoyable story and that last panel? Vitti, you outdid yourself!
Finally, we’re left with Ying and Cresta’s Power. Cresta’s style here is very different to the other two previous artists, more anime with a hint of fifties influence, it strikes you immediately! The comparison panel shots of characters are used so effectively, as is when Vader first emerges out of smoke. You might tell that I’m in awe of Cresta’s work here!
The story itself is set on an outer rim planet where there is a boy called Niko having to get money at market for him and his mum. But… there’s a bully! Isn’t there always? What really got me with this story, and what Ying did so well, was that Niko gets attacked, beaten up but still holds steadfast to his belief in the order that the Empire bring. And us as the reader? Seeing this injustice, we are wanting the Empire to show up, to help poor Niko and his mum and show Noegaud (the bully) some retribution. Ying does it so well to actually have you rooting for the Empire! When Vader shows up, you’re actually cheering for him. Ying would definitely be good working for the Imperial’s propaganda department! In all seriousness, it’s stories like this that show why the Empire would have such support, why oppression can be welcomed rather than rejected. When there are people out there like Noegaud making life hard for others, the Empire is a sign of salvation and stability. It certainly gets you thinking.
Thinking. Three stories in a standard comic, reduced time and space to tell stories and yet all three leave you thinking (as all good stories should). The thoughts, issues and meanings behind such short stories is incredible and it really is a testimony to the writers that they are able to get so deep in such a short space of time. Alongside that is the incredible art of all the artists, each different, each with their own unique strengths that make gazing at the panels wonderful. The first issue really showed what was capable in a series like this in its sheer use of Vader’s power. This issue sets the bar even higher by providing us with deep, thought-provoking issues and stunning artwork. This is a series that should appeal to everyone, and I have a sneaky feeling there are going to be a lot of fans who are not going to be happy at this only been a four-part series… we’re going to want more!
Availability;
Darth Vader: Black, White & Red is a 4-part mini-series published by Marvel. This issue retails at $4.99 and is available via ComiXology and all good comic book stores.
