Published: January 6, 2021
Rating: T
Writer: Cavan Scott
Penciler: Ario Anindito
Colourist: Annalisa Leoni
Cover Artist: Phil Noto
The synopsis;
BEFORE THE SKYWALKER SAGA! THE GOLDEN AGE OF THE JEDI! A new era of STAR WARS storytelling begins. It is centuries before the SKYWALKER SAGA. The JEDI are at their height, protecting the galaxy as REPUBLIC pioneers push out into new territories. As the Frontier prepares for the dedication of majestic STARLIGHT BEACON, PADAWAN KEEVE TRENNIS faces the ultimate choice — will she complete her Jedi Trials or rescue the innocent from disaster? New Jedi! New ships! New evils to fight!
The review;
It’s fair to say that this first issue has a lot cover variants. Noto’s direct cover encompasses the main Jedi characters, along with Starlight Beacon, exuding a sense of protection for the galaxy. Then there’s Camuncoli’s dynamic variant showcasing young Jedi Knight Keeve, whilst Hans’ cover is ethereal in its beautiful pastels. This new era in Star Wars definitely deserves to be celebrated, and each fantastic variant is bound to become highly collectible.
The High Republic #1 has been teased and anticipated for what seems like forever. Even the black-and-white rough comic layouts that were teased, without any dialogue, promised a thrilling story. And before anyone even read it, before this issue was even published, it sold over 100,000 copies and went to a second printing. So, does The High Republic #1 live up to all this hype?
Scott’s Marvel debut delivers on so many levels. He takes everything fans know about the Jedi, then adds to it and twists it to reflect this new timeline. The Jedi of the High Republic are calm, confident and feel like true peacekeepers. These are pure Jedi, not mired down by the political machinations of a corrupt Galactic Republic. Well, except perhaps foul-mouthed young Jedi Knight Keeve. The way Scott has written her is one of the truest representations of teenagers in Star Wars. She’s slightly unsure of herself yet hides it behind a cocky façade. With her colourful tongue, R2-D2 would find his human soulmate in Keeve! However, she’s a character with so much depth, trying to find her path but questioning her decisions, and she’s sure to become a fan favourite.
What Scott has managed with this issue is that it not only opens up this whole new universe, but it also delivers a complete story just in one comic. It’s an amazing read in its own right, yet even more exciting is to know that this is just the beginning. The High Republic #1 introduces fans to these new characters and places through the eyes of Keeve as she undergoes the Trial by Endurance in order for her to be Knighted. By focusing on one character, it makes the story more personal, and not overwhelming for new readers. However, whilst trying to complete the Trial on the planet Shuraden, a swarm of ridadi (that are like huge Star Wars locusts) threaten a native city and Reeve decides to help. But the ridadi present a greater danger than even the young Jedi expected…
Anindito’s incredible artwork turns Scott’s words into what feels like a Star Wars movie. The enormity of new designs from ships and characters, to aliens and planets, gives this comic a cinematic quality. Everything looks fresh and different, but at its heart it’s still the Star Wars that fans recognise. Keeve’s beautifully expressive and she wields her double-bladed lightsaber in such a dynamic way, with the action sequences flowing from panel to panel. It’s all fantastic, but one highlight from this issue is the Force-vision. It’s quite unusual to have one in a comic, and Anindito changes the art style so it has an otherworldly feel, made even more dramatic by Leoni’s gorgeous colours.
What is so incredible about The High Republic #1 is that anyone could read it and enjoy it. This isn’t a comic where background knowledge, or watching every Star Wars film, is necessary. It’s a fresh start for the Star Wars timeline, which is so accessible for new readers or stalwart fans. For those who already love Star Wars then there are references and Easter eggs for them to enjoy, and while they add to this story, they won’t alienate new readers. Scott has lived up to and gone beyond all expectations with this comic, and The High Republic #2 is sure to be just as strong with the Force.
Availability;
Star Wars: The High Republic #1 was published January 6, 2021 by Marvel Comics. This issue is available via The Marvel App and from all good comic bookstores and retails at $3.99.
