A comiXologist Recommends:
Michael Crowe recommends Darth Vader #1

Much has been written about Anakin Skywalker and his fall from grace. But what about the man buried deep within the machine? What goes on in the mind of a Sith Lord? Despite the deluge of material on his early life, few stories focus on the all too human emotions still festering in the heart of a hero turned villain. Kieron Gillen (kierongillen) and Salvador Larroca give us an unexpected view into the mind of Vader and the workings of the Empire in Darth Vader #1.

Set directly after the destruction of the Death Star, this book showcases the ramifications of this event, as seen from the Empire’s point of view. The “opening crawl” sets the tone, declaring the rebels as insurgents and the Death Star as a peacekeeping force. Kieron Gillen effortlessly handles the characterizations of familiar and beloved figures of the Star Wars universe. His careful delivery of exposition never seems stilted or retreaded. Even well worn storylines such as the destruction of the Death Star are retold and reexamined in new and novel ways. His writing style lends itself to all readers, those familiar with Star Wars continuity and those just looking to get to know Darth Vader for the first time. You don’t need to know anything about Star Wars to get lost in this book; the story will grab you from the first page.

Salvador Larroca’s cinematic art further elevates this title. The action sequences are rendered beautifully and hauntingly. The settings are also rendered with equal care, showcasing the stark differences between such iconic places as Jabba’s Palace on Tatooine and The Imperial Palace on Coruscant. The colors by Edgar Delgado only add to the realism and depth the artist has infused this work with.

Darth Vader #1 is a book not to be missed. It’s a book by fans, for fans. Here’s hoping this team will stick around for at least a few story arcs. Never before has the psyche of Darth Vader been laid so bare. Be sure to pick up this book for a peak inside the complicated mind of the one and only Sith Lord.

[Read Darth Vader #1 on comiXology]

Michael Crowe is a member of the digital assets/launch team. In his free time he enjoys reading, watching and writing science fiction and horror.