With the re-release of all Star Wars comics in the coming months, Charles Soule’s Skywalker Saga remains a fantastic example of how to breathe new life into famous and timeless characters. Star Wars Volume 8: The Sith and the Skywalker is another fantastic installment in the monthly Star Wars series, and a reason to purchase this collection even for casual fans interested in well-written characters and beautiful art.
This chapter, which covers issues #42 through #55 and the Free Comic Book Day title, challenges Luke Skywalker’s journey as he prepares for his inevitable showdown with Darth Vader. Without the skills of a fully trained Jedi, Luke must find a way to improve his fighting abilities, even if it means searching for other Sith. Meanwhile, Lando Calrissian’s past actions catch up with him as he is put on trial for crimes against the Alliance. Surprisingly, his only hope of salvation may come from an unlikely source: Vader himself.
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Charles Soule keeps readers engaged with his complex characterizations and multi-layered storylines. His strength is giving his major characters enough personal moments to interact and grow (a tall task given the god-like status these characters have throughout the fandom) while still keeping the plot structured and easy to follow. When Leia confronts Lando about his earlier betrayal, it helps build their relationship without fundamentally changing their larger storyline. Soule’s characters thus feel real and worth reading about, rather than these iconic cut-outs of figures.
I like Soul’s interpretation and expansion of the Sith in this storyline. Luke is given a religious journey in the Force to heal himself with a red kyber crystal, all the while being pursued by rebel Sith. I always enjoy these more otherworldly explorations of the Force and its effects on its users. Luke’s storyline contrasts well with the courtroom drama of Lando’s trial, which is also well-plotted and has many fun moments throughout.
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Steven Cummings and Madivek Musabekov provide fantastic art for each issue, giving the book a sophisticated and premium feel. Both have an understanding of Soul’s writing, and their visuals capture the fine nuances of the characters needed to create strong character moments.
It’s a shame that this Star Wars series has come to an end with issue #50. While we look forward to the next instalment, Star Wars Volume 8: The Sith and the Skywalker is a testament to just how great an experience Star Wars fans have had with comics lately. With a tight, intriguing story and strong art, this Star Wars book will be enjoyed by casual and dedicated fans alike.
Star Wars Vol.8: The Sith and the Skywalkers Review
Star Wars Vol.8: The Sith and the Skywalkers
Issue #50 marks the end of this Star Wars title, which is a shame, and while we look forward to seeing what comes next, Star Wars Vol. 8: Sith and Skywalker is a testament to just how great a experience Star Wars fans have had with comics lately. With a tight, intriguing story and strong art, this Star Wars book will be enjoyed by casual and dedicated fans alike.
Charles Soule tells a focused Star Wars storyline that finds ways to bring iconic characters to life and set them on new adventures.
Amazing artwork by Steven Cummings and Madibek Musabekov.
