Star Wars #5
Story by Brian Wood
Art by Carlos D’Anda
Review by Mara Whiteside
If you are a fan of space battles and explosions, issue #5 of Dark Horse’s Star Wars is made for you. As Leia and her small team of Rebels come closer to uncovering the truth about the intelligence leak, the stakes steadily rise. In the shadow of two Star Destroyers, Leia must decide how she plans on leading her crew out of this sticky situation.
Meanwhile, Luke and Prithi go against Leia’s orders and leave base. Prithi revealed in issue #4 that she heard Ben Kenobi’s voice, yet she did not know what to make of it. Luke sheds some light on the relationship he had with the Jedi Master, and Prithi reveals a hidden talent of hers.
On Coruscant, Han looks for a way off planet without being picked up by the Empire. To make all matters worse, Boba Fett and Bossk are working together to hunt him down, and it looks like they are dangerously close to finding the smuggler and turning him and his ship over to the Empire and Jabba the Hutt. Han runs out of options except for a local woman with a mysterious offer.
Wood’s Star Wars has done a magnificent job of piecing everything that happens between Episode IV and V together into one accessible comic book. What’s more, his portrayal of Leia as a strong, respectable character sets the bar high for female representation in comic books. D’Anda’s artwork is a thing of beauty. A great part of this issue takes place in X-Wing cockpits. When you can tell characters apart under their helmets and visors, you know you have a talented artist. D’Anda has made Wood’s script come alive with every explosion and expression.
THE VERDICT
Star Wars #5 is a definite buy. The story is far more enjoyable if you read the first four issues, but this month’s installment is certainly worth your investment.
