Review: ‘Darth Vader – Black, White & Red’ #1 Launches Readers Into a Strikingly Visual Character Study
The first issue of the new Darth Vader series is a brilliantly classic and introspective work that really focuses deeply on the character, both through its narrative and the more abstract elements.
Spoilers ahead…
The new series features a collection of short stories about the destruction and terror Darth Vader has wreaked across the galaxy. It follows one main storyline, but includes other short features by different authors and artists. Its colour scheme only consists of black, white, and red as the title suggests, which makes it visually striking to go through.
The first part of the main storyline is called Hard Shutdown, where Vader is searching for one Doctor Sendvall, threatening his son to tell him where he is. The son, a man named Cyn, claims that his father is dead. Vader seems to assume this is part of a Rebel ambush, but Cyn declares they are not Rebels before launching an attack on Vader. Havoc breaks out as Vader removes the arms off Cyn’s troops and uses the limbs, which are still holding weapons, to fire back at them.
What follows is a shocking defeat, as Cyn says the words “Padmé, help me!” and Vader demands to know where he heard those words. While he’s distracted and alarmed, Cyn attaches a device to Vader’s suit, sending him into full shutdown.
The next part of the comic is a beautiful piece of abstract storytelling by artist Peach Momoko about a woman having a nightmare where she’s being attacked by Vader. It’s visually spectacular and an absolute must-read.
Finally, we end with another short story about the corruption of the elite and the all-knowing fist of Vader’s Empire. He’s described as a symbol of its might, a symbol not easily quashed.
Overall, the format of this comic series is unique and interesting, with a classic feel to it. The simple colour scheme makes each scene incredibly potent, and without revealing too much, it’s definitely a worthwhile read.
I look forward to seeing where the main story goes following Vader’s surprising defeat.
8/10
Rosalie Lambert is a law student from Australia with a deep love for Star Wars, fantasy, and epic stylistic storytelling. Growing up in the country, Rosalie has always loved nature and outdoor activities, and has a passion for human rights and social justice that she wants to work towards in her field of study.
