Review: ‘The Mandalorian Season 2’ #4 Successfully Adapts an Action-Heavy Episode
In the past, Star Wars News Net has been critical about The Mandalorian comic adaptation. The comic follows the story of the original show word-for-word and doesn’t offer much in the way of anything new or different. In fact, those on the team (myself included) have remarked it as a “subpar” way of experiencing the story.
However, where the adaptation does shine is in the action sequences. During the various battles, chases, and hand-to-hand fights, the art can look impressive. The Mandalorian Season 2 issue #4 is a great example of this with many panels capturing cool moments. It still has problems due to the rigid nature of the adaptation. But at least this issue offers something different in its art, helping to keep it fresh this time around.
As a quick recap, this is the episode where the Mandalorian goes back to Nevarro so that he can repair his ship. While there, Mando helps Greef Karga and Cara Dune destroy an Imperial base.
In regards to the original episode, even though this was more of a “filler episode” that didn’t do much to progress the plot, I felt it was a fun watch due to the action and chase sequence at the end. And it’s the same way here as the high-octane action translates well into comic form thanks to penciler Steven Cummings and crew.
Although, the slow beginning is only further exasperated in the comic, as it spends multiple pages with extensive dialogue and multiple panels of characters standing around, just talking to one another.
Of the two artists working on this series (Georges Jeanty and Steven Cummings), I prefer Cummings’ art over Jeanty’s. While there are still plenty of static shots, at least the characters’ faces look more realistic, versus some of Jeanty’s drawings. And Cummings’ paneling and flow of action is simply cleaner and carries more of a punch than Jeanty’s.
The Mandalorian Season 2 issue #4 offers art that makes revisiting a “filler episode” more enjoyable. It still has some of the same issues that the adaptation has overall, but at least the moments of action are eye-catching and have a great flow. Now, about the next issue…
Score: 7/10
Born and raised in Hawaii, Jay Goodearl runs the YouTube Gaming channel “Good Games, Dude” His channel aims to open up video games to beginners and immediate players and help them understand what makes games the art form that it is.
