Book Description

According to legend, the Sith are always two - A master and anapprentice. It was not always this way. A thousand years ago the Sith were many andthey battled endlessly with the Jedi Army of Light. Lord Kaan ruled the Sith Brotherhoodof Darkness and sought the destruction of Lord Hoth and his Jedi followers. Recruitedinto the war by a scout, three friends venture onto the battleground and march intodestinies far greater and different than any of them could have ever imagined... ... Read more

Reviews (10)

not so great
"Jedi vs. Sith" seemed pretty cool to me at first. It gives a little background on why there are only 2 sith, and why one is a master and the other an apprentice. But the story doesn't really fit with other Star Wars series', especiall the "Tales of the Jedi," and this makes it confusing. Darth Bane was pretty cool, but his character wasn't utilized enough. The artwork is anime style, which isn't typical of the Dark Horse that put out "Grendel" or even the other "Star Wars" series. And this made things a little bit more cartoony than a Star Wars story should be. Plus, the battles are pathetic and most characters are stupid. The ending was great, but aside from that, this was a little disappointing mostly due to the fact that the story doesn't really work if you follow Star Wars. I heavily recommend all "Tales of the Jedi" stories. These mesh well not only with each other, but with the rest of the expanded universe and even with the movies.

This darko Comic is not for the children.
This reviews Star Wars: Jedi vs Sith. Issues 1 through 6 TPB collected, published March, 2002. Following the SW Timeline we are at 1000 before NH.

art a 2, story a 1, inking and production a 4 avg = 2. Binding, made in singapore, is very good.

On the time line, this comic continues the new astounding Art and ink production getting a grade of C for the art but a B. The art work itself is uneven. Some is excellent, but some is childlike, as if they were making a comic for very young children. The style also resembled the manga art style.

The story is awful. The cover picture, the style of the art and the fact that the lead characters are children suggest that the target market for this comic was children. This is not a childs comic. The story starts with the mindless execution of children. There is a difference in 'action' vs 'grotesque violence'.

George Lucas himself set the tone in Episode II when he needlessly beheaded humans. The problem of graphic deaths and the highly improved digital imagery is one that Lucasfilm may have grappled with but the dark side won the day. It is the same mindset that was evident in some of the NJO books, particularly Star By Star. The producers of that series of books created a very dark environment with tremendous dread. A lot of readers loved it. But it was not as welcomed by older fans like myself.
Back to the comic, the odd art work may indicate that the editors wanted to 'cartoonize' the characters to minimize the reaction to the violence. The artwork is unlike anything I have seen in the SW galaxy. Because this has little to offer to the expanded universe, you can skip it.

One of the worst Star Wars story
This is supposed to relate the tale of how the Sith evolved into a one-master and one-disciple system. But frankly, it [wasn't good] even though the graphics were passable.

In this story, the distinction between the Jedi and the Sith became blurred. The stage was set for the showdown between the Jedi and the Sith, except that readers can't really tell the Jedi from the Sith. The Sith seemed to have diminished greatly in their dark stature from Tales of the Sith etc, while the Jedi were little better than lightsaber-wielding adventurers. The writers reduced both side to engage in purely physical combats without regards to their creeds. The Jedi-Sith showdown became a brawl in the mud.

Jedis were also depicted to be indiscriminate in who they kill, and even more foolish in bringing in untrained and undisciplined children who had little sense of right and wrong into the thick of battles, exposing them to anger, hatred and fear, fuels for the dark side.

This is one of the worst Star Wars story, totally unfit to be part of a critical tale of the Star Wars history.

Goofy graphics and flying green puff-balls
This style of drawing is all wrong for the SW universe, especially for the important comic chronicling the final defeat of the ancient Sith. (Doesn't it seem like people ALWAYS thought they were defeated, and they came back about three times?) Round, cutesy faces with trembling eyes and strange facial expressions may be fine for weirdo Japanese cartoons, but they don't cut it for the high standard set by Star Wars. Anyway, the story centers around three sideline characters (kids) who have no bearing on the future galaxy. Why must we read about them, then? The Jedi recruit these three scrawny kids into their army of light. How hard up must they be for help? The young girl turns to the dark side. Why? Because a few Jedi accidentally kill this useless green puff-ball that's been following her around the comic book pages. I need not even comment on that. Darth Bane and Lord Hoth, the only two men relevant to anything, make this comic worth buying. I would buy this simply to own a critical piece of SW history, but its presentation is severely lacking.

Contradictory And Mindlessly Violent
This particular graphic book is a good example of why this summer's Star Wars film has done so poorly compared to its predecessors. The movie will still make an exceptional amount of money, but as it was far superior to Episode I it should have done better.

This installment features Darth Bane who is one of the darkest of all of the Sith Lords. He makes his entrance by a multiple killing of children in front of their father for no other reason other than they are there. Graphically the deaths are minimized but it does not detract from the mindless violence. The book continues on with the maiming and destruction of anyone and anything that is at hand.

Mr. Lucas had several deaths via decapitation in this summer's Episode II. There was nothing in the storyline that required this, and despite the attempt to dehumanize the victims; it unquestionably cost the film tens of millions of dollars. One victim was dispatched in front of his young son who subsequently retrieved his father's helmet, and an empty helmet at that for the film is rated PG.

Beheading a droid for humor, and then using the same violent act on a human who is helmeted or a group that live with their faces covered, is not only a lame attempt to minimize violence, it dehumanizes the victims, and creates a movie that should never have garnered a PG rating.

Graphic novels like this are pointless, and I would expect Mr. Lucas to monitor work based on his saga more closely, and also look at what his astounding special effects can do. What could have once looked like comic book violence now is as realistic as it can be. ... Read more

Book Description

Mace Windu leads an elite Jedi strikeforce against an army of trained killers in a demonstration of Jedi power and resolve... Aayla Secura must confront her former Master in an effort to retrieve the plans for a weapon that has already destroyed one world... Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker must joins forces with a renegade Jedi to prevent a fleet of warships from falling into the hands of the enemy...On whatever field of battle the Jedi find themselves, their greatest challenge is to remain true to their teachings and to the ways of the Force! ... Read more

Book Description

Collecting issues nine through twelve of the quarterly anthology smash sensation! Star Wars Tales Volume 3 features the thrilling Vader versus Maul story "Resurrection" as well as comics sensation Garth Ennis' take on the life of a Stormtrooper in the riviting "Trooper." Tales has explored every corner of the Star Wars galaxy and kept readers coming back for more! Collected for the first time into one prestigous volume, Star Wars Tales Volume 3 is sure to delight fans both young and old! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

GREAT COMIC - POORLY BOUND
This is the best of the three Star Wars Tales TPB comics complied so far. I am reviewing Star Wars tales volume 3, simply called Star Wars Tales by Amazon. This is ISBN 1569718369 and collects issues 9 through 12 of the Dark horse quarterly comic-book anthology STAR WARS TALES.

This is my favorite of the 3 SWT volumes. It is 20 stories that I can read to my son (who has a short attention span and ADHD) and enjoy them together. The art work quality varies, as each story has different production staff working on them, but generally the art is from a 3 to a 4.5. The Stories are very uneven, but out of 20, if you found 5 that you could re-read with your kids, won't you call the book a winner? It is. That is why I assign it 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.

At 224 pages, watch for poor binding. Many of the larger TPB comics I have purchased since manufacture was moved from Canada to china have bindings where the comic just falls apart in your hands. The one I have is OK, but I want to be aware of the problem.

The cover art is by Tsuneo Sanda, and is an awesome picture of Han Solo standing with a hugh fire blazing in the background.

3.5 star rounded to 4, Find this by its ISBN.
This is the best of the three Star Wars Tales TPB comics complied so far. I am reviewing Star Wars tales volume 3, simply called Star Wars Tales by Amazon. This is ISBN 1569718369 and collects issues 9 through 12 of the Dark horse quarterly comic-book anthology STAR WARS TALES.

This is my favorite of the 3 SWT volumes. It is 20 stories that I can read to my son (who has a short attention span and ADHD) and we enjoyed them together. The art work quality varies, as each story has different production staff working on them, but generally the art is from a 3 to a 4.5. The Stories are very uneven, but out of 20, if you found at least 5 that you could re-read with your kids, won't you call the book a winner? It is. That is why I assign it 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.

At 224 pages, watch for poor binding. Many of the larger TPB comics I have purchased since manufacture was moved from Canada to china have bindings where the comic just falls apart in your hands. The one I have is OK, but I want others to be aware of the problem. I recently received an email from Dark horse telling they are aware of the binding problems and are making the necessary fixed to their production procedures.

The cover art is by Tsuneo Sanda, and is an awesome picture of Han Solo standing with a hugh fire blazing in the background. ... Read more

Book Description

Take the events and characters from one of the classic Star Wars films, throw in one happenstance, mishap, or technical glitch beyond the characters' control, and watch how that changes everything. In Dark Horse's first foray into Infinities (A New Hope), Luke Skywalker's valiant torpedo attack on the Death Star failed due to a faulty detonator -- an event no one could have foreseen -- and the Rebellion was dealt a debilitating setback. In Infinities -- The Empire Strikes Back, Han Solo's desperate attempt to locate his friend Luke in the icy wastes of the planet Hoth is thwarted when the tauntaun he's riding succumbs to the cold while Han is still a mile from Luke's location. Han arrives too late, barely in time to hear Luke's dying words about Jedi training and the planet Dagobah...

Thus begins an adventure far different than the one seen in the motion picture. Along the way, a famous bounty hunter is frozen in carbonite, Han and Chewie are captured on Tatooine by Jabba the Hutt, and Princess Leia and Yoda have a fateful jungle showdown with Darth Vader! Collecting the four-issue miniseries. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Infinities: TESB
This comic was fun to read because it was different from the movies (Luke Dies, Leia become Jedi from Yoda, ...). However some of the parts were kind of confusing. But if you like this series you should get it. If you have never heard of this series I wouldn't buy it. :)

Thank you, mysterious stranger.
A wonderfully helpful stranger recommended this to me in a bookstore, and when I flipped through it and liked what I saw, I decided to purchase it.

The story is excellent -- I was very drawn to the "What if...?" aspect that permeates it. What if Luke had died from his injuries on Hoth? Who would then face Vader? What if Vader showed up at Cloud City a little bit later than he did in the film?

Instead of Luke training as a Jedi, we see Leia taking that role after Luke's death. And instead of Han being frozen in carbonite, a certain bounty hunter has to endure that -- and subsequently ends up as an interesting piece of furniture for Lando Calrissian's office.

This is my first experience with Star Wars comics, but it will definitely not be the last.

Luke Skywalker died on Hoth.
The Empire Strikes Back is my first exposure to the Infinities line, and I'd like to see more. The subtle changes that can pave the way for major revisions to the story are fascinating to explore -- and the Dark Horse team has done a deft job with this one. Give us more!

I liked it
I don't want to give too much away here, but it's very good and the artwork is very detailed. I was hoping for a different twist in the plot but this book has a good twist. The twist I was hoping for was in Cloud City, Luke missing a hand, hanging over the central shaft and Vader says, "Join me and we will rule the galaxy together as father and son." I was waiting for Luke to say, "OK" see the destruction of the Falcon and Cloud City going up in flames. That would be a good start. The only problem I have with these books is the Rebels still win. I want the Empire to win once and a while. ... Read more

Book Description

The second of Checker's re-issue of the color Flash Gordon strips from the pen and brush of its unsurpassed originator, Alex Raymond! The work of a master at his best, these color strips were originally published in 1935 and 1936. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

KING FLASH of Mongo!
After surviving Ming's combat test in Volume 1, Alex Raymond continued the drama on Mongo with Flash receiving a Kingdom at the hand of Ming as a reward for winning. He and Dale discover that their "Kingdom" is a rather wild area, full of uncontrolled races that need to be subdued. Queen Azura is not on Mars like we saw in the serial with Buster Crabbe but is a Mongo beauty who falls instantly in love with our handsome Flash. A lot of activity takes place in caverns and dark realms and eventually Flash goes to war against MING. Volume 2 is easier to read with larger panels and will please fans with the excellent plot and writing that have gone into this serial that is mid-30's in time reference to when it was first published in the newspapers. Wonderful sci-fi stuff! Looking to Volume 3! ... Read more

Reviews (29)

Transmet screams a message we all need to hear...
It is truly a shame that Transmetropolitan is a comic book as it will be dismissed by most as just that. Ellis has beautifully illustrated the average American's attitude towards government and politics. Our protagonist, Spider Jerusalem, exposes government corruption in "The City" through his column "I Hate It Here." The people love him for it, but they never take a proactive role in changing the system; rather, they continue their lives as normal. This is so reflective of American culture that it is down right scary. Ellis deals with many other social issues as well and every time he is right on the money. EVERY American should read this book and take it's message to heart.

Additionally, no review of Transmetropolitan would be complete without praise for Robertson's art work. He does some of the best work out there today and is a perfect compliment to Ellis' writing!

Transmet is a frightening look into our future.
What an amazing glance into the future society is creating for itself. Transmetropolitan delivers a brutal, scary and amazingly well crafted story accompanied by fabulous art. Warren Ellis' gritty style of writing shines in this book about a journalist (Spider Jerusalem) who is forced out of hiding in the mountains to come down to his former home - a wretched city full of drug addicted household appliances, mutated house pets and people who turn themselves into aliens.

Quite Possibly The Most Important Comic Ever
Transmetropolitan combines politics, philosophy and twisted humor in an insane, futuristic world to comment on the very real trends and events we see playing out on the world stage today. Warren Ellis is trying to get us to think about what we're doing (or perhaps what we're not doing). Are we analyzing and thinking about things critically? Are we being politcally active? Are we the sheep contributing to the problem or are we trying to be part of the solution? I recommend this series to anyone interested in politics, journalism, comic fans or fans of good writing/story in general.

As for the trade paperbacks themselves, they are excellent quality. Good color and well bound. Get the entire run!!!

Imaginative!
To see what will happen in the future, scientists usually assume that current trends will continue in the way they have until now. That is exactly what Warren Ellis has done. In the twisted future you see in Transmetropolitan, using makeup to change the look of your skin is for babys; everyone else changes not the look of their skin but their actual skin into looking like aliens from space! There are lots of people looking partly human, partly alien, permanently! Why? Because it's cool! Any use for it? Nope!

There are lots of other wacky stuff in the world of Transmetropolitan, but why would I want to spoil the surprise?

The start of something wonderful
As a voracious reader, and a journalism student, I've come across lots of stories about reporters (from Complicity by Iain Banks to Superman and Ditko's Mr. A and the Question), but I've never seen something like this.
A lot of people think Spider IS Hunter S. Thompson, but they're wrong. He's definitely in there, but there's so much more. Ellis combines political satire, political science fiction, transhumanism, and sick humor to create something unique in the world of comics.
He stacks the book with interesting characters, draws you through a fascinating world, and makes you care about all of it.
It all starts here. A bit prescient, too. ... Read more

Book Description

As the Clone Wars continue to rock the Star Wars universe, the Republic's forces, led by the Jedi, find themselves drawn ever-deeper into Darth Sidious' evil web. With stories covering all aspects of the Clone Wars - from the trials of the revered Jedi Master Yoda, to the tribulations of the lowliest Clone Troopers fighting on the front lines, to the wicked machinations of the dreaded Count Dooku and General Grievous - these fast-paced tales feature a unique look into the world of Star Wars and at the events that shook the galaxy far, far away... ... Read more

Reviews (3)

One of the Finest Archives so far...
Wow.
i was waiting and hoping that someday DC would do right for this character and these stories and they have.
i first ran into Infantino stories from reprints in late 60s/early seventies Strange Adventures.
i used to buy beat up copies at the local flea market on the cheap purely for reading material and became hooked by Infantino's slick, fine lined, modernistic style- which for once perfectly complements the characters and milieu, as well as for the tight, fast paced, and very creative scripting.
i quickly realized that Adam Strange stories were just plain fun to read with oodles of wit and a refreshing lack of the usual cheese found in DCs pre-Denny O'Neil/"relevant" work.
While a good chunk of the book (the first 87 pages) features the first stories illustrated by Mike Sekowsky, the Sekowsky on display here looks a little more refined than the Sekowsky that i know from Justice League.
he seems to be operating in a Ross Andru/Al Toth mode, and his page breakdowns look a tad more sophisticated, and his anatomy less clunky.
not bad, but once the Infantino work kicks in the book really soars.
i've purchased about 10 of the archives so far- there is a ton of great work reprinted in these from Jack Cole to Joe Kubert, CC Beck to Gil Kane, Reed Crandell, Jack Burnley, etc but the work here- both story and art, puts this book at the top of the heap for me.
i agree- Vol 2 can't come soon enough!!!!!

just one request, if anyone from DC is listening- how about collecting the Gil Kane Batgirl back-ups form the late 60s/early 70s Detective Comics?
great work in there, would be a shame to let them gather dust in the vaults.

One of the Best Archives so far!
Of all the characters in the DC Mythos, Adam Strange is one of the most endearing. He has no super powers, yet he is a super hero. He has a combination of Jet Rocket flying (like Commando Cody); teleportation to his work site via Zeta Beam (like John Carter to Barsoom); and lots of cleverness and brains to work through those everyday drab problems that menace his planet (smarts like Batman). He has a REAL girlfriend (dare I say 'lover'?) as an equal in every adventure, so there is a romantic twist in every story.

What more could you want?

Well, there is a LOT more. The stories, for the most part, are fantasticly scripted by that master Gardner Fox. And the artwork-- ah yes, the artwork! As the series evolved so did the art! It started with covers by Gil Kane and interior pencils and inks by Sachs and Sekowsky, (later of Justice League of America fame). Then in came Carmine Infantino. While this improved the artwork immensely while his pencils were being inked by Joe Giella and sometime Bernie Sachs, it was when the brilliant Murphy Anderson stepped in to embellish the flamboyish Infantino that comic book art hit it's zenith. Once those two also started doing the covers, Adam Strange adventures became something to treasure whenever they hit the comic book racks. It was, and is to this day, inspirational.

This first archive of Adam Strange starts with his appearances in Showcase, and then his evolution as the recurring and starring character in Mystery in Space. For the most part in this archive, all of the stories are about nine pages in length, so there are a LOT of stories here. Gardner Fox practically drove many youngsters to desire previous issues they may have missed, because it would seem that each story had at least ONE back reference to a previously published story; and if you missed it, you were not getting the entire idea of what was going on! This only made us youngsters collect every Adam Strange story they could, and may have been the start of the comic-collecting days in our society!! So to have these first stories collected in one place is like finishing a puzzle you put down 40 years ago because you lost a few pieces. Very satisfying.

Towards the end of the archive you will see Adam Strange as what he will be remembered as; heroic, brave, smart, well-drawn, and always under control. Not one of those 'retcon' figures.

Here's hoping that the DC Archives publishes volume two soon! Many of us have been waiting YEARS just for this one; don't make us wait too much longer for the next one!!!

Out of this World Archive Edition
One of the best Archive Editions of DC's secondary characters. Rereading these wonderful stories starting in 1958 Showcase and moving into a long run in Mystery in Space brings a real appreciaton for the creative team of Julie Schwartz, Gardner Fox, and Carmine Infantino. Adam had no superpowers other than a cool jetpack and raygun. He generally overcame the threats to his adopted home of Rann by outhinking his opponents in clever and unusual scripts by Fox. The relationship with Alanna is unique because she is an equal partner with him in his battles-way ahead of the 1960s womens lib movement.Their relationship is integral to the stories and always bittersweet because Adam inevitably returns to earth when the Zeta-beam wears off. Infatino's artwork is elegant and lyrical with beautiful futuristic cities and alien landscapes. This book shows the effect of different inking styles on Infantino's pencils with Murphey Anderson stealing the show. Even though Adam owes his heritage to Buck Rodgers and Flash Gordon, there is a unique cold war post-sputnik tinge to these stories that is interesting to ponder from the vantage of 2004. Quirky, wonderful scripts, art by Infantino at his best, and one of the best Silver Age love stories ever-Please get volume 2 out fast! ... Read more

Book Description

Before Luke Skywalker, the Rebel Alliance had another hero: Biggs Darklighter. For the first time, the full story of Luke's boyhood friend is revealed; from his departure from Tatooine to attend the Imperial Academy, to his decision to lead a mutiny against the Empire and join the Rebellion, to the fateful attack on the Death Star. ... Read more

Book Description

In the far future, an interstellar cold war rages as the Earth-based Galactic Union faces off against the vast Drule Supremacy - two star-faring superpowers, each looking for the other's weakness. So when an Earth officer named Hawkins discovers that a mythical, unstoppable war machine might actually be real, he doesn't hesitate to send five maverick pilots on an ultra-secret mission to bring back the legend of Voltron. The journey begins here, as Keith Kogane, Sven Holgersson, Pidge Stoker, Lance McClain and Hunk Garrett arrive on distant Arus, where they meet Allura, princess of the ravaged planet... and unearth the five giant, robotic lions that join together to re-create the metal warrior known as Voltron: Defender of the Universe. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

BOOKS
THIS BOOK IS BETTER THAN THE ALPHABET! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT IT IS EVEN BETTER THAN THE L-M-N-O-P PART OF THE ALPHABET! YAY! ... Read more

Book Description

When Luke Skywalker, the New Republic`s greatest hero and sole Jedi Master, decides to marry Mara Jade, the woman who was once the Emperor`s personal assassin, you can be sure that hands both Imperial and New Republican will be raised to stop the marriage -- at any cost! Written by acclaimed Star Wars novelist Michael A. Stackpole (X-Wing Rogue Squadron; I, Jedi) and illustrated with photographic realism by Robert Teranishi, Union spotlights a monumental event in the Star Wars timeline that bridges the classic Star Wars trilogy to its boundless future a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away! ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Leave it to Zahn Stackpole
Ok first and formost-what are you playing at Chuckry? Since when did Kam Solusar look like the exact spitting image of Bruce Willis- not impressive. Apart from that- the graphics are flawless. However, never rely on the sentimentality of a writer like Stackpole to try and manipulate a fragile character like Mara Jade. It doesn't work - leave it to Zahn. Having said, Han and the saboteurs were done excellently. The love scenes between Luke and Mara achieved what they were set out to achieve, but nothing more. None of the irony was there as I think is in the novels. If you're looking for a round up of all the characters and families the extended universe has created, then this is definately the book. It has everyone and anyone- plus plenty of extras.
Round up of this graphic novel would be 'Reunion fest with corny one liners- satisfyingly spoiled by great star wars slang like 'sith spit.' Oh and the ending - well, lets just say that wud be too warming for even in Walt Disney's Oven.

Just buy it- you know you want it regardless.

Not as good as most of the comics.
While this was an interesting story to read, it was pretty confusing at times. There were way too many supporting characters to keep straight and a lot of others that I'd never heard of before. The artwork was so cluttered and most of the supporting characters looked so similar to each other that it was near impossible to tell who was who. It also didn't help that the villains in the story looked like the good guys and so you couldn't keep them straight, either. However, I think Stackpole nailed the characterizations for the main characters...attitudes, facial expressions, emotions. They were all dead on. He even got the interplay between R2-D2 and C-3PO right. Speaking of interplay, I loved the scenes between Mara and Luke. They were so well done that it made you feel happy to see them together. Hopefully we'll see them together more in either the comics or the novels.

I have yet to read any of Stackpole's Star Wars novels, but if these characterizations are any indication, they should be pretty good. Unfortunately, the plethora of supporting characters and lackluster artwork made this story almost a headache to read.

Get this comic book!!
I usually don't read comic books but I decided that I would try this one. Amazingly I actually liked it. Luke and all the rest looked like they were supposed to-not like in some Star Wars comic books.
I would have preferred a novel about Luke and Mara's wedding like Han and Leia's but I have to admit that this comic was okay. So for those that like comic books or those that just want this because it has Luke and Mara's wedding--get it!

My favorite (Comic books & normal novels)
The BEST of all books since the movies!

Very nice and clean drawing. (Unlike 'Dark Empire')
Very nice and kind story.
Very nice, deep feelings of family and friendships:
Luke, Mara, Solo Family, Antilles Family, Horn Family, T.Karrde, Rogues (Tycho, Janson, etc.), Jedi Academy friends,...

A must have for all, but specially for those who wonder all those people do and how they live in peacetime!

(My favorite, of all the SW books and comics I have (Sith comics, Dark Empire, X-Wing books+comics, Post-ANH books, NJO).)

MARA MY MARA!
Luke and Mara Skywalker are so happy! At last they are married!SO crazy with love LUKEY SINGS A SONG:MARA MY MARA,MARA MY MARA,MARA MY MARA.....Untill Mara tells him to shut up so she can give him a nice big kiss. You will like disa funny comic! ... Read more

Book Description

In hiding for generations, the evil Sith have waited for the precise moment to reveal themselves and take vengeance upon the Jedi Order. But in the final days before the Trade Federation blockade of the planet Naboo sets into motion the Sith plan for the overthrow of the Republic, the scheming Sith Lord Darth Sidious becomes concerned about the potential interference by the criminal syndicate Black Sun, a vast and powerful organization feared throughout the galaxy. Sidious cannot allow anything or anyone to hinder his purpose, and so he unleashes his merciless apprentice, the death-dealing destroyer, Darth Maul, to eradicate his adversaries -- as only a master of the dark side can! Star Wars: Darth Maul is the first-ever graphic-novel adventure of the ultimate Sith enforcer, an explosive tale of intrigue, mystery, and blistering action. Collecting the action-packed four-issue comic series. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

"Wipe them out...all of them" (3.5 stars)
'Darth Maul,' just to set the record straight, takes place several months before Michael Reaves' novel 'Darth Maul: Shadow Hunter,' and shortly after James Luceno's eBook 'Darth Maul: Saboteur.' While this comic is extremely impressive visually and fun to look at, in terms of plot and story it's severely lacking. There is a minimum of dialogue; the focus is on Darth Maul's killing ability.

The plot is basic: Darth Sidious sends his apprentice Darth Maul on a mission to destroy the leadership and organization of vast, galaxy-spanning criminal syndicate Black Sun, in order to minimize the possibility of any interference with his plans. Darth Maul, of course, being one to never disappoint or fail his master, embarks on his quest in his new Sith Infiltrator full of the goodies we saw in Episode I.

Even more so than most of Jan Duursema's work, this is an extremely visually impressive comic. There are plenty of imposing images of Maul standing there looking impressive and frightening, and more fight scenes than in any other Star Wars comic I believe. We get to see Maul go on killfests against tons of beings, as well as one on one fights with several others, including a Dathomiri Nightsister (one of the kind we saw in 'Infinity's End,' not the breed from 'Courtship of Princess Leia'). Unfortunately, although this book is great fun the first few times around, it loses re-readability because there is no real plot, and very little expository dialogue. In addition, by the time the end comes around, the constant "Maul against many" fights are beginning to get quite boring and predictable. To be fair, there were a few interesting scenes about the Sithly nature of the Force and how it compares to other Force users such as Jedi and Nightsisters, and there's a cool scene involving a telepath, but other than that it's just a bloodbath. In addition, there are several tie-ins to the other Darth Maul products - we see Oolth, who will later show up in the Michael Reaves novel, and are introduced to Hath Monchar, who we see in both of the other Darth Maul books. However, there is also one extremely unnecessary scene in this book which really doesn't fit the mood and detracted from my reading pleasure - a couple of pages with Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan that have nothing to do with the story. I don't see why they were thrown in there, but it wasn't at all helpful to the "plot."

Overall, this is a very well drawn comic with minimal plot. If you are a "Mauloholic," a Star Wars fan, or just like a good fight, this comic is for you, but if you don't read it, you're not really missing anything.

A Time To Kill
This Darth Maul Trade Paper Back is a must have for Darth Maul fans, but only if you are a Maul fan. If you are only somewhat interested in this character I do not recommend buying this TPB. The art is great and the story is action packed and answers some question that Episode 1 may have left you with. However, this book provides no real information about the Star Wars Universe or Darth Maul. So if your a Maul fan pick up this TPB for the cool art work and to see Maul kill an entire army by himself, but don't expect any big suprises.

Top-Notch
I couldn't possibly praise this book enough. I've read a lot of star wars graphic novels, and very few deliver the goods. Not so with "Darth Maul". Name something, and the book delivers. Character? Dead on. Plot? Not a slow moment. Art? Perfect.

In the world of star wars, there is a severe lack of character-driven material. Almost all the promising stories fall victim to this oversight. However, Marz gets the Maul character perfectly, the dialogue is kept to a minimum, and maul is painted as even more cold, calculating and deadly than we had any idea of. Most poor or disappointing comics rely on tired dialogue and action. Marz on the other hand, uses character, plot and visuals to drive the story, and the results are amazing. Also, the series had covers by the master himself, Drew Struzan. Most star wars books are lucky to have the poor-man's Struzan, Dave Dorman. But Maul astoundingly has managed to get the worlds greatest poster artists to paint all 4 covers.

This book successfully makes you realize how dangerous and powerful maul really was, and allows you to enjoy the end duel of The Phantom Meance much, much, more. Like just about everyone, I was disappointed by TPM - This book definitely helps. So chances are you should check it out.

This is a must-own for star wars fans. Marz stays true to the character and takes you on a wild ride.

Ice cream without flavour . . . a waste of potential
This Darth Maul comic lacks the great taste it could have been had the chefs behind the scenes bothered to add even some basic flavour. Or even a title, seeing how you have to say "Darth Maul comic" to avoid confusion to the central character itself. After all, this happens just before the Shadow Hunter novel, in turn, just before The Phantom Menace movie.

And the central character in this action ride he is. Semi-attired half the time lets you see Maul's full Sith tattoos, and if he bothered to speak a bit more you'd have to add more text bubbles near him. This is when Maul receives his Infiltrator ship and his droid probes. Essentially, this is a comic that is evenly balanced: what's outstanding is eroded by its deficiencies.

And the art by Jan Duursema is outstanding. This is a comic, not a book. Comics must be as visually impressive as can be. And Jan delivers the goods, and with her recent Star Wars material showing just how better her comics are improving'in conjunction with the colouring crew, of course!'Dark Horse has struck gold with this team.

Maul hacks, wacks and slashes his way through piles of bodyguards to eliminate the Black Sun crime chiefs, which is pretty much all the storyline has to offer. But it is the little touches that save this comic. Creative tidbits like the whiney Oolth, seen in the Shadow Hunter novel; brief cameos of Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan; informing the reader that Itotchi aliens, like the Jedi Master Saesee Tiin, are actually telepathic; a monocle-wearing Dug; charismatic Black Sun leader; and a wide range of aliens.

But with the choice parts of the meal eaten, the sour portions are plenty. There really is little reason for Maul not to talk. He doesn't have to make witty or sarcastic comments; he could have thought bubbles. This is one Sith whose single-minded dedication dispenses with speech unless needed, which just brings down the comic. And after such lightsaber bloodshed, you understand why Maully chooses to kill his principle target bare handed.

The opening pages are just corny and clichéd: Maul vs duelling droids. Sound familiar? Like his opening in the Shadow Hunter book? What could have saved this was a more satisfying ending. The confrontation with the Nightsister guard was faster than lightspeed. At least give readers more of a fight. Yes, he's a powerful Sith warrior, and he'll win, but make him work for it a bit!

Overall, this comic has fantastic art but too many burps to digest well. Good for a light read, but not to be taken seriously. The discrepancies within are the sort that are easily fixed, but just weren't bothered with. There are better meals out there, but this'll suffice as an entrée.

Few words, lots of action and great art work.
Few words, lots of action and great art work. The is a story set shortly before Episode 1. I place it at 33 years before NH. Darth Sidious sends Maul to decapitate the leadership of Black Sun. And so that there is no one left to reveal that the sith has returned, he must wipe them out, all of them. Yes the story is short on words, but the story is pretty good for darkhorse.

It defineately passes with my ADHD son, who sat through two seasons of reading for me to go through the whole book. Sometimes, a comic does not hold his interest enough and it can take 4 or 5 sessions to do a 4 comic, 96 page TPB like this one. What that means is that the action was up to snuff for my son.

The art work here is of the new processes employed by darkhorse. One BIG complaint. I have never had a Darkhorse TPB comic just fall apart. This one did and I was careful. Check the spines and glue jobs before buying, if you can. The story gets a 3 and the art a 4, for an average of 3.5. Since it fell apart, I'm rounding down to a 3.

Does this comic add anything to our understanding of the SW galaxy? Not really. The story reinforces my thoughts about Maul, but adds no new insights.

This is a recommended addition to your collection. ... Read more

Book Description

In the 21st century, the glittering Neo-Tokyo has risen from the rubble of a Tokyo destroyed by an apocalyptic telekinetic blast from a young boy called Akira -- the subject of a covert government experiment gone wrong now imprisoned in frozen stasis. But Tetsuo, an angry young man with immense and rapidly growing psychic abilities, has done the unthinkable: he has released Akira and set into motion a chain of events that could once destroy the city and drag the world to the brink of Armageddon. Resistance agents and an armada of government forces race against the clock to find the child with godlike powers before his unthinkable destructive abilities are unleashed! One of the true international classics of graphic fiction and unavailable for nearly a decade in America, Akira has once again taken America by storm, its first Dark Horse volume selling out almost overnight in comic shops and bookstores across the country! ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Still very good
They throw a lot of new characters at you in this one, and it can be hard to keep up. But hang in there and read it twice if you have to. I can't wait until I can get the next one, because the ending if (almost literally!) da bomb.

The Saga Continues
If you know of the Akira Anime this Manga should be of no surprise; however, there are some definite differences that will become evident upon reading. 1st off the anime is way way shorter and edited to such an extent that most casual watchers are left feelin confused. These books will clear up any problems you may have had with the movie and expand upon the foundation the movie laid out. Be aware these books not in color.

The Middle-Chapter Blues
Volume Three of Katsuhiro Otomo's epic sci-fi saga finds the newly awakened Akira being pursued by Kei and Kaneda, the Army, Nazu's militant faction, weirdly-powered flying children, strange Government robots, etc.

After being freed from his cryogenic sleep by Tetsuo in the last volume, Akira is still groggy, and so we really don't get any insight into his character, and he doesn't become an active participant in the story until the very end of the book. What an ending, though! After this, the series spins off into totally unexpected territory. This volume seemed like mostly filler, though. The story is basically just a lot of people playing "keepaway" with Akira; He's stolen from Kaneda by the flying kids, Nazu snatches him from the flying kids, etc. Like most long stories (In any medium), the middle lags.

Otomo's art continues to be mind-boggling. The amount of detail in every panel is incredible, and you could just linger over the art all day. Even at three stars, Akira 3 is better than most other comics....

Akira, A Masterpiece!
The third volume in the Akira series is just like all the other volumes, magnificent. Although this is the shortest installment of the Akira series, at 282 pages, it's still great. I highly recomend
this book to any anime, sci-fi, or manga fan. If you want a good read get this book.

A Masterpiece Continues to Unfold...
Why on earth are people so concerned with the number of pages? Who cares?!! This third installment of the series is by far the most emotionally and graphically charged part of the story to date. The characters and the complex web of fate that entwines them are explored in much greater depth. The political factions and their agendas are brought to light. Relationships develop between the characters and new characters shed a whole new light on understanding the world of Neo-Tokyo and its political climate. In general the story takes focus and burns a hole right through to the last page as Akira and his devastating power "awaken". Graphically stunning. An epic story that continues to grow in scope. Unbelievable. Otomo is an unrivaled master of the medium. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

One hell of a good book
I picked up the Invisibles when I was bored in my local comic book store and was blown away. No, not at first, not at the begining but a tid bit later when the information began to sink in. How much references and information does Grant Morrison have in his head? This book makes you think, and wonder about the modern world and the obstructed view of the world in which we live in. Anyway, it's a goddamn fine book so I recomend that you buy it and send Grant cash.

Blows most novels away!!!
Yeah, I know, it's in comic book format. But this has made a believer out of me. I just bought another "Invisibles" title and will keep an eye out for other Grant Morrison projects. This series is extremely well written and thought-provoking. It will change how you perceive your world. Not only that, but its entertaining! The art is quality and the story will make you want to be Invisible!!

Ee-gad
This title is without a doubt the largest let down I've ever come across in the comics medium. Mr. Morrison has proven himself in other titles (Animal Man, JLA, Marvel Boy) to be a truly creative and fun writer and when I heard about this series, which he himself described as his most important work ever, I could not wait to get a copy.
Wish I could have waited.
It comes off like every self-proclaimed rebel's fantasy. We have a world where everyone is a souless puppet except for the beautiful, unappreciated misuderstood who are all total bad asses and take no guff. The bad guys are authority of any fashion and, so that we can have a liberal vs. conservative, old vs. new, rich vs. poor generic fight with the underdogs as moraly just, the world's establishments are all quite dispicible and consort with every evil ever conceived. So we can cut straight to the "we're so awesome, you can't contain us" anthem, the villains are shown as completely horrid with no point or back story.
They're evil and we're great. Yay people with tattoos and bad credit.
The characters go on to show a strange collection of powers, none of which are ever explained all that well, and the newbie character (Jack Frost) that we the audience are given as a point-of-view is the most unlikable brat to ever grace fiction. Throw in King Mob, the always one-step-ahead, man in charge, Mind's eye version of Morrison himself, and you got delicious cliche. Let cool for five minutes and serve.

The Grand Introduction
First let me start by saying that I might be a little biased in this review. I started reading The Invisibles with the Second Series, so it wasn't until after a few of those issues that I went back to the First Series.

After the totality of violence and conspiracy in the story "Black Science" in the Second Series, I felt a little slowed by the pace of Say You Want a Revolution, with the focus mainly on Jack and his scholarship under Tom O'Bedlam.

The introduction was a needed aspect of the story; however, since we are essentially initiated at the same time that Jack is.

The second story arc "Acardia" was an interesting look at the workings of the The Invisibles as a whole and how each one interacts with the other. I think we could have all done without the perverse nature of the Marquis de Sade, but you slowly come under the realization that Morrison is trying to shock all the taboo out of your system, in order for you to let your barriers down and stop thinking with the mind that "they" developed for you.

Morrison is an incredibly creative and intelligent author who mixes real science and philosophy into an ultimate tale of violence, conspiracy, magic, and sex. This first book may be a little slower than the others, but the entire series quickly picks up speed and you'll soon find yourself unable to read anything else until you finish it.

A more innocent time
Reading it now, the first 8 issues of the Invisibles seem almost childish. The conspiracy is painfully upfront with little mystery. The Acadia story arc that makes up the bulk of the issues is plodding and really quite dull.

But if you look closely, in the little cracks, you can see a sort of incredible sincerity and a real desire to create something special. Jack Frost is a wonderful character, Buddha as british hooligan.

Grant Morrison was trying to mold all of his greatest influences into one bold series, but it really comes off as a mess. But it's a great mess but a mess nonetheless. Morrison's effort on this was A1 and it's very obviously a great work of love.

This is where it began, and it only gets better to get a little bit worse in the end. ... Read more

Book Description

Dark Horse presents Star Wars: Return of the Jedi -- The Special Edition, the third thrilling chapter in the greatest space fantasy ever! The Emperor and Darth Vader make the final preparations to destroy the Rebel Alliance once and for all. Meanwhile, Luke Skywalker, now a Jedi Knight, must rescue Han Solo, frozen in carbonite, from the palace of Jabba the Hutt. Shipping to coincide with the theatrical release of the third Star Wars Special Edition movie, this collection includes a 30-page gallery featuring the original pre-production sketches by Ralph McQuarrie, as well as production sketches of the Special Edition movie release. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Over Written Under Drawn
To coincide with the '97 theatrical re-release of the original Star Wars Trilogy, Dark Horse Comics, was given the chance to publish comic book tie ins for each film. Return Of The Jedi is basically a reprint of the 1983 version that is now out of print.

THE STORY: Adapted By Archie Goodwin, the "script" follows the feature film pretty well, but I could have used less description of the action. Comic books can get too bogged down if overwritten, such is the case here. I wish Goodwin, who knows how to write for the popular space saga, showed restraint. Comic books are as much a visual medium and should reflect that. Another problem is the fact that none of the "new" material from the special edition made it into this book, like the extended ending.

THE ART: The team of Al Williamson and Carlos Garson art is lacking in some respects. Their work seems very uneven. At times its quite good (the rendering of Boba Fett) and at others, (the climactic battle/duel) the shadings are at bit too dark for my tastes. The human characters hardly match their cinema counterparts. This is particularly true of the non-close up panels.

As nice as it is to see trilogy production sketches, it would have been better if those pages were used to enhance the adaptation instead. The book has 109 pages. The Special Edition version of the Jedi adaptation is a disappointing three star effort.

Wonderful Fantasy Book
Wonderful wonderful book. Exciting, terrifying and haunting at the same time. The final battle for the empire proves to be positive for the rebels, who pull together at the last minute and fight for all they're worth!

This doesn't deserve the title star Wars
This left out way too much of the story line. Do yourself a favor and rent the movie this was close to the worst book I've ever read. Please don't waste your money on this book. go spend some more money and buy the movie. ... Read more

Book Description

In the year 2030, the dazzling Neo-Tokyo has risen from Tokyo's ashes, but the power that once levelled Tokyo and sent the world to the brink of Armageddon -- a being of monstrous telekinetic power known only as Akira -- lives on in absolute-zero frozen stasis far below the city. Those who stand guard will stop at nothing to keep Akira from awakening, but Tetsuo, an angry young man with immense -- and rapidly growing -- psychic abilities becomes obsessed with confronting Akira face-to-face. In time, Akira will surely awaken, and Tetsuo may be the only being potentially capable of controlling him, but Tetsuo is becoming increasingly unstable and violent, and a group including his former friend Kaneda sets out to destroy Tetsuo before he can release Akira -- or before Tetsuo himself becomes so powerful that no force on Earth can stop him! ... Read more

Reviews (13)

All thanks to my brother...
When my brother came bouncing in with this book, my first thought was 'you paid 23 pounds for that? are you mad?' I felt no interest in it, but after a bit of persuasion/arm-twisting, I was persuaded to read it. It didn't seem anything special...but somehow I couldn't stop reading. Now I'm on a quest to find Book 1, and nothing will stop me...
This book is a good story, well-drawn, and has this strange power to make you keep going back to it to spot more details. The other Akira book I've read is Book 6, and this one isn't as hard-hitting or powerful, but it's still a good read. If you've read Book 1, by all means buy this and keep going with the story. If you haven't, check it out anyway - you might be pleasantly surprised!

The Epic Continues.....
Katsuhiro Otoma's epic of post World-War III Japan continues in this full-throttle, non-stop-action chapter.

Akira Book 2 starts out with Kei and Kaneda in the clutches of the mysterious Colonel, while Tetsuo continues to test the limits (If there are any...)of his newly discovered powers. Meanwhile, under the crater at ground zero, Akira begins to awaken...

Akira is the Comic-Book equivalent of an epic action movie. The art is clear and crisp, and the amout of detail in every panel is staggering. I've never been a fan of "Manga" (Japanese Comics), but the work of Katsuhiro Otomo (The Akira books, and the amazing Domu) are winning me over. The opening of the book has an in-depth recap for new readers, and the first few pages are in color.The black-and-white art really looks great, and the book is a great value at 288 pages. Try it...you'll be hooked!

The Saga Continues
If you know of the Akira Anime this Manga should be of no surprise; however, there are some definite differences that will become evident upon reading. 1st off the anime is way way shorter and edited to such an extent that most casual watchers are left feelin confused. These books will clear up any problems you may have had with the movie and expand upon the foundation the movie laid out. Be aware these books not in color.

Better than the first!
I rated the first 4 stars, it was a great start but a bit sluggish in parts that I found myself struggling to stay with the story till it got good again.

This book did no such thing to me, it may have gone a lot faster but this book is so well done and exciting. I loved it! If you have the first one and liked it, buy this one, you'll like it more.

P.S. people say black and white loses some of the story as apposed to color, this book was originially black and white and I think it makes it better, though not as much definition, the details become more obvious. :-P

Interesting, creative, and easy on the eyes (to some degree)
Something is definitely lost in the black and white drawings, which are nonetheless still quite impressive. The beauty and complexity of the city that we see in the film is stifled by the format. However, people turned off by the usual kid-like anime style will find a refreshing change here.

The story really starts to pick up in this volume, so much so that I scoured local bookstores hoping to find the next volume (luckily I found it). Fans of the film will start seeing more and more differences in this and the next volume. I eagerly await the fourth. ... Read more

Book Description

A royal heir has been kidnapped - along with Jedi Master Tholme, who was protecting the boy. Now two of Tholme's former Padawans have teamed up to rescue their master, unaware of the forces arrayed against them. Their most immediate foes are a father and son team of Morgukai assassins, who have the training and the weapons to go toe-to-toe with Jedi. But behind it all are the machinations of the notorious Count Dooku! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A blast of a read
Buckle your belts, hold on to your hide, Rite of Passage is a blast. The team that gave you Twilight and Darkness are back, just as good, and showing why Dark Horse comics have never been better.

The quality of art is what you've come to expect from the Duursema-Kryssing team: fanciful illustrations, vibrant colours, you won't be disappointed. With Aayla looking like a bundle of cuteness in the opening scenes, and Villie back to grinning again, even if his page time was less than prior comics, it's back to old times.

Dialogue varies between the cast, though the Morgukai syntax limits creativity with their short sentences. Even the Jedi get some good lines, and for once aren't the usual wimps they seem to be. The Morgukai want Vos and Secura dead, they'll have to work for it. Which, of course, just gives room for some good snappy one-liners.

What is it with comics, that full names must be mentioned almost each time? Readers know who Quinlin Vos and Aayla Secura are; what need is there for characters to address each other with both names? Crimson Empire, the TOTJ and Ongoing series, they all did this.

There's nothing extravagant about the plot. The comic introduces Nat Secura, the young Twi'lek fans will remember Bib Fortuna making a fuss over in Tales from Jabba's Palace. His abduction has Vos and Secura in hot pursuit, and a father-son duo of Morgukai hunters not far behind. A race against time to avert interclan war, with the life of their master hanging in the balance as well. One will ascend to Jedi Master, the other to Knight, and the fun begins.

The only issue of contention was how the Morgukai son survived to appear later, as readers last saw him stranded in the middle of a lava flow. How he could possibly get out of that could easily have been clarified with a line or two, and not spoil anything. Meant to surprise the reader, it taxed credulity, compounded again in the last pages.

Overall, Rite of Passage is another great comic by the talented team you know can deliver the goods and more. And with character development continuing to evolve in new directions, avid fans are sure to follow them as the new stories come. ... Read more

Book Description

Despite his successful mission on Dathomir, the Jedi Council still feels that Quinlan Vos walks dangerously close to the dark side. Kiffex, a prison planet under watch by the Guardians, is suddenly thrust into chaos when an unidentified enemy decimates a security compound. Quinlan Vos is specifically requested to investigate because of his Guardian ancestry, and he soon finds himself on another deadly mission. Developing subplots first introduced in Twilight and Infinity’s End and debuting new Star Wars characters, Darkness is a harrowing tale of horror and adventure. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Another good read
Darkness is another success by the Ostrander-Duursema team that Dark Horse better keep around longer. With them in town, SW comics have never been better.

Though Darkness was published next, Infinity's End, a one-shot something called Starcrash, The Stark Hyperspace War and then Darkness actually follow after Twilight. Publishing chronology, it seems, was disrupted after Twilight; Darkness briefly mentions events of Infinity's End that would have readers curious. Myths whisper due to poor sales, but Vos's adventure on Dathomir still sounds interesting . . .

Like Twilight, solid art quality is of course delivered when you see Duursema and the Parson/Kryssing colourists. This is actually due to new computer inking techniques, which is shockingly superior to the "old comics" before it. With most of the scenery a Dagobah-like locale there on the prison world Kiffex, you can expect dank swamps, lawless inmates and more of Sheif Tinte's egyptian-like visage.

Dialogue felt a bit better here than Twilight, that's because more characters are featured. Effort was taken to give each new Jedi a different style of speech and persona voice, and it shows. Quinlin Vos's sidekick Villie returns . . . but he's not the same without his continual grinning. More of Vos's childhood is revealed, who actually would have missed Jedi training had his master Tholme not talked the Council into accepting him. Too old at 4yrs, eh?

As for the storyline, Aayla Secura---the blue-skinned Twi'lek of AOTC and Vos's amnesiac apprentice---has gone to Vos's homeworld to exact revenge against him . . . but finds its deadliest prisoner: Volffe Karkko, a Dark Jedi the Council imprisoned centuries ago for capital crimes. Now freed from his stasis cell, Karkko unleashes hordes of his fellow vampiric Anzati against the terrified population.

Dispatched to investigate, Vos and his master Tholme will need all the help they can get sans Villie's sarcasm. Zao and T'ra Saa provide interesting new Jedi: one a bunny rabbit, like that Podracer contestant, the other a humanoid tree Neti like Ood Bnar from TOTJ. Cool and creative, nothing is offered bland. Vos must overcome his Anzati childhood fear while freeing Secura's memories and confronting Karkko.

Once again, Darkness delivers the goods with style, expanding depth to known favourites and adding exotic new characters, it's well worth acquiring. The forthcoming Rite of Passage by the same team is late in publishing but eagerly anticipated.

Jedi! How good for you to be seeing me, is Villie!
Quinlan Vos and Vilmarh Grarhk (Villie) are united again on a mission to the twin planets (and home world of Quin) of Kiffu and Kiffex and the poodoo hits the fan. This comic follows the comic Twilight and I place it on the timeline at -32.11 (BNH).

Quinlan has been retrained by Windu but his Padawan (Aayla Secura) is still missing and her memories are still lost. Quinlan is helped by his master Tholme as they seek to discover what happened to the Guardians on Quin's home world, all the while Quin is learning to face his greatest fear.

While Twilight has brilliant writing and character presentation, Darkness is a small dropoff, but only slightly. Darkness is obviously a darker story, but Quin and Villie play off each other beautifully. The art and inks are spectacular because Duursema did the pencils. The cover art is very mediocre.

The Twilight and Darkness Comic's are Dark Horse at their best.

The binding on this comic is absolutely terrible. Without any rough handling, the pages separate from the binding just because the page was turned. I hope Dark Horse does something about this in the future, especially considering that they are binding together anywhere from 90 to 150 pages when they produce a TPB.

Memories Return
Quinlan Voss and his Padawan have been suffering the effects of lost memories, and for each the consequences have been harrowing. "Darkness", is a very good graphic novel for the information it shares and the history that is filled with formerly missing detail.

The character of Quinlan Voss has an almost Native American look about him, and the enemy in this tale has a name that is very close to another group associated with a real people from many years ago. The form they take in this science fiction is something akin to vampires, and they make a claim for one of the creepier life forms in the Star Wars Universe.

There is an aspect of this tale that seems a bit out of step wit