DARTH VADER #1 Review

Is this the time of the Sith? Or have Marvel ruined the legend that is Darth Vader? Read on to find out.

The official description from Marvel:

The original Dark Lord of the Sith stars in his first ongoing series! Ever since Darth Vader made his first on-screen appearance, he became the one of the most popular villains to ever haunt an audience’s dreams! Now, follow Vader straight from the ending of A NEW HOPE (and the pages of the new STAR WARS comic book) into his own series, showing the Empire’s war with the Rebel Alliance from the other side! Writer Kieron Gillen (Uncanny X-Men, Journey Into Mystery, Iron Man) and artist Salvador Larroca (Invincible Iron Man, X-Men: No More Humans) bring us a peek behind the mask of evil!

Everyone’s favourite Sith Lord has returned, finally getting his own ongoing series. Having been more than elated with the opening two issues of Marvel‘s flagship Star Wars series, I was more than excited for the release of Darth Vader #1, having been a huge fan of the character for many, many years. Not failing to disappoint, this opening issue has it’s fair share of exciting moments, as though there are some slower sequences, to allow for plot development, the tempo is electric from start to finish.

I have to admit, when it was first announced that Kieron Gillen would be handling script duties on this series, I was more than a little sceptical, having been disappointed in several projects from the writer during his time at Marvel. That scepticism proves to be for naught, as though this issue isn’t flawless, Gillen certainly shows an understanding for Vader, as well as the franchise as a whole. Capturing the sheer tone of Vader perfectly, Gillen knows when to give, and when to avoid using dialogue, allowing the artist to portray the character’s imposing presence. Despite all this, there was one addition that left me in two minds, Boba Fett… or should I say the character accompanying Boba Fett.

Bringing such an iconic character to life is no easy task, and though the writer has a weight on their shoulders in doing so, in my opinion the artist carries so much more. Luckily the series has a well seasoned illustrator behind the helm, with Salvador Larroca delivering some of his best work yet. Capturing the presence of the Dark Lord wonderfully, Larroca sets an ominous tone to this tale, using the shadows as his ally. His layouts also generate wonderful drama, with the cinematic tone being epic throughout. In addition to this, Larroca also manages to capture the character likeness perfectly, and along with Edgar Delgado‘s vivid colours, it gives great depth, and realism to this tale.

Marvel launch yet another successful Star Wars title, with Darth Vader #1 showing the characters fearsome presence, whilst at the same time showing signs of an intriguing plot. It also showcases some phenomenal artwork, and though there may be the odd factor that frustrates, the issue leaves me more than eager to return for more.