This line stated by C-3PO is a line which Star Wars fans can herald after reading Issue #1 of Marvel’s latest series. Amidst the anticipation for The Force Awakens, I recently decided to re-watch the entire saga, and decided that I would re-read the few issues of Star Wars, the series that began this winter. The superb collaboration between writer Jason Aaron and artist John Cassaday capture the essence that makes Star Wars so special. It is safe to say that there has definitely been an awakening in the force.
[WARNING: SPOILERS FOLLOW]
Upon opening the comic, readers are presented with the classic opening – “A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…” which is immediately followed by a two page sprawl of the words “STAR WARS.” Immediately I began to hum the timeless theme composed by John Williams. In a well-paced manner, Aaron introduces each of the characters that Star Wars fans around the world know and love. From Han Solo’s brilliant humor, to the witty dialogue of C-3PO, Aaron proves that he deserves to helm this flagship title. In just a few pages, Aaron skillfully inserts not only our ragtag team of rebels, but even includes the one and only, Darth Vader. While his arrival is not much of a shocker (there are only so many negotiators who will refuse to actually negotiate), what takes place is surprising. Vader senses the rebel pilot who destroyed the Death Star, exposing not only his anger of the recent event, but also his quest to find Luke (a mission explored in Gillen’s Darth Vader series).
Luke’s actions in this issue are necessary to note as well. These pages contain the first time that Luke Skywalker wields a lightsaber against another being. Aside from this, Luke has only been seen with a lightsaber when presented with it for the first time by Ben Kenobi, and while on the Millennium Falcon during his training exercises. Ironically, Luke’s first opponent gets his hand chopped off, perhaps an act that young Skywalker will regret in just a short amount of time. Cassaday focuses on the movement of the lightsaber, and illustrates the lack of elegance in his wielding of the weapon, proving that Luke did not begin his training until Episode V.
The first issue ends on such a cliffhanger that I recall impatiently waiting for a few weeks to read the next issue, and after revisiting this issue, I’m glad I can immediately move on to the next one. The last we see of C-3PO, perhaps my favorite character of the entire Star Wars universe, is when Han informs him of a blaster in the cockpit of the Falcon. Cassaday wonderfully presents 3PO’s alarmed face as he stares at the weapon, uttering his classic phrase, “oh dear…” Then, Han and Leia find a walker, with Han’s arrogance shining as he exclaims “I can drive anything.” And finally, the showdown that came so unexpectedly… Luke Skywalker vs. Darth Vader! This is their first official encounter prior to Empire. The issue concludes with Vader charging towards a battle-ready Luke, with Ben Kenobi’s ghost simply stating “run.” There can be no better way to end such an anticipated and exciting first issue. Not only does this series canonically bridge the gap between A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back, it also generates a hope in the future of Star Wars. This comic feels, sounds, and looks like Star Wars. The Force has truly awakened and it is here to stay.