STAR WARS REBEL HEIST Review

With one of the most integral fandoms within American culture, Star Wars, a phenomenon that spreads way beyond her borders, it can be a daunting task to take on. However, Dark Horse Comics has proven itself a worthy of the Star Wars franchise in comic books, time and time again. As their reign comes to a close, we look back at Dark Horse’s contributions to the franchise fondly with Star Wars: Rebel Heist.

Story

The Rebellion takes place after the Battle of Yavin, which took place at the end of A New Hope, roughly before Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back. This time of turmoil is referred to as the Galactic Civil War. The Rebellion attempts to take readers through the five years following, as the rebels are fighting the Empire in an effort to end its tyrannical reign, or at least to weaken its galactic grip. These rebels are known as The Alliance to Restore the Republic, or simply The Alliance.

Though the civil war begins with a rebel victory at the Battle of Yavin, writer Matt Kindt takes you directly into the most war-torn corner of the galaxy, Corellia. At Corellia, Alliance recruits have been dropped feet first into battle to learn the ropes. Although one might think this is a bold move, it is unfortunately during a war against a power such as The Empire. The Alliance is resourceful, but they just aren’t as  formidable a military force as their adversary.

This story is told from the point of view of one of these rookies, a man named Jan. Living these adventures through the eyes of a slightly better trained person is exhilarating in its own right. After six months of training in the fleet, the protagonist is given a piece of paper, antiquated technology for the time, and told to meet his partner in shady coordinates.

Han Solo makes his debut in the early pages, and although he isn’t the only popular Star Wars character to appear, he is an invaluable member to this comic’s arc and the main character. There are no shortages of gunfire and explosions, nor fast paced panels when he is within earshot, naturally.

In Rebel Heist readers get a more complete view into Solo’s expertise as a pilot, as well as his critical self analyzing. One panel reveres Solo as “a tactical genius disguised as a master of improvisation”, along with plenty of proof to go around for it. Yet Solo is more concerned with damage to his ship and regards it almost as failure. Those inside the story are amazed, or shocked. Us as readers, well, we already knew how incredible Solo was! However, when Solo ends up in the arms of the Empire the plot thickens.

Kindt did a good job balancing the hopelessness that is guaranteed in a good Star Wars plot, and highlighting the ingenuity and strength necessary when the protagonists overcome all obstacles. Fans should be prepared for some heart dropping moments, as is true for any good war story.  While we all know due to the movies how the conflict ultimately ends, don’t allow that  fact to sell this story arc short. The struggle of the rebels during the Galactic Civil War is conveyed, and the heroes battle major adversity to stand in the face of the Empire in the beginning of  Episode V.

Art

The covers were handled by legendary illustrator Adam Hughes. As expected, they’re a work of art any Star Wars fan would be proud to display. His washed pallets and cool toned earthy colors make these issues something to desire and hold. The first being a portrait of Han Solo and a beautiful Twi’lek woman who captures both Solo’s charisma alongside the soft pin-up beauty which Hughes is revered for.

Inside, the pencils were handled by Marco Castiello. Marco is clearly a skilled artist, even despite some odd proportions here and there. The scenes in each panel are very intricate, and full to the brim of retro-futuristic elements that Star Wars is recognized for. Inks done by Dan Parsons don’t overpower the colors, or bask too deeply with shadows. This is great, as it allows for colorist Gabe Eltaeb’s work to tie the pages together in a well married arrangement.

Overall

As a Star Wars fan, Rebel Heist is a great read. You explore the different facets which worked for and against The Alliance during the Galactic Civil War, by the talent of some incredible men. It’s almost charming to be seeing some of the heroes we’ve all come to love in Star Wars lore come to life as spectators in new shoes. There are seemingly limitless machines, galaxy exploration, alien life, and robotics to go around.

It’s a scary thought that Dark Horse, who have handled Star Wars with care, will not be handling the IP for much longer in this medium. The aura exudes the kind of sci-fi adventures which encompassed another time, and in that Rebel Heist does the franchise right. Another Castle would surely recommend.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Cover Image via