Comic Reviews for 04/11/12

Over the weekend, as I read comics and began to formulate what I’d say about each, I came across a quote that mentioned promoting what you love instead of talking about what you hate. I wouldn’t go so far as to say I hate any story, just dislike directions of them, but I’ve decided to embrace this idea. Nevertheless, there are still issues I don’t have anything really to say but still enjoyed the story, so don’t write off the comics listed at the end as me not liking it. With that said, last week was the conclusion of a couple story arcs, Image continues to entertain me with their new series, and my faith in one title was restored in 20 pages.

Comic Reviews for 03/14/12

Last week, I mentioned I probably wouldn’t do these brief reviews that focus mainly on the stories for every issue I read that week, but the latest line of new comics was a good one. So, in short, here’s another list of reviews! One comic got me thinking too much about story structure in the comic medium so it got a second paragraph in its review, a new Avengers title hit the stands, and a few of my favorite storylines reached their climax!

Review: Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic War #2

Below, as it appears on EUCantina.net, is my review of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic: War #2. Feel free to comment and join in the conversation at the EUCantina.net forums.

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic: War #2 (2012)
Written: John Jackson Miller
Pencils: Andrea Mutti
Inks: Pierluigi Baldassini

Remember in my review for Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic: War #1 when I said things would get more intense for Zayne Carrick before he could catch his breath? Well, issue 2 doesn’t let that claim go unfulfilled as John Jackson Miller, Andrea Mutti, and Pierluigi Baldassini continue the adventures of Zayne Carrick.

Our protagonist and his former commander find themselves in a very similar situation as the first issue but not in the same roles. We saw one side of the war last time, and now we get more details on the other. Oh, and don’t forget the little tease about Mandalorian Knights on the cover; things are definitely heating up for Zayne Carrick and Dallan Morvis.

The war continues and John Jackson Miller takes some time here to explore the story in more detail. Miller looks at the other side of the war and why those people would fight in it, whether willingly or unwillingly. Miller expands on the mystery behind Dorjander Kace, and the overall plot is revealed, letting us know what important role Zayne Carrick will play in future issues. Miller continues to establish the setting and characters but not in a “filler” fashion where the reader feels like he or she could have waited for next month’s issue.

The art continues to tell a great visual story but with some awkward shadows still present. When exploring characters that are full of fear, words aren’t enough. Each panel with a panicky character captures that fear and nervousness on his expression perfectly, resulting in a more believable and realistic image and dialogue. Some expressions are shaded out to visually emphasize the confused thoughts a character is feeling and also to cast shadows from an intense explosion or the light from a full moon; however, this isn’t done every time. Overall, the art continues to impress me, and is easier to follow this time around.

This issue leaves me believing we’re in for a real treat when Zayne and Kace collide down the road, for the war is about to become much more personal for our favorite “runaway Padawan”. Another great final page leaves us in suspense until next month.

4 out of 5