Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews

Star Wars Dark Times A Spark Remains #3Star Wars: Dark Times – A Spark Remains #3 of 5
Dark Horse Comics
Stradley, Wheatley & Jackson

The middle story in the latest Dark Times arc is one of the best issues from this series. Perhaps it was the setup from the previous issues or the long running story, but this issue brings a resolution to a nugget that the reader wasn't even aware was brewing. The action within the issue and resolution helps round out this book as among the best. This comic hit the very best of what this era represents in terms of uncertainty and chaos.

While the opening of this mini series (issue one) seemed to present the arc as a trap that the Jedi are setting for Vader, the arc has veered into an entirely different direction where the Jedi are dealing with a traitor. It makes sense too. A Jedi survives the purge and turns towards the Empire for help in order to survive. This is Jedi against Jedi but not Dark Jedi or Jedi turned Sith. This is something that seems like a great possibility for this era and this comic presents it perfectly.

The comic is mostly the three Jedi battling and the artwork helps to make this fantastic. Wheatley is perfect for this kind of action and he captures the lightsaber clashing with realism that only live action can potentially top. The art makes good use of the story of the battle as the various characters show surprise or fatigue. It's a really great visual story.

Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle ReviewsFinally, the comic book explores a little of what led to the turncoat of the Jedi. This part was a welcome addition but it falls short explaining the Empire's motive to employ and trust the Jedi. This is minor but if this part of the book was sold a little better than this comic would simply be perfect.

Star Wars comics tend to run about the same: most are good stories that mine some familiar territory with various nuances. This one breaks into memorable and great territory. I know it's the middle of the arc and the greatness might be missed if you only read this book. However, even though you don't have that ten issue build up where you are unaware of the Jedi traitor, watching three Jedi fighting is pretty darn good regardless. This is an outstanding read.

4.5 out of 5 Geek Goggles