Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews
Star Wars: Darth Maul – Death Sentence #2 of 4
Dark Horse Comics
Taylor, Redondo & Atiyeh
Darth Maul and Savage Opress continue their warpath in the second issue of the first mini-series about Darth Maul since his rebirth. This issue is divided into two parts. The first part is where the duo take on three Jedi and the second is where one of them becomes the savior for a collection of castoff locals. It's another good installment in what is looking to become a very good mini-series about a very popular character.
The issue begins with the Jedi and Maul and Opress separated by a deep cavern. Maul actually allows the Jedi to make a proposition and if this seems strange then you probably need to brace yourself for the ending of the comic. Maul realizes the Jedi mean to bring Maul and his brother in under arrest so he does what we all want Maul to do: fight.
The fight is a really good one. Sure, it doesn't really feel very coordinated because the Jedi seem to attack in waves instead of all at once. However, the action is cool and has a good surprise as one of the brothers is taken out of action in clever fashion.
The book then turns towards the Jedi healing after the fight and one of the brothers getting himself hooked up with the local inhabitants. It turns out the locals have a prophecy that they believe this character fills. Surprisingly, a deal is struck and this book appears to take a villain and turn them good. However, is that really what is happening or is there some other plot twist on its way? The next issue will reveal more.
I had a good time reading this book. It definitely reminds me of the cartoon and whether that's intentional or not I found it to be a good thing. The book has some good action and sets up a plot thread for the next installment. It's all good stuff in this comic.
The artwork is good. I was struck by the expressions of Maul. He appears to have a wider range of feelings than it seemed from his small appearance in Phantom Menace. The artwork has a few panels that are definitely pinup worthy and I think that is what you expect from a Star Wars comic book.
Darth Maul has the potential to carry his own book and this initial mini-series is proving that out. He doesn't have to be a mindless killer or simply a weapon to be used by Palpatine. This issue is a good mix of action, story and character exploration. If you are a fan of the character I think you will enjoy this book.
4 out of 5 Geek Goggles
