TheForce.Net - Comics - Star Wars: Obsession #4

Story: Haden Blackman
Art: Brian Ching
Coloring: Sno Cone Studios
Lettering: Michael David Thomas
Cover: Brian Ching, Brad Anderson
Released: 03/23/2005

Reviewed by: JF Boivin (04/21/2005)

SUMMARY:

Senator Organa's Star Destroyer is headed for Boz Pity, a world guarded by an entire fleet of Separatists starships, but not without being prepared. Obi-Wan and Anakin are joined by Mace Windu and a room full of Jedi Masters. Anakin uses his piloting talents to come out of hyperspace between the planet and the fleet, and once they hit the surface, it's a full-on battle against an army of droids led by General Grievous himself.

[final cover]

[preview cover]

THE STORY

I swear it took me 60 seconds to read this issue. Whether it's due to the small amount of dialogue, the non-stop action, or the fact that I was captivated all along, this is definitely a quick read. After a nice two-page sparring scene between Obi-Wan and his former apprentice, they are joined by a whole horde of Jedi past and present, from the movies and from the EU. Aside from the essential Mace Windu, Ki-Adi Mundi, Kit Fisto, Eeth Koth, Plo Koon and Saesee Tiin, the list includes:

A'Sharad Hett.

Adi Gallia, leaving behind her "pirate friends" (so that's where she's been all this time since the Jedi Starfighter game, which was also scripted by Blackman. Her seat was filled by Stass Allie pretty much since before Attack of the Clones.)

Soon Bayts, who last appeared shortly before The Phantom Menace in the Jedi Council: Acts of War series. And please, no Master Bayts jokes...

Also back from last issue, ARC trooper Alpha and Senator Organa. It's a bit hard to believe that they would all put their lives in Anakin's hands when they ask him to bring the starship out of hyperspace close to a planet. They are risking quite a lot. In fact, if they ship would be destroyed, except for Yoda all Jedi would be virtually wiped out. In fact, Anakin even comments "There aren't any Jedi left on Coruscant." But the ship wasn't destroyed, and that's what really counts, right?

Another thing that is kind of hard to believe is how casual Mace is when he comments on having his only means of escape a Separatist-occupied world crash landed. Is he so confident in the Jedi's abilities? They don't have time to do much exploring before the come across the droid army and Grievous, who promptly kills Bayts. During the fight, Obi-Wan finally comes across... Ventress. So she is still alive. Who knew? I seriously can't wait for the final part of the story.

Revenge of the Sith preview: Although this is not his first appearance in comics, General Grievous is a character from the movie. Also, Saesee Tiin's right horn is grown back in time for his movie appearance.

THE ART

Lots of characters = lots of disappointing depictions by Brian Ching. Although the clone troopers' look amazing in their armor for some reason, most of the other character look very awkward, especially Grievous. You can judge by the cover. Also, on the last page Obi-Wan looks really old and cross-eyed. I just realized, I think Ching has a problem with eyes. I think his art would be a lot better if he had someone else do the inking. He is by no means untalented. His art is very good but needs some improvements in some places.

CONCLUSIONS

This issue offers a clue to the conclusion of the series. Not to be missed.

Rating: 7.5 / 10 Recommended