Darth Vader (2020) #3 - Comic Review

The new Darth Vader ongoing series returns to comic bookshelves after four, long months with Dark Heart of the Sith Part III. The story resumes Vader’s vengeful quest accompanied by an unlikely ally (check out our review for Part II before moving on).

This issue screams The Phantom Menace—with Vader returning to Padmé’s homeworld of Naboo, opening old wounds through heartbreaking flashbacks and the constant reminder of his lost love personified by the Queen’s Shadow.

The emotional baggage that was heavy on the first two issues is slowly making room for new character dynamics and unbelievable truths. Greg Pak is unveiling one of the most fascinating and shocking stories from our favorite Dark Lord of the Sith. If you thought this was just yet another Vader comic series, think again. His ability to deliver the unexpected in terms of character appearances while breaking the readers’ hearts by incorporating emotional flashbacks from Vader’s past is what makes this new series a must read.

Raffaele Ienco and Neeraj Menon keep the visual bar level high—concentrating on character and environment authenticity while hinting the change within the timeline. Particularly, Ienco’s mastery of character likeness without the need of photographically identical facial features brings a new level of credibility to the series. Menon’s earthy color tones solidify Ienco’s artwork and give some of the panels a sense of melancholy—contrasting the beauty of Naboo with the dark sadness of Vader.

The major character revelation in Part II was so shocking that its relevance is still impactful—even after the long, excruciating release delay for this issue. Sabé—the Queen’s Shadow, former handmaiden of Padmé Amidala—is becoming one of the most fascinating characters in the universe. She takes the center stage in the story while proving that she could be Vader’s strongest weakness besides his son, Luke Skywalker. Pak creates beautiful character dynamics, Sabé’s status with Vader dancing between ally and foe.

If the Sabé/Vader dynamics weren’t enough of a seller, the new prequel throwback character appearances, unexpected team ups, and a jaw-dropping ending of Part III will make you want to wish you had the next issue available at your fingertips.

Make sure to pick up your copy of Darth Vader #3 – Dark Heart of the Sith Part III today from your favorite local comic book shop and leave a comment below to share your thoughts about this heart-wrenching series!