Star Wars (2020) #7 - Comic Review
The Will of Tarkin explores Zahra’s early days as Tarkin’s protégé and shines the light about her personal grudge against Leia Organa.
- Written by Fabio Fiori
- Published onOctober 7, 2020 @ 10:07am
A new story arc begins for Star Wars’ new flagship comic series with The Will of Tarkin Part I: Predators as Charles Soule delves into Commander Zahra’s past—exploring her early days as Tarkin’s protégé and shining the light about her personal grudge against Leia Organa.
Spoiler Warning
Ever since the cunning new foe’s introduction in the very first issue of the series, Commander Zahra has sparked the interest of her readers. At first glance, she might be considered as one of the many ruthless officers with a sick devotion to the Empire; however, Zahra’s mourning loss for Tarkin and the brave people lost to the destruction of the Death Star along with her absolute hate for Leia Organa and the Rebellion hinted a much deeper character—whose past is just now being unveiled.
The Will of Tarkin Part I takes the reader back to Zahra’s past as Tarkin’s protégé—from her deadly trial on his homeworld to rising the Imperial ranks. Although the readers might expect Zahra to be Tarkin’s mirror image—Soule adds an ever so slight layer of fallibility to the character, making her a much more relatable villain. Her devotion to the late Grand Moff is compelling and brings Zahra’s character to a personal level—where being in command of her own Star Destroyer is just a means to her own vendetta.
New story arc, new artists. The Will of Tarkin welcomes artist Ramon Rosanas (Star Wars: Age of Resistance) and colorist Rachelle Rosenberg (Doctor Aphra) together to materialize Soule’s story. Rosanas’ ship execution reflects the detailed and pristine nature of Imperial design—all accentuated by Rosenberg’s careful attention to the different hues of gray to simulate deep space lighting. Another thing to point out is the curious style choice of trench coats for Tarkin and later Zahra—a fashion statement that accentuates their power status.
This comic issue brings the best of Soule’s writing. The water monologue Zahra performs to her subordinates to explain that “everything is a resource” is delightful … who thought Imperials were funny (well, let’s not forget Tag & Bink).
The Will of Tarkin Part I: Predators is a fresh new start to a new story arc that promises vengeance, intrigue, and epic space battles. Pick up your copy today from your favorite local comic book shop and leave a comment below to share your thoughts about this amazing series!
Fabio Fiori
Fabio Fiori is the Founder and Creative Director of Tatooine Times. He grew up watching the prequels and loving everything Star Wars. He is searching for the most interesting Star Wars content and tries his hardest to write about it.