Review: Star Wars Crimson Reign #3

Crimson Reign continues to build up the galaxy order after the events of the Empire Strikes Back. This series plays much more like an anthology than a crossover with Crimson Dawn touching on various corners of the Universe trying to build up their base of power. This has mixed results but this issue is exceptionally good. Qi’ra works to strengthen Crimson Dawn by tracking down Yoda.

Although Yoda is heavily featured on the primary cover he makes only a brief cameo from the shadows in this tale. Instead the focus is entirely on the choice between light and darkness for Madelin Sun. After the Empire destroys the remnants of her time studying the Sith, Qi’ra arrives and saves her from the Stormtroopers. Their conversation is a fascinating deep dive into life after Order 66 for the public and their perspective of the loss of the Jedi Order.

Qi’ra is very comfortable with the idea of the Sith and her time with Maul have given her access and understanding of them. She reveals to Madelin that Palpatine and the Emperor are one and the same and adds that he is a Sith Lord. Qi’ra is right to believe in Madelin’s abilities. Through shear logical deduction we see Madelin going through the steps of tracking Yoda’s transport pilot and eventually his home on Dagobah.

Here she goes through a similar path as Luke Skywalker which eventually forces her to face the darkness. Rather than give in and betray Yoda’s location, Madelin chooses the best part of herself and embraces the way of the Jedi. Qi’ra loses this battle for information but the tale shows the sheer breadth of her power.

The art is perfect for this book, it keeps our attention through some heavy exposition and shows the weight of Madelin’s discoveries through a physical transformation. It is a bit more animated in style but still feels very much a part of the classic Star Wars universe. Charles Soule has great skill in building up new characters, but allowing us this time with a unique perspective he breaths new life into this series. We already know Qi’ra has alot of power and loyal followers. It’s definitely time to move onto other interesting facets such as this one to expand the story into new and interesting places.

Writing: 4 of 5 stars
Art: 3.7 of 5 stars
Colors: 3.8 of 5 stars

Overall: 3.9 of 5 stars

Writer: Charles Soule
Art: Steven Cummings
Inks: Victor Olazaba
Colors: Guru-eFX
Publisher: Marvel Comics

Author Profile

M.R. Jafri

M.R. Jafri was born and raised in Niagara Falls New York and now lives with his family in Detroit Michigan. He's a talkative introvert and argumentative geek. His loves include Star Wars, Star Trek, Superheroes, Ninja Turtles, Power Rangers, Transformers, GI Joe, Films, Comics, TV Shows, Action Figures and Twizzlers.