r/starwarscomics • u/Significant-Town-817 • 31m ago
My Review I finished Darth Maul (2017) by Cullen Bunn, Luke Ross and Nolan Woodward
I can no longer deny it: I’ve grown fond of the character of Maul, a figure as compelling in his backstory as he is in his design. It’s interesting how his journey began with somewhat superficial tie in stories that merely exploited his talents as an assassin, only to evolve over time into a more nuanced portrayal, ultimately developing into a genuinely fascinating character.
I loved this comic from start to end. Serving as a precursor of some ideas showed in Black, White & Red, it lays a solid foundation for the character in the era before Ep I. It delves into a figure who, despite his inherently brutal nature, cannot help but question his own teachings and his master. Having been steeped in nothing but hatred and aggression his entire life, he finds an abstract enemy far less compelling than a flesh-and-blood one, a realization that drives him to act impulsively and seek to prove himself. It’s an approach that is, ironically, very human; it highlights the transient nature of Sidious’s training, an endless cycle of sacrifice destined to conclude only when someone else finally kills his pupil. I also appreciate how the author leaves subtle clues pointing to Maul’s own desire to become the torturer in charge, to exert a dark influence over others, just as was exerted upon him. This foreshadows the path his life would take after he lost his value to Sidious. Cad, Aurra, and Vorhdeilo serve effectively as henchmen, balancing the Sith’s otherwise taciturn demeanor with sarcastic remarks and more conventional action sequences.
Surprisingly, Maul isn’t the only villain in the story. Xev Xrexus, the person indirectly responsible for the entire situation, proves to be a strong antagonist. The circumstances surrounding the kidnapping of the Padawan, Eldra, and the way she is objectified before potential buyers, is truly repulsive, a detail that immediately makes the character stand out for me. And speaking of Eldra: despite her limited time, she is intriguing enough to make her ultimate fate feel genuinely tragic. It really shows just how willing the Sith is to risk everything for a hollow moment of satisfaction.
Overall, a very enjoyable character study of Maul and a more than proquel brackground story. I really hope we’ll see more of this level of quality in future seasons of Shadow Lord.
