Review: “Darth Maul – Black, White & Red”, Issue No. 3 brings action

In my last two reviews for Darth Maul: Black, White & RedI found myself somewhat disappointed in the stories. Although issue #2 contained improvements, I still felt there was room for improvement. And I still felt that both did not fully exploit the series’ premise: telling exciting new stories with impressive art.

Fortunately, issue #3 changes some of these changes. However, it is not a complete overhaul, as the story still has some flaws, particularly in terms of the characterization of Darth Maul. However, the art direction and story flow are better.

In issue #3, Darth Maul is sent by his master to eliminate a villain who has information on Chancellor Palpatine. The story is a little weaker, written by Erica Schultz. It’s a simple, basic premise, but it doesn’t give Darth Maul much depth. He’s still just a mindless weapon used to do his master’s bidding. There are hints that Maul is more than that, as Maul challenges his master’s authority in some ways. But that’s about as far as the story goes.

But Leonard Kirk’s art is what makes this issue stand out. This comic has some amazing double-page spreads showing Darth Maul’s athletic prowess and his ruthless nature as a Sith assassin. Plus, the sharp red highlights are used more frequently and more forcefully – something I criticized in issue #2. In this issue, the reader gets a better sense of why the character is so revered and so powerful, more so than in any other issue. And that’s thanks in part to the exciting art.

Of the three issues released so far, issue #3 is the best of the bunch. I still have my concerns, as the storyline doesn’t portray Darth Maul with the same nuance as it has in recent years. But for readers hoping for more deadly action from the character, this issue is just the ticket. With only one issue left, let’s hope the next creative team can pull it off.

Score: 8/10