Marvel's 'Star Wars' #1 Review: Mark Hamill's Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford's Han Solo "Action-Packed" Return!

Based on the popular sci-fi franchise from visionary director, George Lucas, Marvel Comics continues the exciting space mythology with a new must-read series. Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), Han Solo (Harrison Ford), and Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) are back in the comic book page for the "action-packed" 'Star Wars #1.' 

In the first installment by writer Jason Aaron and artist John Cassady, the events take place right after the end credits Episode IV: A New Hope. The Rebels are still celebrating after the destruction of the Death Star. With the Imperial Forces in disarray, the Rebels aim to press forward with a daring offensive attack.

Aaron brings to life the characters with his snappy dialogue. The love/hate banter between Leia and Han is back again, and then there are some surprising new team-ups midway through the story. The fast-paced narrative kicks it up up a notch when the Storm Troopers call in a negotiator; Darth Vader. 

This is a revenge story for Darth Vader, who has an old score to settle. Darth Vader has been humiliated by the Rebel forces and he's going to take out his anger on them. I loved the battle between Chewbacca and Darth Vader; makes me wonder why they never thought of this before. 

Cassady's artwork is glossy and painterly, especially when it comes down to the action sequences. It's like I'm looking at a storyboard for some blockbuster action flick. Skywalker, Solo, and Lei resemble their big screen counterparts in their heyday.   

The illustrations keep the look and style of the films, which were clearly referenced. The Millennium Falcon is captured in tremendous detail in a wide shot. Han looks especially cool when he's pointing his blaster at his hostage. 

The fun has just begun. In February 2015, writer Kieron Gillen (Young Avengers) and artist Salvador Larroca (Ghost Rider) present Darth Vader #1, starring the most vile villain in the entire galaxy. And in March 2015, writer Mark Waid (Daredevil) and artist Terry Dodson (Uncannny X-Men) bring readers a special 5-issue limited series starring Princess Leia. 

Reading the first issue makes me want to re-watch Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer all over again. Don't forget the ComiXology app has the digitalized first issue for readers to grab.

Rating: BUY IT

Star Wars #1 is in stores everywhere on January 14. Readers, are you excited about the first issue?