Review: 'Legacy of Vader' #10 - A Stellar Installment Enhancing the Sequel Trilogy
The tenth issue of Legacy of Vader was released on Wednesday, bringing readers back into the intense psychological journey of Kylo Ren. After a somewhat uneven break, the story picks up with renewed focus and emotional depth.
Kylo Ren’s Return to His Grandfather’s Stronghold
Kylo Ren revisits the former stronghold of Darth Vader with two goals: to uncover more secrets about Vader and to expel the lingering spirit of Luke Skywalker that haunts him. Rather than gaining clarity, by the end of the issue, Kylo is left increasingly confused and conflicted.
Strengthening Kylo Ren’s Redemption Arc
This issue significantly enriches the narrative surrounding Kylo Ren’s journey toward redemption, offering a nuanced and emotionally complex addition to The Rise of Skywalker. It captures both the heartbreaking and terrifying aspects of his internal struggle.
"Ross and Woodard excel with the story, amplifying the emotional stakes and laying a firm groundwork between the clash of the light and the dark both within Kylo Ren, as well as the world he inhabits."
Classic Star Wars Themes, Freshly Executed
The story evokes classic Star Wars moments—like Luke’s cave on Dagobah, Anakin on Mortis, and Rey on Ahch-To—but remains compelling and fresh. This is thanks to the collaboration of the three creators, who blend familiar themes with new twists effectively.
Kylo’s Struggle with Luke’s Presence
Haunted by the Jedi Grandmaster Leia’s death knowledge given to Kylo Ren, yet still sensing Luke’s presence, the issue opens with Kylo seeking to eliminate Luke’s shadow permanently. He turns to Vaneé for help, a character who alternates between being all-knowing about the Skywalkers and surprisingly ignorant.
"As Kylo points out, Vaneé oscillates between all-knowing about Vader and the Skywalkers and seemingly completely ignorant."
This installment deepens the psychological layers within Kylo Ren while reinforcing the ongoing battle between light and dark forces both internally and externally.
Author’s summary: This issue masterfully explores Kylo Ren’s inner conflict and redemption, enriching the sequel trilogy’s story with emotional intensity and classic Star Wars symbolism updated for a new era.