"The Star Wars" -- Upcoming Dark Horse Graphic Novel Series

[Redstar]

Some you might have already heard that Dark Horse is working with writer Randy Stradley on an upcoming series that will adapt one of the early concepts for George Lucas' Star Wars films. Star Wars went through multiple vastly different iterations before becoming the version seen on-screen, of which this version can be considered one of the best.

The story follows characters Kane Starkiller, father of Annikin and Deak Starkiller. Annikin is trained by old Jedi general Luke Skywalker in preparation for a battle against the empire, which is based in the Space Fortress. Along the way they meet Han Solo (a Wookie-enslaving lizard-man) and Princess Leia. Obviously, character names have shifted around from their ultimate positions, although roles are generally the same.

I'm not a big fan of the Star Wars franchise, although I do love early concepts. They're usually far more creative and strange than what is ultimately produced; case-in-point: Super Mario Bros. I'm definitely picking this up once it's out!

[Phlibbit]

I love the idea of this! Thanks for bringing it to my attention. I also think it's pretty great that Dark Horse is doing this now before Disney gets the Star Wars comic rights back. I'll give this GN a shot.

[Clous]

I love the artwork. It looks like a very visual work in a way truer to the pulp fantasy adventures of the past than the films were. That will help this series stand on its own.

[Peculiar]

I'm really digging the artwork as well. They needed to differentiate this series from the films, through which I think the character designs are best.

[Phlibbit]

I just picked the first two issues of this today, and I've gotta say--I'm impressed!

It's such an intriguing look at how the Star Wars universe evolved from Lucas' first draft to what it is today. Overall, the story seems darker in tone than the original films, but that's not a detractor. Comic books have "alternate universe" stories all the time, but rarely do we get something like this for a film franchise. If you're at all interested, pick up the first issue and see what you think.