Star Wars--one of the most amazing stories ever put together. For those of us who love the original movies we're always eager to find any continuation of that mythology that does the originals justice. The trilogy of prequels having been an extremely disappointing attempt overall, many have turned to the novels and the comic books hoping for another great story of the Jedis and the battle for the galaxy. 

Star Wars: Invasion from Dark Horse comics looks like the start of a promising addition to the Star Wars mythos. With Luke Skywalker himself heading up the list of characters this issue deals with the emergence of a threat known as the Yuuzhan Vong. The story begins with the relatively defenceless planet of Artorias and gives us an introduction to some new characters that are likely going to be staples in this new series' cast. Taylor writes it well as he brings an immediate sense of urgency to the brutal attack on the planet by having a mother and daughter caught in the fray. We're also introduced to the respective husband and brother to the aforementioned ladies and find that the foursome make up the ruling family of the planet. Most exciting for me was the appearance of Skywalker himself, my personal favorite Jedi, as he shows up to help defend the planet. The issue isn't all action. Taylor does take the time to get us acquainted with planet's ruling family and even sets up the son as a pretty clear candidate for Jedi training.

Taylors' writing is complemented by Wilson's exceptional art skills. In an issue that starts the series off with a gratifying amount of action Wilson's illustrations shine. He makes excellent use of perspective in nearly every panel using it to great effect whether it be to emphasize the speed at which the ships are traveling through hyperspace or to give us the the sense of intimidating awe that the planet's victims feel as we do in the first appearance of a Yuuzhan Vong as he stands looming over a terrified victim. And while I don't know whether it was Wilson himself who designed the look of the Yuuzhan Vong it also bears mentioning that he gives them the combination of frightening yet cool appearance that helped make Darth Vader such a classic character.

But not everything is perfect in the issue. While Taylor did a good job of writing an interesting issue that pulled me in quickly, I was left with the impression that there were some things taking place that I should know about but don't. Since I have read only a few of the Star Wars novels and comics up until now it's possible that there's some back story I'm missing, but I think perhaps more of an introduction could have been made to make this issue more accessible. To nitpick one other thing, it's worth noting that the teenaged son, Finn, wears a costume and goggles that bear a more than passing resemblance to the newest, current "Wasp" costume of Marvel's Hank Pym of Avengers fame.

Overall this was a very strong start to what I hope will be an excellent series. I personally can't wait to see where the continuing story of Luke Skywalker goes and to see more of Wilson's skillful art. As we get more explanation and depth regarding the story and the interesting villains introduced this looks like it has the potential to be a must have comic series.

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