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If the “Age of Republic” comics from Marvel have taught us anything it’s that the prequel characters sure do bring the nostalgic vibes. Who would have thought reading a story about Count Dooku would make me wish we had even more from this evil yet gentlemanly looking Sith? Today, Jody Houser and Luke Ross tell a tale called “The Cost” with Dooku at center stage. You best believe he’s gonna do evil things.
So what’s it about?
The official summary reads:
THE FORMER JEDI BEGINS LAYING THE GROUNDWORK FOR HIS SITH MASTER! However, an unexpected encounter with an old student threatens his plans. Caught between his old life and his new, will DOOKU be able to protect the secrets of the SITH? And does he control the DARK SIDE, or is he merely its tool? Rated T
Why does this matter?
I think it’s safe to say many of us are reading these to get new insight into the characters and the world of Star Wars. This issue delves a bit into the fact that Dooku was a Jedi master at one point. Plus…Yoda sighting!
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
I was always confused by the fact that Dooku replaced Darth Maul. He’s so much older and seems so much slower. Why replace a kickass fighter with an old man? This issue seems to answer that question as Dooku is going on an intel mission for Lord Sidious. He’s on a thriving planet called Sullust and doing his best to stay low key. Houser integrates a few fun elements including a rebellion of sorts, a Jedi, and captions that draw you into the head of Dooku.
Ross’ art, paired with color by Java Tartaglia and letters by Travis Lanham are gorgeous, creative, and at times captivating. The work on Sullest and its lava enriched city are unique and complex. I found myself lingering on panels taking in the details like fountains made to look like men pouring out lava or the aliens that are walking about in the background. Ross’ ability to make Dooku scary and domineering, yet hopeful and kind in a flash helps convey how calculating he was. Fight scenes are well choreographed and you’ll want to see how Dooku uses his Force powers in a heated “negotiation.”
It can’t be perfect, can it?
Much like previous Age of the Republic comics, there isn’t much here that’s new or revealing. These read more like a hangout with characters we’re familiar with rather than an important tale you must read. If that’s your bag you’ll dig it, but if you’re reading this hoping to gain new insight into the Star Wars mythos you may just find yourself disappointed.
Is it good?
I came away from this issue respecting Count Dooku far more than I had prior. He’s a silent but deadly sort of villain who is calculating, but also ruthless. The fact of the matter is I had no care for this character, but now I’ll be digging into wiki’s to learn much more.
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