Republic
#59: Enemy Lines
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Script: John Ostrander
Pencils: Jan Duursema
Inks: Dan Parsons
Coloring: Joe Wayne
Cover: Andy Brase
Reviewed by Andrew Liptak
Summary: Anakin Skywalker and A'Sharad Hett have been shot down on the planet Aargonar, behind enemy lines. Together, they must work to get out of the enemy occupied area and back to their own forces, to turn the tide of battle. Along the way, Anakin must confront what he did on Tatooine, and his own hatred towards Tuskan raiders, for he must work alongside of one.
What Worked: Possibly the best issue of Republic to date, Enemy Lines brings Anakin into focus, where he must confront his hatred of the Tuskans. Throughout the entire story, he and Hett are talking, Hett sometimes comparing Anakin to Tuskans, Anakin arguing over their savage ways. Things escalate towards the end, and we see Hett confront Anakin on what he has done, how much he hates. Anakin, in a rage of memories, accidentally attacks Hett, who forces him back to reality, and reveals himself to be a human. This was a surprise, but a welcome one. The Tuskan mask is almost metaphorical, showing Anakin that his hate is for an image, superficial.
Once again, Jan Duursema, John Ostrander and Dan Parsons have done a terrific job with this issue. The artwork is superb, as is the story and colors. I think that this is one of the best issues to date in every aspect. The technical details, the story and everything else. Jan did an excellent job with the cover of this story, summing up the entire story easily: Anakin's Hate. This issue was a pleasure to read, and it was nice to take a short break from Quinlan Vos, and move onto other Jedi and other planets in the clone wars.
What Didn't Work: One thing: the fact that Anakin didn't learn anything from Master Hett's teachings on Aargonar, said in the last line of the comic, when Hett asks Anakin if he'd murder in anger again. Anakin's reply is yes.
Overall: The best comic in Republic thus far, and one with some important points that will come up later in the future. A must buy for every Clone Wars fan!
Rating:10/10
Related Items:
The
Battle of Aargonar
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