It is looking like 2015 will be a great time to be a "Star Wars" fan. In addition to the yet-untitled "Star Wars: Episode VII" in December, Marvel Comics announced during San Diego Comic-Con that three "Star Wars" comic series would be launching next year as well. Each will focus on the cast of characters and events of the original "Star Wars" trilogy.
First up is the simply titled "Star Wars," which will follow Han Solo, Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia as they attempt to capitalize on their victory after destroying the first Death Star and continue their fight against the Empire. Jason Aaron, whose work includes "Thor: God of Thunder" and Marvel's current event "Original Sin," will be writing the book, with artwork by John Cassaday of "Astonishing X-Men" fame. "Star Wars" #1 will drop in January 2015.
In February Marvel goes to the dark side with its new "Star Wars" comic, "Star Wars: Darth Vader." After the Empire's defeat at the hands of the rebels after the original film, Vader is looking to make sure the citizens of the Galactic Empire don't forget who is still in charge. He will be working to restore his reputation as the most feared man in the galaxy, and prove to Emperor Palpatine he is still worthy. "Darth Vader" will be written by Kieron Gillen ("Young Avengers," "Uncanny X-Men") with art by Salvador Larroca ("X-Men").
Last but certainly not least is a solo Princess Leia series, and as you probably guessed it is simply titled "Star Wars: Princess Leia." Unlike the other two series, Princess Leia will be a five-part mini-series following Leia as she steps into an even larger role in leading the rebellion while dealing with the loss of her homeworld Alderaan at the hands of the Empire. Mark Waid ("Daredevil," "Indestructible Hulk") will be telling Leia's story, with Terry Dodson ("Wonder Woman," "Uncanny X-Men") on art duty. "Star Wars: Princess Leia" will begin in March 2015.
Marvel gained the rights to make "Star Wars" comics from competitor Dark Horse after Marvel parent company Disney purchased Lucasfilm and the Star Wars rights from George Lucas for $4 billion. Whereas Dark Horse had a number of "Star Wars" comics set prior to, after and during the films, it looks like Marvel will initially be playing it safe as it explores the most iconic "Star Wars" time period with the classic cast of characters. With the new films also focusing on the cast of the original trilogy, it is no surprise Marvel is focusing its comic efforts there. No matter what the time period, more "Star Wars" is always a good thing.
