The next Disney+ series in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is here, after what has felt like an extremely long wait. The gap between What If, the animated series that premiered in August and ran for 9 episodes until early October, and Hawkeye proved to be one of the most extended periods of time without an MCU series on the streaming service since Kevin Feige and co. embarked on this journey into television in January with WandaVision.
Given that, the question fans are asking is: is Hawkeye worth it? Does a series about perhaps the most localized and seemingly unimportant Avenger do enough to justify its existence? From the first two episodes, which premiered on Wednesday (just in time for the real start of the holiday season, as it is a Christmas-set show), Hawkeye proves to be yet another competent, enjoyable MCU series, if a little uneven at times, particularly when it comes to the plot.
The first episode sees us introduced to Hailee Steinfeld’s Kate Bishop, who’s unlikely favorite Avenger is Hawkeye, after the archer saved her from an alien during the Battle of New York. This scene was an interesting and fitting way to bring in Bishop, and to explain why she idolizes Hawkeye so much. No offense to Jeremy Renner’s Clint Barton, but Hawkeye and his role within the Avengers has served as comedic relief for years now, so seeing him save a young girl’s life brings a level of seriousness to the character and justifies Bishop’s interest in him.
We’re also introduced to Kate Bishop’s mother and her soon to be stepfather, who gives off evil vibes right from the get go. Better Call Saul fans will be familiar with Tony Dalton, who plays Lalo Salamanca in the prequel series. It will come as no surprise to those familiar with his work that Dalton is a scene stealer, with his charisma as the suspicious Jack Duquesne proving to be the most captivating aspect of the opening two episodes.
Duquesne and his fiancé, Eleanor Bishop (Vera Farmiga), both seem to be up to no good, and this is how the plot really kicks into a gear. At a holiday gathering, Kate wanders into a black market auction that Duquesne attends, at which a Ronin suit is being sold. Fans will remember Ronin as the darker, murderous alter ego of Barton during the five year period in which half the population was erased. More on Ronin, and the suit, later.
Kate gets herself into trouble as she is exposed at the auction, and the villainous and comedic track suit gang get on her tail, particularly after she puts on the Ronin suit. This is where she first encounters Jeremy Renner’s Barton, who just came from a Steve Rogers musical and spending time with his kids. She is startruck to meet him, and Steinfield plays the young admirer well, and also excels at showing why Bishop is worthy of such a big role in the series and (soon), the Hawkeye mantle.
Renner and Steinfeld have serviceable chemistry that strengthens as these episodes go on, although it’s a shame that they’re split up for much of the second episode. Barton is hellbent on fixing this issue on his own, keeping Bishop out of the way, but audiences will be quick to see that they need each other if they are to defeat the enemies coming their way. Their relationship seems to be the backbone of the season, and it’s overall serviceable, although it is a little bit of a standard superhero and young admirer story. Hopefully, an extra layer is added to this dynamic for more overall interest and audience investment in these two leads and their relationship.
The second episode has Barton looking for the Ronin suit, as anyone wearing it is deemed to be in extreme danger. This attempt at a Mcguffin proves to be largely unsuccessful as it opens the show up to plot holes and inconsistencies. If Ronin’s time in New York made him so famous as to warrant TV coverage on his return, it seems unrealistic that no one else has ever made a replica suit, or even a similar looking outfit, in the time since. People in the show are dressed as all members of the original Avengers, and writing on a sink in episode 1 shows that some are in favor of Thanos’ actions in Infinity War. The pessimism of siding with Thanos in particular would realistically suggest that, at the very least, Ronin has a small group of supporters as he kills known monsters and criminals in the underworld, so to say that this is the only suit of his is just too much of a stretch to be enjoyable or believable. Still, the scene in which Barton attends a LARP gathering in order to get the suit back was fun in the moment.
More broadly, Hawkeye suffers from a rather slow start, particularly when it comes to the plot. Much like The Falcon and The Winter Solider, Hawkeye sometimes falls flat, with a meandering plot and a dynamic between the two leads that, while good, isn’t as strong as it could be. Of course, they have plenty of time to change this, and there are signs of improvement as villains are introduced at the end of episode 2 and Barton and Bishop seem to be truly in the thick of it.
Verdict:
Hawkeye is just about a strong enough start for the series, and Hailee Steinfeld’s performance proves why she was the right choice for Kate Bishop. Tony Dalton often steals the show in his villainous role. With a flat and uneven feeling continuing throughout the two episodes, the rest of the season will need to have more intensity and a stronger plot to make this series realize its full potential.
Who you gonna call? Who you gonna call to breathe new life into the classic franchise, while honoring what makes the original so brilliant? Apparently, Jason Reitman, McKenna Grace, Paul Rudd, and Carrie Coon, amongst others. Ghostbusters: Afterlife finally hits theaters after several pandemic-related delays and much fan anticipation. Following 2016’s divisive reboot, many fans of the original supernatural comedy classic have been clamoring for more proton packs and PKE meters and, thankfully, the newest film delivers on all cylinders.
Ghostbusters: Afterlife sees a passing of the torch from Reitman-father to Reitman-son as director/co-writer Jason Reitman (Juno, Up in the Air) continues the legacy of his father Ivan Reitman’s 1980s series. Right off the bat, it’s very clear just how personal this movie is to Jason Reitman. This is a movie that deeply honors its predecessors. It is (by far) the most emotional, moving, and touching installment in the franchise to date (we’ll get back to this in a moment). Easter eggs, musical cues, and references are everywhere. Ghostbusters: Afterlife is perhaps most reminiscent of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, a film that similarly hoped to win back general audiences and wasn’t afraid to reimagine elements of its original. And, while this could easily be construed as misguided fan service, the film, like The Force Awakens, excels in positioning new and exciting characters at its forefront.
Afterlife tracks a new crew of characters – led by McKenna Grace’s Phoebe, her brother Trevor (played by Finn Wolfhard), and her mom Callie (played by Carrie Coon) – who move to a house in Oklahoma they inherited from their grandfather. From their very first scene, this central trio hooks us in. The chemistry between the actors is captivating, genuinely funny one-liners are exchanged throughout, and themes of family and legacy play out, in large part, due to the actors’ performances. Paul Rudd plays Gary Grooberson, Phoebe’s teacher who has been tracking mysterious seismic activity in the area. It goes without saying at this point, but Paul Rudd impresses in everything he is in and Ghostbusters: Afterlife is no exception. Rudd is a scene-stealer as he delivers some of the film’s funniest moments and plays an integral role in the plot. It’s a shame Rudd isn’t involved more, especially in the film’s latter half, but his presence is certainly felt whenever Mr. Grooberson is on screen.
Ultimately, what makes Ghostbusters: Afterlife so great is its lasting emotional impact. This is an incredibly touching, moving film (something that is especially evident in the final act). Afterlife takes its time building up its plot and emotions. The audience is given plenty of time to settle into the new environment and characters, which makes the emotional pay-offs sprinkled throughout so much more impactful. Needless to say, fans of the franchise will not be disappointed by how this film honors its legacy.
Verdict: 8.5/10
Ghostbusters: Afterlife innovates the franchise, while intelligently leaning into nostalgia. The personal touch of Jason Reitman helming his father’s franchise is resonant throughout. The new host of characters are captivating, in particular McKenna Grace, who really commands the screen, and Paul Rudd’s scene-stealing Mr. Grooberson. Overall, the newest Ghostbusters film is not only the most touching installment yet, but also the best since the 1984 original.
It’s fitting that, in the 30th anniversary of Timothy Zahn’s groundbreaking Heir to the Empire, the acclaimed author caps off another Thrawn trilogy in characteristically epic fashion. Thrawn Ascendancy – Lesser Evil sees the titular character’s origins within the Chiss Ascendancy draw to a close picking up after the events of its predecessor Greater Good. The book centers on the conflict between the Chiss Ascendancy and the villainous Jixtus, an intriguing character first introduced at the end of Chaos Rising.
Lesser Evil triumphs in the same manner Chaos Rising and Greater Good triumphed – telling a Star Wars story with (mostly) entirely new characters in an entirely unexplored sect of the galaxy. This novel territory made Chaos Rising a bit of challenge to get into, but, come this third installment, Zahn has managed to craft a story that feels so distinct from the Star Wars stories we’re used to experiencing.
Zahn’s novel also follows its predecessors in spinning a tale filled to the brim with political intrigue. Greater Good focused on a mysterious and insidious enemy’s attempts to tear the Chiss Ascendancy apart from the inside, and Lesser Evil continues this theme. This time around, Jixtus teams up with a sect of religious zealots called Kilji. Meanwhile, Thrawn’s moves on this intricate chessboard are detailed through the eyes of those closest to him. Needless to say, following the political back-and-forth is by far the best aspect of Lesser Evil.
Lesser Evil’s take on Thrawn continues an interesting trend for the Ascendancy trilogy. Thrawn, as depicted in the original 1990s novels and in Star Wars Rebels, is a clear-cut villain. Complex, yes, but still a villain. The Thrawn depicted here is secretive and slightly distanced from the reader, yet is definitely more of an anti-hero than a villain. The depiction of Thrawn as an anti-hero feels somewhat discrepant from the villain we love to hate later on in canon, especially considering that it appears Thrawn will make his live-action debut as a big bad guy sooner rather than later. Lesser Evil overcomes this potential pitfall, however, by feeling so distant (both in chronology and geography) from other adventures of Thrawn. This is still very much an origin story that is allowed some liberty as the events of Star Wars: Thrawn have not kicked into gear yet.
Verdict:
Lesser Evil is a more than satisfying conclusion to Timothy Zahn’s latest Thrawn trilogy. Zahn intelligently weaves together the political threads of a fairly complex and foreign story, while continuing to shed light on the infamous Chiss leader. Although the titular character’s portrayal as an anti-hero still makes him seem a little too different from the character we eventually see in canon, Lesser Evil succeeds in telling a story that feels refreshingly distant from the Star Wars universe we’re used to seeing.
As the spooky season of Halloween draws to a close, November welcomes a range of new Star Wars stories ahead of the highly anticipated release of The Book of Boba Fett in December. It is important to note all of these release dates are subject to change. Below includes a list and description of upcoming Star Wars projects in the month of November:
November 2 – Star Wars: Battles That Changed the Galaxy
Explore some of the most iconic clashes in the Star Wars universe with this new reference book. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “Explore the “Wars” in Star Wars as never before! Enter a galaxy ravaged by conflict and discover the complete story of the epic struggles that define the Star Wars movies. This ambitious book presents major galactic conflicts from an in-world “historical” perspective: each battle is depicted with captivating imagery, explored with newly commissioned maps, and explained through a detailed analysis of tactics, famous commanders, legendary warriors, key moments, and its impact on wider galactic history. This is the perfect book for any Star Wars fan, budding military historian, or would-be rebel hero!”
November 2 – Star Wars Year By Year: A Visual History, New Edition
Another DK reference book for a galaxy far, far away drops this November. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “Discover everything you’ve ever wanted to know about Star Wars in this complete history of the most famous franchise in movie history. Painstakingly researched and superbly illustrated,Star Wars™ Year By Year: A Visual History, New Edition presents a unique Star Wars timeline-the full history of the amazing Star Wars phenomenon as you’ve never seen it before. This stunning visual journey features trivia and cultural cornerstones from director George Lucas’ early life through to the iconic movie stills, comic books, novels, toys, video games, and theme parks that have spawned from five decades of seminal film making. Fully updated and expanded, this edition encompasses all nine episodes of the original, prequel, and sequel trilogies, along with the standalone movies Rogue One and Solo, and the acclaimed television series, The Mandalorian.”
November 3 – Star Wars 18
The much anticipated meeting between Leia and Qi’ra takes place in Charles Soule’s latest issue of Star Wars for Marvel Comics. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “COLLISION COURSE. Reeling from the events on JEKARA and forced to confront the reality of her own choices and losses, LEIA ORGANA meets QI’RA to discuss the person they both have in common – heroic smuggler HAN SOLO! How has he influenced their lives to that point? And how will it change their fate moving forward?”
November 3 – Bounty Hunters 17
Ethan Sacks’ Bounty Hunters series continues with this latest issue. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “LAST STAND. Severely wounded, VALANCE must make a desperate escape attempt from an Imperial Star Destroyer. Will T’ONGA and her crew reach him in time? Plus: A shocking twist that will leave the survivors’ lives forever altered!”
November 3 – Star Wars Insider 206
The latest issue of Star Wars Insider places the focus on Boba Fett ahead of the new Disney+ series. This issue includes an interview with Temuera Morrison, celebrating Lucasfilm’s 50th anniversary, and new The High Republic fiction.
November 9 – Star Wars Legends: Boba Fett – Blood Ties
Explore an adventure with Boba Fett from Star Wars Legends in this new collection. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “The galaxy’s most feared bounty hunter blazes into the spotlight! Years ago, Boba Fett’s father Jango took on an important mission with a big payday. But things went awry, and now Boba must pick up the pieces! Then, a rumor spreads that Boba Fett is dead — but who is picking off his “killers” one by one? Can the son of one of Jango Fett’s clones learn the truth? Plus, Boba takes on big bounties, battles the Empire and faces down an imposter in more tales of the fan-favorite in the Mandalorian armor!”
November 9 – Star Wars: The Life Day Cookbook
Celebrate Life Day with this new cookbook from Insight Editions! The publisher’s summary is as follows: “Prepare a holiday feast with this cookbook inspired by Life Day, the galaxy-wide celebration of family, friendship, and hope. Originating on the Wookiee homeworld of Kashyyyk, Life Day has since spread its message of fellowship and love to every corner of the galaxy, making it the perfect holiday to celebrate with a delicious family meal! CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH STAR WARS: Whether your family is celebrating Life Day at the Tree of Life, or in the comfort of your home, this Life Day cookbook will be the most scrumptious and festive addition to your Star Wars library! GREAT FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS: This cookbook will teach chefs of any skill level to prepare the galaxy’s most delicious appetizers, main courses, beverages, and desserts. OVER 40 HOLIDAY RECIPES: Packed with stunning food photography that’s sure to instill a passion for cooking in any Star Wars fan, this Life Day cookbook is the galaxy’s most exciting way to celebrate the holidays. BUILD YOUR STAR WARS COLLECTION: This holiday cookbook stands alongside fan-favorite Star Wars books including Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: The Official Black Spire Outpost Cookbook, Star Wars: The Lightsaber Collection, and Star Wars: The Secrets of the Jedi.”
November 9 – Star Wars: The Mandalorian: The Tiny Book of Grogu
Experience the story of Grogu in this new pocket-sized book of quotes. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “ Hold the thrilling adventures of Grogu and Din Djarin in the palm of your hand, with this tiny book celebrating fan-favorite scenes from Star Wars: The Mandalorian. Loaded with imagery of the most mysterious and lovable alien in the galaxy, and quotes from all of his unlikely allies, Star Wars: The Tiny Book of Grogu will be the perfect gift for any Star Wars fan. BELOVED MOMENTS IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND: With its 1.34″ x 1.73″ size, this tiny book packs a galaxy’s worth of adventure into a pocket-sized format. CELEBRATE GROGU: Featuring imagery and quotes from Star Wars: The Mandalorian (Seasons 1 and 2), this tiny book features Grogu’s most incredible escapades. From exploring the galaxy with Din Djarin, to meeting Ahsoka Tano and Luke Skywalker, this tiny book is a fun celebration of Grogu and the world of Star Wars: The Mandalorian. GREAT FOR FANS OF ALL AGES: As a stocking stuffer or a novelty gift for your favorite foundling, this tiny book will delight Star Wars fans of all ages. THE PERFECT ADDITION TO YOUR STAR WARS LIBRARY: A tiny but thrilling companion to your collection, Star Wars: The Tiny Book of Grogu is the most adorable addition to Insight Editions’ line of tiny books.”
November 9 – Star Wars Insider: The Fiction Collection Volume 2
Check out a range of Legends and canon stories in this upcoming collection! The publisher’s summary is as follows: “ A collection of exciting short stories featuring tales that take will take you from the Battle of Endor to the desolate world of Jakku. The stories, which cover both Legends and tales that fit in with the current Star Wars continuity, feature popular characters such as Hondo Ohnaka, Lando Calrissian, Asajj Ventress, and Princess Leia. Written by renowned best-selling Star Wars authors including Alan Dean Foster, Mur Lafferty, Alexander Freed, David J. Williams and Mark S. Williams, this volume also includes stunning art from several of the saga’s best-loved interpreters, including Brian Rood, Joe Corroney, Brian Miller, Chris Trevas, and Chris Scalf
November 10 – Doctor Aphra 16
Alyssa Wong’s Doctor Aphra series continues with this 16th issue. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “A DEADLY GAME! DOCTOR APHRA and SANA STARROS have escaped the VERMILLION, but there’s no escaping CRIMSON DAWN: their spies are EVERYWHERE! As DOMINA TAGGE contends with moles within TAGGE CORPORATION and Aphra struggles with the damage inflicted on her by a POWERFUL ARTIFACT, they strike one last bargain…But who can Aphra really trust?”
November 10 – The High Republic 11
We also have more adventures in the High Republic era this month with the 11th issue of Cavan Scott’s Marvel series. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “THE HUNT FOR LOURNA DEE CONTINUES! The NIHIL have unleashed a unknown terror against the Jedi. MARSHAL AVAR KRISS is more determined than ever to bring LOURNA DEE to justice, but does STELLAN GIOS and the JEDI COUNCIL agree? As KEEVE TRENNIS struggles with what she experienced on the Nihil base, the Jedi prepare for war. PLUS, the truth about SSKEER is finally revealed – but what does it mean for his future?”
November 10 – The High Republic: Trail of Shadows 2
One of the most intriguing new comics in the Star Wars universe, the mystery/thriller Trail of Shadows continues this month. The publisher’s summary for the upcoming second issue: “EMERICK AND SIAN FACE TOTAL AN-NIHIL-ATION! As dead ends and loose threads mount in Jedi Master Emerick Caphtor’s investigation, he’s called to Coruscant, where Chancellor Soh introduces him to his new partner: private eye Sian Holt. Together, they must go undercover to infiltrate one of the most crime-riddled and dangerous planets in the galaxy. Will Emerick’s duty to the Republic get in the way of Sian’s personal vendetta? Time’s running out to close this case…and what do the Nihil have to do with any of this?!”
November 16 – Thrawn Ascendancy: Lesser Evil
Timothy Zahn’s latest Thrawn trilogy comes to a close this month with Lesser Evil. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “The fate of the Chiss Ascendancy hangs in the balance in the epic finale of the Star Wars: Thrawn Ascendancy trilogy from bestselling author Timothy Zahn. For thousands of years The Chiss Ascendancy has been an island of calm, a center of power, and a beacon of integrity. Led by the Nine Ruling Families, their leadership stands as a bulwark of stability against the Chaos of the Unknown Regions. But that stability has been eroded by a cunning foe that winnows away trust and loyalty in equal measure. Bonds of fidelity have given way to lines of division among the families. Despite the efforts of the Expansionary Defense Fleet, the Ascendancy slips closer and closer toward civil war. The Chiss are no strangers to war. Their mythic status in the Chaos was earned through conflict and terrible deeds, some long buried. Until now. To ensure the Ascendancy’s future, Thrawn will delve deep into its past, uncovering the dark secrets surrounding the ascension of the First Ruling Family. But the truth of a family’s legacy is only as strong as the legend that supports it. Even if that legend turns out to be a lie. To secure the salvation of the Ascendancy, is Thrawn willing to sacrifice everything? Including the only home he has ever known?”
November 16 – Star Wars: The Mandalorian Crochet
Thunder Bay Press have released amazing crochet sets for classic Star Wars characters and are now bringing their unique style to the world of The Mandalorian! Who doesn’t want a little crochet Grogu?!
November 16 – Star Wars: The High Republic Adventures, Volume One
Collect issues 1-5 of Daniel Jose Older’s The High Republic Adventures series in this new trade paperback. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “Two hundred years before the events of the Skywalker Saga, the galaxy is experiencing unparalleled peace–until a new enemy threatens everything the Jedi have built. In the days of the High Republic, the Jedi are at the height of their power. But the emergence of the piratical, anarchic Nihil proves that even the most successful peace is fragile, and the Jedi’s influence is neither as pervasive nor as benevolent as they would believe. Now Lula, Farzal, and Qort, inexperienced Jedi Padawans, must help the inhabitants of Trymant IV in the wake of a Nihil attack. All the while, they’ll face suspicion and outright opposition from a group of subversive citizens who resent and fear the Jedi. Two of those citizens, Zeen and Kriz, will have to decide whether to accept the Padawans’ aid or try to save the day on their own.”
November 16 – Star Wars Graphic Novel Adaptation Box Set
Experience IDW Publishing’s series of graphic novel adaptations of the original and sequel trilogies with this new collection. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “Relive all the events from the twin sunset over Tatooine to the lightning-streaked skies of Exegol with this handsome selection of paperbacks, adapted from the films by writer Alessandro Ferrari. Each book combines the epic wonder of a galaxy far, far away with streamlined, young-reader friendly designs, making this a visual treat for longtime fans and a great introduction for newcomers. This special box set collects the graphic novel adaptations of A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, and The Rise of Skywalker.”
November 17 – Darth Vader 18
The aftermath of the War of the Bounty Hunters saga picks up in Greg Park’s Darth Vader series. The publisher’s summary for the newest issue is as follows: “RED REVENGE. Fearful whispers echo in every corner of the Empire – Darth Vader is on the hunt, searching for anyone with any connection to the criminal organization known as Crimson Dawn.”
November 17 – Life Day 1
Celebrate Life Day with this upcoming canon one-shot comic! The publisher’s summary is as follows: “THE GALAXY’S FAVORITE HOLIDAY! Happy LIFE DAY! Celebrate the galaxy’s favorite holiday with a collection of festive tales from all across the STAR WARS SAGA! Life Day is the last thing on HAN SOLO’S mind when he and CHEWBACCA find themselves outgunned and under fire. But Chewie won’t give up hope, remembering the lessons of Life Days past and present. As for Life Days yet to come…well, they’ll have to survive the night first!”
November 17 – Star Wars Adventures 12
The terrific Star Wars Adventures series from IDW Publishing picks up this month with stories from Cavan Scott, Manuel Bracchi, and Andrew Griffith. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “First, it’s a trap! Luke Skywalker and Rogue Squadron has been snared by the Empire. But who is the traitor and why is new recruit Ibti Myrak fighting with Admiral Ackbar on the deck of Home One? X-wings and TIE fighters clash in “Squad Goals,” part two by Cavan Scott and Manuel Bracchi. Then, from author and artist Andrew Griffith comes a new Tales of Villainy. Asajj Ventress must face off with Aayla Secura, who is dangerously close to uncovering the early stages of the Death Star Project.”
November 17 – The High Republic Adventures — The Monster of Temple Peak 4
The final chapter in Cavan Scott and Rachael Stott’s thrilling High Republic comic run arrives this month. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “Follow former Jedi turned saber-for-hire monster hunter Ty Yorrick in this adventure-packed High Republic miniseries by Cavan Scott and Rachael Stott! In the final part, Ty uncovers the truth deep in the Gretalax’s cave and must make a choice: the way of the Jedi or the way of the monster hunter? She must choose fast in order to protect the villagers and bring harmony to the settlement.”
November 17 – The High Republic Adventures 10
Daniel José Older and artist Toni Bruno team up with IDW once again for an adventure in the High Republc era. The publisher’s summary for the latest issue is as follows: “Chaos at Takodana! After the Nihil have attacked the Jedi temple, the Padawans must face them once again. Overwhelmed and outnumbered, the heroes are backed into a corner until an unlikely Padawan among them unmasks their full potential and saves the day!”
November 23 – Star Wars: War of the Bounty Hunters trade paperback
The Star Wars comic event of the year is compiled into a trade paperback releasing this month. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “The Star Wars comic event you’ve been waiting for! The notorious bounty hunter Boba Fett has finally landed his greatest prize — Han Solo, frozen in carbonite for easy transport. Fett will bring the smuggler to Tatooine to collect the massive bounty placed on Solo’s head by the fearsome crime lord Jabba the Hutt. Sounds easy. What could go wrong? There’s just one problem standing between Fett and the payday… and it’s a big one. But Fett will stop at nothing to get the job done! Prepare for a mind-blowing, space-shattering epic event like no other! COLLECTING: Star Wars: War of the Bounty Hunters Alpha (2021) 1, Star Wars: War of the Bounty Hunters (2021) 1-5.”
November 24 – Star Wars 19
Charles Soule’s Star Wars receives another issue this November. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “LUKE’S QUEST FOR ANSWERS TAKES A DANGEROUS TURN! As the REBELLION tries to pull itself together for a last-ditch effort to defeat the evil GALACTIC EMPIRE, LUKE SKYWALKER realizes it is time for his journey to become a JEDI to continue. After near-death at the hands of DARTH VADER, he knows he has much to learn if he will ever defeat the DARK LORD OF THE SITH. But the JEDI ORDER is gone, and his teachers have vanished… where can Luke turn to find the Jedi legacy he so desperately needs?”
November 24 – Bounty Hunters 18
Also continuing is Ethan Sacks’ Bounty Hunters series, a nice precursor to the upcoming Boba Show. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “THE GALAXY’S GREATEST! In the wake of the shocking events of WAR OF THE BOUNTY HUNTERS, the underworld has become more dangerous than ever. T’ONGA has assembled the greatest team of bounty hunters in the galaxy — including BOSSK, ZUCKUSS and TASU LEECH for a special mission! Can she keep them from killing each other long enough to become a real team while she grieves the loss of an old friend?”
November 24 – Star Wars Adventures Annual 2021
The publisher’s summary for Star Wars Adventures Annual 2021 is as follows: “Desperate to win Jabba the Hut’s favor, Han Solo and Chewbacca take the galactic gangster a very special present. Han thinks the adorable hoojib will make a perfect addition to Jabba’s menagerie, but the cute critter hides a terrible secret. Cavan Scott (Star Wars: The High Republic) and Arianna Florean (Marvel Action) reintroduce a legendary alien species to Star Wars canon, 40 years after their first appearance! THEN, follow a group of troublesome kids on Cloud City when they come across a rare coin worth a pretty credit. But when the coin turns out to belong to the one and only Lando Calrissian, the kids quickly find out they are in over their head. Chip Zdarsky (Daredevil) and Jason Loo (The Pitiful Human-Lizard) join forces to tell this Bespin-based story.”
November 30 – Star Wars Affirmation Cards
Insight Kids delivers a collection of philosophical and inspirational cards to promote mindfulness and inner strength, core fixtures of being a Jedi.
November 30 – Star Wars: The Mandalorian Handbook
DK and Star Wars are always a great combination, and this time their combination places the spotlight on The Mandalorian. The publisher’s summary for the upcoming reference book is as follows: “Packed with facts from the TV series Star Wars: The Mandalorian, this book is aimed at young kids who want to join Mando, Grogu, Boba Fett, and Ahsoka Tano on their thrilling adventures. They’ll meet strange aliens and droids, learn about new planets and frightening monsters, and read about the evil villains who will stop at nothing to complete their missions.”
November 30 – Star Wars: Character Encyclopedia, Updated and Expanded Edition
Last but not least, DK will also release an updated version of their definitive Star Wars guide this month. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “The definitive guide to more than 275 heroes, villains, aliens, and droids of the Star Wars galaxy. The latest edition of this beloved title has been comprehensively updated to include new characters from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and both seasons of Star Wars: The Mandalorian. Want to learn more about the Knights of Ren? Where is Padmé Amidala from? How tall is Grogu? To learn the answers to these questions and more, look no further than Star Wars: Character Encyclopedia, Updated and Expanded Edition. Written by Star Wars experts, the book is full of fun facts and intriguing information that’s guaranteed to enthrall fans of all ages.”
For reference, a condensed list of upcoming projects in November without descriptions is included below:
November 2 – Star Wars: Battles that Changed the Galaxy
November 2 – Star Wars Year By Year: A Visual History, New Edition
November 3 – Star Wars 18
November 3 – Bounty Hunters 17
November 3 – Star Wars Insider 206
November 9 – Star Wars Legends: Boba Fett – Blood Ties
November 9 – Star Wars: The Life Day Cookbook
November 9 – Star Wars: The Mandalorian: The Tiny Book of Grogu
November 9 – Star Wars Insider: The Fiction Collection Volume 2
November 10 – Doctor Aphra 16
November 10 – The High Republic 11
November 10 – The High Republic: Trail of Shadows 2
November 16 – Thrawn Ascendancy: Lesser Evil
November 16 – Star Wars: The Mandalorian Crochet
November 16 – Star Wars: The High Republic Adventures, Volume One
November 16 – Star Wars Graphic Novel Adaptation Box Set
November 17 – Darth Vader 18
November 17 – Life Day 1
November 17 – Star Wars Adventures 12
November 17 – The High Republic Adventures — The Monster of Temple Peak 4
November 17 – The High Republic Adventures 10
November 23 – Star Wars: War of the Bounty Hunters trade paperback
November 24 – Star Wars 19
November 24 – Bounty Hunters 18
November 24 – Star Wars Adventures Annual 2021
November 30 – Star Wars Affirmation Cards
November 30 – Star Wars: The Mandalorian Handbook
November 30 – Star Wars: Character Encyclopedia, Updated and Expanded Edition
Images courtesy of Lucasfilm, Marvel Comics, IDW Publishing, Insight Editions, Del Rey, Titan Magazines, Thunder Bay Press
