REVIEW: ‘Star Wars: Bounty Hunters,’ Issue #5

Star Wars: Bounty Hunters is back with an action-packed fifth issue. Published by Marvel Comics and written by Ethan Sacks, with art by Paolo Villanelli, colors by Arif Prianto, and letters by Travis Lanham, Bounty Hunters #5 pits Valance against one of the greatest bounty hunters in Star Wars history, Boba Fett.

The last issue was undoubtedly a bit of a letdown between the lackluster reveal about Lash’s true reason for betraying her team and the death of T’onga. But will things pick up with Boba Fett’s sudden appearance? I’m sure most people have been keeping up with this series solely for Fett so readers will be delighted to hear that he’s all over this issue.

In Bounty Hunters #5, Boba Fett and Valance face off. While Valance’s only desire is to protect Lash from Fett’s wrath, and get a little vengeance for T’onga, Fett is only focused on seeking revenge on Lash for soiling his reputation. Lash tries to ferret Cadeliah away, fearful that Fett won’t stop at seeking revenge on herself but may also go after the very person Lash betrayed her team for all those years ago.

With each issue, we learn more and more about the past. Although we already know why Lash betrayed her fellow bounty hunters, we learn more about Lash herself. Her childhood wasn’t the most benign and we find out why she decided, or rather was forced, to pursue the bounty hunter lifestyle. Although her backstory is sad, it’s not the most unique; it’s filled with typical Star Wars racism and is a pretty typical orphan story.

We also get more background about what happened to Valance and Fett immediately after Lash betrayed her team. What happens to Valance is sad, and reiterates his devotion to protecting Lash, but this revelation doesn’t do much to develop his character more.

For the most part, the story and characters are rather black and white. The characters’ motives are simplistic and their backgrounds aren’t the most intricate. There are plenty of Star Wars stories out there so it’s probably difficult to produce an entirely unique story, but too many elements feel familiar or rehashed. Although the plot isn’t bad per se, it isn’t the most interesting.

The gem of this issue is Valance and Fett’s fight. Their back and forth dialogue is pretty typical of these characters and we get to see a variety of weapons at Fett’s disposal. This is by far where the art shines. Villanelli has a way with movement; the fight is dynamic and flowing and you can practically feel the speed and impact of every punch and kick. The characters are incredibly emotive and will undoubtedly pull you into the more emotion-laden panels.

Prianto’s colors only enhance the art, bringing out the tone of each and every panel. From the use of heavy shadows to the bright glow of laser beams and explosions, the art and colors are a treat to look at. Lanham’s lettering further bolsters the panels. The speech bubbles are easy to follow, don’t crowd the panels, and never overshadow the characters.

For its simplicity, Bounty Hunters #5 is entertaining. Who doesn’t want to watch a few bounty hunters beat each other up? The art is gorgeous and the colors are beautiful. But the plot itself just isn’t up to snuff. The characters are painted too black and white for my tastes and the plot just isn’t engaging.

Star Wars: Bounty Hunters #5 is available now wherever comics are sold.