Close Menu
  • Login
  • Support Us
  • Newsletter
  • News
  • Features
  • Interviews
  • Reviews
    • Video Games
      • Previews
      • PC
      • PS5
      • Xbox Series X/S
      • Nintendo Switch
      • Xbox One
      • PS4
      • Tabletop
    • Film
    • TV
    • Anime
    • Comics
      • BOOM! Studios
      • Dark Horse Comics
      • DC Comics
      • IDW Publishing
      • Image Comics
      • Indie Comics
      • Marvel Comics
      • Oni-Lion Forge
      • Valiant Comics
      • Vault Comics
  • Podcast
  • More
    • Event Coverage
    • BWT Recommends
    • RSS Feeds
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
Support Us
But Why Tho?
RSS Facebook X (Twitter) YouTube
Trending:
  • Features
    EA Sports Madden NFL 26 Head Coach But Why Tho 5

    Dear EA Sports, Why Can’t I Make A Hot Coach?

    08/14/2025
    Blade in Marvel Rivals Season 3.5

    Blade Can Shut Down The Other Team In Marvel Rivals Season 3.5 If You Know How

    08/08/2025
    John Cena and Cody Rhodes during Summerslam 2025

    The SummerSlam 2025 Main Event Was A Fever Dream We All Needed

    08/08/2025
    Street Fighter 6 Sagat

    Sagat Brings Depth And Approachability To ‘Street Fighter 6’

    08/07/2025
    Battlefield 6 Classes - Support trailer image

    Battlefield 6 Really Wants You To Play Support (But Knows You Won’t)

    07/31/2025
  • Indie Games
  • K-Dramas
  • Netflix
  • Apple TV+
But Why Tho?
Home » Marvel Comics » REVIEW: ‘Star Wars: Return of the Jedi – The Empire,’ Issue #1

REVIEW: ‘Star Wars: Return of the Jedi – The Empire,’ Issue #1

Adrian RuizBy Adrian Ruiz06/07/20233 Mins Read
Star Wars Return of the Jedi %E2%80%93 The Empire 1 %E2%80%94 But Why Tho
Share
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Reddit WhatsApp Email

Star Wars Return of the Jedi %E2%80%93 The Empire 1 %E2%80%94 But Why Tho

Star Wars fans are in for a treat with Star Wars: Return of the Jedi – The Empire #1, the fourth one-shot in the Return of the Jedi 40th anniversary series. Crafted by writer Jody Houser, artist Jethro Morales, letterer Joe Sabino, colorist Dee Cunniffe, and cover artist Ryan Brown, Return of the Jedi – The Empire #1 delves into the complexities of life under Imperial control for those who had their lives taken over by the Imperial machine.

Get BWT in your inbox!

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and get the latest and greated in entertainment coverage.
Click Here

Get BWT in your inbox!

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and get the latest and greated in entertainment coverage.
Click Here

One of the highlights of Return of the Jedi – The Empire #1 lies in its ability to present a fresh perspective within the Star Wars universe. Often the oppression of the Empire is felt by our heroes in the Rebellion who are determined to end its tyranny. However, writer Houser introduces readers to Rilo Grenth, an independent businessman whose life takes an unexpected turn when the Empire forcibly takes control of his family business. By following Rilo’s journey, readers are shown a unique vantage point that explores the struggles faced by those caught in the crosshairs of Imperial rule. This narrative choice adds depth and complexity to the broader Star Wars universe, shedding light on the varied experiences within the galaxy.

Flipping through Return of the Jedi – The Empire #1, I couldn’t help but notice parallels and the stark differences between the experiences of Rilo Grenth with those of Syril Karn in the Andor show. Examining the two individuals grappling with similar circumstances, both forced into aiding the Empire but reacting differently, the issue provides a thought-provoking exploration of the galaxy’s response to oppression. Some are looking for any way to bring down the Empire like the Rebels. Others are looking for ways to become cogs in the Imperial machine like Syril. Then there are those like Rilo who are just trying their best to survive against their circumstances even if it means working for their oppressor. This prompts readers to consider the multifaceted nature of resistance and the diverse paths individuals can take in the face of adversity.

The synergy between the artwork, lettering, and coloring is commendable in Return of the Jedi – The Empire #1. Jethro Morales brings the story to life with expressive illustrations, capturing the stark contrast between Rilo Grenth’s vibrant and upbeat personality and the oppressive and rigid presence of the Empire. Joe Sabino’s lettering effortlessly guides readers through the narrative, allowing the dialogue and inner thoughts of the characters to flow seamlessly. Dee Cunniffe’s color choices effectively enhance the storytelling, emphasizing the dichotomy between the liveliness of Rilo’s world and the grimness of the Empire’s dominance.

As the fourth one-shot in the Return of the Jedi 40th anniversary series, Return of the Jedi – The Empire #1 continues the trend of celebrating the beloved film with a compelling story. It complements the overarching theme of the series while exploring new and meaningful perspectives. Jody Houser, Jethro Morales, Joe Sabino, Dee Cunniffe, and Ryan Brown have delivered an interaction into the canon that not only expands the Star Wars universe but also provides nuanced commentary on resistance and the human spirit. Rilo Grenth and his journey provide a story worth telling, ending on a somber note that highlights the dangers of Empire, even this deep into The Original Trilogy. 

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi – The Empire #1 is available wherever comics are sold.

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi – The Empire #1
  • Rating
4

TL;DR

As the fourth one-shot in the Return of the Jedi 40th anniversary series, Return of the Jedi – The Empire #1 continues the trend of celebrating the beloved film with a compelling story.

  • Read Now on ComiXology with Our Affiliate Link

Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit Email
Previous ArticleREVIEW: ‘I Hate This Place,’ Issue #9
Next Article F1 Manager 2023 Races On To PC & Console July 31
Adrian Ruiz

I am just a guy who spends way to much time playing videos games, enjoys popcorn movies more than he should, owns too much nerdy memorabilia and has lots of opinions about all things pop culture. People often underestimate the effects a movie, an actor, or even a video game can have on someone. I wouldn’t be where I am today without pop culture.

Related Posts

Cover art for Fantastic Four Issue 2

REVIEW: ‘Fantastic Four’ Issue 2

08/13/2025
Cover art of Predator Kills The Marvel Universe Issue 1

REVIEW: ‘Predator Kills the Marvel Universe’ Issue 1

08/13/2025
Cover art of Ultimate Spider-Man Incursion Issue 3

REVIEW: ‘Ultimate Spider-Man: Incursion’ Issue 3

08/13/2025
cover art for Uncanny X-Men Issue 19

REVIEW: ‘Uncanny X-Men’ Issue 19

08/06/2025
Cover art for One World Under Doom Issue 6

REVIEW: ‘One World Under Doom’ Issue 6

08/06/2025
Cover art for Ultimates Issue 14

REVIEW: ‘Ultimates’ Issue 14

07/30/2025

Get BWT in your inbox!

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and get the latest and greated in entertainment coverage.
Click Here
TRENDING POSTS
Still from Shin Godzilla
8.5
Film

REVIEW: ‘Shin Godzilla’ Is More Relevant Than Ever

By Sarah Musnicky08/16/2025Updated:08/17/2025

It is understandable how Shin Godzilla succeeded at the box office nearly a decade ago. The strength of its story still stands today.

Botanical Bliss Update Palia But Why Tho 5 News

Palia’s New Botanical Bliss Update Brings New Flora, Decorations, And Quest Mechanic

By Matt Donahue08/18/2025Updated:08/18/2025

The Botanical Bliss update adds new event, more plushes, and a host of quality-of-life improvements and more to celebrate 2 years of Palia.

BOOTS Netflix First Look promotional images News

First Look at Coming-of-Age Story BOOTS, Coming to Netflix This October

By But Why Tho?08/17/2025

Netflix is reporting for duty this fall with the new eight-episode series BOOTS, a comedic drama starring Miles Heizer and Vera Farmiga

Nuestra Magia Secret Lair Art Interviews

EXCLUSIVE: How The ‘Nuestra Magia’ Secret Lair Found Its Identity And Raised Over $1M

By Kate Sánchez08/15/2025Updated:08/15/2025

We spoke with Ovidio Cartagena about Magic: The Gathering’s Nuestra Magia Secret Lair drop, its impact, and the real treasure within.

But Why Tho?
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram Pinterest RSS YouTube Twitch
  • CONTACT US
  • ABOUT US
  • PRIVACY POLICY
  • SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
  • Review Score Guide
Sometimes we include links to online retail stores. If you click on one and make a purchase we may receive a small contribution.
Written Content is Copyright © 2025 But Why Tho? A Geek Community

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

But Why Tho Logo

Support Us!

We're able to keep making content thanks to readers like YOU!
Support independent media today with
Click Here