IESB Episode III Editorials

Tell us a bit about this series, this is not an adaptation of the Cartoon Network material but original stories told in that style and setting...correct?

That’s correct! The series is not an adaptation. Instead, it’s a collection of self-contained short stories, all featuring characters from the cartoons and using the same basic art style. It will also have the kinetic energy of the cartoons.

Will we see some new characters in this series that we haven’t seen before?

Yes, in the form of enemies, but most of the heroes will be established characters who also appear in the cartoons. The first issue features stories with Obi-Wan, Anakin, Saesee Tiin, Mace Windu, and Kit Fisto.

The word on the street is that we won’t really see very much of the Clone Wars in Episode III, how does it feel to be able to help fill in the blanks for such a critical part of the Star Wars mythos?

It’s incredibly exciting, but also a little daunting. I get to elaborate on an event that has received more speculation than nearly any other in the Star Wars continuity. Hopefully, we’re building off of what’s been established in Episode II and giving fans insight into the ways in which the war is fought all across the galaxy.

How much freedom are you allowed in shaping the direction of the story? Is there a firm guideline for story direction or “off limits” areas Lucasfilm wants untouched?

So far, I’ve had a ton of freedom. We worked closely with Lucasfilm early on to establish what would be off-limits, but there are really very few things we’re not allowed to touch. Beyond that, I’ve been really happy with the latitude I’ve been given. For the series based on the cartoons, I’ve basically had free reign.

Are there any characters in this era of the Star Wars timeline that you particularly enjoy writing for?

I really like the character Alpha, one of the clones who has been trained by Jango himself. I also like Ventress, because villains get be so much nastier than the Jedi.

This format of this series really sets it apart (96 page digest size) and makes for a unique presentation, does format affect your approach to your scripting the visuals?

Definitely. I’m able to provide more “reveals” per issue, which allows for a lot of plot twists. I also think that, with 96 pages to work with, I’m much more willing to devote an entire page to a single splash image or dramatic establishing shots.