Since Disney bought Lucasfilm in 2012, many of the recent “Star Wars” projects have flopped. Three of the four movies released since then have been overwhelmingly hated by fans. However, “Rogue One,” “The Bad Batch,” the final season of “The Clone Wars” series and “The Mandalorian” all received approval from the fanbase, and “Andor” is no different.
Fans and critics alike saw the release of “Andor” in 2022 as a sign that Disney was on the upturn for creativity. Season one dove into plots by the rebellion to take down the Empire, the frustrating daily life of Imperial officers and cunning escape after cunning escape by the series’ protagonist, Cassian Andor.
Diego Luna starred in the 2016 film “Rogue One” as the same character, and fans adored him. While the lead, Jyn Erso, in “Rogue One” had little more to explain for her backstory, Cassian Andor was a blank check for Disney. All we knew as the audience upon his first appearance was that he was a clever rebellion agent who would do anything for his organization. “Andor” takes a dive into his story, telling some of his early childhood, the process behind his brilliant plots and his involvement with the Rebel Alliance as one of their most valuable spies.
In the first season, Andor is forced to join the Rebels in their fight against the Empire by Luthen, after he kills two Imperial officers and needs to remain hidden. He joins a Rebel mission to infiltrate an Imperial garrison. He is then arrested on the planet Niamos and sent to a hard labor camp, sentenced to build parts for the Death Star.
The introduction of many familiar actors adds excitement to the show, as Stellan Skarsgard plays Luthen and Andy Serkis plays Kino Loy, an inmate in the labor camp. Mon Mothma, an Imperial senator, who secretly sides with the Rebels, also returns, played by Genevieve O’Reilly.
The lack of critical thinking when it comes to writing scripts and worldbuilding is something many “Star Wars” fans expect from anything Disney touches. However, “Andor” really has become Disney’s chance to flex its skills in creating a great story. The show has amazing visuals that feel more realistic than the unnerving CGI of episodes seven to nine. “Andor” explores each one of its characters’ personal lives, giving the audience an insight into the lives of every person in the galaxy. Rebels, Imperial officers, as well as average citizens, are given the spotlight, straying from the classic “Star Wars” style of sticking to the heroes.
With the first six episodes of season two released, we get light shone onto unique aspects of the world that make it feel more alive. In episode one of Season 2, we find Andor at an Imperial testing facility, where a brand new, super-advanced spaceship is being built. We see aspects of Mon Mothma’s culture, language and world where she hails from. We also see the sheer scale to which the Empire has control.
This is possibly the best “Star Wars” show since “The Clone Wars,” and I look forward to seeing more of what Season 2 has to offer.