Andor Seasons 1-2 Review
May film review for subscribers only
I am at best a tepid Star Wars fan. I enjoy the films and various spin-offs, however, I am at times overwhelmed by the varied timelines, stories, and characters while often being underwhelmed by the plot, dialogue, and story arcs.
Andor seasons 1&2 with Rogue One stand out as a triumph in the Star Wars canon. A series that not only enriches the universe but elevates it, clarifies it, and brings it to profound new heights. Through its meticulous world-building, complex characters, and unflinching portrayal of the Rebellion's nascent stages, Andor invites viewers to witness the birth of hope in the face of overwhelming tyranny.
The series excels in its expansion of the Star Wars universe. Locations feel authentic, complex, and lived-in, showcasing the oppressive reach of the Empire in everyday lives. We are introduced to new planets and cultures, each adding layers to the galaxy's rich tapestry. The ISB is given a chillingly bureaucratic face, and the inner workings of the Rebellion are shown to be far from the unified front often depicted. This provides a nuanced understanding of the sacrifices and moral ambiguities inherent in resistance.
Andor brilliantly clarifies and adds depth to the events and people of the Star Wars universe. Cassian's transformation from a self-interested survivor to a committed rebel is laid bare. We see the personal losses and injustices that fuel his fire, making his ultimate sacrifice in Rogue One all the more poignant. Additionally the series creates so many three-dimensional characters . Mon Mothma's perilous political maneuvering, Luthen Rael's shadowy network, Saw Gerrera's radicalism, Dedra Merro, and Syrill Karn’s unchecked ambition are all explored. These deep characters and so many others are a masterpiece of storytelling.
Season one establishes the stakes, showcasing the varied forms of Imperial oppression and the sparks of resistance igniting across the galaxy. The prison break on Narkina 5 and Cassian’s mother Maarva Andor’s move to open resistance are a window into Imperial cruelty and the resilience of the oppressed. They provide powerful, meaningful story arcs.
Season two escalates the tension, drawing closer to the events of Rogue One. Our deep and varied characters are moved along with compelling and powerful stories. The series immerses us in the daily lives of those living under Imperial rule, grounding the grand space opera in human stories. This focus on character-driven narratives, coupled with its mature themes, sets Andor apart.
The dialogue is sharp and evocative, the performances are uniformly excellent, the storylines are superb, and the cinematography is breathtaking.
Andor is, in my opinion, the standout leader of the Star Wars franchise. It enhances the lore by providing a depth of understanding and relatability to our own galaxy not so far away. Andor and Rogue One provide a gripping drama that not only expands the Star Wars universe in meaningful ways but also provides needed, powerful art to help make sense of our own complex world.
Bottom Line: The Force is Strong is this series and film!