Let’s face it: Disney’s take on the Star Wars franchise has been a mixed bag, with some highs and lows. While the trilogy got off to a strong start, thanks to JJ Abrams’ direction on The Force Awakens, the subsequent films suffered from some of the mystery boxes set up in the first installment. Regarding the series on Disney+, there have been some excellent ones, such as seasons 1 and 2 of The Mandalorian, while others, like season 3 of The Mandalorian, have been a letdown. The franchise may be suffering from an overabundance of material, a sentence I never thought I’d utter.

Star Wars Andor Review: A Surprise in High-Quality Storytelling

Despite my initial low expectations, Andor’s high-quality storytelling and production values surprised me. The show’s plot revolves around the birth of the rebellion against the Galactic Empire. It follows the backstory of Cassian Andor, one of the main organizers and leaders of the band of rebels that steal the Death Star plans, as shown in Rogue One. Diego Luna reprises his role as Andor, while Tony Gilroy is the primary showrunner.

What Sets Andor Apart

What sets Andor apart from some of the other Star Wars shows that have aired on Disney+ is the creative latitude that Gilroy was given. Gilroy, who has written action films such as the Bourne series and directed dramas like Michael Clayton, combines both genres in Andor to significant effect. The show is a slow burn, but it allows the characters to breathe and develop over time, which adds depth and complexity to the story.

Unveiling Standout Characters in Andor

One of the standout characters in Andor is Syril Karn, portrayed by Kyle Soller. Karn is a stickler for rules in a middle management job, and his simmering rage is palpable throughout the series. Gilroy takes the time to explore what led Karn to become the man who inadvertently sparks the rebellion. The tension in the show is heightened by the fact that only a few of the characters we meet are from the wider Star Wars universe, which means that we don’t know their fate. While the entire cast is excellent, two actors, Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Andy Serkis, deliver award-worthy performances.

Building the rebellion is slow and arduous, as the rebels must find people they can trust and wear many faces to avoid detection by the Empire. Stellan Skarsgard, who plays Luthen Rael, excels at portraying a man who must push the rebellion where it doesn’t want to go while doing it in plain sight. Genevieve O’Reilly, as Mon Mothma, also delivers a compelling performance as someone who must have two lives even in her own house.

And don’t get me started on Denise Gough as the show’s main antagonist, Dedra Meero. I’m sure I sound the same way that the Mrs. sounds when she talks about Loki.

Visual Splendor

Production-wise, Andor is a visual feast for the eyes. The Empire has a look of over-cleanliness, even in the prison, which creates an oppressive atmosphere. The everyday people are doing their best with what they have, while the rich have beautiful homes. Every set fits the scene’s mood perfectly, which adds to the immersive experience of watching the show.

A Well-Crafted Addition to the Star Wars Saga

While Andor may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s a compelling and well-crafted addition to the Star Wars franchise. The main character has an ambiguous moral structure, which may make him hard to root for, and the absence of the Force and lightsabers may disappoint some viewers. However, the show’s emphasis on character development and its exploration of the rebellion’s origins make it a standout entry in the Star Wars canon. If you’re willing to give it a chance and understand it will take its time in telling its story, Andor is a series that will grip you from start to finish.

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