Ahsoka: Rebels Resurgence - A Review of the Force-Woven First 2 Episodes

The galaxy far, far away continues to expand, weaving stories within the Star Wars universe that enthrall and entice fans old and new. The latest installment, "Ahsoka," emerges as a live-action sequel to the cherished animated series "Star Wars Rebels." Dave Filoni, the creative genius behind this interstellar saga, invites viewers to revisit familiar characters and explore the lingering aftermath of the Galactic Empire's fall. As a devoted admirer of "Rebels," I couldn't help but revel in the resurgence of its world, yet the premiere's pacing struggles at times to capture the fervor that should propel us forward.

Warning: Minor Spoilers ahead for Disney's Ahsoka and Major Spoilers for Star Wars Rebels:

Stepping into the world of "Ahsoka," we find ourselves following the path of Rosario Dawson's Ahsoka Tano, the former Jedi apprentice of Anakin Skywalker, who now stands as a Rebel leader. Ahsoka's journey entwines with her allies: the skilled pilot and general Hera Syndulla, portrayed by Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and the Mandalorian artist and demolitions expert Sabine Wren, brought to life by Natasha Liu Bordizzo. Yet, there's an air of unfamiliarity as their animated personas morph into live-action beings. In all honesty, I felt the performances to be a little flat and lacking the same flair and spirit from the animated counterparts.

In the premiere, Filoni delicately weaves an opening crawl reminiscent of traditional Star Wars films, summarizing crucial narrative points. This serves both as a nod to the franchise's cinematic roots and a gateway for newcomers who may not have ventured into the animated realms. The story introduces us to Morgan Elsbeth, a Thrawn-aligned ally captured by Ahsoka, now in Rebel custody. The New Republic grapples with its fragile new order, emphasizing the scarcity of surviving Jedi—a theme central to the series.

The narrative threads lead Ahsoka to a reunion with her past compatriots. We observe the juxtaposition of her subdued demeanor against her former vibrant voice—a voice once amplified by Ashley Eckstein. This shift can at times hinder the connection we share with Ahsoka, as Dawson endeavors to capture a more mature, contemplative essence. However, the introduction of familiar faces like Ryder Azadi, portrayed by Clancy Brown, bestows a sense of continuity, reminding us of the tapestry connecting the series to its roots.

The visual realm of "Ahsoka" shines brilliantly, paying homage to the animated series through meticulous replication of iconic locales like Lothal. The Loth-cats, animatronic wonders, captivate us anew. Through Ahsoka's clashes with enemies, we're treated to seamless choreography that merges ground and aerial combat, reminiscent of the dynamic battles we've come to love. Ahsoka's prowess, coupled with the excitement of her battles, captures the essence of her character's legacy.

As Ahsoka's journey unfolds, the quest to uncover Thrawn's whereabouts propels the narrative forward. Filoni's fascination with the vast corners of Star Wars lore resurfaces as the series delves into ancient civilizations and the enigmatic Witches of Dathomir. Amidst the cosmic adventure, themes of Jedi philosophy find ample space for exploration, exemplified through encounters with characters like Baylan Skoll, portrayed by the late Ray Stevenson. Baylan's conflicted alignment underscores the show's exploration of what it means to be a Jedi in a post-Empire era.

As the story advances, Ahsoka's gaze extends beyond the cosmic tapestry to confront the mundane, offering a critique of post-Empire politics. This foray showcases Filoni's commitment to rich world-building. However, a sag in the narrative's momentum occurs as the complexities of interpersonal dynamics are laid bare, occasionally burdened by the baggage of past episodes. The portrayal of Ahsoka, Hera, and Sabine's evolution can feel stilted, attempting to reestablish connections previously established in "Rebels."

"Ahsoka" emerges as a vivid tapestry, interwoven with nods to its animated predecessors and embellished with lightsaber-fueled duels. The longing for the past echoes not only in the characters but also in the recreation of familiar landscapes. While pacing may falter, the series captures the core tenets of Star Wars: hope, resilience, and the enduring power of the Force. Ahsoka's journey, a mosaic of cosmic exploration and personal revelations, invites us to embrace the promise that the force will always be with us, guiding our path towards a galaxy of infinite possibilities.

Catch Ahsoka on Disney Plus: