In the vast universe of Star Wars, the appeal of its TV shows has both die-hard fans and casual viewers eagerly tuning in. A new addition to the galaxy, “Ahsoka,” introduces us to an all-female trio with immense potential. However, does it manage to captivate its audience, or does it fall into the trap of assuming our interest in the franchise is a given? In this review, we’ll delve into the latest space series, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and missed opportunities that could have made it shine even brighter.
Ahsoka Tano’s Journey
The protagonist of “Ahsoka” is the former apprentice of Darth Vader himself, Anakin Skywalker. Ahsoka Tano, portrayed by Rosario Dawson, has defied the allure of the Dark Side and embarks on a mission in an era of fragile progress. Set after the fall of the Galactic Empire, her quest is to track down and neutralize Grand Admiral Thrawn, an exiled Empire loyalist. The plot thickens when two mysterious mercenaries wielding Jedi-like powers express interest in an arcane map that could lead to Thrawn’s hiding place. Yet, the show’s pacing often feels as if it’s stuck in hyperspace, with scenes unfolding at a leisurely pace that might test the patience of even the most ardent fans.
Exploring a Galaxy Far, Far Away
“Ahsoka” immerses viewers in a meticulously designed galaxy that still adheres to the classic Star Wars aesthetic. However, the show occasionally leans on a storytelling approach that disregards the age-old advice of starting scenes late and leaving them early. An example of this is evident in the sequence where Ahsoka explores an abandoned underground hub on a desolate planet. While the set design and atmosphere are undeniably impressive, the gradual progression might leave some viewers wondering why they’re dedicating precious minutes to watch a character search for a map.
The Dynamics of the All-Female Trio
The potential of the show lies in its all-female trio: Ahsoka, her former protegee Sabine Wren (Natasha Liu Bordizzo), and the general of the New Republic, Hera Syndulla (Mary Elizabeth Winstead). The dynamic among the characters offers a chance for nuanced, character-driven storytelling within the realm of space adventures. However, Ahsoka’s character sometimes remains inscrutable, while Hera’s distinctive traits are yet to fully emerge beyond her unique appearance. Nevertheless, the show strikes a balance between character development and spectacular action sequences, particularly when Sabine’s impulsive nature leads to daring duels and chases.
Embracing Star Wars’ Snappy Essence
At its core, Star Wars is known for its snappy and enjoyable narrative style. While “Ahsoka” manages to maintain elements of this in some moments, it occasionally leans towards being more ponderous than playful. The presence of Huyang, a droid voiced by David Tennant, offers a glimmer of levity. Yet, the show sometimes restricts Tennant’s ability to truly shine, leaving him delivering lines that miss the mark in a humorous voice.
In a galaxy teeming with iconic characters and narratives, “Ahsoka” enters the scene with potential and promise. As the series unfolds, it’s clear that the show’s success hinges on striking a balance between embracing the franchise’s rich lore and delivering a captivating, fast-paced narrative. The all-female trio has the potential to offer a fresh perspective on space adventures if the show can find its stride and remember that Star Wars’ magic lies in its ability to entertain and thrill.
