Andor (Season 1)

In 2016, “Rouge One: A Star Wars Story” gave a new chapter in the sci-fi franchise that longtime fans were not expecting. The story did not revolve around the Skywalker saga as the film was about a rag-tag group of Rebels who sacrificed themselves in exchange for offering hope to the rebellion.

Despite being different from the familiar franchise, the film was known as one of the best in the “Star Wars” franchise thanks to its cast, an amazing script, and the final amazing 20 minutes with Darth Vader in all his powerful, lightsaber fighting Sith glory.

Six years later, “Rouge One” co-writer Tony Gilroy returns to that area with “Andor” for Disney+, released in September. Set five years before the events of that film, Cassian Andor, played by Diego Luna, is the main focus of the series as we follow his development from villain to hero.

When we first meet Andor in “Rouge One,” he is already a leader, but here, he is just one level above a ruined. A thief who is impulsive, he acts without thinking and suffers the consequences, joined by Stellan Skarsgard, Forest Whitaker, Adria Arjona, Kyle Soller, Fiona Shaw, and Denise Gough, Luna embodies Andor. He’s a man whose people and planet have been destroyed by the Empire, yet his spirit stays whole. Erin Maxwell said in his review, “In early episodes, it is difficult to see the self-sacrificing leader he will eventually become, but that is the journey promised by Andor.”

“Andor” keeps the story grounded by keeping the action mostly on the ground, thereby making it the most relatable of the “Star Wars” franchise. Maxwell said, “A smart move for a franchise that was quickly approaching fatigue as Disney continues to milk it for movies, series, and animated efforts. Though still rich with culture and the politics that drive the Star Wars universe, Andor is a more nuanced story that pulls from the characters and their actions, rather than the fanbase.” However, those looking for another “Mandalorian” might be disappointed by the darker look of the show.

Maxwell noted, “In the end, Andor is less of a spin-off and more of a spy drama that makes use of its pedigree to tell a engrossing story. At its heart, it is a character study told on the backdrop of a revolution.” We know the outcome for everyone in here, so audience interest must rely mainly on Andor himself. Thanks to Luna, we care, as both the actor and Gilroy have created a compelling character. Good news for those who have hit “Star Wars” boredom.

I really liked this show. It does switch around a lot from a few stories, but I think that is a normal part of the Star Wars stories. Still, it is something you should see. You will really love this a lot, especially Luna’s portrayal of Andor. You will be rooting for him from the beginning.

Tomorrow I will be looking at some MCU specials in “Disney Month 2022.”