Warning! This review contains spoilers for Andor season 2, episodes 1-3.
The highly acclaimed series Andor makes its much-anticipated return with the opening trio of episodes from season 2. Having already set a high bar with its gripping prison narrative in season 1, the series concludes with an impactful finale that clearly established its significance within the Star Wars universe. Andor has not only treated the expansive lore of the Star Wars galaxy with immense respect, but it has also pushed the franchise towards a more mature, reflective, and emotionally rich storytelling style. Season 2 continues this trend beautifully.
These initial episodes are set one year after the Ferrix uprising, with Cassian deep undercover on a new mission for Luthen. Simultaneously, prominent characters like Mon Mothma attend a wedding on Chandrilla. Meanwhile, the Empire, under the direction of returning character Director Krennic from Rogue One, seeks to dominate the planet Ghorman. This introductory arc offers everything audiences have come to expect from Andor, including intense action sequences, stunning cinematography, masterful performances, and exceptional writing.
Andor Season 2 Catches Us Up With Its Characters & Teases Exciting Continuations
The Characters of Andor Continue to Be a Selling Point
In these first three episodes, the narrative relies heavily on character development to propel its intimate storyline. Instead of focusing on a grand galactic conflict, the plot examines Cassian’s challenges as he reconnects with Luthen following a mishap during his mission. Moreover, it intricately weaves Mon Mothma’s struggles as she manages her daughter’s wedding amidst political pressure, alongside exploring the lives of Bix, Wilmon, and Brasso in the aftermath of season 1’s finale.
The narrative adeptly showcases Cassian’s evolving leadership while Mon Mothma’s arc stands out, delving into her guilt regarding her daughter’s wedding and the intense political tension from former partner Tay Volko. The connections and character dynamics are expertly crafted, rewarding viewers with substance as the season progresses.
Nevertheless, Cassian’s interactions with a new group of rebels felt a bit lackluster, while Mon’s plot twists were significantly more engaging. Notably, the Mina-Rau storyline featuring Bix, Brasso, and Wilmon introduces thrilling elements as they navigate a dangerous cat-and-mouse game with the Imperials, adding an intriguing layer of malevolence to the Empire that hasn’t been explored before.
The performances are outstanding, particularly Genevieve O’Reilly as Mon Mothma, whose character depth is palpable. Diego Luna remains charming as Cassian, although his screen time could have been more substantial. Adria Arjona’s portrayal of Bix is particularly compelling, showcasing her resilience and the trauma she endures, making her a standout character in these opening episodes.
Andor Season 2 Looks & Sounds Beautiful
The Production Budget is Clear to See
Reportedly costing Disney close to $300 million to produce, Andor season 2’s impressive budget is clearly on display. The stunning opening scenes depict Cassian’s mission with remarkable cinematography and a captivating CGI set-piece. The visuals are stunning, particularly during scenes involving a prototype TIE Avenger as it navigates perilous terrain, adding the excitement fans crave from Star Wars action.
Moreover, the series’ locations are breathtaking, with each frame bursting with visual splendor, particularly on Chandrilla. This artistic choice sets Andor apart from other Disney Star Wars productions, utilizing on-location shooting that highlights genuine landscapes over the virtual environments typical of the franchise. Additionally, the musical contributions from Nicholas Britell and Brandon Roberts perfectly complement the storytelling, enhancing the show’s overall aesthetic.
Andor Season 2’s Maturity is a Breath of Fresh Air
Much Like It Was in Season 1
One of the core strengths of Andor is its ability to engage with complex themes, such as fascism and rebellion, in a manner rarely seen in the Star Wars narrative. While many Star Wars productions are entertaining, they often lack the nuance found in Andor. The first season made a lasting impression, and season 2 continues this pursuit of mature storytelling.
Interestingly, the character arcs of Dedra and Syril, as they navigate the ruthless political landscape, elicit unexpected empathy from viewers. Through powerful scenes, the show deftly explores moral ambiguity, allowing characters to grow and assume complex dimensions. This complexity is further emphasized when Dedra outlines a plan to dominate a planet, highlighting the stark moral challenges that arise within the narrative.
Topics of sexual violence are addressed as Bix’s storyline introduces the word “rape”for the first time in Star Wars canon. This bold exploration reveals the unfortunate potential for abuse within power dynamics, thus deepening the audience’s connection to Bix and complicating feelings towards Imperial characters like Dedra and Syril. Such elements underscore Andor’s considerable thematic depth and maturity, distinguishing it from other entries in the Star Wars franchise.
Andor Season 2’s Opening is Not Perfect, But It Sets Up an Excellent Season
Some Storylines Do Not Quite Land
Despite the overall quality, the opening episodes of season 2 are not without their shortcomings. Although they serve as a solid introduction and pave the way for future developments, episode 2 does tend to drag, particularly in its portrayal of Cassian’s interactions with the rebels, which feel repetitive and frustrating. While this might have been an intentional narrative choice to reflect Cassian’s own irritation, it still left viewers yearning for more.
Nonetheless, it’s important to note that the initial episodes of Andor season 2 offered minimal drawbacks. This introductory arc, while slower-paced, builds anticipation for the remaining nine episodes and the potential twists they may bring. Overall, Andor season 2 launches effectively, preserving the series’ unique strengths and setting the stage for what promises to be an equally remarkable, if not superior, continuation of its predecessor.
Andor season 2 episodes air every Tuesday at 9 PM ET on Disney+.