As a casual Star Wars fan I never truly understood the hype behind the Franchise. I watched all of the movies and the first two seasons of The Mandalorian  but anything deeper in the lore lost my interest. Which ultimately weakened my desire to tune in to any new projects. No matter how much foam accumulated from a loyal follower’s mouth when dedicating my life to a space western didn’t peak my interest…Clearly I have been missing out. 

As a viewer who did not watch The Clone Wars or Rebels I can assure you that previous Star Wars knowledge are complementary not mandatory for the new Ahsoka Tano show. 

Ahsoka Tano (Rosario Dawson) serving face during debrief 2023

Que the signature prologue scrolling across the screen. The Republic is in control but that gripe does not seem so tight. We are immediately introduced the antagonist. Two unknown mercenaries armed with light sabers and a threat of the resurgence of the Empire. The mystery of these fighters history increases our interest when Huyang, the obligatory quippy robot, informs us they they are indeed Jedi. The source of this beef is fueled by this spooky ass witch Morgan Elsbeth. Who is currently looking for a special map. This is the last role of actor Ray Stevenson before passing away this May 2023. And he does not waste it. 

Baylan Skoll *Ray Stevenson) and Shin Hati (Ivanna Sakharov) getting ready to f@*K things up 2023. 

When we are introduced to Ahsoka she is meticulously solving a puzzle to acquire this coveted map. Composure Kevin Kiner puts his entire compussy into the score as we watch Ahsoka’s acquire the asset and promptly destroy 4 battle robots without removing her cloak. Rosario shines as a harden Jedi going to the motions to complete her task.  Approaching every fight with an annoyed ease.

Resolving conflicts with droids and Jedi come naturally to Ahsoka but it is her complex relationship with former protégé Sabine Wren (Natasha Lou Bordizzo) that proves to be the really challenge. Sabine is talented and arrogant in spite of Ahsoka apparent abandonment. Unlocking the map within hours of acquiring it. Watching her wheels turn as she examines the map resembles puzzle gameplay. Locking in the audience for the ride that is ahead. 

It can be inferred that Sabine is equal parts arrogant and talented. A combination that leads to good TV. Watching her pull out a light saber added a sense of danger to the character, only to immediately show that she needs training. I was relieved to have her reunite with Ahsoka to help her complete her training. 

Sabine (Natasha Lou Bordizzo) choosing violence 2023

The relationships between the characters seem to be the focus of this series. Hera Syndulla (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) , who I formally dubbed :the green lady”, serves as the anchor for all the characters. The rich history between Syndulla and the characters is palpable with every interaction. Hinting to a former adventure that has changed our protagonist forever. The question now becomes: with the threat of the return of the Empire how will these relationships grow…or sever? 

Hera Syndulla (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) getting things done 2023

Episode 1+2 served as an epic introduction to the Ahsoka series. It’s cinematic approach, likable characters, and incredible action scenes makes it easy to tap in at every level. Be warned it will tempt you to drink the Star Wars kool aid and catch up through the other properties.