In 2022, “Andor” seemed to catch the world by surprise, the series stood out by providing an incredibly nuanced and mature take on the “Star Wars” universe. “Star Wars” has had something of a tumultuous past few years, some projects such as “The Mandalorian” and “The Bad Batch” have captivated audiences, while others such as “The Book of Boba Fett” or “The Acolyte” have left something to be desired. “Andor” though has carved out its own spot among the “Star Wars” pantheon with its intelligent and mature storytelling paired with gripping character drama. Thankfully, the second season has continued in the footsteps of its predecessor, and has continued to build upon its narrative and characters.
“Andor” season two takes place one year after the previous season, and follows Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) as he begins to take a larger part in the conflict between the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire. Whilst Cassian is involved in the more hands-on aspect of the rebellion, characters such as Luthen Rael (Stellan Skarsgård) and Mon Mothma (Genevieve O’Reilly) find themselves entrenched in the politics of the rebellion, navigating plots and counterplots. On the opposing side are Imperial officers Dedra Meero (Denise Gough) and Orson Krennic (Ben Mendelsohn) who seek to destroy the burgeoning revolution.
These plots and others make up the main meat of “Andor,” which is the intrapersonal character drama. Every character in the series feels incredibly fleshed out and nuanced, nobody ever feels one note. Cassian Andor, a character who previously would’ve garnered a, “who” or, “the guy from Rogue One?” Is now a genuinely sympathetic and intriguing character that completely recontextualizes stories like “Rogue One.” His relationship to those around him and the rebellion becomes the crux of his development throughout the two seasons.
The supporting cast also helps to make the show as entertaining as it is, and Luthen Rael is a major stand out among the line-up. Luthen serves as both a leader and agent within the rebellion, and has his hands in several networks throughout the galaxy, aiding the movement from right under the Empire’s nose. Played by the always impeccable Stellan Skarsgard, who brings an unearthly gravitas and life to the character, Luthen shines as the ideological center of the show. Between his double dealings and tactful plans, Luthen will at times drop some of the most captivating monologues and provide insight to the man behind his many faces.
All of the performances are only aided by the show’s insane production value. When it comes to budget, “Andor” manages to put every single dollar on screen. Just about every scene contains elaborate and highly detailed sets, from the sterile, oppressive halls of Imperial bases, to the rustic and lived in shelters of Mina-Rau, every single set piece and location is bursting at the seams with history and significance
“Andor” is nothing short of perfection in both of its seasons, and that’s just based on the first three episodes of the second. It stands as so much more than just a good “Star Wars” show, it stands as a genuinely competent and compelling drama. That makes it all the more painful that the second season is also the last, because “Andor” is a testament to the potential that this franchise has, but rarely taps into. “Andor” needs support now more than ever, so that more projects like it can be made.
