Growing Up Skywalker
By Sam Nilsson and Anna Squires
Visit us online: www.growingupskywalker.com/
Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/growingupskywalker
Growing Up SkywalkerJun 06, 2023
Rebels Season 4 Premiere: “Heroes of Mandalore” (Season 4, Episodes 1–2)
While the Phoenix cell was getting obliterated on Atollon last week, war was brewing on Mandalore. Joining Clan Wren and the Protectors is our favorite redhead (besides Anna)—Bo-Katan Kryze!
In "Heroes of Mandalore" (Rebels S4, Ep. 1–2) we talk about Mandalorian warrior culture, the ethics of imperialism, the darksaber, and the importance of family. Also, it's been a long time since Bo-Katan crashed into her sister's throne room with Ahsoka in S7 of The Clone Wars, so we speculate a LOT about what she's been up to.
This arc is fast and violent and involves a paint-bombed convoy ambush, plus fighting TIE fighters with just Ezra’s fists. But we also take a minute to talk about Sabine and Bo-Katan struggling with what the future holds for them, as Mandalorians, as leaders, and as women.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:15:08 Bo-Katan’s Journey
00:27:28 Family and The Ethics of Empire
00:42:51 Hera and Kanan and Sexytimes
00:46:25 Bae Watch
00:51:36 Closing Thoughts
S4 of Rebels is a short one…and new shows have come out since we started. What should Growing Up Skywalker watch next? Make your voice heard on social media, or drop us a line at growingupskywalker@gmail.com.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Want more nerdy content? Check out Sam’s articles on Couch Soup!
Rebels: "Zero Hour" (Season 3 Finale)
Welcome to the end of Rebels Season 3.
In the most cinematic Rebels episodes yet, “Zero Hour” (Rebels S3, Ep. 21–22) brings all the elements of Season 3 crashing together. In our recap, we tally up the wins and losses for the Rebellion and the Empire, wonder what people across the galaxy think about it, and talk about the Bendu’s fate. We also pick our favorite Season 3 moments.
Between the heroic score, sweeping visuals, deep family love, and epic sacrifice, these episodes brought us both to tears. And there’s more coming! Sabine still has a debt to repay, Phoenix Cell is homeless again, and Thrawn is out for revenge. Now’s the time to follow along with Growing Up Skywalker.
With a heroic score, and visual elements that bring both your hosts to tears, this episode is an epic, sweeping, season finale that was worth the effort, and showcases the growth in the whole narrative in Star Wars in Rebels.
And there is more coming! With Sabine's debt to repay, Phoenix Cell homeless again, and Thrawn out for revenge, we are waiting impatiently for Season 4!
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Want more nerdy content? Check out Sam’s articles on Couch Soup!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:13 Calculating the Wins and Losses
00:44:27 The Bendu’s Fate
00:48:19 Standout Season 3 Moments
00:56:59 Bae Watch
01:05:51 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Twin Suns” (Season 3, Episode 20) feat. Tim Beisiegel of the FSF Popcast
It’s the final countdown…to the duel that took 30 years to finish.
This week, we have special guest Tim Beisiegel of the FSF Popcast on the show to talk about the final duel between Maul and Obi-Wan Kenobi. We talked all about THAT DUEL THO, in addition to the prophecy of the Chosen One, the end of Darth Maul’s journey, the significance of these two Force masters to Ezra, and the wider Rebellion.
"Twin Suns" (Rebels S3, Ep. 20) is a fan favorite for a reason—so join us in watching (and discussing) one of the best lightsaber duels of all time.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Make sure to check out:
FSF’s interview with Sam Witwer, the voice of Darth Maul
FSF’s interview with Vanessa Marshall, the voice of Hera Syndulla
FSF’s interview with Taylor Gray, the voice of Ezra Bridger
Timestamps:
00:02:21 Plot Overview
00:7:13 Darth Maul, Fin.
00:28:52 That Duel Tho
00:38:13 Who Is The Chosen One, Really?
00:53:20 Bae Watch
00:58:50 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Secret Cargo” and “Double Agent Droid” (Season 3, Episodes 18–19)
Welcome to the Rebel Alliance.
“Secret Cargo” (Rebels S3, Ep. 18) starts off with a bang and finishes with Mon Mothma—last seen in Andor—calling for each rebel cell to unite. But to get there, the Spectres have to fly through a nebula, chased by Thrawn’s TIE Defender, and barely escape with their lives. Sam cried so much at all of this.
We also made some time to laugh this episode. In “Double Agent Droid,” the most musical episode of Rebels, AP-5 and Chopper are up to their old tricks (and confronted by the most dangerous foe in the Empire: nerds).
We laughed, cried, and cheered in this week's episode. Our heroes seem strong enough to take on anything. But are they? Join us next week to find out, as we recap “Twins Suns” with special guest Tim Beiseigel from the FSF Popcast.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:20 Mon Mothma and the Rebellion
00:32:00 Droids, Droids, Droids
00:45:50 Bae Watch
00:49:56 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Legacy of Mandalore” and “Through Imperial Eyes” (Season 3, Episodes 16–17)
The darksaber saga continues!
Following up on the stellar darksaber training montages of last week, "Legacy of Mandalore" (Rebels S3, Ep. 16) brings Sabine and her family into direct conflict—over Satine’s past mistakes and her potential to lead all Mandalorians. Will found family fight blood? We dive deep into Mandalorian culture and the futility of feudal life.
Then we take a turn straight into Alexsandr Kallus’ eyeballs. "Through Imperial Eyes" (Rebels S3, Ep. 17) is a taut spy story with brutal conclusions for our heroes and a dark turn, as well as some delightful Easter Eggs. These episodes center on trust and betrayal, and the potential for betrayal seems to be lurking around every corner.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We're posting over an hour of bonus content this week!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:33 Mandalorian Feudal Hierarchy
00:35:26 Trust and Betrayal in the Empire
00:50:51 Bae Watch
00:55:08 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Warhead” and “Trials of the Darksaber” (Season 3, Episodes 14–15)
“Trials of the Darksaber” (Rebels S3, Ep. 15) is, quite simply, one of the tightest-scripted, haunting, and beautiful episodes of Rebels so far. And “Warhead” (Ep. 14) is a delightful buddy cop special feat. Zeb and AP-5.
This week, we dive deep into the lore of lightsabers and darksabers. We talk about what it means to wield the Force, rather than just be a part of its flow, and talk about Sabine’s inner demons. And Sam crowns Sabine and Kanan’s training duel as one of the Top 5 Lightsaber Duels, Ever.
In the meantime, Thrawn has cut his list of planets the Rebels may be inhabiting down to 94…
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re about to deliver a book report on Claudia Gray’s “Master and Apprentice,” feat. baby Obi-Wan and peak Qui-Gonn Jinn.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:11:54 Lightsabers and Darksabers Discussion
00:17:19 Sabine’s Demons
00:28:12 The Force for Non-Force Users
00:39:28 Imperial Infiltration
00:53:34 Bae Watch
00:58:38 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Ghosts of Geonosis” Parts 1 and 2 (Season 3, Episodes 12–13)
Have you ever wanted to spend half an hour debating the moral calculus of war and the conflicting ethics embodied by Saw Gerrera? Boy are you in the right place!
In “Ghosts of Geonosis,” Rebels’ mid-season 3 arc, we do a deep dive into fanaticism, rebellion, and the meta-narrative of a character who has been in just about every single Star Wars series up until now. Saw Gerrera is one of the most puzzling and polarizing characters in Star Wars, and Ghosts of Geonosis pitches his rebelliousness against the larger backdrop of the Rebellion.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Now is the perfect time to join in on the fun, because you have a chance to request our next Spice Run project—otherwise, Sam is threatening another 5-hour Sam’s Naval History Minute.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:9:11 Deep Dive into Saw Gerrera
00:30:50 Klick-Klack and the Ethics of Geonosian Survival
00:44:30 Rebel Command
00:49:29 Bae Watch
00:55:14 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “The Wynkahthu Job,” “The Inside Man,” and “Visions and Voices” (Season 3, Episodes 9–11)
Not to dunk on it too badly, but so little of note happened in “The Wynkahthu Job” (Rebels S3, Ep. 9) that we added “Visions and Voices” (Rebels S3, Ep. 11) to our watch this week. Combined, these episodes show that there are two Boomers inside of you—a Hondo and a Maul—and you become the one you feed.
We spend quality time on Dathomir getting hassled by Nightsister ghosts, and watch Thrawn touring the facility and picking up slack on Lothal.
Join us this week for an impromptu triple-header as we explore themes of sabotage, betrayal, and oppression. We also talk about the next owner of the darksaber, Maul’s trauma-goggles, and Ezra growing up.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! After we finish Visions Season 2, we’re on to a big old recap of Claudia Gray’s “Master and Apprentice” novel, starring baby Obi-Wan and peak Qui-Gonn Jinn.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:42 Threads Tying These Episodes Together
00:28:41 Thrawn, Sabotage, and TIE Defenders,
00:44:35 Lingering Questions
00:55:02 Bae Watch
01:02:32 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Imperial Supercommandos” and “Iron Squadron” (Season 3, Episodes 7–8)
Do you want to know everything there is to know about Mandalorian internal politics? You’re in luck! In our discussion of “Imperial Supercommandos” (Rebels S3, Ep. 7) we explore Mandalorian clans, the Protectors of Concord Dawn, family loyalty, treason, and responsibility. Star Wars was only mostly samurai-inspired before this!
On the flip side, “Iron Squadron” (Rebels S3, Ep.8) gives us…youths. There is some nice space combat and deep lore into a Legends-imported ship—but at what cost?? Thrawn lets the Rebels go free, and that’s always bad news.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:38 Easter Eggs
00:20:06 Mandalorian Politics
00:34:22 Iron Squadron
00:52:33 Bae Watch
01:00:08 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Hera’s Heroes” and “The Last Battle” (Season 3, Episodes 5–6)
Welcome to a “Best of Thrawn” homage. In “Hera’s Heroes” (Rebels S3, Ep. 5) we talk all about the grandest art appropriator of them all—and how art theft is a theft of self.
In the second installment this week,”The Last Battle,” we get a deeply ominous situation which ends up being DELIGHTFULLY silly. We see the Clone Wars from the other side—from the battles we fought in the past, to what we need to do to overcome them. As generals become allies and allies become friends (maybe?)—and B1 battle droids continue to be goofballs—we see actual growth from some of the old guard as the new generation takes over.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:16:22 Art Appropriation and Why It Makes Thrown Scary
00:38:57 Real and Psychological Wars
00:52:45 Bae Watch
00:57:52 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “The Holocrons of Fate” and “The Antilles Extraction” (Season 3, Episodes 3–4)
Fate in the Star Wars universe: Can you escape it? Does free will exist? All these questions and more come up during “The Holocrons of Fate” (Rebels Season 3, Ep. 3) as our heroes have to contend once again with an angry Maul.
We also dance around some of the setup and payoff for the events of the original trilogy in “The Antilles Extraction” (Rebels Season 3, Ep. 4). Wedge Antilles, Boy Wonder and heartthrob of Skystrike Academy. We get to see Sabine shine as she infiltrates the Empire’s elite flight academy.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:15:51 Caleb Dume, Maul, and Destiny
00:35:10 Fate and Destiny in Star Wars
00:44:41 Wedge Antilles, My Friends
00:56:03 Bae Watch
01:02:37 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Steps into Darkness” (Season 3 Premiere)
And you thought we were anxious during the Rebels S2 finale!
After a six-month time skip, everyone has new hair and new vibes. We’re also introduced to two new characters: the Bendu (iconic, btw) and GRAND. ADMIRAL. THRAWN.
We talk about Thrawn’s canon importance, the nature of the Force, and absentee parents. We also question when a healthy relationship is just unbelievable. (C’mon, Hera, yell at your man!!) as well as what the wider Rebellion is up to. There’s so much going on in these episodes that Hondo Ohnaka is in them and barely got a mention.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:17 Ezra’s Steps Into Shadow
00:24:31 The Bendu, The Ashla, and the Bogan
00:33:34 Kanan, Hera, and Healthy Relationships
00:44:13 Grand. Admiral. THRAWN.
00:57:02 Bae Watch
01:02:10 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Twilight of the Apprentice” Parts 1 and 2 (Season 2 Finale)
In the Rebels Season 2 finale, the Force users of the Rebels crew head to Malachor to find answers. However, between a new Inquisitor, MAUL, DARTH VADER, and a ton of lightsaber fighting, things get pretty scary this week too!
But whose twilight is this? Depa Billaba’s apprentice, recently blinded? Palpatine’s apprentice, shaken in faith? Kanan Jarrus’ (and possibly Maul’s apprentice) taking steps into a new, darker world? We have more questions than answers this week, but sometimes that’s the point!
Join us in our “I watched Rebels Season 2 and I am not okay” support group and hang on until next week for whatever the heck is going to happen next!
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:36 The Theme of “Twilight”
00:35:31 Ahsoka’s Fate
00:55:31 Bae Watch
01:06:30 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “The Forgotten Droid” and “The Mystery of Chopper Base” (Season 2, Ep. 19–20)
There’s only one crew member of the Ghost who hasn’t fulfilled their Season 2 recruitment goals, and it’s Chopper. Fortunately, he fills his quota this week—so let’s give a warm leg of applause to the newest Spectre recruit, AP-5! “The Forgotten Droid” (Rebels S2, Ep. 19) shows the bravery and honor of droids and how metallic brethren become friends.
With a bench full of recruits and a safe base at last, we move into “The Mystery of Chopper Base”...which isn’t too much of a mystery, tbh. Unless you weren’t expecting giant schmonsters. In our recap, we talk about friendship, the growing divide between Team Rebels and Team Force-Users, tough conversations with your romantic partner, and the ethics of piracy.
Join us next week for the Rebels Season 2 finale—it’s going to be a doozy!
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:17:16 Strategic Importance and Themes
00:33:51 When the Rebels Are Also Baddies
00:54:07 Bae Watch
01:03:10 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “The Honorable Ones” and “Shroud of Darkness” (Season 2, Ep. 17–18)
Dive out of your escape pod and into an enemies-to-lovers DREAM. “The Honorable Ones” (Rebels S2, Ep. 17) strands Zeb and Agent Kellus on a dangerous moon. And there’s only one heating cube. ;) Our discussion centers on whether or not there’s space in literature for males to have intimate friendships without intimacy, and the dual theories on whether Kallezub is canon. We’ll see if there’s a continuation of these two!
Moving into far more esoteric territory, “Shroud of Darkness” (Rebels S2, Ep. 18) carries on the long-standing tradition of Force-centric Clone Wars episodes. We explore the nature of reality and the Force, and what really happens when we learn the lesson we had inside of us all along.
Join us for discussions about the Force, love, friendship, romance, and profound personal growth in this week’s episode.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:30 Enemies to Lovers in “The Honorable Ones”
00:32:00 Force-Visions, Lessons, and a Shroud of Darkness
00:55:45 Bae Watch
01:01:36 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “The Call” and “Homecoming” (Season 2, Ep. 15–16)
Avast, ye scurvy spacelubbers, join us on our Moby Dick-themed Rebels tour! We start—well, we actually started our discussion this week with “Homecoming” (Rebels S2 Ep. 15), but bear with us, because we also recapped “The Call” (Rebels S2, Ep. 14). Our discussion there centered on the confluence of nature, science, technology, and magic, all of which intertwine with Ezra’s growth as a Force user and a true Jedi. And yes, there is WHALE RIDING IN SPACE.
We also dug deep into “Homecoming,” which brings back one Cham Syndulla! And Numa! And Gobi Glie! We work through generational trauma at the speed of plot, and how trust in oneself is the real lesson to learn from one’s parents.
Together, these episodes paint a deeper picture of what a family can look like—and what a true Jedi’s skills are.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:05 Cham Syndulla and “Homecoming”
00:29:48 Ezra, the Force, and “The Call”
00:48:59 Bae Watch
00:54:30 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “The Protector of Concord Dawn” and “Legends of the Lasat” (Season 2, Ep. 13–14)
In our two backstory episodes this week, we gain allies, freedom from self-recrimination, and some of the best music Rebels has to offer. Hop in, we’re going on a field trip!
“The Protector of Concord Dawn” (Rebels S2, Ep. 13) asks the Rebels to decide whether to show force or try diplomacy to win new allies against the Empire. Unfortunately, they’re both dangerous games, and Kanan and Sabine have to pull literal Western saloon hijinks just to stay alive.
Changing gears entirely (because Hondo Ohnaka stole our transmission), “Legends of the Lasat” (Rebels S2, Ep. 14) puts Zeb center stage. In a beautiful and thrilling ode to Force magic, we explore prophecy, freedom, and the Lasat promised land. And we reference the Anakin Injured arc from Season 1 of the Clone Wars, because we always do.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:10 Mandalorians
00:25:52 Lasat Force Magic
00:31:41 Lasat Diaspora
00:42:47 Bae Watch
00:49:38 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Legacy” and “A Princess on Lothal” (Season 2, Ep. 11–12)
“Legacy” and “A Princess on Lothal” (Rebels S2, Ep. 11–12) dive deep into why and how the Force calls—and how it moves the universe. It also introduces us to sassy, 16-year-old Leia Organa on her very first mission. Cue absolute delight.
We centered this week’s discussion on heritage, both Ezra’s and Leia’s, and the gifts they’ve gotten from their families. We also call back to the many ties that bind Rebels and Andor together, from shady prison-labor camps to two very differently handled prison breaks. We also zoom out and discuss why new fans and veteran fans both have something beautiful to look forward to.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:00 Ezra and The Force
00:30:28 Leia Discussion
00:47:56 Bae Watch
00:55:00 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Stealth Strike” and “The Future of the Force” (Season 2, Ep. 9–10)
“Stealth Strike” (Rebels S2, Ep. 9) starts out all fun and games. Then it continues to be fun and games. Then, in “The Future of the Force” (Ep. 10) Ahsoka comes down on the Inquisitorius like an avenging angel and WE. ARE. HERE FOR IT!
In our discussion, we dive deep into the gravity well technology of Interdictor-class Star Destroyers. We talk about how these episodes are remixes of classic Clone Wars mess-arounds, and ask, “What do bad guys do with Force-sensitive babies?” Also, how do Inquisitors get promotions? And, what has Ahsoka been up to? And does leaving your baby in the car attune you to the dark side of the Force?
Join us to delight as Rebels hits its stride—with friends, impact, consequences, humor, and a cliffhanger combined.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is almost finished.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:18 Stealth Strike Discussion
00:27:45 The Future of the Force Discussion
00:44:58 Fun Facts
00:51:14 Bae Watch
01:01:07 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Wings of the Master” and “Blood Sisters” (Season 2, Ep. 7–8)
Come fly with us! This week offers inspiring examples of womanhood as well as good old-fashioned vroom vroom/pew pew space action.
In our recap of “Wings of the Master” and “Blood Sisters” (Rebels S2, Ep. 7–8), we soar through the misty spires of Shantipole to watch Hera prove that she's not just a pilot, she's the pilot. Then, Sabine’s past bites back in the form of legendary Black Sun bounty hunter Ketsy Onyo—but she shows as much friendship and forgiveness as Chopper shows mischief.
What lengths should someone have to go to to prove themselves professionally? How does an inspiring leader act? What are B-wings good for? Join us to answer all of these questions and more, set against a backdrop of incredible female leadership and warrior prowess.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is going strong.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:11:26 Hera, the Rebellion, and Proving Your Worth
00:20:13 B is For B-Wings
00:26:05 Sabine and Ketsu, Friends 4Ever
00:36:30 Rebellion vs. Empire
00:51:31 Bae Watch
00:55:13 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “Always Two There Are” and “Brothers of the Broken Horn” (Season 2, Ep. 5–6)
This week takes us on a wild ride from “too spooky” to “too goofy.”
In our recap of “Always Two There Are” and “Brothers of the Broken Horn” (Rebels S2, Ep. 5–6), we crawl through an abandoned medical station that almost certainly isn’t infested with brainworms, but IS infested with Inquisitors! But as a palate cleanser, crazy drunk uncle Hondo Ohnaka shows up with a plan that will certainly pay off—at least for him.
We also talk about Inquisitor politics, how much fun Hondo always brings, and the curricula of raising Force-sensitives. The comparison between all the Age of Empire works is strong in this one!
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is going strong.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:15:03 Inquisitors Discussion
00:21:06 Kanan, Rex, and Ezra Discussion
00:34:29 Hondo Ohnaka Discussion
00:43:54 Inquisitors Discussion Part II
00:50:57 Bae Watch
00:57:42 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “The Lost Commanders” and “Relics of the Old Republic” (Season 2, Ep. 3–4)
Calling the “crying over clones” club! This week, we reunite with our old (and we do mean old) faves: Grandpa Rex, Grandpa Wolffe, and crazy Uncle Gregor. And boy do they still got it.
In our recap of “The Lost Commanders” and “Relics of the Old Republic,” (Rebels S2, Ep. 3–4) we talk through the decade since we last saw Rex and pick through major themes of this arc: betrayal, trust, and what it takes to really leave an old life behind.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is going strong.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:18:45 Catching Up On Rex’s Rebellion
00:30:29 What Does It Take To Re-Learn Trust?
00:47:03 Bae Watch
00:55:21 Closing Thoughts
Rebels: “The Siege of Lothal” (Season 2 Premiere)
With the Empire reeling from the uprisings on Ferrix and Lothal, things are looking bright for the Rebellion. Then Darth Vader shows up.
In “The Siege of Lothal,” (Rebels S2 Ep. 1), Darth Vader all but rubs his hands together and cackles gleefully as he squeezes the life out of the Rebels, one A-wing at a time. Fortunately, the Spectres are made of sterner stuff.
Our recap centers on the DRAMATIC tone shift from Andor to Rebels, even as the themes and plot meticulously line up. We also do a deep dive into Darth Vader’s psyche, and sing our praises for the best Spectre of them all. (Spoiler alert: It’s Hera. It’s always Hera.)
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is going strong.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:42 The Andor-to-Rebels Tone Shift
00:29:06 Darth Vader’s Psyche
00:53:26 Bae Watch
01:00:52 Closing Thoughts
Andor: “Rix Road” (Season 1 Finale)
What game is this? No game—just the beginning of the fight of the Rebels’ lives.
The Rebellion is about to take a new shape so it can take on the Empire at large. In our recap of the Andor Season 1 finale, we dive deep into the many meanings of Andor’s ending, and what it signifies for Luthen, for the Empire, and for the Rebellion. (We also discuss if it was an effective ending for all fans, or just for veteran viewers.)
More delightfully, we touch base on everyone’s crushes, and grudgingly acknowledge that this is Syril’s most attractive episode. (He really was willing to take a grenade for Dedra Meero.)
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is going strong.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:15 How About That Ending?
00:32:59 The New Shape of the Rebellion
00:44:14 Updates on Everyone’s Crushes
00:58:10 Bae Watch
01:04:13 Closing Thoughts
Andor: “Daughter of Ferrix” (Season 1, Episode 11)
This week, we recap “Daughter of Ferrix” (Andor S1, Ep. 11), where each character is looking down the barrel of a loaded gun and wondering what they’ll decide. Will Cass return to Ferrix, or warn the galaxy about Narkina 5? Will Bix give up her final secret to the Empire? Will Maarva live up to her promise to join the Rebellion (from beyond the grave)?
In our recap, we talk about how to link up with your friendly local rebel cells, why a second generation 13-year-old Chandrilan immigrant would find religion, and why hope is the fuel of the Rebellion—it’s an antidote to the darkness and pain that gives Palpatine and Vader power.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’ve officially begun our watchthrough of Visions Season 1.
Timestamps:
00:01:54 Plot Overview
00:19:34 Finding Your Friendly Local Rebels
00:26:34 Mon, Leida, and Chandrilan Customs
00:37:39 Maarva, Bix, Torture, and Hope
00:52:37 Bae Watch
01:02:03 Closing Thoughts
Andor: “One Way Out” (Season 1, Episode 10)
The only way out is through.
Our recap of “One Way Out” (Andor S1, Ep. 10) takes us through a discussion of Andor’s chain-linked, escalating structure. We talk about freedom, prison, sacrifice, and the mental calculus of ethics. We also ask who Andor wants us to see as a hero—and who is a hero behind the curtain.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we’re finishing our Patreon exclusive recap of the Tartakovsky Clone Wars and beginning on Visions Season 1.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:14 Andor’s Escalating Structure
00:17:57 Freedom, Prison, Sacrifice, and Moral Calculus
00:40:36 Kino Discussion
00:46:10 Bae Watch
00:52:38 Closing Thoughts
Andor: “Nobody’s Listening!” (Season 1, Episode 9)
Such a jaunty title for such a dark episode. “Nobody’s Listening!” (Andor S1, Ep. 9) is a meditation on suffering, and power, and and breaking points. Fortunately, we do get to lighten up the conversation by talking about not one, but TWO toxic crushes (sorry Vel, Cinta may not be the one???) (also sorry not sorry that Deedra Meero had to fend off romantic overtures at work, she deserved it).
In our recap this week, we talk about why everyone’s crushes are toxic, why this episode WORKS, parallels to prequel-era Star Wars, and whether or not this is the most evil we’ve ever seen the Empire.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:10:44 Everyone’s Crushes Are Toxic (Sorry)
00:17:50 Why This Episode Hit New Heights
00:45:24 Bae Watch
00:51:56 End Credits
Andor: “Narkina 5” (Season 1, Episode 8)
Welcome to the darkest timeline. “Narkina 5” (Andor S1, Ep. 8) throws Cassian Andor by the scruff of his neck into the prison-industrial complex. And given how the surveillance state is working for the Empire so far, the rest of the galaxy doesn’t seem to be far behind.
In our recap, we talk about Cassian’s Hero’s Journey, what Saw Gerrera really wants, what drives Dedra Meero, and how Andor is a mirror that reflects back everything in our society that makes us so uncomfortable.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:45 Surveillance State/Prison-Industrial Complex
00:22:42 Saw Gerrera’s Goal
00:34:36 Cassian’s Hero’s Journey
00:42:47 What Drives Dedra Metro?
00:51:12 Bae Watch
01:00:22 End Credits
Andor: “Announcement” (Season 1, Episode 7)
The Rebellion has made its announcement: It’s in this fight for real. In response, the Empire made several terrible announcements back. Welcome to a totalitarian galaxy.
This week, our recap of “Announcement” (Andor S1, Ep. 7) focuses on the rapid slide of the Empire from an authoritarian state to totalitarianism—and why Luthen is intentionally pushing it that direction even faster. We also dive deep into the Hero’s Journey (Cassian is refusing the call—while Maarva is answering it) and discuss Mon Mothma’s cunning, subversive form of rebellion.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:01:58 Plot Overview
00:18:05 Syril Karn Discussion
00:22:08 Cassian and The Hero’s Journey
00:35:28 The Empire and Totalitarianism
00:49:34 Mon Mothma Discussion
00:54:41 Bae Watch
01:01:51 End Credits
Andor: “The Eye” (Season 1, Episode 6)
The train heist in Solo walked so the Aldhani heist in Andor could run. And that just scratches the surface of why “The Eye” (Andor S1, Ep. 6) is phenomenal television.
In our recap, we talk about the aftermath of the grand plan to secure $80 million credits for the Rebellion. We discuss the Empire and its gleeful colonization, military spending siphoning away funding for medical science, Cassian’s moral code, and why Andor is a radical call to action (even for those of us in the year of our Lord 2023).
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:09 The Heist and its Aftermath
00:20:46 Cassian’s Morals
00:26:37 The Empire and Colonization
00:42:32 Medical Science and Military Funding
01:01:40 Bae Watch
01:06:20 End Credits
Andor: “The Axe Forgets” (Season 1, Episode 5)
Andor is a show that loves grassroots revolution. And we love that for Andor.
“The Axe Forgets” takes us deep into the psyches of the people choosing to rebel against the Empire. We have Skeen, from whom the Empire took a childhood (and a brother). And we have Nemik, a true, hotblooded philosopher-rebel. And we have Lieutenant Gorn, who lost his love to Imperial control—and, of course, Cassian, who has a million mysterious reasons to hate the Empire (very few of which have been shown on-screen).
In this week’s recap, we talk about rising up against tyranny, the claustrophobia of group projects, what seeds Star Wars is sowing for its grand, future rebellion—and what it costs you to rebel.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:01:59 Plot Overview
00:13:40 Cassian and the Heist Crew
00:18:30 Grassroots Revolution in Andor
00:31:00 Perrin and Mon Mothma
00:36:08 The Future of Andor’s Rebellion
00:45:11 Bae Watch
00:59:21 End Credits
Andor: “Aldhani” (Season 1, Episode 4)
“Aldhani” (Andor S1, Ep. 4) is an episode cut with surgical precision.
The four looping subplots of Aldhani draw us through one of the most beautiful and intricate Star Wars episodes we’ve ever seen. The dialogue? Perfection. The scenery? Flawless. The depths of Star Wars lore plumbed? Fathomless. We are BIG FANS.
In our recap, we talk about the 10,000 Easter eggs and pieces of trivia saturating this episode. We also discuss the characters we love…to hate. (Syril Karn is finally booted out of the Number One spot by Mon Mothma’s terrible husband, Perrin.) And we dive deep into Cassian’s Mimban backstory—plus, discuss the many women struggling to negotiate their roles in the galaxy.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:01:30 Plot Overview
00:14:54 Aldhani’s Deep Star Wars Lore
00:31:01 Characters We Love (To Hate)
00:44:58 Cassian’s Mimban Backstory
00:50:24 Bae Watch
00:58:21 End Credits
Andor: “Reckoning” (Season 1, Episode 3)
This is what a reckoning sounds like.
In this week’s episode, we recap “Reckoning” (Andor S1, Ep. 2). Cassian and Luthen heist their way through Ferrix, Syril Karn cements his status as a wet noodle, and Space Timm receives his comeuppance for being a snitch—plus, after tying up the Kenari plotline, we’re ready to hurtle into the unknown.
We talk about Andor’s stance on police brutality, religion in Star Wars, and “rescuing” children from the wilderness. We also talk about Andor’s love of mirroring and plot parallels, and how beautifully they tie into one another.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:02:27 Plot Overview
00:12:21 Police Brutality and the Doctrine of Fear
00:31:13 Maarva and the Kenari Plot
00:45:00 Religion in Andor?
00:52:02 Bae Watch
00:58:29 End Credits
Andor: “That Would Be Me” (Season 1, Episode 2)
Star Wars goes domestic in “That Would Be Me,” the second episode of Andor. (Incidentally, so did we: The Growing Up Skywalker team is officially getting married!)
“That Would Be Me” gives us sneak peeks into what life is like for regular people on Ferrix. We see booty calls, money problems, crappy work schedules, and messy houses. It’s a big vibe shift and a perfect contrast to the deeply unsettling realization this episode gives us about Kenari—specifically, why there is a group of children Lord of the Flies-ing through the jungle.
We also talk about Andor’s stane on police brutality, Syril Karn stepping into his destiny, and why Bix is out of Space Timm’s league.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:03:05 Plot Overview
00:11:22 Life on Ferrix Discussion
00:26:04 Linus Mosk and Police Brutality Discussion
00:34:10 Syril Karn Is Stepping Into His Destiny
00:39:41 Kenari Discussion
00:48:21 Bae Watch
00:53:26 End Credits
Andor Season 1 Premiere: “Kassa”
Welcome to a new side of the galaxy—a very dark one.
The Season 1 premiere of Andor (“Kassa”) is the grittiest Star Wars we’ve seen so far. Planets are ruled by corporations, sentient beings are for sale on the street, and people are just eking out a living however they can. Also, everyone in the show is already 100% fed up with Cassian Andor, which is…pretty great.
In our recap, we talk about Cassian’s role as a Star Wars rogue and draw parallels between other beloved intergalactic grifters—Han Solo, Lando Calrissian, and Hondo Ohnaka. We also dive deep into class systems in Star Wars and make our guesses about how the Kenari plotline will play out.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:10:56 Cassian Andor Discussion
00:19:40 Exploitation and Class Discussion
00:35:00 Kenari and Star Wars “Village Stories”
00:46:50 Critical Reception
00:50:17 Bae Watch
00:58:15 End Credits
Rebels Season 1 Finale: “Fire Across the Galaxy”
The Spectres are out of the frying pan and into the fire—a fire that’s spreading across the galaxy.
Our recap of the Rebels Season 1 finale centers on metamorphosis, rebellion, how a Padawan becomes a Jedi Knight, Kanan’s incredible dad energy, and what it will take for a galaxy to rise up against the Empire. We also cover the breadcrumb trail that leads to Fulcrum’s identity, and our thoughts on Season 1 as a tight, intentional, eyes-on-the-prize piece of media. (It was a bop.)
Also, the people have spoken! Next week, we’ll begin our foray into Andor, which also takes place in BBY 5, beginning with the Andor pilot, “Kassa.”
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:01:47 Plot Overview
00:11:00 Clues and Bookends in Season 1
00:18:38 Kanan Discussion
00:28:58 Fulcrum Discussion
00:36:39 Rebelling Against the Empire Discussion
00:48:02 Rebels S1 Thoughts
00:54:17 Bae Watch
00:59:10 End Credits
Rebels: “Call to Action” and “Rebel Resolve”
Calling all Tarkin stans—Rebels S1 is the man’s time to shine.
This week, we covered the two episodes leading up to the Season 1 finale: “Call to Action” and “Rebel Resolve” (episodes 13–14). And Grand Moff Tarkin is displeased with EVERYBODY’S job performance.
In our recap, we cover Tarkin’s job description, the strategic importance of the Outer Rim using a pizza analogy, and everything we know about Fulcrum so far (very little). We also talk about Hera’s allegiance to the rebel cause over love, raising rebel children, and Ezra’s message of hope for the galaxy.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Join us next week for the REBELS S1 FINALE—and then for our foray into ANDOR!
Timestamps:
00:02:37 Plot Overview
00:12:20 Information We Have in 2023 vs. 2014
00:15:09 Tarkin Discussion
00:35:21 Hera, Fulcrum, and Rising Rebel Kids
00:49:27 Bae Watch
00:55:47 End Credits
Rebels: “Idiot’s Array” and “Vision of Hope”
Smuggler? Such a small word. He’s more of a…galactic entrepreneur.
This week, our episodes (Rebels S1, 11–12, “Idiot’s Array” and “Vision of Hope”) feature special guest and major scamp LANDO CALRISSIAN. We also meet the strawberry-shaped/ strawberry-slurping merchant of questionable morality, Azmorigan, and hang out with exiled senator Gall Trayvis. Hera punches every single one of them, and every single one of them deserved it.
In our recap, we talk about how Lando has changed from Solo and Lando now, how Ezra’s Force sensitivity is incredibly attuned to Lothal, and propaganda techniques from WWII–now. We also talk about the renowned voice actors who graced this episode and why it’s so important than Ezra is being trained by the whole family.
Tune in next week as we cover “Call to Action” and “Rebel Resolve” (Rebels Season 1, episodes 13–14). And make sure to take our poll below, on whether we should continue with Rebels seasons 2–4, or slot in Andor season 1!
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content.
Timestamps:
00:01:51 Plot Overview
00:13:48 Lando Discussion
00:20:48 Idiot’s Array’s Problems Discussion
00:29:26 Ezra and the Force Discussion
00:33:38 Gall Trayvis, Sleeper Agent Discussion
00:50:54 Bae Watch
00:58:18 End Credits
Rebels: “Gathering Forces” and “Path of the Jedi”
This week’s episode is all about elaborate Padawan training rituals, bonding with monsters through the Force, and surviving being a 15-year-old boy. We. Are. All. About it!
“Gathering Forces” takes Ezra and Kanan back to the moon where Sabine and Hera were almost eaten by dragons—and forces Ezra to confront a deep fear. Then, immediately in the next episode, “Path of the Jedi,” he has to confront his EVEN DEEPER fears!!
We talk about what our customized Padawan training rites would look like, where Yoda was when he tuned into the goings-on at the Lothal Jedi temple, and why the Kanan/Ezra bonding hits so hard. We also give our best advice for teenage listeners.
Tune in next week as we cover “Idiot’s Array” and “Vision of Hope” (Rebels Season 1, episodes 11–12).
Want more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:02:01 Plot Overview
00:15:21 Tseebo Discussion
00:17:56 Kanan, Ezra, and the Force
00:32:40 Yoda and the Temple Discussion
00:38:10 Padawan Trials Discussion
00:47:41 Ezra’s Lightsaber Discussion
00:51:19 Bae Watch
00:57:45 End Credits
Rebels: “Out of Darkness” and “Empire Day”
You know how Anna’s spent the last month begging for more Spectre backstories? Well, “Out of Darkness” and “Empire Day” (Rebels S1, episodes 7–8) deliver them in a big way.
In this week’s recap, we talk about Ezra’s tragic backstory, Sabine’s time as a cadet on Mandalore, and Hera and Kanan meeting. We also dive deep into the tyranny, propaganda, consent, and control strategies the Empire deploys—especially on Empire Day, the 15th anniversary of Palpatine’s victory over the galaxy.
Join us next week to resolve the “Empire Day” cliffhanger in episodes 9–10, “Gathering Forces” and “Path of the Jedi.”
This is also a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! This week, we’re watching and talking about the Volume 2 premiere of the 2003 Tartakovsky Clone Wars.
Timestamps:
00:01:34 Plot Overview
00:13:15 Ezra’s Tragic Backstory
00:17:28 Consent, Propaganda, and Tyranny
00:27:48 Sabine and Hera Discussion
00:41:31 Kanan Discussion
00:51:17 Bae Watch
00:56:35 End Credits
Rebels: “Rise of the Old Masters” and “Breaking Ranks”
Welcome to Halloween in August. This week’s Rebels episodes are a spooky bunch.
“Rise of the Old Masters” and “Breaking Ranks” (Season 1, episodes 5–6) take us to a remote fortress called the Spire where Luminara Unduli is being held captive, and the inside of the Imperial child soldier academy. They’re callbacks to classic Clone Wars plotlines: the Rako Hardeen arc, Boba Fett infiltrating Tipoca City, and the Citadel arc. And they also take us to new understandings of childhood (or the lack thereof) in Star Wars, being a teacher even when you don’t feel ready, and choosing the family you have.
This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! This week, we’re sharing leftover topics from this week’s episode: debates on the quality of Stormtroopers as soldiers, and how Star Wars handles Blackness.
And you can join us next week for episodes 7–8 of Star Wars Rebels: Out of Darkness and Empire Day.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:44 Rise of the Old Masters Discussion
00:27:25 Child Soldiers and Childhood in Star Wars
00:44:51 Luminara Discussion
00:47:53 Bae Watch
00:53:10 End Credits
Rebels: “Droids in Distress” and “Fighter Flight”
This is Commander Meiloorun speaking. Rebels is very silly and we love it very much.
We’re a little later than normal this week due to updated podcast guidelines from SAG-AFTRA in light of the writer and actor strike. But, we are able to be in your earbuds this week with a recap of Rebels Season 1, episodes 3–4, “Droids in Distress” and “Fighter Flight.”
In our recap, we talk about how Rebels holds dark themes very lightly, and how that makes it a time capsule for 2014. We discuss the morality of the Spectres, fellow rebels, the Empire, and Agent Callus in particular. We talk about brotherhood and being parents of unruly children. And we also cackle about the straight-into-the-vein injection of pure delight that is “Fighter Flight.”
This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! And join us next week for the Star Wars Rebels: Rise of the Old Masters and Breaking Ranks.
Timestamps:
00:02:31 Plot Overview
00:13:06 Meta Themes of the Arc
00:16:10 Characters Discussion
00:28:20 Fighter Flight Discussion
00:40:58 Morality and Darkness Discussion
00:55:03 Bae Watch
00:59:17 End Credits
Rebels: “Spark of Rebellion” Parts 1–2
Get in fam, it’s time for the Rebels pilot!
We’ve finally arrived at Sam’s favorite Star Wars show—Rebels. This week, we recap the double-header pilot, “Spark of Rebellion,” which originally premiered in 2014 as an hour-long movie.
We talk about the critical reception Rebels received when it premiered versus its reputation now, which is a show for true fans. We also talk about the expansion of the Empire across the galaxy, how each Spectre is a part of the family and also a distinguishable member of a D&D party, how some people just grow up and start adopting dangerous street youths, and why Rebels is (and is not) a “kid’s show.”
This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! And join us next week for the pilot of Star Wars Rebels: Droids in Distress and Fighter Flight.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:38 Characters Discussion
00:28:45 The Empire in Rebels
00:36:46 Rebels as a Series Discussion
00:43:17 Rebels as a “Kids Show”
00:54:06 Bae Watch
00:57:58 End Credits
Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part VI
The Obi-Wan Kenobi finale is a SWAN SONG to Star Wars. It teaches us about the Force, about being an avatar of the Light, about friendship and love, and when it’s time to be a warrior (versus when it’s time to go back to grad school).
In our recap, we talk about the role of love in catalyzing Obi-Wan to finish his duel with Darth Vader. We discuss which characters got a hello in this series, and which ones got a goodbye. We award the Darth Lola Redemption Medal to Owen Lars, whose character got a truly phenomenal upgrade, and have a fascinating discussion about who Palpatine would have chosen as his new apprentice if Kenobi had decided to end Vader once and for all.
This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content on Obi-Wan Kenobi! And join us next week for the pilot of Star Wars Rebels: Spark of Rebellion, Parts 1–2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:11:26 Star Wars is About Love (And Warriors)
00:16:31 Vader Discussion
00:23:00 Character Hellos and Goodbyes
00:30:53 Ending the Prequel Era Discussion
00:39:34 Reva Discussion
00:50:04 What Did Kenobi Contribute to Star Wars?
00:52:14 Bae Watch
01:03:05 End Credits
Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part V
We loved Obi-Wan Kenobi: Part V so. gosh. dang. much. And not for entirely uncomplicated reasons.
Our recap centered on discussions of the series’ two most powerful women: Tala and Reva. We used this episode as a way to process not just the death of a compelling female character, but Star Wars’ long, long history of killing off (almost all of) its compelling female characters. In the case of Part V, we ultimately realize something beautiful.
We also talk about the Anakin/Obi-Wan practice duel and how it had us smiling ear-to-ear, Reva’s tragic backstory, and the Jedi who have traveled the Path.
For bonus audio content on Obi-Wan Kenobi, sign up for our Patreon! And join us next week for the Obi-Wan Kenobi finale, Part VI.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:10:56 The Practice Duel Discussion
00:22:41 Tala Discussion
00:28:40 Was Tala Fridged? Discussion
00:39:10 Reva Discussion
00:44:59 Vader and Leia Discussion
00:53:44 Bae Watch
00:59:14 End Credits
Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part IV
Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part IV is tense, beautifully shot, and full of Easter eggs.
In our recap this week, we talk about the MANY different kinds of violence threaded through the episode, from Tala’s martial arts moves to Obi-Wan firing up his lightsaber again to the casual violence of Imperial reign.
We also talk about rooting for Reva (even though we’re not supposed to), job security for the Inquisitors, purge troopers, embalming former Jedi, and why T-47s swooping out of the sky is Sam’s love language.
For bonus audio content from this episode, sign up for our Patreon! And join us next week for Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part V.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:08:36 Critical Reception
00:11:45 Different Forms of Violence Discussion
00:26:08 Purge Troopers and the Tomb Discussion
00:36:10 Darth Vader Discussion
00:39:26 Reva Discussion
00:45:01 Tala Discussion
00:51:05 Rebels + T-47 Discussion
00:57:15 Bae Watch
01:02:09 End Credits
Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part III
What makes the darkest episode of Obi-Wan Kenobi (so far) tick? Exquisite world-building, delicious power dynamics, and a real contribution to Star Wars’ anti-fascism agenda. Also, some capital-D drama courtesy of capital-D Darth Vader.
Obi-Wan Kenobi Part III takes us into Vader’s inner world—one where he’s spent 10 years planning revenge on his former master. We get to see what that revenge looks like, and how he pits the Inquisitors against each other to get to it (and laugh about the ~scenic vistas~ from his office windows).
We also get to talk about the appeal of the Empire for people like Tala and Freck, Underground Railroads of history, and all the deep lore scratched into the Rebel safe room walls.
This week marks our 100th podcast episode! It’s also a great time to sign up for a membership on our Patreon. In honor of 100 episodes, we’re releasing 30 minutes of bonus content on Obi-Wan Part III this week—and just $3 a month gets you access to it, plus two years of backlogged content. (PS: Welcome to our newest patron, Tim!)
Join us next week for Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part IV!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:10:41 Story Structure and Spacing Discussion
00:13:45 Vader and Capital-D Drama Discussion
00:16:50 The Weight of the Past Discussion
00:23:17 The Force Discussion
00:25:51 Fame, Fear, Power, and Fascism Discussion
00:36:48 Reva and the Inquisitors Discussion
00:46:40 Easter Eggs
00:52:01 Bae Watch
00:58:38 End Credits
Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part II
Our recap of Obi-Wan Kenobi: Part II centers on Inquisitors—but we also talk about the Sith, the light side of the Force, and truly terrible bosses.
Part II brings us to Daiyu, which is cyberpunk Coruscant and is DELIGHTFUL. We get to see Obi-Wan’s best Breaking Bad impression, the immediate father/daughter chemistry between him and Leia, and his bone-deep fear of using the Force again.
But mostly, we get fascinating insights into what it’s like to be an Inquisitor and can only guess what caused these former Jedi to become what they are. We also talk about Vader’s burning vengeance, the Padmé callback that left us shooketh, and shopping with Leia.
Join us next week for (already!) the midpoint of the series, Obi-Wan Kenobi: Part III. This will be our 100th episode!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:8:10 Daiyu vs. Coruscant Discussion
00:10:54 This Obi-Wan vs. General Obi-Wan Discussion
00:21:18 Inquisitors and Other Terrible Workplaces Discussion
00:31:32 Inquisitors and the Sith Discussion
00:37:48 Vader and Vengeance Discussion
00:43:03 Critical Reception/Why Diversity Is Necessary
00:51:26 Bae Watch
01:00:07 End Credits
Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part I
Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part I opens on a broken man. But it looks like he’s not going to stay that way.
This week, we had the inestimable Kathleen Wass from The FSF Popcast on our show to talk all things Kenobi: from Inquisitors and seeing a full-strength Vader to raising an absolute firecracker of a 10-year-old.
We talked about whether this show resonates differently for veteran fans and new ones, how Inquisitors are the scariest people around on a planet ruled by the Hutts, and why the pacing of this show is absolutely perfect.
You should go watch @fsfpopcast immediately to hear from every sci-fi star you’ve ever dreamed of meeting. FSF Popcast can be found at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fsfpopcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCREtAFjZf4JDFNZeaRx5sNQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fsfpopcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/fsfpopcast?lang=en
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/fsfpopcast
Join us next week to talk shop about Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part II!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:23 Veteran Fan Reactions
00:18:40 Kenobi for Veteran Audiences vs. New Fans
00:26:56 The Age of the Empire + Inquisitors Discussion
00:40:30 The Pacing
00:44:30 Obi-Wan Discussion
00:50:59 Bae Watch
00:55:00 End Credits
Solo, Part 2
We asked a provocative question in our show this week: Should Solo be the first Star Wars movie a brand-new fan watches?
There aren’t any Jedi in Solo—or even any Force users—but it’s a Star Wars story that shows a very familiar (and very fun!) side of the galaxy. Star Wars isn’t just about galactic duels between good and evil. It’s also about space heists, found family, and pushing the limits of what you think is possible. Also, spanking good costumes. Solo has it all.
Join us for discussions into all the major characters, morality, rebellions, and powerful Star Wars women. (We’re looking at you, Qi’ra, L3, and Enfys Nest.)
Join us next week for the pilot episode of Kenobi! We’re reviewing Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part 1 with Kathleen Wass from The FSF Popcast as our special guest.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:21:14 Solo—Big Picture Discussion
00:23:59 Should Solo Be Someone’s First Star Wars Movie?
00:28:40 Morality in Solo
00:34:30 Dryden Vos Discussion
00:37:53 Han and Chewie Discussion
00:47:39 Qi’ra and Maul Discussion
00:54:02 Rebels (With and Without a Cause) in Solo
01:33:00 Bae Watch
01:07:38 End Credits