Star Wars: Andor Episode 10: One Way Out Review

By Ben Wright (@iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)

This review is spoiler-free.

Synopsis: A rare opportunity opens and the time for Cassian and his fellow inmates to act is now.

In this episode, the raw intensity of the performances, especially from Serkis and Luna, was incredible. I was so engrossed in the opening scene that I dared not draw breath. I urge you to re-watch this scene, focusing on both Serkis and Luna and watching their individual performances. It was pure emotional theatre. 

The main focus of the episode was the prison break and this was an incredibly suspenseful and tense viewing experience. The story, the visuals, and the music, every single aspect had my heart racing, I had chills all over my body, and by the end of it, I felt exhausted as if I had lived it! Again, Serkis and Luna were so exceptionally good, we are talking award-worthy good. It is difficult to go into too much detail, without entering spoiler territory, but what I will say is the prison break from start to finish was one of the best ‘prison break’ sequences I have ever seen. It was logical, believable, and incredibly emotional. Just like everything else in this episode, it was perfection!

Over on Coruscant, Dedra’s plan with the dead pilot is in full swing, however, the is one factor she has not considered which leads to one character, having a meeting with Luthen. Stellan Skarsgård’s performance and speech were faultless. I rewatched it twice. We finally got the reasons why he does the things that he does. His character started to feel a little cold, however, this scene really brought that human element back to him and I am very pleased with the outcome. Mon meets with Davo, Richard Dillane is brilliant casting by the way, and his proposition is more than Mon is ready to accept. But with only one option, does she really have a choice?

As well as the incredible performances and stunning writing, I have to mention the music. Nicholas Britell’s score has been superb throughout the series, but it was the prison break theme in particular that really got me on an emotional level. I closed my eyes for the final scene involving Cassian, as I just wanted to focus my senses on the sound. I am very happy I did, as I finished the episode as I began, with goosebumps…

Perfect writing, perfect performances… perfect Star Wars! It’s really as simple as that! I really am struggling to find the words for just how phenomenal Star Wars: Andor is! Even if you removed the Star Wars elements, this is an exceptional show, it just makes it that much better because it is Star Wars! This was the first time that we have truly seen a glimpse into the future of the man Cassian Andor becomes. He devised his own rebellion and inspired and brought hope to those who had none. He took a stand and said “no more”, he looked to the sky and shouted “one way out”, today… Cassian Andor became a Rebel!

What did you think of this latest episode of Andor? Let us know in the comments or find us on social media!