By Ben Wright (@iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review contains spoilers.
It’s time for the season finale of Ahsoka… Shall we begin?
The episode begins with Lady Elsbeth being given the Gift of Shadows, as well as the aptly named Blade of Talzin, which she accepts with great honour. I love seeing Dathomirian magic in Star Wars and I think the show has done a great job in introducing it to those who have yet to experience it in other Star Wars media. However, Elsbeth isn’t the only one getting a new weapon…
On board Ahsoka’s ship, Ezra is crafting his new lightsaber – much to Huyang’s frustration, given how frantically and messily Ezra is working. I’m the same Huyang! Tidy as you go! This interaction led to a wonderful scene concerning Kanan Jarrus and I struggled to contain my smile. I love that Ezra is replicating Kanan’s lightsaber, and for Huyang to have a “sibling” part for the lightsaber, just gave it that extra emotive connection.
With the trio ready to storm the castle, all eyes turned to Thrawn to see how he’d approach this skirmish – and as you’d expect, he left no stone unturned! Not only did he have the foresight to leave Elsbeth behind, but he also knew that the trio would be successful, and with the Night Mothers’ magic at hand, he could raise an army of the undead. It was great to see Star Wars Zombies again! Ahsoka have a well-choreographed duel with Elsbeth, and even though she was killed, never say never when it comes to the Nightsisters! I loved Sabine Force-throw boosting Ezra onto the Chimaera, it was very reminiscent of how Ezra and Kana used to operate together. Despite securing Ezra on board the ship and pursuing the Chimaera into space, Thrawn is able to escape and return to a galaxy far, far away – leaving Ahsoka, Sabine and Huyang standard.
Back with the New Republic fleet, Ezra is finally reunited with his family and the moment was framed perfectly! It was also great to see Ezra wearing an enemy’s armour, as playing dress-up was one of Ezra’s favourite pastimes! I’m sure he’ll keep the cool helmet!
So, what about those left stranded…
Whilst it may only be temporary, I honestly didn’t think that Ahsoka and Sabine would be left standard. I assumed they would all regroup with the New Republic fleet, and warn them of Thrawn’s return. But, if this narrative led Ahsoka to witness Anakin’s Force Ghost, then I’ll take it! I also believe this could hint that Hayden might be back in this guise in a second season. Shin (Ivanna Sakhno) looks set to take over as the bandit leader, whilst Baylan (Ray Stevenson) looks close to finding his “power”. While I’m sure there is some sort of semi-redemption arc in Shin’s future, it will be interesting how they handle Baylan’s story. His part in this episode ended with him standing on the statue of the Father, with the Son and the Daughter on each side, albeit the latter was a crumbled ruin. They are teasing Mortis and that cannot be easily ignored. Personally, and maybe somewhat controversially, I think they should re-cast the role. Ray Stevenson has been an incredible addition to the Star Wars family, and his loss will always be felt. However, I think it would be sad if his legacy, of portraying such an intriguing character, is not seen to its end. And the best way of doing this is to recast – but it won’t be easy to fill those giant shoes.
Overall, I think this was an enjoyable end to the series, however, it didn’t feel like your typical finale, so my hope is that was a deliberate choice, with the promise of a second series to follow in the future. I loved the inclusion of the Dathomirian magic and am very eager to see more of that. Having zombified Death Troopers was also possibly one of the most “metal” moments in Star Wars live-action to date! I also think seeing Ezra with a lightsaber again, especially mirroring his master’s, was just such a fantastic addition.
Looking at the series as a whole, Ahsoka has given me everything that I could have desired and more. It continued the Rebels story – which is in no way a negative – whilst adding a new layer to Ahsoka’s character and her new view of the galaxy and everything within it. It was perfect.
Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey, and until next time, may the Force be with you!
X-Geeks 