By Ben Wright (@iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review is spoiler-free.
The current era of Star Wars animation is undoubtedly its peak, marked by exceptional visuals and compelling storytelling. Both Tales of the Jedi and the final installment of The Bad Batch showcased this excellence, paving the way for Tales of the Empire to seamlessly continue the trend.
From a storytelling perspective, the decision to focus on Barriss and Elsbeth as central characters mirrors the intriguing dynamic of Dooku and Ahsoka in Tales of the Jedi. These characters offer rich complexity, benefiting greatly from the additional depth provided in this series. Barriss, in particular, has always been a captivating figure, with her storyline in The Clone Wars hinting at a need for closure. Exploring Morgan’s earlier experiences adds another layer of depth, making the initial arc of the series especially compelling, although Barriss’s tale may have felt somewhat rushed in its conclusion.
In terms of animation, Tales of the Empire maintains the stylistic continuity established in Tales of the Jedi, featuring breathtaking visuals and meticulously crafted scenes. The attention to lighting, previously emphasized in The Bad Batch, continues to elevate the visual experience, contributing to the series’ overall excellence.
As for the cast, we have a host of returning stars! Jason Isaacs (Grand Inquisitor) and Meredith Salenger (Barriss Offee) take up their roles from Rebels and The Clone Wars, respectively. From the live-action world, we have Diana Lee Inosanto (Morgan Elsbeth) and Rya Kihlstedt (Fourth Sister) from The Mandalorian/Ahsoka and Obi-Wan Kenobi. Then there is the man who walks the “world between worlds”, Lars Mikkelsen (Thrawn) – who has appeared in animation and live-action. This incredible cast delivers outstanding performances across the board, with all the characters having a lasting impact on the series.
Combining stunning visuals with a captivating narrative, Star Wars: Tales of the Empire enriches the expansive lore of the galaxy far, far away offering a compelling exploration of its darker aspects.
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