Star Wars: Rebels at 10: A newcomer’s first impressions

Star Wars: Rebels at 10: A newcomer's first impressions

As a seasoned space-faring traveler who’s seen more galaxies than most people have seen states, I can confidently say that Star Wars: Rebels has been an unexpected delight in my intergalactic journey. Having spent countless hours orbiting around Tatooine and Endor, I had yet to land on Lothal until a few years ago.

A few years back, I spent a weekend at Disneyland with a fellow “Star Wars” enthusiast, who shared her beloved TV show with me. She quoted Jedi Masters, spoke fondly of the actors off-screen, and showed off fan art she had created. As I hadn’t watched a single minute of “Star Wars: Rebels” until then, I caught up by watching the first three episodes before boarding my flight. Over the years that followed, I occasionally tuned in to some episodes of the series.

Without a doubt, my curiosity was sparked when I learned about Timothy Zahn’s insights on Thrawn during his visit at FanX in Salt Lake City. I found myself privy to many spoilers ahead of Ahsoka. As we celebrate the 10th anniversary, here are some fresh perspectives as a returning fan of the series.

Star Wars: Rebels at 10: A newcomer's first impressions

The boy

I find the Star Wars universe particularly intriguing when minor conflicts are magnified and Lothal’s rebellion serves as a wonderful example of this. It brings to mind young Luke, frustrated that the Empire seems so distant. Similarly, Ezra Bridger, initially depicted as just a kid with a rebellious streak, appears unlikely to be entangled in anything more serious than defacing the local Imperial base with graffiti at the story’s outset.

If Ezra had been fated to cause trouble around here, we wouldn’t have crossed paths. What makes Ezra intriguing is that, unlike most characters, who have established backstories, we initially see only his potential future. This setup is quite engaging for a local like myself.

The man

Every Luke Skywalker has his Obi-Wan Kenobi, and as Ezra’s tale unfolds towards what lies ahead, Kanan Jarrus is the character steeped in history. The initial scene of the series finds Darth Vader dictating commands to the Grand Inquisitor: he is instructed to thwart the growth of those with the Force from becoming Jedi and to take action against anyone who might train them.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but notice how skillfully the music adds depth to the scenes. When Ezra spots Kanan in the distance, a haunting six-note melody from violins echoes, a familiar tune known as “Binary Sunset.” This theme is deeply connected with the Force and the Jedi, so its appearance suggests that either or both of these characters are in peril from the Grand Inquisitor. The music effectively creates tension right from the start, setting the stage for an engaging narrative.

The Crew and the War Machine

The modus operandi of the titular rebels seems from the start like a cross between Indiana Jones and The Italian Job. As they say in Hamlet, “Though this be madness yet there is method in it.” It’s hard to distinguish at any point who takes responsibility within the crew since they work with remarkable flexibility. Yes, Hera is the den mom at times and Zev is definitely in the same vein as Chewie, but Sabine has an adolescent capacity for character growth that is offset by her street smarts and Chopper is the must-have agent of chaos.

In contrast, the Empire struggles due to its inflexibility and obsession with power. The narrative requires a more significant adversary because the dominant Imperial force in Lothal’s small domain isn’t likely to halt criminal activities. They are intimidating yet petty, which adds an interesting dynamic to the storyline. I find this contrast quite engaging.

Star Wars: Rebels is constructed with a compelling narrative backbone, as none of the characters have a definitive route laid out for them. I’m eagerly anticipating uncovering the events that precede the ending I’m familiar with.

2024-09-27 16:21