Andor Season 1 Episode 6 Review : A dazzling event

Andor Season 1 Episode 6

THIS RECAP & REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS!

Building for a couple of episodes, the tensions come to a boiling point in ‘The Eye’. The heist is a pivotal step in the development of the Rebellion, and considering what’s at stake, things never go according to plan, as we all know from heist movies and shows. After getting to know the key players and their motivations, the dominoes begin to fall.

On the morning of the Aldhani mission, Cassian/Clem (Diego Luna) and Nemik (Alex Lawther) prepare for their tasks ahead. Clem reassures Nemik that things will be okay, which is a sure-shot indicator that they won’t. It was expected that not everyone would make it out unscathed, but Nemik’s fate is a particular punch in the gut. Skeen’s (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) backstabbing turn isn’t a surprise, but Cassian’s reaction comes out of the blue. The fallout of this mission is likely to have a significant impact on Cassian and determines how he views the Rebellion’s cause.

But beyond that, the episode is staged, shot and executed with great care. While there are additional new characters introduced, the screenplay justifies their presence and why their actions matter, for better or worse. Much fuss is made about the celestial event, and when it finally begins, it doesn’t disappoint. The sequence of the ship taking off into the Eye with TIE fighters on its heels is memorable for the emotional stakes and visual brilliance as well.

Many fans have lamented the pace of this series, but the storytelling has been methodical and purposeful in its character-building. 'Star Wars' has been primarily focused on the Jedi and the Sith for far too long, and here we get common folk standing up to the evil machinations of the Galactic Empire. It is relatable, fresh, and exactly what's needed for the future of 'Star Wars'. In its best episode yet, 'Andor' demonstrates the depth of content that can come from the franchise's expansive mythology when handled correctly.