Andor Season One Premiere Early Review

*The following is a spoiler-free review of the 3-episode premiere of Andor, airing tomorrow on Disney Plus.

Ever since the end of the last season of The Mandalorian, the Star Wars Disney+ series have kind of missed the mark. The Book of Boba Fett was somewhat of a disappointment, unless viewers consider the series as a season 2.5 of The Mandalorian. Similarly, Obi-Wan Kenobi, whilst incredibly nostalgic and exciting, lacked an interesting story and felt a little rushed. That being said, despite all of that, one would be remissed if they did not have Andor at the top of their lists of most anticipated Star Wars series especially with the likes of Ahsoka, Skeleton Crew and the third season of The Mandalorian all on the way. At the end of the day, Andor provides the Star Wars experience fans have been waiting so long to see.

Only three episodes in, Andor is undoubtedly the best Star Wars Disney+ series since The Mandalorian. Offering a very story-driven experience, the series also promises many well developed and well written characters. Where it excels is how it is story-driven and character focused with the series so far feeling more like a HBO series than the typical Disney+ fare. Thankfully, this is only elevated with the series’ 12-episode run. Within the space of these first three episodes, their slower pace allows room for more character development and many exciting moments that were set up early before paying off later.

A prequel to 2016’s Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Andor follows fan favorite character Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) during the time before he joined the Rebel Alliance to retrieve the Death Star plans. The series sees Luna be once again brilliant as Andor, bringing his trademark charm, coolness, depth and nuance to the character. He proves that Andor is a very compelling character that should have had his own series centered around him so much sooner.

The rest of the characters introduced in this series are equally compelling, with Luthen Rael (Stellan Skarsgard) easily being the standout. Skarsgard brings an unmatched, mystery, coolness and nuance to Rael, instantly making him one of the most intriguing characters of the series so far. While not much is known about him right away, there are plenty of secrets just waiting to be unraveled. Similarly, Syril (Kyle Soller) made for a great antagonist, thanks to a consistently intimidating and scary exterior. 

In terms of action, Andor may not be as action packed as some may expect but the action it does offer so far is exhilarating and explosive and looks to offer even more thrilling action as the series goes on. Much like, Rogue One, the series also is a standout on a technical level. From its gorgeous cinematography to impeccable set design, the series has a believable but wondrous feel that one cannot help but immediately get enthralled by.

For those going into Andor expecting something like The Mandalorian, then they may be a little disappointed. Not that the series is without its own flaws but for viewers wanting tons of action, exciting cameos and plenty of spectacle, it may not be as enjoyable. Ultimately, those going into the series expecting spectacularly written and developed characters and a grounded and engaging story will get something that may very well be one of their favorite Star Wars series to date.

At the end of the day, Andor is a must watch series. Not just for avid Star Wars fans, but also for casual audiences who are looking for their next TV series. With its exceptional focus on a story-driven experience, great character development, exhilarating action and gorgeous cinematography, Andor delivers the best and most authentic Star Wars experience in recent memory.

*still courtesy of Disney

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Olly Dyche

Journalist, Writer, Film Critic and Professional Nerd. You will probably find Olly at the cinema chomping down on some popcorn and taking in the glorious visuals of the latest theatrical release.