Ryan Shoots First: Andor (S1 Ep4) “Aldhani”
After a week of positive reactions from both fans and critics Andor is back with its fourth episode. Seriously it took a solid few days for the YouTube hate peddlers to come up with an angle to take and even then it wasn’t much.
One of the comparisons drawn last week from many was that the show felt like a high end drama on HBO or AMC and this week even more that comparison rang true. First the run time is significantly longer than the other Star Wars shows that sometimes were clocking in under 30 minutes. The extra time gives the show a bigger feel, also the longer episode count compared to the 6-8 episode runs we’ve seen means this show has so much more room to breathe. That means we get a larger emphasis on performances.
This week was light on action but heavy on drama and some great performances. I love that, to make a comparison, House of the Dragon has spent much of its first 6 episodes setting up a powder keg that could blow at any moment. Ensuring the final half of the season will be impactful because of the work put in at the beginning. Andor I feel could follow a similar path if this week is any indication. We planet hoped around the galaxy checking in with the key players follow the events of last week as they set up for the next thing. The security force has been disbanded as the Empire is stepping in which opens up a case of new villains to chase the rebels. We are also introduced to Mon Mothma who did an excellent job showing the increasing small circle of trust she has as the senate withers around her. I really enjoyed Luther this week as he enlists Cassian and we see a little into his motivations but also he puts on a disguise and persona to try and rally more support for the fledgling Rebels.
I anticipate there will be some heat this week from fans that not enough happened. This is a stark contrast to what we’ve seen before but I love it and I admire the show for once again having the conviction and confidence to invest in its actors and their performances. I’m sure by the end of the season it will all pay off and everyone will be pleased. Not every show needs cameos and Easter eggs to be successful.
Observations
- Dude doesn’t even flinch when taking that drink. Pro
- Ahh Coruscant it’s been to long my friend
- Are they inside the ball at Epcot?
- I look forward to hearing the story behind that.
- I’m seeing a trend of Thrones actors in this show.
- Star Wars is best when it’s Ponchos
- The way those ties just subtly enter the shot was so cool.
- Well can’t get that shot in the volume
- This apartment complex looks like the Contemporary. Did they just shoot this at Disney World?
- Mothma rides in style
- This room is just a collection of Easter eggs.
