Andor is one of the most exceptional shows I have ever seen. Maybe it is the fact that it is a prequel, with a clear end point to reach, that helped keep a high quality bar throughout. Well, that and the ageless genetics of Diego Luna who plays a younger version of the titular Cassian Andor, despite there being some 9+ years between filming 2016’s Rogue One and Andor. The storyline was masterfully executed, creating incredible depth to the “evil” of the Empire that is accepted unquestioningly by A New Hope. There is no wasted space, deftly balancing the necessity of certain characters and plot points needing to fall into place with unexpected twists and turns.
The sets, costumes, and CGI are spellbinding, and truly the definition of prestige TV. It’s easy to become fully immersed and believe everything you are seeing, even if it is in a galaxy far, far, away. The show also takes risks, including one particularly amazing “Party Droid” scene in Season 2, which is a far departure from anything I’ve seen in the Star Wars universe before.
Hats off to Diego Luna, who is absolutely exceptional as Cassian Andor, and truly takes you on a hero’s journey. His spycraft scenes in Season 2 allow him to show his range as an actor, with Cassian skillfully engaging characters to give him exactly what he needs, forming trusting relationships in mere moments.
The rather “cameo” character of Mon Mothma from the original trilogy takes center stage (this time played by the spectacular Genevieve O’Reilly), who is secretly supporting the Rebellion while deftly maneuvering through the political quagmire of the Senate on Coruscant. The show is bolstered by a slew of new characters, in particular spymaster Luthen Rael, played by Stellan Skarsgård, who brings subtle gravitas to the cast, his ever-clever assistant Kleya played by newcomer Elizabeth Dulau, and the intrepid spy Vel Sartha played by Faye Marsay.
Additionally, Andor provides “bad guys” that are fully formed, multi-dimensional characters. They too are caught up in a system that typically works against them, and you often find yourself rooting for their success even if their success would mean the downfall of our Rebellion heroes. Denise Gough does a wonderful job playing Dedra Meero, a whipsmart, cunning Imperial officer, who has been raised in the toxic Imperial environment, and thus uses her skills to perpetuate the Empire’s evil objectives.
The biggest recommendation I can give is that even if you don’t like Star Wars – even if you don’t like scifi – you should watch this show. Its reflections on modern day are particularly poignant; showing an authoritarian regime skillfully, carefully crafting a righteous message about its oppression, leaving only a rebellious few to try to chart a different course. I will say Season 1 does start a bit slow, but it is so, so worth it to keep watching.
Andor was clearly a labour of love for all involved, and I adored every minute. The Force is strong with this one. Do watch!
