Revisiting Star Wars Rebels

Recently I found myself wanting to revisit Star Wars Rebels. Easily dismissable as a “kid’s show”, Rebels begins small but establishes a feel of Star Wars almost immediately. Utilizing much of the original concept material by Ralph McQuarrie and Joe Johnston, the atmosphere feels original and familiar at the same time.

When I say the show begins small, it quite literally begins with the young protagonist Ezra and how he both helps others, and himself. It quickly escalates to include the crew of the Ghost and speeds up from there. While there are some moments of violence, both physical and weaponry, they are not excessive. This program has deaths, mainly imperials, but also brutality that one would expect from an oppressive government. Violence for a reason, is an ongoing theme in Star Wars as an undertone… I wish it was addressed far more openly.

The mission to rescue Wookiee slaves from their fate on Kessel was a perfect setting for character development and growth, plus the reveal of a Jedi from within the crew of the Ghost. This is where the self-centered, and self reliant Ezra discovers the worth of self sacrifice for something bigger than himself.

I am very excited to dive back into this series. Next to the Mandalorian, and Rogue One, Rebels is one of my favorite post original trilogy Star Wars stories. It has heart, philosophy, and the stakes are high as the birth of the rebellion against the Empire begins in this program.

I cannot recomend Star Wars Rebels enough. It’s entertaining, and it, personally, gives me that feel of the era of Star Wars between “A New Hope” and the “Empire Strikes Back”. It’s great storytelling, fun and so entertaining. Watch it!