**This review may contain minor SPOILERS**
Watch the SPOILER review on YouTube
Alternating between taking its time and speedrunning through the four years leading up to “Rouge One,” “Andor” season 2 once again tells a compelling story of the forgotten heroes that built the rebellion at great personal sacrifice.
Similar to the first season, the plot is broken down into three-episode arcs, however, this time after each arc there is a one-year time jump. The are two major plot points running in the background for most of the season: The infamous Ghorman Massacre and the maneuvering of all the main characters to where they need to be at the start of “Rouge One.” Each arc tends to slowly build towards an exciting and tension filled climax, and while this structure works overall, it has its drawbacks. The show can feel like its spinning its wheels sometimes, but at least the characters and the world building are interesting enough that there is plenty to keep you invested until the payoffs. The first arc is a decent enough return to the show, with the rebels facing two very different sets up problems. The second arc is the weakest of the four, but at least it ends with some heist-related action. (Although nowhere near as good as the Aldhani Heist from season 1.) The third arc finally delivers on some of the most anticipated lore moments from this point in Star Wars history, and this leads to some of the best episodes the show has ever done. And the final arc wraps up the fates for the characters introduced on the show while moving everyone else from the films to where they need to be.
Overall, each arc is enjoyable on its own, but it’s always a bit of a letdown because the events that end each arc get glossed-over as the show jumps ahead a year, leaving you wanting more resolution and also causing confusion as the audience has to piece together where everybody is now.
All the main characters get their moments to shine, and that usually means showing what they need to sacrifice to achieve their goals, or in some cases, being sacrificed for the greater good. (“Good” being a loaded word when it’s the Empire’s interpretation of it.) Continuing on from last season, Cassian, Luthen and Mon Mothma are fleshed out into some of the most interesting characters in the franchise, especially considering how they’re either barely mentioned or completely absent in previous Star Wars stories. Characters like Syril and Dedra have a fascinating dynamic and story arcs that don’t quite land as well as the other leads, while Bix, Wilmon and Vel aren’t given enough to do of any significance.
The show looks amazing, blending practical sets, special effects, and exotic, real-life locations to create places and things that look both alien and yet familiar. The action is intense, and even though it’s typically bloodless, it can be brutal.
“Andor” season 2 uses its unique story structure to present engaging stories and characters that feature new tales, established lore that’s only been hinted at, and lay the groundwork for the original trilogy. The writing is fantastic, and the acting superbly brings it all to life. However, the time jumps between arcs and a few moments that feel stagnant hurt the flow of the overall season.
**** out of *****