‘Andor’ Cements Itself as the Darkest Installment in the Star Wars Franchise
Annlyel James 
“I just can’t wait to see how Star Wars: Andor continues and how it will conclude heading into the next season!” says Annlyel James
Since 1977 Star Wars has been a story created for children, in George Lucas’s own words. It just so happened to be such a great story that people of all ages could enjoy. I feel that the family-friendly reputation of this franchise and its various offerings have come to an end with Andor, the maturest, darkest installment to date.
This series has been a feast of intrigue. Its sweeping tale of rebellion against the cold, harsh grip of fascism plays out in conversations fraught with tension instead of flashy action scenes. The relationships have mature foundations and themes and the story is as dark as it gets. But this week’s episode, “Nobody’s Listening!” was the harshest of the season so far.
NOBODY’S LISTENING
There was a lot to remember from this episode. Syril Karn’s abrupt infatuation and pursuit of Imperial ISB Officer Dedra Meero. Kino Loy’s change of heart as a dutiful prisoner. Vel’s familial relations reveal, and Cassian’s awakening urges to rebel. But the scene that struck me the most, as I’m sure it did with many others, was Bix Caleen’s interrogation. We’ve had torture scenes in Star Wars before, harking back to Leia’s imprisonment on the Death Star in A New Hope. But none is quite as horrific as the one that was displayed in this week’s episode.
BIX’S INTERROGATION
Bix Caleen was introduced to a new, particularly haunting form of torture. One whose effects are catastrophic for the recipient. Her horror devolving into a raw scream of anguish was hard to watch. But what I found the most jarring about the scene was the way she was treated after the procedure.
Her limp body was dragged out of the chair by two Imperials and thrown down onto a mattress in her room like a rag doll, showcasing the utter brutality and lack of feeling by the Empire. Even the way they talked about her and her friend, who’s now set for a hanging, was eye-widening in its disturbing nature.
The Empire has always been an evil, oppressive regime that the heroes have had to fight against. But never has it been shown with such extremity. I’ve always wanted to see a series delve into the darker sides of this franchise and this has done that in an incredibly bold way.
MATURE STAR WARS
Sure, this is the first Star Wars installment that feels like it’s truly designed for viewers thirteen and older. Which has to be disheartening for some. But it’s nice to see something that honestly pushes the franchise in a new direction. I just can’t wait to see how this story continues and how it will conclude heading into the next season. This show is destined for a great time during Emmys season next year.
Are you a fan of the mature direction of Star Wars: Andor? Sound off below.
Star Wars: Andor is streaming exclusively on Disney Plus now.
Annlyel James is a Senior Correspondent of The Future of the Force. She is passionate about Star Wars and Marvel but loves a wide variety of movie genres. Aside from her role with Future of the Force she also writes for her blog: annlyelonline. Follow her on Twitter where she channels the Force frequently!
