Thomas Storai 
“Episode 6 of Star Wars: Ahsoka is another brilliant episode expanding on the saga lore. This one fully goes on the fantasy path taking inspiration from Lord of the Rings. “
Last week’s episode of STAR WARS: AHSOKA was a turning point in the series with Ahsoka experiencing a rebirth after seeing her former master Anakin in the World Between Worlds. This was undoubtedly Star Wars perfection, the best episode of Star Wars live-action. For fans of the prequels and The Clone Wars, this was a big moment. Hayden Christensen wearing Anakin’s Clone Wars costume, Captain Rex, Hayden as Anakin interacting with Rosario Dawson as Ahsoka, young Ahsoka, the Siege of Mandalore, Ryloth, Teth… everything was a dream come true!
The episode ended with Ahsoka and Huyang hopefully heading to the new galaxy aboard a Purrgil. Sabine was already on her way to this galaxy aboard the Eye of Sion with the villains at the end of episode 4. Now, it’s time to witness the return of Grand Admiral Thrawn and Ezra Bridger with episode 6. This also means there are only two episodes left.
THE NEW GALAXY
This episode finally brings our character to the other galaxy on Peridea. This planet is of important significance to our well-known Star Wars galaxy. Indeed, it is revealed to be the planet from which the Nightsisters originated. And the Nightsisters are the first to have used the Purrgils to arrive in the known galaxy. This reveal adds another layer to the existing Star Wars lore. It also explains where magic comes from – this other galaxy. I am always excited to learn more about Star Wars lore and this episode sure does that.
Additionally, it also gives us a good look at Peridea. Design-wise it feels like New Zealand. It’s like Lord of the Rings and Willow meets Star Wars. Undoubtedly, this is the perfect mix. The nightsister’s fortress reminds me of Minas Tirith in how it’s built, except it’s sinister. And sinister is the right word for this planet. At the same time, it is visually striking and beautiful to look at but also sinister. After all, it is a place of dark magic. Speaking of dark magic, we are introduced to Great Mothers. Remember Mother Talzin from The Clone Wars? These are her ancestors. It looks like they are going to be formidable enemies. Beyond the fantasy-inspired designs, the tone of the episode is very much Lord of the Rings-y.
NEW GALAXY/NEW SPECIES
Moreover, this planet is populated by cute turtle-like creatures (maybe the most adorable creatures in Star Wars after the loth cats), Samurai-like mercenaries, and a new race of creatures to ride. This is just one planet in this other galaxy and there’s already so much introduced in one episode. This is what this episode does. It’s a slow-paced episode focused on world-building. It introduces this new planet and re-introduces another famous or should I say infamous character.
THE GRAND ADMIRAL
Episode 6 is finally the return of Grand Admiral Thrawn. This episode perfectly introduces the character to new viewers while re-introducing him in live-action for us fans of Star Wars Rebels. Lars Mikkelsen mostly uses the voice he had in Rebels which is exactly what’s needed for this character – a cold and overconfident. The way Mikkelsen stands, and the way he acts, he captured how the character looked in animation. This is a glorious return for one of the best Star Wars villains. Right away, Thrawn is presented as a leader and a calculating person. He has big plans for his return to the known galaxy. This is only the beginning.
Moreover, since Rukh died Thrawn needed a new bodyguard, we are introduced to Enoch, a trooper with a modified stormtrooper gold helmet. The faceplate represents a human face. This one undoubtedly stands out. The other troopers have red strips of cloth on their armor, could this be a sign the night sisters used their magic on them? One thing is sure, Thrawn’s remaining forces are as frightening as he is.
REUNION
Furthermore, this episode also brings Ezra Bridger back. We already saw Eman Esfandi as Ezra in episode 1 with a hologram but today, this is his proper return. And he is sporting a brand-new look. This fits for an older Ezra. Eman Esfandi is perfect for the role. Dave Filoni has nailed the casting of each of the characters from Star Wars Rebels. Everyone is the right pick for their character. We may only see him for a scene in this episode but I can’t wait to see more of Ezra in the remaining two episodes! Finally, Ezra’s reunion with Sabine is quite touching. A lot of fans have been waiting for this scene and it doesn’t disappoint.
VERDICT
Episode 6 of Ahsoka is another brilliant episode expanding on Star Wars lore. This one fully goes on the fantasy path taking inspiration from Lord of the Rings. Thrawn makes a great live-action debut, he is just as frightening as in Star Wars: Rebels. Lars Mikkelsen is brilliant! And Eman Esfandi is perfect as Ezra Bridger. Ahsoka truly is the peak of Star Wars.
Star Wars: Ahsoka is now streaming on Disney Plus.
Future of the Force will cover the series from every angle. And that begins with our customary in-depth review that will drop within hours of each episode. And if that isn’t enough, our traditional poster and concept art coverage will keep you entertained as we build the hype for the latest episode. Subscribe to our newsletter at the top of our homepage to stay up-to-date with all the latest news and reviews from Future of the Force.
Collectables Editor at Future Of The Force.
Star Wars and Marvel specialist, anime expert
