Obi-Wan rocketed to Disney+’s most-watched new show and it shouldn’t be a huge surprise. Not only does it continue Ewan McGregor’s role as Obi-Wan, but it explores the gap between the prequels and Star Wars: A New Hope likely to reveal far more of Darth Vader’s struggle. Judging by the strong writing and production of Part 1 and Part 2 we’re in good hands.
SPOILERS AHEAD for Obi-Wan Kenobi episode 3!
Obi-Wan Kenobi episode 3 titled “Part 3” opens with Obi-Wan meditating seeking wisdom from his master Qui-Gon Jinn. Juxtaposed with his failure to connect are shots of Anakin being suited up in the Darth Vader suit. You can almost feel the pain on Obi-Wan’s face who now knows Anakin lives. It’s as if Anakin’s pain is felt by Obi-Wan and it feels quite tragic.
If you thought Darth Vader appearing would be held off, fear not as he’s delivering dialogue and everything to Inquisitor Reva (Moses Ingram) in the very next scene. Reva’s motivation has been a mystery — a frustration for sure — but it appears that mystery is known by Darth Vader. That’s a good sign since Reva’s character is rife for a compelling story arc but has felt stilted due to her mysteriousness.
Obi-Wan gets some interesting character development here as well. Usually a wise figure historically, he shows a bit of himself to Leia at one point. This not only ties his struggle as a child before becoming a Jedi to Leia’s as they’re both adopted in their own way. There’s also some key info regarding those who oppose the Empire. They don’t have a name, although they do seem to have secret areas to hide when fleeing the Empire.
Obi-Wan’s duties to Princess Leia continue in this episode as he attempts to get her back to Alderaan. It’s interesting to see how he’s imparting wisdom to her, similar to the last episode, as it helps inform us why Leia grew up the way she did. She may have lived in opulence, but she has an edge to her that was learned and partly born into her too.
Darth Vader fans will enjoy this episode.
Credit: Disney+
While Obi-Wan continues to live in a bit of fear — especially now that he knows Anakin is alive — the Sith and their culture are on full display. It’s fun to see how they are a dog-eat-dog culture and it’s clear that aspect is a weakness and can’t last long. Speaking of the Empire, Stormtroopers abound in this episode and look great. They’re dirty and clearly, a bit worn down as they guard a mining planet. It all goes a long way in detailing how this world is different, darker, and complex in its own way.
This show is a little more violent than one might expect from Star Wars. There are some fairly brutal deaths and even a bit of gore in one case. This show is fairly dark in its atmosphere and tone at times too. I wouldn’t say it’s for adults only, but it definitely aged things up for the fans who grew up with the prequels.
If you’re expecting Darth Vader to get character work you’ll likely need to wait. He’s mostly an imposing figure in this episode, although he’s used quite a bit. His booming voice is spot on as well. Props to Disney for bringing James Earl Jones back. It’s perfect.
Obi-Wan Kenobi “Part 3” is an exciting chapter that feels adult and dark in tone. It’s a show that lives in the shadow of Obi-Wan cutting Anakin down and the Empire turning the world into a darker place.
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