Review of Obi-Wan Kenobi: The Jedi Master Returns
Star Wars fans who are not familiar with the prequel trilogy will rarely be able to deny that Ewan McGregor’s portrayal as Obi-Wan Kenobi was one of the most memorable parts of the films. The actor’s return to the mini-series was well received. However, one could argue that there should be another story between Episodes I and IV. The Obi-Wan Kenobi miniseries has two episodes and is currently celebrating its debut on Disney+.
Ten years have passed since the events in the prequels. The series’ action begins. While the Emperor and Darth Vader control the galaxy, their Inquisitors are hunting down the Jedi. Obi-Wan on the other side, however, lives on Tatooine and watches over Luke Skywalker. According to reports, the former Jedi master seems to have dissolved with his past. Obi-Wan appears to be someone who doesn’t want fight anymore. He makes this clear when he’s visited by a surviving Jedi. A development on Alderaan has resulted in Obi-Wan still taking up the lightsaber.
The young Princess Leia
Leia’s role in Obi Wan Wan was not revealed in advance. This is one of the first surprise that the creators have succeeded in revealing. Leia, played by Vivien Blair, is a strong-willed ten year-old girl who makes you want to love her. The first episode, simply called “Part 1”, was made by the makers. They also shared some details about their family life. It is heartbreaking to see Leia’s relationship with her adoptive father Bail Organa. There is also a chance to see actor Jimmy Smits.
Reva Sevander, aka the Third Sister, is responsible for the power games that led to Organas turning to Obi-Wan following Leia’s kidnapping. Even though she has been away from Obi-Wan for ten years, her quest continues, even against the wishes and orders of the first inquisitor. Reva Sevander remains one of the series’ weakest points, at least for the first two episodes. The character’s cartoonishly evil portrayal is the main reason for this. In the remaining episodes, it is likely that the creators will reveal more about their obsession with Obi-Wan. The figure is still quite flat so far.
The quick rescue
After the kidnapping of the first episode, many believed that Obi-Wan was now being sent on a long search to find Leia. They quickly proved them wrong. The Jedi actually finds the young princess in Episode 2 (or “Part 2”), and there is a clash. The fact that Leia’s message in Episode IV does not sound like they ever met might lead to purists calling for a canon breaking. This can be explained by Obi-Wan not telling Leia his name, and Leia therefore never adding 1:1.
If you can overlook this creative choice, there are some great scenes between Obi-Wan and Leia. Ewan McGregor and Vivien Lyra Blair have a great chemistry. One of the most touching scenes is when Obi-Wan recognizes Leia’s mother in her behavior. It is still not the best in this area. The creators kept the final moment when Obi Wan learns Anakin Skywalker is still breathing for the finale. The creators also manage to give goosebumps here. It will be fascinating to see where this journey takes us in terms content. Although “Part 1” seemed to be centered on saving Leia’s life, there are indications that ObiWan may now seek out Anakin for a confrontation on his own.
Star Wars’ well-known show value
Obi-Wan Kenobi has returned to the same level as Disney+ and Lucasfilm with The Mandalorian. It is quite evident that there is lots of action from digital backgrounds. The planet Daiyu, however, looks great again. However, due to its city-centric design, the show value was very limited. Daiyu looks more like a cyberpunk planet.
There is still room for improvement in terms of action. In the first two episodes, there are no lightsaber fights. Obi-Wan has so far kept the lightsaber fully in place and relied more on his fists. The action scenes were not particularly memorable. The second episode’s fight on the roof was also disappointing. Final verdict: Laser guns fights are not very exciting. After all, the viewer can only see a few rays of light moving back and forth across the screen. The makers can add more shovels to the next episodes.
Conclusion
Obi Wan Kenobi impresses right from the beginning with two entertaining episodes. The return of Ewan McGregor is entertaining, but the surprise appearance of Leia provides plenty of entertainment. Even though the opponent may not be convincing, there are some very emotional moments. This is also true for the action scenes. There are still opportunities to improve.