Highlights
Ahsoka refocuses on the title character in episode 7, delivering a thrilling and action-packed penultimate chapter.
The episode showcases intense action sequences, skillfully alternating perspectives and serving as a chilling reminder of Thrawn's terror. Geeta Vasant Patel impressively delves into the characters, and Rosario Dawson delivers a captivating performance as Ahsoka.
Caution: This review contains spoilers for Ahsoka episode 7.
After a deliberate buildup of Thrawn as the primary antagonist and the introduction of another distant galaxy in the previous episode, Ahsoka now focuses on its titular character in its second-to-last chapter, titled "Part Seven: Dreams and Madness." Once again, Dave Filoni, the series creator and co-creator of the Ahsoka character along with George Lucas, provides the script. Filoni's exclusive role as Ahsoka's writer has allowed him to maintain a consistent and unique authorial vision throughout the series. Despite being seven episodes in, he has yet to disappoint.
After a brief detour to the A-plot, Hera is sent back to the B-plot to face the consequences of her insolence. Fortunately, a last-minute order from Senator Leia Organa saves her from being court-martialed for her unauthorized mission. In a much-needed extended appearance, Genevieve O’Reilly beautifully portrays Hera as she undergoes questioning from Leia, both officially and unofficially, about Thrawn's potential return. This reminder of Thrawn's formidable presence adds a sense of urgency to the scene.
The episode begins with a dry New Republic hearing, but it swiftly moves past the politics and plunges into action. Ahsoka and Huyang arrive in the new galaxy aboard a Purrgil pod and immediately find themselves navigating an Imperial space minefield. The Purrgil are destroyed, leaving Ahsoka to manage the mines alone. To make matters worse, she is pursued by a fleet of Imperial starfighters. This intense sequence sets the episode off with a bang, establishing the high stakes of this Imperial-controlled setting.
This is just the first of many exciting highlights in "Dreams and Madness." Ezra and Sabine engage in an electrifying Star Wars rendition of a classic western showdown on horseback, bravely fending off scavengers. The sequence blends the exhilaration of a chase with the intensity of a firefight. Following the franchise's tradition, the episode skillfully cuts between different perspectives of the climactic action, while Thrawn oversees the unfolding events on a holographic map, embodying a sinister puppet-master. Filoni masterfully manipulates his characters like chess pieces during this epic final battle. On one side, we have Ahsoka, Sabine, Ezra, and Huyang, while Baylan Skoll, Shin Hati, and Thrawn's legion of zombie Stormtroopers stand opposed on the other side.
Ahsoka’s penultimate episode, titled "Dreams and Madness," was skillfully directed by Geeta Vasant Patel. It's interesting to note the delightful irony in Patel helming an episode with this title, considering her previous directorial work on House of the Dragon. In that episode, a delirious and dying Viserys unknowingly complicates his own succession by rambling about Aegon the Conqueror's dream. Patel's prowess for exploring characters shines through in both Ahsoka and House of the Dragon episodes, proving her equal fascination with character development and genre spectacle. Her exceptional collaboration with Paddy Considine in the House of the Dragon episode demonstrates Patel's talent for working with actors and bringing out their best performances. Furthermore, her work on the Ahsoka episode serves as further proof of her remarkable abilities.
Rosario Dawson delivers a captivating performance, portraying Ahsoka's self-assuredness effortlessly, even in the face of danger. Eman Esfandi seamlessly settles into the role of Ezra, capturing his reckless yet accepting persona. Lars Mikkelsen once again proves his prowess as Thrawn, exuding a menacing calmness through his voice. The late Ray Stevenson shines as Baylan Skoll, delivering powerful villainous monologues. Ivanna Sakhno excels in portraying the conflicted Shin Hati, torn between loyalty and darkness. The series expertly incorporates fan service without sacrificing storytelling or character development. This episode treats fans with appearances by C-3PO and a hologram recording of Anakin's training exercises. "Dreams and Madness" not only sets the stage for an exciting finale but also provides its own thrilling moments.
Ahsoka
In this Disney Plus Star Wars series, Ahsoka Tano, portrayed by Rosario Dawson, brings to life one of the franchise's most beloved characters from the animated world. Created by Dave Filoni, the series also features Natasha Liu Bordizzo as Sabine Wren, Mary Elizabeth Winstead as Hera Syndulla, and the late Ray Stevenson as Baylan Skoll.