Send us a text message! Tell us what you think!

What makes something truly "Star Wars?" In this thought-provoking discussion, we dive into the heart of Andor and challenge the conventional definition of Star Wars storytelling. Is a series without lightsabers, Jedi, and Force powers still authentically Star Wars? Or does Andor's character-driven, ground-level perspective offer something more valuable than spectacle?

We explore how nostalgia colors our perception of Star Wars content, suggesting that much of what we love about the franchise comes from emotional attachment rather than objective quality. As one host provocatively states, "Most of Star Wars isn't fantastic, but we attach our memories to it." This insight helps explain why fans have such varied reactions to new additions to the universe.

Tony Gilroy's approach to Andor stands in stark contrast to other Star Wars creators, deliberately avoiding fan service in favor of telling a compelling human story first. We compare this to Obi-Wan Kenobi and Ahsoka, where creators seemed to include traditional Star Wars elements regardless of whether they served the narrative.

The conversation expands to review the character-driven crime drama Sinners, starring Michael B. Jordan, and Marvel's Thunderbolts, analyzing how both films balance character development with action. We also discuss Sony's struggles with the Spider-Man universe, Japanese animation influences, and upcoming film releases.

Whether you're a lifelong Star Wars devotee or a casual viewer interested in how franchises evolve, this episode offers fresh perspectives on storytelling expectations and how our memories shape our entertainment experiences. Join us as we challenge assumptions and celebrate the stories that connect with us – with or without a lightsaber in sight.

Voice intro and music

Intro music by Alex Grohl

AlexGrohl - Pixabay