Talking Star Wars: Recent Episodes
Connor
Alex and Connor, two 30-somethings with strong feelings about Star Wars, discuss a variety of topics in everyone's favorite science fiction universe, including; weird Force powers, character explorations, lore discussions, and deep dives into expanded universe content.
This episode surveys a unique part of the Star Wars setting - giant monsters and creatures that exclusively live in the black void of space itself. Connor and Alex talk about the majestic Purgill (space whales), the enigmatic and enormous exogorth (space worm) and the apex predator of the space lanes, the suma-verminoth. The hosts explore the depiction of each of these enormous creatures and how they mix the appeal of the unknown with the dangerous and sublime, with a size that is barely comprehensible on a human scale. Listen today to learn more about the Giant Space Monsters of Star Wars.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Episode 5, Episode 9, Rebels, Solo: A Star Wars Story, From a Certain Point of View (Empire Strikes Back), Legends of Luke Skywalker, The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, and Darth Vader (2015 and 2020 comic series).
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In this episode, Connor and Alex discuss the varied ways the Star Wars has handled the depiction of characters in visual media when the original actor who played them has aged out of the role - from recasting, in the case of Han Solo, to digital de-aging, to wholesale CGI replacement of an actor’s face with a recreation of another actor’s.
In general, our hosts are more in favor of letting a new actor portray the same character rather than using technology to recreate another person’s likeness, and explain their reasons why. Listen now to hear Talking Star Wars’ take on the uncanny valley, AI voice reconstruction, and views on recasting for the same character.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Rogue One, Solo: A Star Wars Story, The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, The Clone Wars, and The Book of Boba Fett.
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This slightly more somber episode of Talking Star Wars is in honor of the late James Earl Jones, the voice of Darth Vader. The hosts explore both the reasons Darth Vader himself has become and remained one of the most recognizable villains and characters in all of popular culture, and how Mr. Jones’ depiction contributed to this legacy. The hosts also each opine on the most powerful spoken lines in the voice of Darth Vader from visual media.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Episodes 4 through 6, Rogue One, Rebels, and Kenobi.
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In this episode, Connor takes the lead and explores the subject of fanediting in Star Wars - the process of taking the raw footage of media and rearranging, editing, altering, and adjusting scenes, audio, and more. We explore both the subject of George Lucas as the very first ‘faneditor’ and review the continual updates the original trilogy in particular have received via CGI since the 90s as well as those prominent fan projects that have iterated on those changes (often to roll them back or smooth them out). The hosts also explore the motivations for various fanedits, from splicing together various media to focusing on specific character arcs. Listen today to learn more about the subculture of Star Wars fanediting through the lens of our favorite sci-fi mega franchise.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Clone Wars, The Mandalorian, and Ahoska.
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In this episode, the hosts take a step back from an in-universe perspective and analyze what was happening in the world during the release of each of the trilogies of movies that comprise the Skywalker Saga. They explore the influence of 70s cinema and the post-Vietnam era on the production of the original trilogy, which was released in the divided world of the Cold War period; the turn-of-the-millennium release of the prequel trilogy right around the birth of the Internet and the rise of global and domestic political tension; and the sequel trilogy, released after the Disney acquisition and firmly in an era of more diverse (and more risk-averse and corporate) filmmaking. Evolving themes this episode examines include the depiction of fascism, increasing multiculturalism, trust and mistrust of authority, and familial legacy. Listen now to hear Alex and Connor’s thoughts on how the times of each film influenced its storytelling.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9.
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This episode resumes the hosts’ survey and discussion of each work in the current Star Wars canon by going over the next group of novels in release order. This episode discusses the works released in the leadup to The Mandalorian and filling in the gaps about the fall of the Empire, the books released as a tie-in to the opening of the Galaxy’s Edge park at Disney and exploring the planet of Batuu, and finally those novels bridging the gap during the sequel era between The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker and explaining out the Resistance rebuilt itself. These works consist of: Alphabet Squadron, Shadow Fall, Victory’s Price, A Crash of Fate, Myths and Fables, Dark Legends, Black Spire, Spark of the Resistance, Resistance Reborn, and The Force Collector. For each work, the hosts provide an overview of the plot and discuss the quality of the novel both as a piece of fiction and as a part of the larger Star Wars universe.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Alphabet Squadron, Shadow Fall, Victory’s Price, A Crash of Fate, Myths and Fables, Dark Legends, Black Spire, Spark of the Resistance, Resistance Reborn, The Force Collector, Phasma, Squadrons, Ahsoka, Star Wars: Battlefront II, and Lost Stars.
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In our continuing series of character spotlights highlighting interesting characters from the Star Wars Universe and analyzing both their in-universe traits and how they function as a character in the greater narrative, this episode dives into the half-life of General Grievous, supreme military commander of the armed forces of the Confederacy of Independent Systems during The Clone Wars. A Kaleesh warlord who had replaced most of his body with droid parts and cybernetics, Grievous twirls his metaphorical mustache from his Clone Wars inception to his defeat at the hands of Obi-Wan Kenobi.
This episode mentions content from, and may contain spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Clone Wars, Clone Wars (Legends microseries), Age of the Republic: Villains, Tales of the Empire, Dark Legends, Doctor Aphra, The Aftermath Trilogy, Poe Dameron (comic), Darth Vader (2015 comic), and The Last Shot.
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In this episode, our hosts take a look at the most recent visual media series released in the Star Wars Universe: The Acolyte. Connor and Alex provide an overview and investigation of the plot of the series, from the Rashomon-style episodes portraying the events on Brendok, to the way noir mystery influences the first several episodes, to the beautifully choreographed fight scenes spread throughout the season. Further, the hosts dive into the key themes of the series: the increasingly dogmatic depiction of Jedi in the leadup to the era of The Clone Wars, the seductive lure of the Dark Side, and the way the best of intentions can still lead to the worst of outcomes. Listen now to hear a breakdown of the first season of The Acolyte.
This episode mentions content from, and may contain spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Acolyte, The High Republic (Phases 1 to 3), The Clone Wars, Ahsoka, Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith (2017 comic), Fallen Order, Jedi Survivor, The Mandalorian, and Kenobi.
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This episode continues the series’ ongoing look at mythical and exotic materials in the Star Wars Universe, after exploring the role of kyber crystals last week, but expanding on the use and cultural significance of both beskar (used primarily in the forging of Mandalorian armor) and cortosis (notoriously one of the only materials in the Star Wars setting that can deactivate and counteract a Jedi’s lightsaber). The hosts both review and discuss the depiction of each of these minerals in the Star Wars universe and draw parallels to other materials in other fiction, such as Moria’s mithril. Listen now to learn more!
This episode mentions content from, and may contain spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Mandalorian, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Tales of the Empire, Ahsoka, Thrawn: Alliances, The Acolyte, Knights of the Old Republic (legends), and The High Republic (phases 1 and 2).
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This episode of the first of a two-part series on exotic and mythic materials of Star Wars, this installment investigates the depiction and role played by kyber crystals play in the galaxy far far away. First, the hosts explore the works that explain and show the role of kyber crystals in Star Wars, from the lightsabers of Jedi and Sith to their (mis)use as the primary component of the Death Star’s superlaser. Additionally, this episode compares and contrasts the kyber crystal with the role of other mystical, rare, and ‘magical’ materials and items in other media. Listen today, and join us for the next episode diving in to beskar and cortosis!
This episode mentions content from, and may contain spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Clones Wars, Rebels, Catalyst, Rogue One, Star Wars (2020 comic run), Andor, Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith (2017 comic run), Fallen Order, Jedi Survivor, Star Wars: Dark Legends, Darth Vader (2020 comic run), Visions Season 2, Shadow of the Sith, and The High Republic (phase 2, minor mention).
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This episode explores the dark mirror to the Jedi’s ability to return as Force Ghosts by examining how the Sith can attempt to prolong their lives by binding their souls to objects as well as by binding the souls of others as servants. From the ancient mask of Exim Panshard that can possess its wearer, to the desperate remnant of The Grand Inquisitor lingering on long after his death, listen now to hear an exploration of all the ways the Sith use this darkest of arts.
This episode mentions content from, and may contain spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Bad Batch, The Mandalorian, Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith (2017 comic), Shadow of the Sith, Star Wars: Dark Legends, The Acolyte, Visions (Season 1), Ahsoka, Star Wars (2020 comic), Rebels (Season 1), and Darth Vader (2020 comic), The Clone Wars, and Knights of the Old Republic (Legends).
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In this episode, the hosts explore the ability of certain Jedi, starting with Obi-Wan Kenobi and extending through Luke Skywalker and Yoda, to retain their consciousness and personality after death to provide counsel, advice, and input into the world as ghosts or apparitions that live within the Living Force. The episode explores the agency the Force Ghosts display, their powers and limitations, and the origins of this power: potentially an entirely new ability granted to Qui-Gon Jinn and Yoda prior to the fall of the Jedi Order and extending to the current present day in Star Wars canon.
Join us next week for the dark mirror to this topic as we discuss Sith soul binding!
This episode mentions content from, and may contain spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Clone Wars, Kenobi, Ahsoka, Shadow of the Sith, The Force Unleashed (Legends), Lego Star Wars, and Doctor Aphra.
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This episode provides an overview of the seven primary lightsaber forms used by Jedi, Sith, and other lightsaber-wielders in the Star Wars universe. The hosts explain each lightsaber style, the exemplars of each, and delve into what each style means as a vehicle of visual and character storytelling. Connor and Alex also discuss the concept of lightsaber forms and styles as a whole to see if they are an overcomplicated piece of lore, or if they add to the richness of the setting and its sense of lived history.
This episode mentions content from, and may contain spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Jedi: Fallen Order, Jedi: Survivor, Tales of the Jedi, Ahoska, The Mandalorian, The Force Unleashed (Legends), The High Republic (Phase 1), The Acolyte, and Visions (season 1).
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In this episode, our hosts explore the character of Supreme Leader Snoke - dark side adept, failed strandcast of Palpatine, and master to Kylo Ren - and how the compelling concept of a non-Sith force user could have been further expanded on. Connor and Alex explore other potential directions Snoke’s character could have been taken: having more clones of Snoke that emerged after his first death, strengthening or removing his connection to Palpatine, or giving him a backstory stretching back to the days of the Jedi Order.
This episode mentions content from, and may contain spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Rise of Kylo Ren (comic), Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, The Mandalorian, The Bad Batch, and Darth Vader (2015 comic).
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This episode delves into the expanding lore of one of the cornerstone events in Star Wars lore: that of Order 66, where the Grand Army of the Republic turned on the Jedi Order in the closing days of The Clone Wars and leading into the Rise of the Empire. The hosts first explore the Rashomon-like collection of media that depicts the events of Order 66, and then examine Order 66 itself as a lynchpin event in the lore itself - where all future stories can be divided into “Before Order 66” and “After Order 66.” This episode also delves into the nature of an evolving event in a shared canon, where new facets are revealed and can server as either an expansion upon, or a soft recon of (depending on your view) previous media that depicted the same occasion.
This episode mentions content from, and may contain spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Star Wars: Battlefront 2 (2005, Legends), Kanan Jarrus (comic), Fallen Order, The Bad Batch Season 1, The Mandalorian, Kenobi, Tales of the Jedi, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Tales of the Empire, The Rise of the Red Blade, Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith (2017 comic), The Alphabet Squadron trilogy, Andor, and Dooku: Jedi Lost.
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In this episode, the hosts continue their ongoing series on the various sentient aliens of Star Wars - analyzing their depiction, discussing their unique traits, and mentioning the most notable members of each alien species that appear in canon media. Discussed today include the Toydarians, Dugs, Devaronians, Evereni, Zygerrians, Dowutin, Gen’Dai, Ugnaughts, Besalisk, and Gamorreans. This episode also explores the ways that alien cultures gain nuance as more members of each species are depicted, and how each member of an alien race does not need to, nor should, serve as a stand-in for the entire species.
This episode mentions content from, and may contain spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Clone Wars, From a Certain Point of View (Empire Strikes Back & Return of the Jedi), The Mandalorian, Rebels, The High Republic: Eye of the Storm, Tempest Runner, The Bad Batch, Light of the Jedi, Fallen Order, Jedi Survivor, Clone Wars (Legends), Bounty Hunters, Padawan, and The Book of Boba Fett.
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This episode delves into the mutual influences between two science fiction properties: that of the world of Dune, crafted by Frank Herbert, and of the Star Wars universe as originally created by George Lucas and company. The first Dune novel released in 1959 certainly had influence on the 1977 release of A New Hope, while the recent Dune films are being released in a filmscape indelibly altered by the existence of 11 Star Wars films and a wide range of shows and media. The hosts compare and contrast the characters of Luke Skywalker and Paul Atreides, the role the antagonist Emperor plays in each setting, and how each saga examines the intersection of spiritually and mysticism with fantastical far-future technology. Connor and Alex also view the construction of prophecy and destiny between Star Wars and Dune, from the inevitable-but-positive victory of the heroes in Star Wars; to the more fatalistic take on fate from Dune.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Star Wars Episodes 1 through 9, Dune, Dune: Messiah, and Children of Dune.
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In this episode, Alex and Connor survey the video games that are currently considered canon in the Star Wars universe, and also explore how the interactive nature of video games allows for a different kind of storytelling than more static mediums such as books and shows. The hosts also lament the trend of ‘lost media,’ as there are multiple video games that have been permanently shut down where all we have to go on are screenshots, summaries, and the memories of those who experienced the game at the time. The episode also looks ahead to future Star Wars video games and hopes for the medium going forward.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Lego Star Wars (all games), Star Wars: Commander, Star Wars; Uprising, Star Wars: Battlefront (2015) and Battlefront 2 (2017), The Mandalorian, The Alphabet Squadron trilogy, Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire, Fallen Order, Jedi Survivor, Star Wars: Squadrons, Rebels, and Star Wars: Hunters.
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In this episode, the hosts explore the themes and plot of the most recently-released Star Wars miniseries - Tales of the Empire, focusing on the lives of both Morgan Elsbeth and Barriss Offee and how their destinies are affected by the rise (and eventual fall) of the Galactic Empire. In particular, this episode dives into the shared themes between the two plot lines, the way supporting characters provide rich worldbuilding, and future wishes for more Tales series.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Tales of the Empire, Tales of the Jedi, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Ahsoka, The Mandalorian, The Thrawn Trilogies, Clone Wars (Legends), Fallen Order, Jedi Survivor, Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith (comic), The Rise of the Red Blade, and Andor.
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This episode returns to previous explorations of various force traditions to explore the concept, popular in the Star Wars community, of the ‘Gray Jedi.’ Looking through the lens of canon characters who profess various degrees of neutrality or differences of opinion with the Jedi Order, the hosts examine what being neutral towards The Force in the Star Wars universe truly means. Is it possible to dabble in the Dark Side without corruption, or are you always riding a tiger than will eventually turn on you? Does disagreement with the Jedi Order itself make you a Gray Jedi, or should this label depend more on the individual’s own relationship with The Force? Assessing characters as diverse as The Bendu, Ahsoka Tano, Baylan Skoll, and Qui-Gon Jinn, the hosts lay out their individual assessment of the concept of a Gray Jedi.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Rebels, Ahsoka (show), The Clone Wars, Dooku: Jedi Lost, Tales of the Jedi, Andor, Rogue One, Fallen Order, Jedi Survivor, Dark Disciple, Master and Apprentice, Guardians of the Whills, Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith (comic), and The High Republic (Phase 1).
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In this episode, Connor and Alex resume their survey and discussion of each work in the current Star Wars canon by going over the next group of novels in release order. This episode discusses the works released in the leadup to Solo: A Star Wars Story, the first book of the Queen’s Shadow Trilogy, and the second two books of the Thrawn trilogy. These works consist of: Last Shot, Most Wanted, Mighty Chewbacca in the Forest of Fear!, Thrawn: Alliances, Queen’s Shadow, Master and Apprentice, and Thrawn: Treason. For each work, the hosts provide an overview of the plot and discuss the quality of the novel both as a piece of fiction and as a part of the larger Star Wars universe.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Last Shot, Most Wanted, Mighty Chewbacca in the Forest of Fear!, Thrawn: Alliances, Queen’s Shadow, Master and Apprentice, Thrawn: Treason, Solo: A Star Wars Story, Rebels, Doctor Aphra, Knights of the Old Republic, Thrawn, Dooku: Jedi Lost, and Ahsoka.
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In this episode, Alex and Connor explore the factors that led to both the downfall of the Jedi Order at the hands of Emperor Palpatine and the destruction of Luke’s Jedi Order after his attempt to directly resurrect their practices and beliefs. This episode traces the increasingly strict dogma of the Jedi Order from the first attacks of the Nihil in the High Republic Period, which sets the precedent for the Jedi becoming Generals of the Grand Army of the Republic during The Clone Wars. Other key factors explored include the complacency of the Jedi Order, the inflexibility of the Jedi Council, and the overwhelming nature of outside threats that made the Order uniquely vulnerable. Listen today to hear a detailed analysis about the fall of the Jedi Order.
This episode mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, The Rise of Kylo Ren, The High Republic Phase 1, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Fallen Order, Jedi Survivor, Knights of the Old Republic, and The Mandalorian.
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In this episode, the hosts provide an overview of The High Republic, with a particular focus on the characters and factions introduced in Phase 1: the Supreme Chancellor Lina Soh and her Great Works; the growing threat of the Nihil marauders; the establishment of the Republic Defense Force; and a huge array of Jedi Knights, Masters, and Padawans with the Order itself at the zenith of its power. The episode also touches on the portrayal of Jedi as being more flexible in this era, but starting to adopt a more consistent (and stringent) dogma - while their portrayal still remains more hopeful and optimistic compared to the darkness of Anakin Skywalker. The hosts also touch on Phase 2, which is a prequel phase that focuses on the origins of the Nihil and the Forever War between two Outer Rim worlds. Listen now to hear all about The High Republic and this newest period explored in the Star Wars universe.
This episodes mentions content from and contains potential spoilers for: The Light of the Jedi, Into the Dark, The Rising Storm, The High Republic comic (2021 series), Midnight Horizon, Jedi Survivor, Out of the Shadows, Tempest Runner, and Eye of the Storm.
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In this episode, Connor and Alex conclude their first miniseries exploring varoius ‘What If?’ scenarios in The Skywalker Saga by taking a pass at Episodes VII, VIII, and IX. For each of the sequel trilogy films, each host picks one key change to make, and together they discuss the effects this alteration would have on the Star Wars galaxy. If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if Finn was also openly Force Sensitive, if Rey joined Kylo Ren, or Ben Solo survived and became a tortured wandering Ronin, give this episode a listen!
This episode contains spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Ahsoka, and Before the Awakening.
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In this episode, Connor and Alex continue their miniseries on ‘What If?’ scenarios throughout the Star Wars universe, with a specific focus on the prequel films. For each of the prequel trilogy films, the hosts pick one key change to make, and discuss the effects this shift would have on the story as a whole. If you’d like to hear an exploration of a possible universe where Anakin never becomes a Jedi, or a galaxy where Obi-Wan and Padme fall in love instead, listen now!
This episode contains spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Brotherhood, The Clone Wars, Tales of the Jedi, Ahsoka, Rebels, The Mandalorian, and brief mentions of The Thrawn Trilogy and The Thrawn: Ascendancy Trilogy.
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In this episode, Connor and Alex begin a new miniseries where they discuss ‘What If?’ scenarios through a Star Wars lens. For each of the original trilogy films, the hosts pick one key difference or inflection point to change, and discuss the ramifications and implications of these changes, such as: What If Luke lost to Vader on Cloud City?, or What If Leia also studied with Yoda? Please join us for potential changes to A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi and hear about different possible futures, from dark and bleak to wild divergence.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Ahsoka, Kenobi, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Dark Vader comic (2015 series), The Mandalorian, Bloodline, The Princess and the Scoundrel, and The Rise of Kylo Ren.
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As a follow up to earlier episodes 4, 5, and 6 exploring various Force traditions in the Star Wars universe, the hosts take this episode to discuss the figure of the Dark Jedi - a former Jedi who has fallen to the Dark Side, but who has not become a Sith or entirely abandoned their original teachings. From the principled-but-murderous Baylan Skoll, to the sneering and brutal Pong Krell, to the desperate and fanatical Barriss Offee, join Alex and Connor as they review all Dark Jedi known to the current canon and find commonalities and differences in their characterization - and how Dark Jedi serve as a mirror to the rigid strictures of the ready-to-fall pre-Order-66 Order itself. They also discuss how brushes with darkness are handled by the Jedi in the era of The High Republic, and how the stresses of The Clone Wars leave Jedi increasingly vulnerable to falling in comparison to earlier, more flexible, times.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Ahsoka, The Clone Wars, Fallen Order, Jedi Survivor, Dooku: Jedi Lost, Tales of Jedi, Rebels, The High Republic: The Rising Storm, and The High Republic (2021 comic).
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Welcome to Season 2 of Talking Star Wars! Our first Star Wars-focused episode of 2024 dives right into another character spotlight by focusing on the backstory, deeds, and personality of none other than Grand Admiral Thrawn. The original brandchild of Timothy Zahn in Legends, who has also had great influence on his current-canon incarnation, Thrawn stalks the high orbits of our hero’s planets with organ music at his back and competence dripping from every carefully-chosen syllable. Sometimes defeated but never daunted and hoarding every speck of competence in the Imperial Navy not already claimed by Tarkin or Piett, Thrawn (Mitth'raw'nuruodo in his homeland, the Chiss Ascendancy) invites the viewer and reader to root for him with clever tactics and respect for his adversaries, before reminding everyone that being polite does not mean he won’t bombard a civilian population into submission if he feels he must. Join our hosts for our deep dive into this fascinating, evolving character currently playing center stage as the villain bridging the gap between The Empire and The First Order.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episodes 1 through 9, Rebels, Thrawn, Thrawn: Alliances, Thrawn: Treason, the Thrawn Ascendancy Trilogy, Ahsoka, The Clone Wars, and The Mandalorian.
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This episode continues Alex and Connor’s review of the expanded universe content set in the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra. After reviewing the initial arc of six graphic novels that continued the story of the original Team Avatar, the hosts explore the shorter, character-focused, standalone comics that expand on specific characters centered around Avatar: The Last Avatar before diving into the two primary volumes that continue the story of Korra and her friends: Turf Wars and Ruins of the Empire, As before, the hosts explore the themes, worldbuild, and character work in each volume and discuss how each volume fits into the overall Avatar world.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA Seasons 1 through 3, The Legend of Korra season 1 through 4, Suki Alone, Toph Beifong’s Metalbending Academy, Katara and the Pirate’s Silver, Azula in the Spirit Temple, Turf Wars, and Ruins of the Empire
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This episode begins Connor and Alex’s review of the expanded universe content set in the Avatar universe that continues and expands on the stories of both Team Avatar and the world at large. In this first episode, the hosts review the primary six graphic novels that continue the story of Aang, Katara, Sokka, Toph, Zuko, Suki, and others - from The Promise that is set immediately following season 3, to Imbalance that takes place more than a year afterwards. The hosts discuss the merits of each graphic novel series, the themes explored, and how each work fits into the overall Avatar universe.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA Seasons 1 through 3, The Legend of Korra season 1 through 4, The Promise, The Search, The Rift, Smoke and Shadow, North and South, and Imbalance
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In this episode, Connor and Alex delve into the nature of the eponymous Avatar that gives the setting of Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra their names and primary characters.The hosts explore the figure of the Avatar both through the lens of an in-universe figure of awe, power, mystery, and hope as well as from a storytelling perspective and what having an Avatar present in the setting does to focus the narratives set in the universe. Additionally, this episode provides a survey and exploration of all known Avatars, their unique traits, and what their character says about the world in which they lived.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA Seasons 1 through 3, The Legend of Korra season 1 through 4, The Rise of Kyoshi, The Shadow of Kyoshi, The Dawn of Yangchen, The Legacy of Yangchen, and The Promise
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This episode dives into the more mystical side of the Avatar universe by examining spirits and the spirit world. Connor and Alex explore both the spirit world itself, including the ways that humans are able to journey spiritually and physically to and from this separate land, as well as surveying the unique denizens of that strange and emotionally-reactive land. From the terrifying lair of Koh the Face-Stealer to the sacred and dangerous library of Wan Shi Tong, learn about both the full range of named spirits that appear in the world and the more generic spirits that fill in the background while the hosts examine the spiritual roles they fill in the setting. The episode also delves into the narrative role of Raava and Vaatu, the ancient spirits of light and dark, and what “balance” means in the constant conflict between them.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA Seasons 1 through 3, The Legend of Korra seasons 1 through 4, The Rise of Kyoshi, The Shadow of Kyoshi, The Search, The Rift, The Dawn of Yangchen, and The Legacy of Yangchen
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This episode explores the various political systems in place in the Avatar universe, from the tribal relationship of the Water Tribes, to the feudal monarchies and lordships of the Earth Kingdom, to the absolute monarchy of the Fire Lord. The hosts also explore how the political landscape changes between the time of Aang and Korra’s day, including the eventual rise of the first democracy (and the mixed feelings about the first President), the fragility of the Water Tribes’ system of government in a more modern setting, and how the Earth Kingdom falls to fascism by season 4. This episode also explores the rise of the modern-style nation-state in the Avatar universe and the factors that influence national identity and development.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA seasons 1 through 3, The Legend of Korra seasons 1 through 4, Imbalance, Turf Wars, The Rise of Kyoshi, The Shadow of Kyoshi, The Dawn of Yangchen, and the Legacy of Yangchen.
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In this episode, Connor and Alex continue their ongoing miniseries about Avatar: The Last Airbender to discuss the role of technology in the Avatar universe.The hosts review how the world has largely organized society and what technology exists around bending and manipulation of the elements until the Hundred Years War, which involves a rapid industrial revolution that spreads to the entire world.The episode explores the role of technology in a world that focuses so heavily on mystical and spiritual arts, and how the supernatural and mundane both contrast and coexist in each nation. Connor and Alex also review the use of technology by each of the Four Nations as well as the use of giant mechanical devices and weapons as an ongoing plot point through Avatar and Korra.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA seasons 1 through 3, The Legend of Korra seasons 1 through 4, The Rise of Kyoshi, The Shadow of Kyoshi, The Dawn of Yangchen, and the Legacy of Yangchen
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In this episode, the hosts review the primary protagonists of Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra (Aang, Korra, and Zuko as a bonus deuteragonist) through the lens of The Hero’s Journey as popularized and codified by Joseph Campbell’s seminal work. Here, we see the patterns of the mythic hero play out in the lives of both Avatars, from the call to adventure, to the ordeal they must overcome, to the change they bring to the world.
Follow along with the steps of the Hero’s Journey here: https://www.imagineforest.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/The-heros-journey-cycle-stages.png
The 12 Steps:
- The Ordinary World
- Call of Adventure
- Refusal of the Call
- Meeting the Mentor
- Crossing the Threshold
- Tests, Allies, Enemies
- The Approach
- The Ordeal
- Reward
- The Road Back
- Resurrection
- Return with the Elixer
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA seasons 1 through 3, The Legend of Korra seasons 1 through 4
Star Wars Spoilers
Episodes IV through VI
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This episode explores a specific variance in the way that parental figures are portrayed in the Avatar world: one where this is a complex and distant father with a fraught relationship with his children; and where the mother is dead or otherwise entirely absent from the story, and characterized more by her absence than her ongoing agency. The hosts explore why this trope might exist, the ways in which parental roles evolve between Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra, and what role gender roles play in this difference between how motherhood and fatherhood are portrayed. From the heinous and abusive Fire Lord Ozai compared to his vanished wife Ursa, to the tragically slain Kya (mother of Katara and Sokka) and off-at-war Hakoda, this episode dives into all maternal and paternal figures, how they are depicted, and explores why this dichotomy might exist.
Discussed content includes potential spoilers from the items listed below.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA seasons 1 through 3, The Legend of Korra seasons 1 through 4, The Search, Imbalance, and Patterns in Time.
Star Wars Spoilers
Episodes I through VI
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This episode spotlights one of the most wholesome characters in popular fiction: Uncle Iroh, the Dragon of the West, and surrogate father figure to Prince Zuko. Known for his wisdom, his hidden depths, and his love of tea, Iroh also serves as an example of redemption and forgiveness for the entire cast. The hosts trace the trajectory of Iroh’s life, from his time as a ruthless General, to his secret life as Grand Lotus of the Order of the White Lotus, to his adventures with Prince Zuko and his attempts to keep his nephew both alive and pointed on a path towards good.
Discussed content includes potential spoilers from the items listed below.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA seasons 1 through 3; The Legend of Korra seasons 1 through 4, and The Legacy of the Fire Nation
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This week, Connor and Alex examine the concept of bending in the Avatar universe: the ability to manipulate the four elements of air, water, earth, and fire. They survey the origins of bending in the setting, discuss the power as a worldbuilding element, and review each type of bending. This episode also explores how use of each element shapes Avatar societies and impacts their spiritual practices while surveying the unique special techniques and powers developed within each bending discipline, from bloodbending, metalbending, and lavabending to combustion bending, healing, and flight.
Discussed content includes potential spoilers from the items listed below.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA seasons 1 through 3; The Legend of Korra seasons 1 through 4, The Rise of Kyoshi, The Shadow of Kyoshi, The Dawn of Yangchen
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In this episode, Alex and Connor explore the varied antagonists throughout the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender, from Aang’s initial rivalry with the brutal Admiral Zhao, to Zuko’s inter-family conflict with his sister and father, to the many philosophical questions posed by Amon and Zaheer in Korra’s day. The hosts compare the role of Admiral Zhao and Grand Moff Tarkin in their role as the initial powerful villain to challenge our heroes, as well as that of Fire Lord Ozai and Emperor Palpatin as the greater context villain who remains offscreen until Act 3. Additionally, this episode surveys antagonists from the expanded universe of Avatar novels and comics, from Lilling the bending supremacist to the absolutely chilling and compelling Jianzhu. Join us today to hear all about the villains of the Avatar universe!
Note: Talking Avatar, as presented by Talking Star Wars, is an interlude series taking place in-between Season 1 and Season 2 of the primary Talking Star Wars podcast. Please feel free to listen if you are interested, or wait until early 2024 for the next full season focusing exclusively on Star Wars to begin.
Discussed content includes potential spoilers from the items listed below.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA seasons 1 through 3; The Legend of Korra seasons 1 through 4; The Promise, Imbalance, North and South, The Rise of Kyoshi, and The Shadow of Kyoshi
Star Wars Spoilers
Episodes 1 through 9
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In this episode, Connor and Alex introduce their interlude season on the world and themes of Avatar: The Last Airbender, replete with parallels with the Star Wars universe, and initial analysis of the series, and the similarities of the two franchises. This episode lays out the reasons the hosts fina Avatar: The Last Airbender worth exploring, provides an overview of the Avatar setting, and lays out the ideas that will be explored in this mini-season.
Note: Talking Avatar, as presented by Talking Star Wars, is an interlude series taking place in-between Season 1 and Season 2 of the primary Talking Star Wars podcast. Please feel free to listen if you are interested, or wait until early 2024 for the next full season focusing exclusively on Star Wars to begin.
Discussed content includes potential spoilers from the items listed below.
Star Wars Spoilers
Episodes 1 through 9
Avatar: The Last Airbender Spoilers
ATLA seasons 1 through 3; The Legend of Korra seasons 1 through 4
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Hello Talking Star Wars fans! A quick update on the podcast:
- Season 2 of the core Talking Star Wars podcast will resume in early 2024 with more Force Powers episodes, more media surveys, and more character spotlights (among many other topics). Stay subscribed to see when the next season starts!
- In the interim, the hosts will be releasing a brief Interlude season exploring another media franchise with many parallels to Star Wars - Avatar: The Last Airbender! If you have any interest in this franchise as well, please give them a list over the next couple of months.
- Finally, thank you all for listening to the podcast over the last year. We’d love to hear from you or have your subscribe at any of the following sites:
- Our podcast website: https://talkingstarwars.buzzsprout.com/2074982
- Our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8Hvlm3pY8qjnMqxX3FatpQ
- Our subreddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/TalkingStarWars/
Thank you for listening!
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In their finale for Season 1 of the Talking Star Wars podcast, Connor and Alex dive into an exploration of the life, background, and abilities of one of the most complex and compelling of the new expanded universe characters: Ahsoka Tano. First appearing as the adolescent Padawan of Anakin Skywalker, over the course of her life Ahsoka is a war commander, guerilla operative, teacher, vigilante, ronin, and mentor. From precocious youth to fatigued and war-weary older woman, the world of Star Wars traces Ahsoka’s life through many stages as the Star Wars universe changes and grows along with and around her
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode II, Episode III, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Tales of the Jedi, Ahsoka (novel), Ahsoka (show), The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, Thrawn: Alliances, and The Screaming Citadel.
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In this episode, Connor and Alex delve into the seedy underbelly of the galaxy far, far away and examine the role of the bounty hunter - notorious hunter, fixers, and mercenaries of all kinds who take credits for unsavory and dangerous work. The hosts discuss the niche bounty hunters fill in the setting as unaffiliated and money-driven gunslingers, talk about notable bounty hunters (such as Boba Fett, Cad Bane, and Din Djarin), and explore why bounty hunters are such an evocative concept for many fans. The episode also explores various bounty hunter alliances, organizations, guilds, and the varied relationships different galactic governments have had with bounty hunters as a whole - from acceptance as part of their war machine by the Galactic Empire to grudging use by The New Republic.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Solo: A Star Wars Story, The Clone Wars, The Book of Boba Fett, The Mandalorian, The Bad Batch, Rebels, Andor, The Aftermath Trilogy, and Resistance.
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This week, the hosts a survey the media inspired by the bombshell that was Star Wars after it dropped into the creative sphere in 1977 and trace the impact of Star Wars through to the present day. From the immediate expansion of science fiction blockbuster releases in the 70s and 80s (Alien, Moonraker, Blade Runner) to the used-future aesthetic that Star Wars popularized in later series such as The Matrix, Firefly, and Cowboy Bebop, this episode explores both the storytelling methods that Star Wars helped popularize or re-popularize and the visual and musical themes that other works copied or used as inspiration. The hosts also delve into Star Wars as a multimedia franchise with a unified continuity and canon spanning films, television shows, books, comics, short stories, video games, and more, and compare to other franchises that have attempted the same breadth of storytelling in various mediums.
This episode contains references to the following external works: Alien, Moonraker, Blade Runner, Firefly, Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica, Cowboy Bebop, The Matrix, The Marvel Cinematic Universe, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Mass Effect, and The Expanse.
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Connor and Alex continue their review and discussion of each work in the current Star Wars canon with the next installment of their ongoing survey of expanded universe novels. In this episode, they discuss the following books: Inferno Squad, Leia: Princess of Alderaan, Phasma, From a Certain Point of View, The Legends of Luke Skywalker, Canto Bight, and Cobalt Squadron. For each work, Connor and Alex provide an overview of the plot and discuss the quality of the novel both as a piece of fiction and as a part of the larger Star Wars universe.
This episode contains spoilers for: Inferno Squad, Leia: Princess of Alderaan, Phasma, Captain Phasma (comic), From a Certain Point of View (A New Hope/Empire Strikes Back), The Legends of Luke Skywalker (novel and manga), Canto Bight, Cobalt Squadron, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Star Wars Battlefront II (2017), The Clone Wars, Rebels, Andor, Lando (comic), The Mandalorian, and Shadow of the Sith.
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In this episode, the hosts discuss the history and current state of video games set in the Star Wars universe. This episode delves into the differences between storytelling in a static vs. an interactive medium, highlights notable titles from both Legends and the current Star Wars canon, and explores the tension between gameplay mechanics and narrative in a shared universe. Connor and Alex also survey additional themes that video games are uniquely positioned to delve into, such as the intersection of The Force and technology; expound on the subject of ludonarrative dissonance and how it affects suspension of disbelief; and discuss forthcoming and potential video game stories that could be told in the current canon.
This episode contains spoilers from: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode IX, Rogue Squadron II (Legends), Star Wars: Squadrons, The Clone Wars, Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, Star Wars Battlefront (all versions), Fallen Order, Jedi Survivor, Jedi Survivor: Battle Scars, The Force Unleashed I & II (Legends), Knights of the Old Republic I & II (Legends), and Star Wars: Obi-Wan (video game, Legends).
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Alex and Connor discuss the Wolf and Cub motif - that of the older, grizzled warrior who takes on the protector and parent role for a more helpless child in a dangerous world - as it appears in Star Wars. The hosts establish the common story beats that accompany the appearance of this motif and trope, and then further explore the appearance of other character pairs in the Star Wars Universe: The Mandalorian and The Child, The Bad Batch and Omega, and Obi-Wan Kenobi with young Princess Leia, among others. Alex and Connor also explore what cultural changes have made the Wolf and Cub motif more common in Star Wars and other related media.
This episode contains spoilers from: The Mandalorian, The Bad Batch, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Kenobi, Star Wars: Visions, Brotherhood, and The Aftermath Trilogy.
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This week, Connor and Alex explore the role of the starship in the galaxy of Star Wars. They survey both the various kinds of ships in Star Wars and the specific iconic ships found in the galaxy far, far away. Starships fill many roles in Star Wars, from the cool car, the deadly dogfighter, or as a spacefaring home for ragtag groups of Rebels. Audiences also get attached to specific ships that fill the roles of characters in their own right, including the Ghost from Rebels, to the Razor Crest from The Mandalorian, to the forever-iconic Millennium Falcon itself. Various styles of ship, from the endless waves of TIE fighters of the Empire to the Mon Calamari organic cruisers, also serve as further visual worldbuilding. Join us today for a breakdown of the role of the starship in Star Wars!
This episode contains spoilers from: Episode II, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX Rebels, The Mandalorian, Solo: A Star Wars Story, The Bad Batch, Battlefront: Twilight Company, Resistance, The Clone Wars, and Darth Vader (2015 comic run).
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Connor and Alex continue their exploration of expanded universe material with a look at the novel Shadow of the Sith by Adam Christopher. One of the few tentpole works currently holding up the period between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens, this novel contextualizes and expands on several aspects of the sequel trilogy, particularly The Rise of Skywalker. The main characters include Jedi Master Luke Skywalker; retired and depressed Rebellion General Lando Calrissian; the unhinged Ochi of Bestoon; a dark side acolyte possessed by the mask of Sith Lord Exim Panshard; and the parents of Rey as they flee from Sith cultists. Also featuring several powerful and unique Sith artifacts that tear their way through the novel, this story contains excellent world building, canonizes Darth Revan, and fills in the reader on the status of the galaxy two decades after the Battle of Yavin.
This episode contains spoilers from: Shadow of the Sith, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Bloodline, The Mandalorian, The Aftermath Trilogy, Last Shot, Lando (comic), Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith (2017 comic), Darth Vader (2020 comic), Rebels, Tales of the Jedi and Sith, and Star Wars: Dark Legends.
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Alex and Connor continue their series of Genre Intersection episodes and explore the movies, episodes, scenes, characters, themes, and tropes that Star Wars had in common with the War genre; a specific type of media largely popularized in its current form after World War II and iterated on since then. The first Star Wars movie was released in the wake of the Vietnam War and all the propaganda, public backlash, and televised media coverage that conflict engendered, and the concept of War is right there in the name of Star Wars. The hosts explore both the war stories that inspired Star Wars and the ways Star Wars uses those same genre conventions for its own ends - The Squad, The Mission, and the way the story is used to contextualize a small piece of larger conflict. From the forest commando mission in Return of the Jedi, to the guerilla ambushes of Rogue One, to the brotherly camaraderie and continual loss experienced by clone troopers in The Clone Wars, listen today for a deep dive into where Star Wars and the war story genre intersect.
This episode contains spoilers from: Episodes I - IX, Rogue One, Rebels, Andor, Star Wars Battlefront II (2017), Solo: A Star Wars Story, Resistance, Poe Dameron: Free Fall, The Clone Wars, Dark Disciple, Kenobi, Battlefront: Twilight Company, the Aftermath Trilogy, the Alphabet Squadron trilogy, and Lost Stars.
This episode also contains references to the following non-Star-Wars media: Casablanca, Dunkirk, Saving Private Ryan, Band of Brothers, The Guns of Navarone, 1917, Full Metal Jacket, MASH, Master and Commander, U-571, and The Black Company.*
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In this episode, Connor and Alex continue their exploration of the many sentient alien species in the Star Wars universe, analyzing their depiction, discussing their unique traits, and mentioning the most notable members of each alien species that appear in canon media. Discussed today include the Gungans, Kaminoans, Umbarans, Togruta, Sullustans, Geonosians, Trandoshans, Weequay, Lasat, Hutts, and Ewoks. This episode also explores the ways that alien races are made visually distinct through their technology, from the gothic and arcane aesthetic of the Umbarans to the energy-and-bubble based technology used by the Gungans.
This episode contains spoilers from: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, The Clone Wars, The Bad Batch, Tales of the Jedi, The Force Unleashed (legends), Clone Wars (legends), Battlefront: Twilight Company, Catalyst, Rebels, Darth Vader comic (2015 run), Doctor Aphra, Fallen Order, The Mandalorian, Poe Dameron comic, Book of Boba Fett, and Shadow of the Sith.
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Continuing the ongoing survey of Star Wars visual media outside the films, Connor and Alex take an episode-by-episode look of the diverse stories told by Star Wars: Visions Season 2, and discuss the themes, lore, and appeal of each episode as both a piece of visual storytelling and as part of the greater Star Wars universe. Connor and Alex also discuss whether each episode calls for a continuation, or if it tells a self-contained and complete story already.This episode contains spoilers for: Star Wars: Visions.
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This week, our hosts continue their ongoing series of episodes exploring various Force powers depicted in the Star Wars Universe with a discussion of the Jedi Mind Trick. Connor and Alex review the use of the Mind Trick in visual media and expanded universe materials, discuss the ethics of the Mind Trick, and the variations of the power as used by the Jedi, Sith, and others. From Obi-Wan’s insistence that they aren’t the droids you’re looking for, to Mace Windu’s brutal mind probe on Cad Bane during the Clone Wars, listen to this episode to hear all about the Jedi Mind Trick.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode IV, Episode VI, Episode VII, The Clone Wars, Kenobi, Tales of the Jedi, Rebels, The Mandalorian, Knights of the Old Republic 1 & 2 (Legends), and Fallen Order.
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Connor and Alex continue their ongoing series exploring the themes, audience, and plot of all Star Wars visual media outside the films by taking a deep dive into the first three seasons of the Mandalorian.The hosts discuss Din Djarin’s relationship with his ward Grogu; the way The Mandalorian serves as a vehicle to explore a post-Empire galaxy; and the many genres that Din finds himself embroiled in, from a lone gunslinger western to a post-colonization recovery of the Mandalorian people. This episode also explores the relationship of the protagonist with Mandalorian culture as a whole, from the fundamentalist Children of the Watch to the more flexible sect that follows returning character Bo Katan Kryze.
This episode contains spoilers for: The Mandalorian (seasons 1 to 3), The Clone Wars, Episode IV, Episode VI, Episode IX, The Book of Boba Fett, Rebels, Phasma, and Andor.
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Connor and Alex take an episode to explore cloning in the universe of Star Wars; who engages in cloning, what are the ethics in question, and how cloning figures into the larger tapestry of Star Wars storytelling. From the attitude of the Kaminoan cloners towards their creations, to the brotherhood and camaraderie that evolves between the clone troopers that fight for the Republic in The Clone Wars, to Order 66 and its implications for the free will of all clones, the hosts explore the galaxy’s attitude towards clones, and how cloning technology becomes central to not only Palpatine’s long-term goals, but a genie-out-of-the-bottle for the galaxy at large.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Rogue One, The Clone Wars, The Book of Boba Fett, The Bad Batch, Kenobi, The Mandalorian, Darth Vader comics (2015 and 2020 series), Thrawn, and The Rise of Kylo Ren.
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Connor and Alex provide an overview of the nine eras established by Disney for the Star War universe, and review the key works in each era, what themes are present, and if future media is needed to expand on that era. This episode explores where and when various key parts of the Star Wars setting are established, including the Jedi themselves, the Sith, the Sith’s Rule of Two, the Republic, and so on. The hosts also discuss parallels to how real-world history is portrayed, and about the tendency to believe there was a prior, more enlightened time to return to (compared to the difficult and messy present). The time periods discussed are: Dawn of the Jedi, The Old Republic, The High Republic, The Fall of the Jedi, The Reign of the Empire, The Age of Rebellion, The New Republic, The Rise of the First Order, and The New Jedi Order.
This episode contains mild spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Solo: A Star Wars Story, Rogue One, The Legend of Luke Skywalker, The Clone Wars, Knights of the Old Republic, Star Wars: The Old Republic, Visions, Fallen Order, Jedi Survivor, Kenobi, Tarkin, Lords of the Sith, Andor, Rebels, Aftermath Trilogy, Star Wars (comic), Darth Vader (comic), Battlefront: Twilight Company, Alphabet Squadron Trilogy, Bloodline, The Mandalorian, The Rise of Kylo Ren, Poe Dameron (comic), Resistance, and Shadow of the Sith.
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In this episode, our hosts explore the unique character of Qui-Gon Jinn - a powerful, wise, and multifaceted Jedi who believes in justice but distrusts all authority figures; who was the Padawan of Count Dooku, a future Sith, and was the Master of Obi-Wan Kenobi, one of the most powerful and loyal Jedi of his age; and who combined a firm pragmatism with a true belief in Jedi prophecy. Qui-Gon was always quick to ignore the Jedi Council to do what he thought was right, employed the Jedi Mind Trick frequently, and was unerringly committed to the light side of The Force. Join us for this episode diving into the complex and engaging character of Qui-Gon Jinn.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode VIII, Tales of the Jedi, Master and Apprentice, Tales of the Jedi and Sith (short story collection), The Clone Wars, Kenobi, and Padawan.
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Connor and Alex continue their ongoing series exploring various Force powers utilized by the Jedi, Sith, and other Force users in the Star Wars universe. Today, the focus is on the Force Choke, the power most famously used by Darth Vader on any officers who displeased him. The hosts discuss other figures who utilize Force Choke - from Count Dooku, to Asajj Ventress, to Luke Skywalker himself - and use this as a lens to explore the morality of using the Force for violence in general. Is Force Choke inherently more evil than stabbing someone with a lightsaber? Is Luke’s morality more in question (or in question at all) for Force Choking two Gamorrean guards than for killing millions of people aboard the Death Star? Alex and Connor delve into the philosophy of the Force and try to answer this question.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Rogue One, The Clone Wars, Fallen Order, Jedi Outcast, Knights of the Old Republic, The Force Unleashed, Star Wars (2015 comic), and Kenobi.
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Connor and Alex give an episode by episode breakdown of Star Wars: Visions, an anthology series where every short was animated by a different studio, and with each telling a standalone and unique story. The hosts take the listeners through each episode of the first season of Visions and explore the story, themes, animation style, connections to the larger Star Wars canon, and whether each story calls out for a continuation or sequel.
This episode contains spoilers for: Visions (season 1).
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In this episode, Connor and Alex take a broad look at a small portion of the various sentient alien species in Star Wars and explore the narrative space each alien race occupies, their unique and interesting characteristics, and notable members of that race in the Star Wars canon. Discussed today include the Twi’leks, Zabrak, Wookiees, Pantorans, Duros, Chiss, Rodians, Mon Calamari, Quarren, Tuskens, and Neimoidians. In addition to a review of their features and history, Connor and Alex also delve into deeper themes of identity and culture. From Twi’lek code-switching, to the tension between the Mon Calamari and Quarren peoples, to the way both Wookiees and Tuskens are victims of colonization, and to the ingrained cultural shame of the Chiss and their use of Force-sensitive child soldiers, Alex and Connor discuss the way Star Wars uses its expansive galaxy and proliferation of alien races to explore themes relevant to real-world multiculturalism, and what the melting pot of a galaxy far, far away can say about identity, culture, and conflict.
This episode discussed content from: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode VI, Episode VII, Rebels, The Aftermath Trilogy, Dr. Aphra, The Clone Wars, The Bad Batch, Poe Damerson (comic), the Thrawn and Thrawn: Ascendancy trilogies, Star Wars (2015 comic run), The Book of Boba Fett, and Brotherhood.
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In a twist on their previous episodes, Alex and Connor take the opportunity to highlight the positives of the sequel trilogy. They dive into the character work, the scenes, and the plot points in Episodes VII, VIII, and IX that do work well and are a compelling part of the Star Wars canon. From the Dyad connection between Rey and Kylo Ren, to Finn’s relationships with both Poe and Rey, to the stunning visuals of Admiral Holdo’s death, the hosts refrain from their normal critique to highlight the good and great aspects of this back third of the Skywalker Saga. Also, Connor and Alex tried a new mic setup that wasn’t perfect, so excuse the experiment audio quality.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode VII, Episode VIII, and Episode IX.
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Concluding this initial series of episodes providing a broad survey of Star Wars visual media, Connor and Alex delve into three of the more recent shows that have expanded the Star Wars Universe:Kenobi, Tales of the Jedi, and Andor. For Kenobi, our hosts outline the somewhat-unexpected plot and discuss which scenes felt a bit uneven and which absolutely shone, all while lauding Ewan McGregor’s performance. For Tales of the Jedi, which is a tightly-plotted series of short-story-style episodes that investigate key character moments in the lives of Ahsoka Tano and Count Dooku, Alex and Connor try to contain their glee at the quality of the storytelling. And for Andor - just go watch it, right now!
This episode contains spoilers for: Kenobi, Tales of the Jedi, Andor, The Mandalorian, The Bad Batch, Ahsoka (novel), The Clone Wars, Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, and Episode IV.
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After the losing their recording about The Mandalorian, Alex and Connor commiserate by continuing their survey of the Star Wars visual media outside the films with other series. They start with an exploration of the themes, timeline, and characters in The Bad Batch, following the story of a group of non-normal clones and their survival in a post-Order-66 world; continue with a discussion of the concept and execution of the anthology series Star Wars: Visions (the first season); and conclude with an exploration of The Book of Boba Fett (or, as they call it, The Mandalorian, Season 2.5).
This episode contains spoilers for: The Bad Batch, The Clone Wars, Star Wars: Visions (season 1), The Book of Boba Fett, The Mandalorian, Darth Vader (2015 comic), and Doctor Aphra (2015 comic).
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Alex and Connor continue their survey of the Star Wars visual media outside the films by tackling two additional animated series: Star Wars: Rebels and Star Wars: Resistance. The first, a story of a motley crew and Rebel Alliance cell becoming a found family and engaging with antagonists that include Agent Kallus, The Grand Inquisitor, and Grand Admiral Thrawn himself receives high marks; the second has a more mixed reception but receives a report on what virtues it does possess.
This episode contains spoilers for: Rebels, The Mandalorian, The Bad Batch, The Clone Wars, Andor, and Star Wars: Resistance.
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In this episode, Connor and Alex begin a survey of non-film visual media in Star Wars, including all animated and live-action shows. They start by discussing the original microseries Clone Wars by Genndy Tartakovsky (now in the Legends continuity), and then move into a discussion on the long-running Star Wars show, The Clone Wars. The hosts discuss how the show contextualizes and rehabilitates characters and plot points between Episodes II and III, and includes impressive character development for characters old and new, including Ahsoka Tano, Boba Fett, Darth Maul, Tarkin, and Padmè Amidala.
This episode contains spoilers for: Star Wars: Clone Wars (Legends), The Clone Wars, The Mandalorian, Episode II, Episode III, The Bad Batch, and Star Wars (comic, 2015 run).
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For their first-ever bonus episode, Connor and Alex take time this May the Fourth to celebrate all the positives of Star Wars. They survey their personal favorites in several categories, including: films, heroes, villains, television show episodes/arcs, scenes, duels, battles, inter-character relationships, visuals, and endings. Looking across the full spectrum of Star Wars media, from the movies to the shows, the books to the comics (and more), we hope you enjoy today’s opportunity to revel in the best parts of Star War (and please also say hello to guest star Michael the cat, who had strong opinions of his own!).
This episodes contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Rogue One, Rebels, Andor, Bloodline, The Clone Wars, The Thrawn Trilogy, The Thrawn: Ascendancy Trilogy, The Mandalorian, Solo: A Star Wars Story, Visions, Kenobi, Doctor Aphra (2015 run), and Alphabet Squadron: Victory’s Price.
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Connor and Alex continue their ongoing series on exploring Force powers displayed by Jedi, Sith, and other individuals in the Star Wars universe by today investigating the precognitive abilities Force-sensitive individuals almost universally display. Granting the ability to peer into possible futures, these precognitive abilities can extend from a few seconds to full visions of the future of months, years, and decades beyond the day. The hosts then take a look at those individuals with the strongest precognitive abilities, from the Skywalker family, to the machinations of Darth Sidious, to the crippling visions of Sifo-Dyas.This episode contains spoilers for: Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, the Thrawn Trilogy, the Thrawn: Ascendancy trilogy, Tales of the Jedi, Dark Vaider (comic, 2015 run), The Rise of Kylo Ren, Lords of the Sith, Rebels, Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith (comic), The Clone Wars, Jedi: Fallen Order, Dooku: Jedi Lost, and Master and Apprentice.
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Connor and Alex explore the intersection of the tropes and conventions of the noir genre and the pieces that Star Wars has included in its storytelling. Beginning with an exploration of the different aspects of Noir itself, the hosts then take a chronological walk through the varied noir influences on Star Wars. From Lando Calrissian’s double-dealing smile and Obi-Wan’s tense investigation into the existence of Kamino to the seedy underbelly of Coruscant and the gritty double-crosses the plague Han Solo’s life, this episode traces the growing influence of noir in Star Wars up to the modern day.This episode contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VIII, Solo: A Star Wars Story, The Clone Wars, Dark Disciple, Dooku: Jedi Lost, Andor, and The Bad Batch.
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In this episode, Connor and Alex discuss one of the most iconic parts of Star Wars: the lightsaber. A weapon synonymous with both the wisdom of the Jedi and the power of the Sith, the lightsaber symbolizes the fusion of mysticism with science fiction technology that is so vital to the soul of Star Wars. Our hosts explain how force wielders bond with the kyber crystal in each place, the difference between Jedi and Sith lightsbabers, and explore the role of the weapons in both the setting and individual narratives. This episode also explores the legacy of the Darksaber and other lightsaber variations while placing the lightsaber in the context of other legendary weapons in science fiction and fantasy storytelling.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Jedi: Fallen Order, The Mandalorian, Dark Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith, Ahsoka, Visions, The Book of Boba Fett, and Knights of the Old Republic (Legends).
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Connor and Alex resume their review and discussion of each work in the current Star Wars canon with a continued survey of expanded universe novels. In this episode, they discuss the following books: Ahsoka, Catalyst, Join the Resistance, Thrawn, Guardians of the Whills, and Rebel Rising. For each work, Connor and Alex provide an overview of the plot and discuss the quality of the novel both as a piece of fiction and as a part of the larger Star Wars universe.
This episode contains spoilers for: Ahsoka, Catalyst, Join the Resistance, Thrawn, Guardians of the Whills, Rebel Rising, Tales of the Jedi, Kenobi, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Rogue One, Rebels, and Andor.
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Connor and Alex resume their review and discussion of each work in the current Star Wars canon with a continued survey of expanded universe novels. In this episode, they discuss the following books: Aftermath, Aftermath: Life Debt, Aftermath: Empire’s End, Battlefront: Twilight Company, Before the Awakening, Adventures in Wild Space, and Bloodline. For each work, Connor and Alex provide an overview of the plot and discuss the quality of the novel both as a piece of fiction and as a part of the larger Star Wars universe.
This episode contains spoilers for: Aftermath, Aftermath: Life Debt, Aftermath: Empire’s End, Battlefront: Twilight Company, Before the Awakening, Adventures in Wild Space, Bloodline, Episode VI, Episode VII, Darth Vader (2015 comic series), Star Wars: Battlefront (2015), Poe Dameron (comic), and The Clone Wars.
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This week, Alex and Connor dive into the labyrinth of world-building that is the Star Wars sequel trilogy and work on piecing together information from Episodes 7 through 9 and various expanded universe material to try to answer this surprisingly-elusive question: just what is the First Order? From the flotsam of the Imperial Remnant that flee into Wild Space, to the breakaway factions of the weak New Republic that join them, learn about the disparate groups that form the First Order and how they seized and consolidated their power.This episode contains spoilers for: Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, The Aftermath Trilogy, The Alphabet Squadron Trilogy, Squadrons, The Mandalorian, Rebels, Star Wars Battlefront II (2017 version), Captain Phasma (novel), Bloodline, Solo: A Star Wars Story, Before the Awakening, Andor, and Poe Dameron (comic).
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This week, our hosts Connor and Alex do a brief survey of droid characters in Star Wars, from the helpful to the villain and from the experimental to the mundane, before digging into the narrative role of droids and the uneasy space these artificial being play in Star Wars. Are droids slaves, possessions, simply advanced computers, or something more? Listen to learn more about the role of droids in Star Wars.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, The Clone Wars, From A Certain Point of View, The Mandalorian, Rebels, Doctor Aphra, Solo: A Star Wars Story, The Last Shot, Alphabet Squadron: Victory’s Price, The Legends of Luke Skywalker, and Andor.Visit our subreddit! https://www.reddit.com/r/TalkingStarWars/
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Connor and Alex continue their survey of the role of The Creature in Star Wars, touching on the appearance of beasts in the sequel trilogy and other expanded universe shows and materials. Listen to them discuss how the Ice Spiders in the Mandalorian are similar to Theseus’s Minotaur and how the racing fathiers in The Last Jedi turn natural creatures from a threat to something exploited…and more!
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode IV, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Rogue One, Solo: A Star Wars Story, Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Doctor Aphra (comic), The Clone Wars, Rebels, Kenobi, and The Mandalorian.
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Connor and Alex begin a survey of the varied and fantastical alien creatures that pepper the landscape of most Star Wars stories and serve as adversaries and threats to survive and overcome for the heroes. From the hungry Wampa to the shrieking Acklay, hear the hosts discuss how these creatures vary the type of conflict in each film, call back to ancient Greek and biblical stories that use creatures, and serve to show the powers and growth of various protagonists in turn
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, From a Certain Point of View, From a Certain Point of View (Empire Strikes Back), Solo: A Star Wars Story, The Book of Boba Fett, The Force Unleashed, and Star Wars: Battlefront II (original).
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Connor and Alex discuss the appearance of Luke’s lost lightsaber - the fabled blue blade originally crafted by Anakin Skywalker - as it appears in the sequel trilogy. They compare the role the gifting of this important weapon plays between the original and sequel trilogies and discuss how the ambiguity in the sequel trilogy impacts the dynamic between Rey and Kylo Ren. After deciding that this is a missed opportunity, the hosts then imagine potential improvements to the story of the lightsaber in each movie of the sequel trilogy.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Ahsoka (novel), Resistance, The Clone Wars, Fallen Order, and Visions.
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Connor and Alex continue their ongoing overview of each work in the current Star Wars canon and proceed with their survey of expanded universe novels. In this episode, they discuss the following books: Lord of the Sith, Dark Disciple, Lost Stars, The Weapon of a Jedi: A Luke Skywalker Adventure, Smuggler’s Run: A Han Solo and Chewbacca Adventure, and Moving Target: A Princess Leia Adventure. For each work, Connor and Alex provide an overview of the plot and discuss the quality of the novel both as a piece of fiction and as a part of the larger Star Wars universe.
This episode contains spoilers for: Lords of the Sith, Dark Disciple, Lost Stars, The Weapon of a Jedi: A Luke Skywalker Adventure, Smuggler’s Run: A Han Solo and Chewbacca Adventure, Moving Target: A Princess Leia Adventure, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Andor, The Bad Batch, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, and Episode VI.
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Connor and Alex begin the long journey of providing a high-level overview of each work in the new Star Wars canon, starting with the first handful of novels published after the Disney acquisition of Star Wars. In this episode, they discuss the first five novels in new canon: Ezra’s Gamble, A New Dawn, Servants of the Empire, Tarkin, and Heir to the Jedi. For each work, Connor and Alex provide an overview of the plot and discuss how the novel works both as a piece of fiction and as a part of the larger Star Wars universe.
This episode contains spoilers for: Ezra’s Gamble, A New Dawn, Servants of the Empire, Tarkin, Heir to the Jedi, Rebels, The Mandalorian, and The Bad Batch.
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Description: From the many capes of Lando Calrissian to the color symbolism of Luke’s tunics, and from the elaborate headdresses of Padmè Amidala to the simple robes of the Jedi, Connor and Alex delve into how clothing choices, fashion, and the garb of various characters support and enhance their narrative function and character development. Learn about how Palpatine’s elaborate outfits help obfuscate his growing fascism, why certain Imperial officers wear white, and how Princess Leia’s evolution to General Organa is highlighted by her evolving wardrobe.
This episode references and contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Rogue One, The Clone Wars, Rebels, The Mandalorian, The Queen’s Shadow, Last Shot, and Fallen Order.
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Description: Connor and Alex do a deep dive into a unique force power introduced in the sequel trilogy - the Force Dyad that connected Rey and Kylo Ren which allowed them to speak to each other, see each other, and even translocate objects across seemingly infinite space. They then go on to compare and contrast this connection with other unique depictions of the ways The Force has connected both individuals and points in space in other Star Wars media - in particular, the World Between Worlds as shown in season four of Rebels.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Rebels, Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith, Master and Apprentice (minor), and The Clone Wars.
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Description: Alex and Connor explore the intersection of science fiction and the western genre in Star Wars, where tropes intermingle and overlap to produce a piece of the unique aesthetic key to the identity of Star Wars. From shootouts in cantinas, gunslinger duels at high noon, heists, train robberies, and the consuming emptiness of revenge, the hosts survey the most prominent ways western storytelling beats appear in a galaxy far, far away.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode IV, Episode V, Solo: A Star Wars Story, The Mandalorian, The Clone Wars, Rebels, and The Book of Boba Fett.
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Description: In this episode, Alex talks through the plot of the expanded universe novel Lords of the Sith while Connor asks questions to illuminate the novel’s themes and impact on the rest of the Star Wars universe. Learn more about the twisted partnership between Darth Vader and Darth Sidious; watch a nascent Rebel cell blow up a Star Destroyed; and watch how oppression twists and turns toxic all relationships present in the novel.
This episode contains spoilers for: The Lords of the Sith, The Clone Wars, Rebels, The Bad Batch, Episode III, Episode VI, Kenobi, Star Wars: Lando (comic), Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith (comic), and The Force Unleashed (Legends).
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Description: Connor and Alex explore the character of Luke Skywalker as depicted in The Last Jedi - no longer the savior of the galaxy, but instead a bitter and exiled hermit cast in the mold of his own mentors Obi-Wan and Yoda, tucked away on a far-off planet and reluctant to pass on any knowledge to a new student. They discuss how Luke’s trauma informs his character, how even as a old man Luke still has more to learn, and what the completion of Luke’s character arc means for Star Wars as a whole.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, and Kenobi.
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Connor and Alex explore the depictions of two unique force powers and their narrative and thematic impact on the stories they inhabit: Force Healing and its ability to mend injuries with an exchange of life force on the light side of the Force, and the destructive might of Force Lightning as wielded by many of the Sith on the dark side of the Force.
This episode contains spoilers for: The Mandalorian, Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode VI, Episode IX, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Dooku: Jedi Lost, Lord of the Sith, and Visions
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Connor and Alex discuss the struggle, strife, and refusal to change that characterize Darth Maul, from his first appearance in The Phantom Menace through his reappearance in The Clone Wars and beyond. They review the details of his life and analyze Maul through the lens of Greek mythology’s boulder-pushing Sisyphus: viewing Maul as a man who continually loses everything he has gained at the cusp of his greatest successes due to his own pride and hubris.
This episodes contains spoilers for: Episode I, Solo, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Darth Maul (comic), Darth Maul: Son of Dathomir (comic), Age of Republic (Villains), Kenobi
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Description: Connor and Alex continue their discussion of missed opportunities for characters in the sequel trilogy; this time focusing on Finn, former stormtrooper and compelling individuals unfortunately left on the sidelines and underdeveloped for two movies. They discuss how Finn’s character could be improved, what actions he could have taken, and where they hope the character goes in the future.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Knight of the Old Republic, The Mandalorian, Rogue One, and Rebels.
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Description: Connor and Alex discuss the potential and the missed opportunity represented by the character of Captain Phasma - how she is portrayed, how her expanded universe content could have more deeply informed her character, and potential ways she could have fit into a more cohesive sequel trilogy. They also touch on her parallels with Finn, the city of Canto Bight, and the different constructions of fascism present in the original trilogy and the sequel trilogy.This episode contains spoilers for: Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Phasma (novel), Captain Phasma (comic), Join the Resistance!, Servants of the Empire, The Aftermath Trilogy, and Before the Awakening.
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Connor and Alex complete (for now) their series of episodes reviewing traditions and conceptions of The Force within the Star Wars universe, exploring those who are neither Jedi nor Sith, but who follow other paths and hold different beliefs. This episode focuses on those practitioners and traditions that maintain a distinct identity in a galaxy far, far away.This episode contains spoilers for: The Legends of Luke Skywalker, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode VIII, Guardians of the Whills, Rogue One, Rebels, Thrawn, Thrawn: Alliances, The Clone Wars, Rebels, Jedi: Fallen Order, Kenobi, and Dark Disciple
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Description: Connor and Alex continue their series of episodes reviewing traditions and conceptions of The Force within the Star Wars universe, including not only the Jedi and the Sith, but other organizations and individuals as well. This episode focuses on The Sith - their goals, their history, their philosophy - and a review of how The Dark Side of the Force left its mark on other persons and peoples (in particular, the Nightsisters of Dathomir).This episode contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode VI, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, The Clone Wars, Visions, Rebels, Jedi: Fallen Order, Age of Republic, Solo: A Star Wars Story, Dark Disciple, The Mandalorian, and Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith.
Please see the episode description for spoiler warnings about specific movies, shows, and expanded universe materials.
Connor and Alex begin a series of episodes reviewing traditions and conceptions of The Force within the Star Wars universe, including not only the Jedi and the Sith, but other organizations and individuals as well. This episode focuses on The Jedi - their traditions, their values, their successes and failures - and an analysis of what happens when a Jedi falls as well as their reasons for falling.This episodes contains spoilers for: Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, The Clone Wars, Dooku: Jedi Lost, The Mandalorian, Bloodline, Episode VII, Episode VIII, Episode IX, Tales of the Jedi, Jedi: Fallen Order, Dark Disciple, Lords of the Sith, The Legends of Luke Skywalker, and Thrawn: Alliances
Please see the episode description for spoiler warnings about specific movies, shows, and expanded universe materials.
Description: Connor and Alex explore locations in Star Wars that are strong in the dark side of the Force, how they are depicted, and the ways in which they inform the storytelling and worldbuilding of the works set in and around them.
This episode contains spoilers for: Episode IV, Episode V, Episode VI, Episode VIII, Dark Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith (2017, comic), Lords of the Sith, Star Wars: Rebels, The Mandalorian, From A Certain Point of View Volume 2 (Empire Strikes Back), Star Wars: The Clone Wars, and Jedi: Fallen Order.
Please see the episode description for spoiler warnings about specific movies, shows, and expanded universe materials.
Description: Connor and Alex take a deep dive in one of the unique Force powers present in the Star Wars Universe - Psychometry, also called Force Echo. They discuss and explain the Force power, explore the differences between video game and television show storytelling, and break down other possible depictions of the power in additional Star Wars media.
This episode contains significant spoilers for: Episodes V, VII, VIII, IX; From a Certain Point of View (Empire Strikes Back); The Clone Wars; Fallen Order; and Dark Disciple
Please see the episode description for spoiler warnings about specific movies, shows, and expanded universe materials.
Connor and Alex introduce the podcast and discuss the reasons behind the enduring cultural impact and legacy of Star Wars.