Andor: Dedra Meero, "Systems Either Change or Die!!!!"

[@palmerlp]

I was shocked by how engaging this ISB office drama was. This is scene is literally a bunch of people sitting around a table and I’m hanging on every word.

[@7Starslayer7]

yeah reminds me of Star Trek TNG. Just a bunch of intelligent people at a roundtable discussing a problem.

[@safebox36]

I imagine this is the level of intrigue Lucas wanted from the trade negotiations in the first prequel film.

[@Munnwort]

@@safebox36good point. yeah george is really good at coming with ideas, I just wish his dialogue was a lot better. man!

[@erwannlejeune3773]

There's just something very interesting about bureaucratic fascists fighting between themselves with words, alike with The Man in the High Castle

[@ChupeTTe]

Just like ep. IV

[@tophercaesar5375]

I get that the ISB and Empire are doing bad things. But can we take a moment to recognize how much of a good manager Major Partagaz is. He slaps down overreach where necessary, promotes good work, willing to adapt his own system, recognizes petty politics and praises when appropriate.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Oh for sure. Partagaz is doing a great job as a manager for his staff. I love that his character is not only honest about what he & the Empire expects of them, but he's willing to listen to them & acknowledge their work when it's done right or above quota. Such a great character.*

[@fumarc4501]

I said the same thing. He even gives her a warning, because he knows his actions will also put a target on her back. But each trial she overcomes is rewarded, which is what all good managers should be doing.

[@arctic_haze]

I knew he reminded me of someone. And now I got it. If Richard Feynman, the Nobel Prize laureate in physics is chairing a meeting, we may be sure he will get some results! The resemblance to Feynman in his last years is uncanny, at least for me.

[@mickeyholding7970]

All skills that make a great leader.

[@Nolaris3]

I think that makes things more fascinating. We root for people like Dedra and Partagaz for being quite competent and running things well. At the same time, they also represent the empire and ways that it could be efficient. When Dedra began interrogating Bix those mix feelings became so prominent.

[@Lilyfied_]

They made three people arguing about their job as intense and gripping as whole rebel trying to destroy a plenet killer. They're doing a great job.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Indeed! Such a great scene & great dialog between these characters.*

[@tomdevlin5412]

This is probably how Toys R Us died.

[@The_DA]

"Thesis, please..." This is my favorite part of this exchange. Partagaz's little smirks and eyebrow raises are done to perfection. You can really tell he's digging all of this.

[@rippingtons60]

Yeah, because Dedra ain't no self-interested sycophant, she's a competent and ruthless professional who will do whatever it takes to get the job done without crossing the lines that really matter. Major Partagaz likely sees her as a breath of fresh air that can make the ISB what he thinks it should be, so he's cool with her breaking a few small rules and formalities and even not getting angry when she speaks out of turn.

[@jarowan]

@@rippingtons60 If *everyone* breaks the rules, then there are no rules. Things fall apart, the center cannot hold, mere anarchy is loosed upon the world. On the other hand, if everyone always *follows* the rules, then the rules become more important than the organization's purposes that the rules were meant to shape. That's inefficient but tolerable if you're a massive bureaucracy with no conceivable threats, but ruinous if there are smart, agile, enemy actors who can exploit hidebound adherence to rules and regulations.

[@Tridona]

@@jarowan Well what makes Partagaz even better is that he's willing to suppliant the system he came up with with a better one if it can be proved with evidence that his one is at fault. I love the little test with Dedra were one of the officers tries to put her down by say "Major Partagaz designed this system, are you really saying is bad and dumb in front of him?" Its a shit-test and she shows that she doesnt given a fuck about anything other than that pragmatic concerns of the empire. I think that's what makes Partagaz fully respect her.

[@richardlahan7068]

​@rippingtons60 Maybe she reminds him of himself when he was younger.

[@brandoncarbaugh7994]

Partagaz is fucking scary, because he's actually an incredibly capable leader you'd be thrilled to work for in any other context, except the context here is "perfecting a system of galaxy-wide fascist totalitarian oppression". He has a warm grandfatherly quality that contrasts so wonderfully to the archetype he's filling. He's like like if Mr. Feeny ran the Stasi.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Oh yes!!! Partagaz brings such a great style of flare to the ISB that many of us couldn't wait for him to pop up in the next ISB scenes to see how he would act next. Just great writing & dialog for this character.*

[@chasemcnab7610]

He’s really the epitome of the benality of evil. Imagine all the shattered lives, minds and bodies he’s pilled up to get where he is now, yet he doesn’t come off as the ruthless, brutal, terrifyingly effective spymaster that is responsible for so much suffering on a daily basis he makes the KGB look like schoolyard bullies by comparison. He has all the qualities of a great manager, but all those qualities are used in service of one of the worst governments the galaxy has ever seen.

[@mantistoboggan7228]

I LOVE how he tells her that Blevins is basically a tool. BUT he's a tool that's getting results, which is what the empire wants. He's telling her how to play the game, how to watch her back. Otherwise the tool will be her supervisor some day. Then he throws her a bone by commending her for her Sev Tok detention numbers. Wonderful writing.

[@amanlal1000]

Like hitler talking to the SS

[@ericpaunovic3579]

old guys just trying to keep glorified space pirates away from civilian targets, the rebellion admitted that only reason they attacked that Dam (and were ready to kill women and children for it, as well as put tribal people at risk) was so that Empire becomes brutal, they self admittedly made the empire a dangerous place and wanted reason to cause a revolution and war a war that will take millions of lives.

[@Davao420]

This is my favorite scene in the season so far. Shows the Empire was run by highly competent and intelligent people. And the dialogue, my god.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*YES!!!! Ran by people that took their job seriously & looked to do the job great!!!! Dialog has been almost perfect each time the ISB has shown up on screen.*

[@Davao420]

@@starwarsunlimiteduniverse not to mention the acting, on everyone!

[@BoundlessDrop]

I love it.

[@jlbeck777]

Right? I was just telling some friends how the ISB scenes are becoming my favorite. They really showcase another SW convention that Andor turns on its head: Portraying Imperial officers as being competent and highly motivated. The writing, the dialogue, it's all just sooooooo good. When Major Partagaz turns to Dedra and prompts her with, "Thesis, please?" A simple question, two words, but it also conveys a lot about who he is, what he values, and what he expects from his subordinates.

[@BoundlessDrop]

@@jlbeck777 I’ve actually been re-watching this scene all day today. It’s just brilliant. And that single line too: “Thesis, please.” The delivery, the intelligence behind it…so simple, yet so complex and says so much about the character. We’ve never really had writing like this in Star Wars, and it feels like an absolute treat. I am here for all of it!

[@IronWarhorsesFun]

“Do you mind having your integrity ventilated in public?” Damn, that’s a turn of phrase 😎

[@The_Isaiahnator]

That line almost made me blush for Dedra. The dialogue is like a sumptuous feast.

[@khathide22nd]

I also loved that part. It was like poetry.

[@PaulHFleming]

Her Supervisor pushed her center stage to see how she would react. She came through by telling everyone that she used directives he established get results. He likes her thinking outside Box and support her. But, later warns her be careful cuz now she made enemies with her department

[@bryanwills6688]

The delivery of "thesis please" is just perfect

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*For sure. I love it when he says that to Dedra for a better explanation.*

[@TheUltimateEel]

Sounds like my professor.

[@3Dusers]

@@TheUltimateEel summary of my final year for real

[@aligborat]

Very much like his character Qyburn on Game of Thrones, more intellectual than most of his counterparts.

[@pseudonymousbeing987]

_It's _*_all_*_ just so pitch perfect._

[@gangstapenguin2773]

“Thesis, please” God, this writing is HBO-caliber

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Indeed! Great writing for these scenes in Andor for sure.*

[@aknight1096]

Not sure if that's a compliment, given the shit show of Game of Thrones

[@-______-6536]

​@@aknight1096 except game of thrones had extremely good dialogue for the first several seasons

[@khathide22nd]

​@@-______-6536Yeah, people always forget the 6 good seasons, and judge the show on the 2 bad seasons. I find this weird🤔🤷🏾‍♂️

[@blueshit199]

@@-______-6536 except the first several seasons literally lifted lines of dialogue straight from the book pages

[@ilo3456]

I love how you can see the excitement in Partagaz's face when Dedra says "Systems are either change or die"

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*RIGHT!!!! The various facial expressions during this scene was hilarious to me.* 😂

[@ilo3456]

@@starwarsunlimiteduniverse I really love the acting from the ISB actors, they tell you everything they are feeling with their body language, like you can tell when Dedra is feeling scared of loosing, and when I forget the dude's name when you can see things aren't going his way as he thought they would. I like how you can tell that Partagaz wants people to be more than just passive members of the system but rather to challenge the preconceived notions and to continue evolving the ISB into a more capable institution. He looked as if he found something he had been waiting to find for a long time.

[@theburgerfarm]

It sounds eerily close to her voice as Yennefer of Vengerberg, from The Witcher

[@woopimright]

@@ilo3456 loosing 😂

[@jackolas4400]

@@theburgerfarm ur right she does voice yennifer in witcher 3 😂

[@Da40kOrks]

Dedra Meero is a terrifying character. If more Imperials were like her, the rebellion would have been crushed easily.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*That is a possibility that the rebellion could be shut down a bit faster. But, something will happen that gives the rebellion the edge for sure. We'll see that here in the Andor series & of course in the coming movies that are already established.*

[@chazzerous]

The fact that there are Imperials like her willing to ruthlessly and efficiently torture and kill is why the Rebellion even exists, it’s a double edged sword. Nemek’s manifesto is dead on, control is unnatural and it leaks and bends

[@nonuvurbeeznus795]

@@chazzerous Yes, and we see that her oppression is the mask of fear when she spends 0.2 seconds with her actual boots on the actual ground when she gets grabbed and shaken around a bit by the peasants and she is totally terrified.

[@alesksander]

@@nonuvurbeeznus795 Yep. I can see writers could turn that character in any direction they want. And i m all for it.

[@gwynbIeiidd]

all i hear is yennefer when she speaks

[@zachv465]

I love how you can hear Dedra’s stress while speaking, it gives a whole level of realism to her acting.

[@jazzx251]

She's an eilte level stage actress that has received two Olivier awards .. ... she also voice-acted "Yennefer" in one of the best ever videogames: "The Witcher 3" She's done bit parts on TV - but this was her first major score on TV, and she nailed it! She got to be the lead villain in Star Wars - the very BEST Star Wars!

[@aix42]

The quality of each level of production is an elevating feedback loop. Put a great actor in a great setting, with well established and smart contexts, interacting with characters that we understand or are intrigued with and we can see the charge of fear, confidence and competence in Dedra's moment.

[@BadAnalogy91]

I like how Partagaz isn’t just another complacent careerist as is often the case with these elderly superiors in fiction. He cares about getting the job done and listens to his subordinates very carefully, while trying not to play favourites. Excellent leadership qualities.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Indeed, he truly is a higher up that I for sure would love to work for. That's just me though.*

[@connorbernier7689]

That problem is also present in real life institutions

[@silverbubble1037]

Additionally he tries to remedy mistakes his subordinates make, such as the part where he tells supervisor jung to submit a report that he can review

[@mantistoboggan7228]

Served in the military for over 20 years. I can tell you, this is the way many department heads meetings went. The dialogue and interplay between Partagaz, Blevin and Meero runs true. Partagaz is clearly in charge, and has set the standard for their operating plan; Meero is nervously, then more defiantly, questioning it, because she's certain she's on to something. To his credit, he's open enough to let her challenge it. If she's wrong, she'll be eviscerated (which is what Blevin and the others expect to see happen). If she's right, the major is willing to see it through. This is true, realistic dialogue; the writing and acting here is perfect. And these are the villains lol!

[@fumarc4501]

He didn’t get where he is by being stupid.

[@iHusk]

They could literally just do a show of Imperial meetings of various "historical" events and I'd watch the hell out it.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Same here. I would watch every episode because I believe that it would be great content to watch.*

[@alexchong1933]

@@starwarsunlimiteduniverse fighters incoming at 3 oclock , port side!!

[@she_who_dares9713]

Yep. Same.

[@Munnwort]

man that would be awesome

[@rafaelbogdan9307]

If the Andor writers wrote them, sure

[@DanSolo871]

Anton Lesser is doing an amazing job as Partagaz. So much of the acting in this series is worth Emmy nominations.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*I concur with you. The many of the actors are doing such a great job portraying their characters.*

[@tyranusfan]

He's my favorite character in this show

[@lukebuchanan9857]

The way he reads his lines... amazing

[@forgottenheritage2845]

All good, not a bad bit of acting at all so far. Denise Gough, Skarsgard and Serkis have raised the bar though.

[@rawyld]

And that's why he was cast for this role

[@Xelpherpolis]

Someone needs to make a gif out of "Thesis, please?" I would use it _constantly._

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*YES!!!! I would definitely use it as well!!!!* 😂

[@thimovijfschaft3271]

@Spider-Flash upload it to place where it's easy to find for social media such as WhatsApp, Twitter, Facebook etc

[@Xelpherpolis]

@Spider-Flash awww 🥰

[@LuchtLeiderNederland]

@Spider-Flash Thesis, please?

[@szarvaskoppany]

Partagaz is a rare kind of old authority figure. He basically says "do you have data to back you up? In that case I'm willing to listen to you." Ready to challenge you, eager to be challenged. Not just a leader, a teacher too. So neither a sort of overexcited hypeguy who always takes anything that's new nor an old conservative type of guy who writes a book and wants everything done by that book. An organisation that has this type of leaders everywhere is a terrifying one. On a personal note I LOVE every face he makes when he is being intellectually challenged, I want to see that face of curiosity on every high authority figure.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*I'll be doing a video on Partagaz's facial expressions. H.I.L.A.R.I.O.U.S!!!! Lol! But, yes. I agree that Partagaz is a specific type of authority that he shows when he walks in the room & love that about his character.*

[@rawyld]

You can on the tv series Endeavour Morse where Anton Lesser the Actor plays Chief Superintend Bright with the same authority. He rarely raises his voice, but does it in a tone that is scary.

[@merdiolu]

This amazing show is like a Star Wars EU novel came to life ! The characters are well developed , multilayered , complex and have logical motivations as well as strengths and flaws. Actions have consequences that could not be taken back. There is a great continuety. I love it. Please make this production at least three seasons Disney.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*I truly am hopeful that we'll gain more of the day to day life of the Empire. Including a series centered around the ISB. That would be great. Hopeful Disney does give us more of this in the coming years.*

[@obiwankenobi687]

Or even one of the Disney era novels. There is some really good political stuff linking return of the Jedi to force awakens

[@95DarkFire]

It is always as if good writing results in good shows.

[@naveil4255]

Andor is confirmed for two seasons, and I'd prefer if they kept it that way. Stories are always better when they have a clear structure and plan in mind, especially knowing where it ends. Attempting to stretch a show past that is an effective way to drag the quality of the writing through the mud.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

@@naveil4255 *Oh it most definitely can mess up the flow of stories & characters in a show if the original formula that worked in the beginning gets shifted in another direction. I'm hopeful that these two seasons brings about a couple of Andor spin-offs, one mainly being about the ISB.*

[@chrisaguilera1564]

One thing. Dedra is not a Mary Sue. She actually works for her commission, nothing is given to her. That how to write a strong female character that everyone can respect.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Indeed. She definitely puts in the work. And I'm continously loving her character more & more per her scenes.*

[@kreigguardsman3355]

She has become one of my favorite characters and I just want to watch more of her

[@nickmitsialis]

@@starwarsunlimiteduniverse and she has subordinates who seem to be agreeable with her (the Jake Gyllenhaall clone for one!); but clearly she seems to be under stress: what do you suppose those pills she pops are? Supplements, painkillers or stimulants?

[@tyranusfan]

@@nickmitsialis likely stimulants, since she's shown staying up all night digging into databases

[@Subject82]

@@nickmitsialis Probably anxiolytics, anti depressants.

[@dasc0yne]

In the same episode Luthen Rael tells Mon Mothma, "The network has been built. It's up. It either grows or dies." Coincidence?

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*You caught that too huh??? Lol! We'll be talking that for sure. But, even that scene with Luthen & Mon Mothma was done really well. Can't wait for episode 8 next week.*

[@soondslash]

i think that was one of the many parallels between the rebellion and the empire this episode had

[@bridgerhibbert2993]

@@starwarsunlimiteduniverse Oh gosh, Luthen better not be Dedra's father... 😂😂😂

[@Wolfman7870]

This is excellent. No wonder the ratings for this show are low. Alot of people too stupid to sit through dialogue this intriguing and subtle.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*I wouldn't say people are wrong for feeling & thinking for their own when it comes to Andor. It's just that the show isn't what they've expected it to be 7 episodes into this first season. I'm already wondering what season two is going to bring. I'm just glad that there's many of us that are rushing back to watch every episode with anticipation & maybe one day those people that don't like it as of now, maybe need a rewatch(because sometimes that's needed) for them to at least enjoy it more than the first time that they saw it.*

[@TheRumblewagon]

It's the dumbing down of society and the shortening of attention spans. Just look at KZbin pushing shorts to compete with TikTok.

[@BoundlessDrop]

I agree. They are too used to being spoon fed.

[@BarberJ95]

It’s not Grogu or CGI Luke Skywalker 🙄 I can’t believe the one time we’ve gotten something wholly new and fresh in Star Wars in a long time and now it’ll prob Tank and Disney will see lower ratings as a sign to just stick to cheap fan service for now 😭

[@kevinmorris3200]

I personally love seeing Star Wars content where I can forget I’m watching Star Wars. It’s nice to see history, government, and the lives of ordinary people like you and me being portrayed in such a realistic way. A lot of fans just like to take a break from real life by watching the classic fairytale aspect of Star Wars which is mystical Jedi and rebel heroes saving the galaxy from the evil empire and demonic Sith. But when you remove all that and put in every aspect of real life, it actually becomes more interesting to watch.

[@starwing0]

That’s a good manager right there. Let’s his subordinates speak and actually listens. Not letting his own ego gets in the way.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*ALL OF THIS!!!! There must be some good banter between colleagues with a good or great mediator.*

[@richardlahan7068]

Thrawn did the same thing with his subordinates. He also didn't let his ego get in the way when a subordinate had a good idea.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

@@richardlahan7068 *Thrawn most definitely did his job & listened to his subordinates because he gained their trust to do their job to the best of their ability.*

[@celebrim1]

Dedra is terribly afraid she's losing this exchange and is about to go down, until the Major turns around Blevin's statement and suggests he approves of personal initiative. He's not really concerned about the sector divisions or the processes and protocols. He's concerned about covering his own ass. If Dedra can prove she found something, then his superiors - who also don't really concern themselves about the sector divisions - won't care. But if Dedra is just relying on "intuition" it exposes her to the prejudices of the system, and with it exposes him. Blevin now is in deep trouble, because he's become a fall guy. Dedra with control over the 'Morlani Sector" (it bothers me we can't place that on a galactic map) is free to conduct an investigation into both Aldani and Morlani and how the two relate. If she finds the link in Cassian Andor, she can then claim Blevin's denial of her request to him to share information directly led to the Aldani debacle.

[@ironfist7789]

The major in the first episode gives her the strategy to use when he admonished her (sort of) for reading verbatim from the manual of their purpose. She read the situation and altered her strategy to take this into account when dealing with Blevin. He approved of her handling of the situation and the fact that she understood the subtle nuances in his directions. It shows that he wants recruits who are able to think for themselves and use trickles of information and evidence to be successful spymasters.

[@przemekkozlowski7835]

There are two aspects to how the Empire operates. You have the vast bureaucracy where initiative is discouraged and everyone is fighting over jurisdiction and build their own corrupt fieefdoms. Then you also have the troubleshooters who operate outside the system and can cut through the red tape because they report to the Emperor or Vader (the chief troubleshooter). Dedra belongs to the first group but tried to act as would a member of the second group. She has to succeed spectacularly or she will be destroyed by the system.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*There's something that we cac gain from the various scenes between Blevin, Dedra & Partagaz. Seeing how things shifted from one of the spectrum to the next that lead to this moment in episode 7 is truly amazing.*

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*So much happened in 3 episodes time, that we have some interesting topics of discussion to come. I love the ISB so much & I truly hope we get a separate ISB series after Andor. Here's to hoping.*

[@override367]

@@przemekkozlowski7835 I think this is a misread, initiative isn't discouraged within the empire, it's just that sticking your neck out is just as likely to get your head cut off as it is to let you see a path to advancement. Most people who work in the empire get a decent wage, a menial but stable job, benefits, why risk everything?

[@amadeoaraujo699]

I was genuinly cheering out loud, as if my favorite team just scored a goal, when Partagaz approved of her way of getting things done. Imagine that cheering for an imperial officer. And the facial expressions of Partagaz in that entire scene.... pure gold...they couldn't have found a better actor.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*In my head, yup! I had the exact same reaction that you did.* 😂

[@bjakobs98]

this scene was a privilege to watch

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*I've watched it 3 times so far. Now, it's time for me to watch it 33 more times because from start to finish, it's such a great scene.*

[@bjakobs98]

@@starwarsunlimiteduniverse lol same

[@jazzx251]

I finally got to see the voice of Yennefer for real .. Yes, it was a privilege to see this extremely underrated stage actress be the best ever non-Force Star Wars villain. Denise is amazing - she lengthily spouts jargon in front of the whole room, and captures their attention ... something like .. "This should have been avoided. The xenovox capacitors could easily have been recaptured if our sector analysis agents had actually protected our most SECRET equipment - including Keira 5 systems operations, using Aldhani technology, USING Pathfinder 2 Zee software, USING a Tattoine hyperspace signature! How did NOBODY see this??!" All effortless. She is awesome. Denise, as an actress, is every bit a privilege to watch.- I'm thrilled that it was "naughty" Star Wars that finally catapulted her to genuine TV fame - and Star Wars fame. This character is surely canon now!

[@CJusticeHappen21]

This isn't just solid, it's relatable. People so hung up on appearing to be in control of their corner that they lose track of the whole damn game.

[@Tiisiphone]

Smart, credible imperial villains. You cannot help liking them a little. Dedra Meero and Major Partagaz steal the show everytime they are on screen.

[@SobaOfPulaski]

Andor showed the Empire in a way that most Star Wars content dares not show it as: Competent, scarily competent. The ISB is the definition of Imperial Efficiency and Competency. And its beautiful to see how they weren’t afraid to show that in this show.

[@IceWolfLoki]

Except for the bit where they didn't know they had the guy they were searching for locked up in an imperial prison.

[@SobaOfPulaski]

@ tbf those were the Corrections guys and like in real life, they kind of get told things last.

[@paddydaley6808]

"You think this forum appropriate? Serious charge." That was a warning.

[@greatguytv]

This is 1 of the best scenes I've seen in recent times. Great writing. This team should be in charge of making the movies

[@rippingtons60]

This is what I love about Andor, it gives us a brake from most of the usual heroes and cliches and gives us a look at the ordinary people of the Star Wars Universe at every level of and sector of society; The rich, the poor, the criminals, the the military, the working-class civilians, the natives, the rebels, etc. It shows how all these different parts of society interact with and effect each other. Andor proves you don't need the Force, Lightsabers of the usual characters to tell a good Star Wars story.

[@lucasschultz]

I really liked andors presentation of the empire.

[@mythically_odd]

This dialouge in star wars is such a breath of fresh air compared to Boba fett, Obi-Wan, and the Sequels. Just this whole war movie, espionage and politics vibe is what love to see in starwars in terms of live action stuff. I really didn't think I would love The Andor series this much.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*The dialog is truly great for a lot of scenes in the show. This is what I love about it & I look forward to more.*

[@demiserofd]

It's far more enjoyable to defeat a competent enemy than an incompetent one. Too often of late have writers written the bad guys as incompetent idiots, their downfall inevitable, but that only denigrates any effort needed to take them down. THIS is a frightening, competent enemy. The First Order, as one of a long string of perfect examples, was not.

[@theasianboy315]

the first order was composed mostly of old brats with anger issues

[@jatsko3113]

​@@theasianboy315 that's fascism for ya

[@Can_O_Crayola]

@@theasianboy315 And it's very strange that they screwed that up so hard. The First Order had some interesting things they could've done with it. People like Hux who are literally just nepobabies running around in their fascist underpants because their Imperial daddy was in charge somewhere at some point when the actual Empire fell. He didn't get his position because he was truly competent. He got it because he was a cruel, idiot child with a cruel, intelligent father.

[@charliec6020]

It's an incredible set-piece the tone is just conducted like a fine symphony - the off symmetrical angles, the subtle lining of Dedra's reflection on side shots. The timing of the heads turning. That most of this exquisite talent is British/Irish adds a real sense of pride watching it. Denise is my new favourite watch, hoping to catch some stage work - just wowowowowow she's a great in our time.

[@minijoe24]

I've started trying to use "Thesis, please" in meetings at work but I don't think I have the gravitas to pull it off

[@rinkashikachi]

lmao, good one

[@smoaT]

Add some "watch your back" after meetings. Spice things up

[@Rendell001]

Practice makes perfect...

[@lyndalarose9200]

Would love to use that phrase in a meeting, too!☺️

[@anticitizenokapi4634]

You need to watch more clips of Anton Lesser speaking. It feels like that line was made for him specifically.

[@Palpatine001]

Partagaz is ruthless but very switched on, he knows the difference between initiative vs discipline vs overreach and reacts accordingly. His intellectual curiosity and adapting accordingly is only matched by Thrawn himself imperial wise. BUT and knowing which famous Colonel shows up later, for Partagaz to sit down you know things get even more serious... Great performances from the ISB...

[@christopherpoet458]

What I really like about all this is that the Major honestly appears to care about Dedra's potential here and knows that now that she has gone out of her way to secure the information she needs, she is painting a target on her back. The warning at the end is by far so simple but speaks volumes to the move she just maid. I get the sense that he is going to end up putting a lot of value in her and doing so is going to increasingly make her job dangerous. I would love to see some inter-imperial drama made here beyond words. Mayve even attempts to assassinate her for breaking the sector jurisdiction guidelines and stopping authority away from her co-workers. It is really funny they behave this way to because to me, if I were a member of the ISB and in that room, I would be looking to work along side her as much as I could if it were possible. I can't wait to see how her story unfolds and I really hope we get to see some measure of success and accomplishment from her. Preferably without her getting killed. I know the empire is the bad guy and all but even bad guys can have some very interesting and engaging stories!

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*THIS scene spoke VOLUMES. So much can happen from THIS point of the ISB side of the main stories & gain some huge traction. I'm truly hopeful that things get interesting from here within the ISB.*

[@floriansteininger347]

This is probably why she gets the Death Troopers later.

[@transvestosaurus878]

Star Wars but it went to university, got A's in Modern History and 20th Century Theatre, and started dating a domme.

[@archmagosdeciuskronen1501]

THIS is the Empire I love. Not the general incompetence displayed in major films.

[@kevinzhang6623]

Because we see them behind the scenes. From a Rebel perspective, they could easily be seen just the same as angry Imps failing to find the Rebels.

[@luminaraunduli2791]

This is one of the countless scenes in Andor that I have to rewind for another go thru before I can move on, in the dozens of rewatches of this masterpiece show! The subtle twitches of swallowed anger Dedra does midway and the subtle gleeful swaying at end are perfection. And Partagaz's "Thesis, please..." is one of the greatest 2-word shots.

[@John_Smith2302]

Andor was superb. A great series and utterly captivating. More please.

[@sochiltv]

this exchange was so well written for a moment i thought i was watching some pbs masterpiece theater series. this show is unbelievable

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Yes indeed!!!! Such a great show for sure.*

[@smoaT]

Well... you were watching A masterpiece, that's for sure

[@vandelay_industries]

Looking back at this scene, one thing often overlooked is that Blevin here does have a point, to a certain degree - he's just misdirecting his suspicion. We now know that the Rebellion does have a spy at this table, at this meeting. Blevin is insisting on enforcing the rules of information compartmentalization between the Sectors and their supervisors, rules that Dedra broke. There is another answer to his question of "if everyone in this room playing as loosely with the rules as [Dedra]". Yes, imagine the damage Lonni Jung (Rebel spy at the table) could do if he behaved as Dedra and was allowed to proceed unimpeded.

[@micahbanks4324]

THESIS, PLEASE…ugh i love this show

[@jammyjamjars6995]

Anton Lesser fucking killed it as Major Partagaz. So glad his character is getting so much love. I know he is imperial, but he seems like a great boss who dosent let his ego get in the way of better ways of working, and it’s clear he is well respected by all his underlings and rightly praises them for good work done.

[@ANProductionsOfficialChannel]

"Thesis, please." I love that line. Genuine curiosity.

[@JNB0723]

And intelligence. Right afterward, he asks for evidence to support the thesis. He knows effective communication and how to engage in her argument for the justification for her actions.

[@jazzx251]

He knows already that Dedra - having risked her career with the "systems either change or die" line - is onto something important. She broke the rules for a purpose, the advancement of the Empire. "Thesis please ..." - the challenge! She was up to the challenge.

[@SageoftheForlornPath]

"Thesis, please?" It's amazing how all it takes is two simple words to create mindblowing dialogue.

[@jonathanc.gillespie4897]

Remember: What makes truly great villains is that are ordinary, flawed people, convinced they are in the right. They make the same omelets out of eggs that everyone else does, they just break many, many more eggs.

[@smoaT]

You can't make a Tomlett without breaking some Greggs

[@gabrielbaker7250]

andor is so peak it hurts

[@Snagprophet]

I just appreciate how logical everything in this system is, even if it is the Empire. Meero had constructive feedback for Partagaz, he listened and used that feedback to make the correct decision. Dedra received praise and also a warning "watch your back" because of corrupt/incompetent individuals within the ISB She's the perfect anti-villain and he's a great tutor.

[@lilfinger7183]

Thesis... please... One of my favorite lines. The look, tone and deliver are gold. More please.

[@GaryBonaducci]

The cinematography for this scene is so effin amazing. Andor's Director of Photography and Editors have put a lot of effort in visually editing the conversation by switching back-and-forth between every actor as they each deliver their lines. The cameras place a lot of emphasis on each actor through effective use of depth-of-field and tight cropping. This allows the viewer to see how incredibly talented each actors are in controlling facial expressions and their tiny body movements that really dig right into the tensions and high emotions in this meeting. Disney would be smart if they'd assign Andor's DoPs and Editors to work on all other Star Wars projects. Their work on this series has been outstanding!

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Yes indeed. I really love how well done the cinematography has been done in many of the scenes for each episode these past 8 episodes that we've gained so far. I can't wait to see what each scene of episode 9 looks like next Wednesday.*

[@noelholzer3675]

As I've heard another fan put it: 4-7: "wow dedra is competent and getting things done!" :D 8-12: "oh God dedra is competent and getting things done" D:

[@MonoZeus]

YESSSSS!

[@unclefrankienstein]

Love the distraught on Blevin's face by the end, so satisfying 😂was probably wondering "Congratulations, you played yourself"

[@Randoman590]

I love the very subtle little "Fuck Yeah" look on Dedra's face as she gets up from the table.

[@Rendell001]

"nice try kid... but you'll have to do better than that!"

[@robmartin1064]

The Empire is a naked meritocracy...red in tooth and claw. Win or die. This show is truly amazing and I hope that the "low" ratings will not harm it's future longevity.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Amazing can't even truly describe how great this show really is. The ratings are what they are. Some people can sit through heavy dialog with great writing, while others can't. Those of us who literally RUN back to Disney Plus to watch in anticipation, will continue to fully support this type of show.*

[@lastcrusader101]

"Well played" "Thank you sir" "Watch your back" Chills man

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Such a great end to this scene between Partagaz & Dedra.*

[@Rendell001]

Office politics at it’s finest…

[@LegendOfSolidus]

This scene of ISB officials having a discussion in a meeting is far more engaging than anything else they've released on D+ for SW. The dialogue writing, acting, line delivery, direction, camerawork, thematic relevance and real-world inspiration are so crispy and top tier. This series is the DEFINITION of "slept-on"

[@zarander]

Damn the more I rewatch this 4 min scene the more I appreciate this fine and carefully crafted dialogue. It's simply superb!

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Oh for sure!!!! These scenes are addicting to not watch more than once.*

[@jumpingjjonah8088]

This. This fleshes out the Empire in 2 minutes better than an entire movie.

[@silverbubble1037]

I think I know why Partagaz has so much respect for meero. I imagine he also earned his rank as major through competency rather than politics. That was why he was not angry, but instead interested when dedra challenged his ideas. He wanted to know whether or not she has good insight, as he would have to have to earn his promotion. It explains why he seems protective of meero's career and acts as a mentor towards her since he sees a great mind, similar to how he was when he earned his rank as a major, and wants to protect it and help it thrive

[@szarvaskoppany]

The comment at the end "well played. Watch your back" is a suggestion that it is both competency AND politics, and I suppose an intelligence officer should indeed have both.

[@silverbubble1037]

@@szarvaskoppany yes which is why partagaz is trying to teach that to dedra so she doesnt get sabotaged

[@Perka-PoE]

This is the SW show with the best casting in history. Someone tell me, but I don't remember a single character acting badly. That gives it a lot of naturalness and transforms into fun (not for laughter) scenes with pure dialogue and polical plots ♥

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Everyone in this show has done a great job portraying the characters. Literally to me, there's not one bad character in show.*

[@debbralehrman5957]

Well Played Dedra!!👍🏻👏🏻

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*She did very well for sure!!!!*

[@rainkloud]

Camera work here is beyond exceptional. Every angle is meticulously chosen to amplify the tension and capture the ruthless competition and jockeying.

[@lasinloser3979]

The acting here is beyond superb; you really do feel like the actors are feeling what there characters are feeling.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Yes indeed!!!! They're doing such a great job as the characters They're portraying each episode!*

[@abcun17]

The writing on this show is brilliant... along with everything else! Who knew that sitting to watch and listen to what is basically a high level staff meeting could be so engrossing and captivating?! LOL... I daresay, that this is the level of quality fans should not just expect but demand from SW! If that is even possible anymore!

[@JNB0723]

I concur. The quality of Star Wars has never been as good as it has been in Andor. Personal nostalgic blindness aside, even the original trilogy is demonstrably bad compared to this. The writing is absolutely delightful and so pleasant on the ears; one can literally feel smarter after watching this show. The side of Star Wars that has never felt present despite it being told to us is finally encapsulated- what a rebellion against a very large power looks like. It is sophisticated and tells a grandiose story that has an extremely complex narrative with many different catalysts and moving pieces all working elegantly to make the story appear almost real. The show does not rely on bright flashing swords or Sith/Jedi Mythology to steer its plot but instead focuses on realistic politics and gritty human fighting to have deepened emergence. This is the Star Wars that I want, but a lot of people prefer the cameos and flashy lightsaber fights.

[@jacksonlarson6099]

​​@@JNB0723I think this is an excellent point that many are quite afraid to make. I often see Andor referred to as a return to the quality and style of the original trilogy, and I have always disagreed with this sentiment. I personally think that Andor is a step above the original trilogy. The OT, for all of its brilliance, is a swashbuckling fantasy scifi space opera framed by the general notion of good rebels versus evil government. There is absolutely nothing wrong with what I just described, but the OT never made its primary purpose to expose the inner workings of fascism to the audience. Honestly, I am not entirely convinced that Star Wars was a clever allegory for American imperialism in the Vietnam War, as is commonly touted. We're shown a distinctly "Triumph of the Will"-style fascist totalitarian regime that vaporizes an entire planet in the first act of the first film, and then from there on out our concern is mostly with the interpersonal drama of Luke, Han, Leia, and Vader. Again, I absolutely do not mean to say that this is a flaw of the original trilogy. I only want to point out that, if the original trilogy is truly meant to be anti-fascist messaging, then it seems to have failed in that regard, as I don't think the average Star Wars viewer walks away from the theater with a distrustful view of the American political establishment. Afterall, in many fan circles the Empire is loved more than the rebels simply because of the rule of cool. Andor, on the other hand, sets out from the beginning to show us how fascism operates. The grounded writing of the show makes us far more uncomfortable with the Empire than the Death Star ever could. I am far less troubled by the destruction of an entire planet than I am by things like private corporate rule, destruction of indigenous populations, police brutality, the prison-industrial complex, and the surrender of civil liberties in the pursuit of the illusion of security. These things trouble me more because they do not disappear when I turn the TV off. For the last time, I don't say it as a criticism, but Star Wars was written for fun. Hell, it began life as a live-action adaptation of Flash Gordon. Andor, on the other hand, does little to take the audience along on a fanciful adventure. There is no swashbuckling to be had. It is dry, it is violent, it is cruel, and it is brilliant.

[@Futuretense101]

The Aggressive, Competitive atmosphere of the Sith Empire with structure and deep reach of the Old Republic. The ISB did their jobs well...for the most part. Yes, the Empire is evil at its core, with members only caring about their own gains. However, when people start rising up in the ranks because of true inspiration and dedication, the Empire becomes TRULY terrifying.

[@draxiss1577]

This show really is just a reprint of "Eichmann in Jerusalem: A Report on the Banality of Evil," isn't it? She's competent and passionate for her work in a way that clearly goes beyond petty career advancement. Her supervisor is an excellent, thoughtful manager happy to set aside ego for the greater "good." Both of them are clearly in it for more than just themselves. They are fully human. However, like all the corpos, cops, and troopers, they are either unwilling or unable to interrogate the fundamental evil that their institutions serve. This series is SO good.

[@override367]

Well when Deidra gets a chance to Do A Torture she embraces it with glee, someone can be dedicated to their work and also a monster

[@TurKlack]

Ladies and Gentlemen. The Empire, when it is not written by Failoni.

[@Unaidedfoot]

I had no intention of watching this show but was intrigued by the KZbin picture. Against my gut feeling I hit play and was rewarded with some stellar acting, writing and set. Looks like I’m watching the series now and there better be more of that actress smashing her lines and pace.

[@oXRaptorzXo]

Have you watched the series yet? If so, let me know what you think! Dedra first appears in episode 4, but there’s other great actors throughout

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*I'm glad that I was able to provide with a peak into this show with this scene. And I hope that you sat down, watched many of the other episodes & gained your own perspective whether positive or negative.*

[@Unaidedfoot]

Watched it and it’s the kind of Star Wars I like. Wow the acting is spectacular and various points of view without a leading of opinion was amazing. That’s the way more programs should be.

[@oXRaptorzXo]

@@Unaidedfoot glad to hear you enjoyed it

[@BoundlessDrop]

The best scene!!!!! Thanks for posting. Gives me shivers. The writing, acting, delivery. It’s just so good.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Yup! You're welcome! Glad that this scene stood out a lot to many, including myself. So much great dialog in this one scene that we all can take from in various ways.*

[@CognizantCheddar]

She's a villain, and yet I was cheering for her in this scene. That's an indicator of well written and acted drama.

[@mirtokiriazanou766]

She is the strong independent female character that Star Wars needed ! As a woman, I look up to her, I want to be her (ok, not do bad things, but you get it), not Rey, not Holdo, not Rose. Dedra Meero ❤

[@davedavis2132]

I love the politics in the empire. Far from people being plain evil, they are all working to progress their careers and one slip up can mean the straight up end of yours. For Blevin this is a major blow, he has lost the faith of his overseer and given it to his competitor. And he might get desperate

[@HansWurst1569]

I havent watched anything of Andor but if everything is as good as this one scene I'm going to have to give it a try!!!

[@shinobinokami774]

Every scene with the ISB is brilliant

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Indeed. All of the ISB scenes are really great & my hope is that we'll get an ISB series in the near future.*

[@juancabardo21]

I swear if Boba and Kenobi get a s2 we need them on this level

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*I'll take it for both shows for sure.*

[@Davao420]

Sorry, Kenobi wished it had the complexity of Andor

[@spoopy._.cheems]

@@Davao420 Andor makes both shows look like amateur fan films, it's embarrassing how Dedra comes off more intimidating than Reeva, a sith inquisitor who has trouble interrogating a literal child

[@fornax5798]

@@spoopy._.cheems as they most likely planned revas redemption from the start they already created a limitation to how evil a character could be.

[@randompeople465]

After watching ahsoka i dont think they gonna go there😂

[@LordDoom10]

I love how Partagaz is the head of the Empire's secret police, but acts more like a teacher.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Lol! That is definitely a great view for sure. Many people in management do work their jobs like they're a teacher, trying to continously tell their workers how to do their job their way rather than trust them to do it themselves. Which sometimes I despise. Lol! But, Partagaz is a really well written character in the show.*

[@szarvaskoppany]

In my country up until now (centralisation efforts) architects had to present their plans for new buildings to the planning committee of the municipial self-government, headed by the chief architect (I'm not sure about any titles) of the municipiality. I was in such a meeting and indeed the cheif architect sounded like a teacher, asking questions like "what do you thinkk of that facade" and provoking discussion. And it was indeed a sight to see for me either despite being there as a political observes, not as an architect. (I just wanted to make sure the contruction won't disrupt the neighbourhood that much so that my voters get uset, but inddeed it was a sight in itself to see authority figure acting like a teacher.)

[@rippingtons60]

He's not the "head" per say, she's just the head of the board. Colonel Yularen is the head.

[@chineseobama6043]

These ISB scenes are addicting, the clinical precision in their conversations is just so fucking good, Major Partagaz especially, theres a reason he's in charge here and we see that in his every line. Him refereeing the debate is so entertaining, "thesis please" is gold

[@LeadMetal82]

I love that Dedra was visibly shaken when Partagaz asked if his work has been supplanted. She's like "Oh shit, i really just accused my superior for being bad at his job!"

[@ElleGur]

Omg the dialogue in the show is so good!! I couldn't help shiver during the entire conversation

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Most definitely!!!! Such a great scene all around!!!!*

[@eddieram435]

I sincerely admire how Lt Meero does her job, even invoking existing laws to protect herself and her work which means she holds the Empire's standards to the highest level. We need more scenes of the institutions of the Empire and how they've handled everyday's business.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Indeed. I'm hopeful that we'll get more ISB. Like a shoe centered around them.*

[@MildMisanthropeMaybeMassive]

This is a scene that would feel at home with Better Call Saul or (the early seasons of) Game of Thrones.

[@jamesf3095]

This clip is quite possibly the best 6:23 minutes of Star Wars ever projected onto a screen. The writing, casting, depth of character etc. is superb, even more so that it is from the perspective of the “bad guys”. I can only imagine the greatest success of the SW galaxy if such an effort was cast across all stories of the franchise

[@LuisVillanuevaCubero]

I love the acting! Disney, please take note. THIS is a CREDIBLE strong female character.

[@IsaacKuo]

Ben Bailey Smith was particularly incredible here! Blevin is of course a pompous self satisfied villain, so we love to see him finally get taken down a peg. But I've got to say it's also really satisfying to see him take visceral glee in abusing others who are, after all, also bad guys. Just every little motion showing his gloating satisfaction, really turning up our emotional anticipation of seeing that smile wiped off his face. And then after he loses, the way he does these little frustrated squirms. It just makes it so thrilling to see him thwarted ... but also, it's exciting to anticipate what he'll spitefully do next. You just know he's not going to let that go.

[@starwarsunlimiteduniverse]

*Indeed was such a great scene with these characters & Blevin's shift from victory to defeat within like 2 minutes time.* 😂

[@tacticalpossum7090]

I love how bad writers of female characters like in Obi Wan will call us sexist, then its immediately followed up with a 10/10 portrayal of powerful women in Andor and everyone loves them

[@FureyinHD]

IKR. No SW fans, male or otherwise, took issue with the strong yet flawed women in Andor. Which we would have, if we were the women hating incels they make us out to be.

[@sophieamandaleitontoomey9343]

This show actually gets us invested in Dedra. Unlike Reva, the writers for Andor allow us to watch her grow from a woman in a male dominated world to one who becomes a genuine threat not just to Andor but to Ferrix as a whole. Her rise to power is thrilling. You like her and relate to her struggle but then you realize that was misplaced when she starts becoming terrifying like her scene with Bix. The show demonstrates WHY she is a threat. Whereas with Reva where we are not shown why we should be afraid of her.

[@luminaraunduli2791]

Marva Andor Mon Mothma Bix Caleen Dedra Meero Vel Sartha Cinta Kaz Kleya Marki (my fav non-main character) ...even (Darth) Eedy Karn! All simply straight up great characters because of a well written story!

[@Snagprophet]

@@luminaraunduli2791 what I liked about having Fiona Shaw in there was that it felt like the anti-Petunia from Harry Potter.

[@kevinzhang6623]

No one is calling fans sexist for disliking characters. They call "fans" sexist for expressing their dislike with extremely immature, sexist and hateful remarks that have nothing to do with criticism of a story progression, character development and screenplay.

[@wafflingmean4477]

For once, the villains are not incompetent. Not even Blevin. He isn't incompetent. He just has different priorities. He wants his cushy office job on lockdown where he has complete authority and can maintain the status quo, gaining as much credit as possible through as little work as possible. But when Meero's investigations threaten this status quo is is quite vigilant and skillful at trying to undermine her. It's just that she evidently either expected him to do this and planned accordingly, and/or was very careful in just how she circumvented his authority in his own sector. And then finally, instead of reprimanding Meero and maintaining their current order of operations just because, their boss accepts Meero's logic that rebels aren't going to play by arbitrary rules set by the empire, and agrees they must adapt their strategy accordingly. He doesn't get caught up in the fact that his own leadership evidently hasn't been working as he wanted to and this has indirectly been called out. He puts his ego aside and accepts and acts on advice from a subordinate. THIS is how you create an intimidating enemy. All involved are incredibly intelligent, it's just that Meero has a little more imagination, and Blevin is lazy, due to being less of a zealot and more interested in his personal career than the Empire itself. Meanwhile their boss designed their sectors to be effective at handling required bureaucracy and basic law enforcement within those sectors. He didn't design them to handle a cold war, which is what he now realises he's up against.

[@totalwar1793]

My mom was eye rolling so hard at this part in the show bc it reminded her a lot of office dynamics when working in the government.

[@maju3606]

The best acting and writing in Star Wars, by a country mile

[@changechange9972]

This is a great scene and the type of writing that breathes life into worlds.

[@rbkluv29]

Every single ISB scene is glorious This is the Star Wars we deserve!

[@livefire666]

These ISB scenes in Andor literally deserve awards on their own. They could not be written and made any better...

[@vorpalweapon4814]

I love how efficiently and effectively Partagaz directed the meeting, I know they are fascist( and fictional) but I think every professional should strive for such excellence.

[@MatteoRuberto]

This scene is a masterpiece in world building, because we know where we come from - the lazy, presumptuous republic of the prequels and CW - and now we see this, a generation of young sharp officers and how ruthless and disciplined they can be

[@Br0wnCh3]

These scenes are some of the best written best acted in sw movie history. Friggen loved and wished we spent more time here. I hope season 2 is written with the same passion.

[@zp5808]

Her acting in this scene is perfection.

[@HellishSpoon]

I love when empire is presented in this professional manner, they are actually competent and not bunch of goof balls to get murdered by vader when ever he needs to look scary

[@RushimaV]

A Star Wars show just based on the ISB office drama would be amazing.

[@GrayNeko]

I just love that tiny little smirk Dedra gives Blevin at the end.