Luthen Rael is the Biggest Threat to Palpatine's Empire

[@GenerationTech]

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[@williamreffett5862]

You're a stupid a******. You're literally letting the States take our rights a way and you have the nonsense of spouting this s*** F*** y** you piece of s***

[@TheNewFlutist]

You should change the promo code to: PORD. Public Order Resentencing Decree. :D

[@CalAndAly]

If we didn’t keep the senate, we’d be Gilead in a few years and in need of our own rebellion - against the other side who has all the guns lol

[@coryryder9070]

i think he could be sith

[@Celestial_Reach]

I noticed something with this breakdown. First i love your breakdowns, and the philosphy. I agree with it. but, you didnt include your normal ending. and it just makes one wonder whats going through your mind. Ive been analyzing things like this for some time, and it leaves me sith a feeling of dread, as.... well lets just say lucas developed a world based on our world, that seems to have turned out to be what he forsaw comming. when it finds you, the question is, what choice do you make?

[@ProdCritic]

Luthen's speech is literally the writer giving us the thesis of the entire show. It is beautifully written, seeped in real historical examples, and ultimately *HEARTBREAKING* . Luthen's speech is a tragic tale, a man with the self awareness to know his soul is doomed & his sacrifice will be thankless because nobody knows the true depths he will reach for the benefit of millions.

[@helohel5915]

And as with Rogue One, we know how it ends, he dies. A tragedy

[@WeWhoAreXul]

@@helohel5915 A tragedy. But one that gave Luke his shot to destroy the Death Star, and start giving hope to the galaxy.

[@Girder3]

As someone on a KZbin group discussion on episode 10 said: This story is about the characters who don't get to win. The ones who had to sacrifice to get the Rebellion far enough to achieve victory. The ones that had to give up their lives so that the main characters of the Original Trilogy could see the final victory over the Empire.

[@gr8tbigtreehugger]

Kino's speech can be considered the flip side of coin of this. Instead of doomed self-sacrifice there is 'one way out' (rebellion) and it is achieved through solidarity.

[@Exaldear]

@@gr8tbigtreehugger two degrees of separation to hope. Luthen > Andor > Kino. But it's the ones after kino that they inspired will be the ones to finish the fight.

[@knighthunter5333]

“I burn my life to make a sunrise I know I’ll never see.” That gave me chills when I heard that.

[@soakedbearrd]

Not to mention his black cloak in Ferrix during the funeral.

[@SwagbitoUchiha]

Luthen’s speech is straight up my favorite dialogue in any Star Wars movie/show.

[@MCsCreations]

Kino's speech was fantastic as well.

[@user-vp9lc9up6v]

I think "somehow Palpatine returned" is way better

[@adamnewbs3522]

@@user-vp9lc9up6v I think “I don’t like sand” is even better.

[@chrisnyasia7]

He is, by far, the Father of the rebellion... His quick stream of consciousness is all it took to outline exactly what a "rebel" is-- like it or not... He is not just talking to the mole (who, hell probably wind up neutralizing at some point), as he is talking to himself, as a ongoing psychological rationalization/justification...

[@AntonAdelson]

*monologue ❤️

[@multipass113]

“The arrogance is remarkable.” To me, the delivery of that line by Skarsgård is so brilliant: On one hand, it fits your analysis- how arrogant of The Empire to assume everyone else is stupid. On the other, it feels like he was also describing Cassian- how arrogant of you to think you are that good. Luthen’s curse is his self-awareness; he is the playwright and hero of his own tragedy. I enjoy the interactions between Luthen Rael and Mon Mothma because it showcases two people that, had it not been for a shared belief, would never seek out each other’s company for pleasure. And it’s this ability to put their differences aside for the cause that lies the core strength of this rebellion.

[@DMSProduktions]

The 'left' in many countries think every1 else that either votes for them OR against them are stupid!

[@klaykid117]

I love their interactions because he knows that Mon is exactly the type of leader that the new Republic will need, but she's so soft-hearted that she cannot lead a rebellion, especially not an underground insurgency

[@OwentheKingofDudes]

If Saw Gerrera is Rebel Vader, then Luthen Rael is Rebel Palpatine. Think about it.

[@IsaacKuo]

Yes, indeed! And it adds an extra edge to Mon Mothma's story. When she said "I've learned from Palpatine", Tay was taken aback. We didn't want to think of Mon Mothma going down that path, so we didn't think much of it. But it was foreshadowing. After so many years of shielding Leida from the dangers, she's going to sacrifice her for the cause. Mon Mothma's going down the same dark path that Luthen already lost himself to years ago. We know that she'll somehow pull herself back away from that abyss, but we can anticipate that clawing her way back up will be a lot tougher and involve even more suffering than the slide down.

[@buddamassa]

Nailed it... both are doomed for the choices they made for all.

[@ohkaygoplay]

Showing people the stone in his hand so they don't see the knife at their throat.

[@GabeRamirez15]

I think more like Luthen Tarkin

[@skeptic_lemon]

@@GabeRamirez15 That's not a good comparison. Luthen is indeed like Tarkin on the surface. Tarkin is an animal underneath. His raising consisted of fighting dangerous animals in the wild with only a spear in hand, as was tradition for his family. He kept the lessons he learnt there and used them to create his doctrine, which worked, but only as long as nobody figured out how to beat the fear. While Tarkin puts up a facade of controlledness, patience, and and coldness, he's different underneath. Luthen is the opposite. He puts up multiple facades to lure people in, but they all involve manipulativeness, and emotion of some kind, while he is really a logical mastermind with human elements underneath.

[@TheTrueAdept]

Here's the thing, Machavelli is _surprisingly on point_ when it comes to politics and populations. What people forget is the _whole_ answer Machavelli stated for if it is best to be feared or loved. Machavelli outright stated that _both_ is preferable, but fear is easier to control and far more universal, and if you put too much in fear you get _hated_ which is something to avoid _at all costs._

[@theGodfather5870]

It’s true, and I am so 👏 glad 👏 to finally see someone else who has actually read Machiavelli’s work. I’ve studied both history and Psychology for almost a decade now, university and geekish obsession I guess 🤷 hehe But yeah, I’m not sure where this idea of his ethos being synonymous with dark/evil sociopathy came from. Before maybe 2 years ago? I had never heard anything remotely making that connection. His most widely known piece, “the Prince”, is a indictment (albeit veiled, however obviously) of the corrupt and sick ruling classes of his place in time and space.

[@TheTrueAdept]

@@theGodfather5870 it should be noted that he was 1) a Rome Republic fanboy, 2) a _rationalist_ of his time (he outlines that _history_ must be understood to make effective policy), and 3) was something akin to Locke before, well, Locke himself.

[@johng6350]

Interestingly, Star Wars follows this to a 't'. A significant part of Palpatine's initial success was because of how he portrayed himself, and made himself a figure beloved by the population. However, once he accomplishes his main goals, he discards his benevolent mask and leans on fear more and more as the years go by. In the end, he's as an incompetent a ruler, as he was a brilliant conqueror.

[@Zarastro54]

@@johng6350 Palpatine was the dog chasing the mail truck. He was far better on the chance than the end result. Once he got what he wanted, he didn’t really know what to do with himself overall.

[@billybob7135]

Another point about Machiavellli that others miss is that he actually supported a republic over despotism. The Prince is basically him saying, "If one had to be a despot, here is what it would take to make work." Like Nemik said, "Tyranny requires effort" as opposed to a republic where institutions and respect carry a leader. Remember, Chancellor Palpatine ruled through institutions (protecting the Republic), admiration, and respect (supporters saw him as dilligent in the face of a historic crisis). Compare that to Emperor Palpatine.

[@nandoman4769]

Jesus this show has been so god damn amazing. I 100% believed that we would never get anything even close to this good in the Star Wars universe. I had almost completely lost faith in the brand after the embarrassment that was the Book of Boba Fett. But in my opinion this show is some of the best stuff that the Stars Wars franchise and Disney itself has ever created. The complexity of the characters in the show is incredible and I never realized how badly I wanted that in Star Wars until this show happened.

[@travishillsthedarkangelbun504]

I wish I could watch it.

[@kristopherblyth2200]

Definitely agree.. nothing is out of place, no babysitting, no awkward relationships. The Star Wars we're used too maybe better? I'm looking forward to the next 2 episodes and season!

[@imissnewspapers]

This is writing where the writers trust in the intelligence & maturity of the viewership.

[@ascensionindustries9631]

I firmly believe that KK's dirty paws are nowhere near this. I haven't even seen an add for this on KZbin, which makes me think it won't be pushed the way we would expect with her brilliant productions such as Kenobi.

[@HamishsRobot]

I agree. I had completely given up on Star Wars after the ‘sequel’ trilogy. The difference in quality between most other Disney Star Wars content and Andor is vast. It really does go to show just how crucial the writing and creative team is to any project. Andor is so good I can hardly believe it.

[@TheWarmachine375]

Luthen Rael is a man of focus, commitment and sheer will in the Rebellion while under the nose of the Empire in a nutshell.

[@MrMiller2048]

That sounds like a Mr Wick punchline 😂

[@AlexS-zr2nb]

@@MrMiller2048 he killed 3 imperials with a data tablet! A freaking data tablet

[@WeWhoAreXul]

@@AlexS-zr2nb He had a impossible task. To take down the Galactic Empire. A job no one could pull off. The bodies he buried in that campaign laid the foundation for the Rebel Alliance are now.

[@DogeickBateman]

@@AlexS-zr2nb *A vial of death sticks

[@jayvhoncalma3458]

@@WeWhoAreXul more like the New republic

[@bursegsardaukar]

Sacrificing 50 men for one mole in the ISB. “The hardest choices require the strongest wills”

[@rroyce2275]

30 people ... plus Kygeer

[@bobbobbob9117]

@@rroyce2275 i love how he kepp saying plus kygeer lol

[@cccspwn]

@@bobbobbob9117 I think he wants to make aware that it’s no light sacrifice

[@bobbobbob9117]

@@cccspwn i know but it was funny lol

[@mcmarkmarkson7115]

@@rroyce2275 Sounds like Krieger in german. Which means Warrior.

[@lizaronni]

I really love Andor. But I don’t think I’d be loving and appreciating the show (or the broader SW universe) nearly as much without all these video essays. Thanks for your work!

[@Hailfire08]

so true bestie

[@BungieStudios]

Thank you for supporting the channel for everybody. 💪

[@progrocker2112]

Well said!

[@jconner78]

OP glorious username

[@GenerationTech]

Thanks! Just saw this now, I’m glad we could all watch this amazing show together!

[@ncc74656m]

In that way, as he said "I burned my life for a sunrise I'll never see," I think Luthen shares a lot with other true idealists who believe in a cause to the very end, damn the costs. Captain Pike, as we see in Discovery and Strange New Worlds, for example. Leia, for another. They can't be broken because they accept their fate. Sure, they will keep fighting right to the bitter end, and if they are granted a reprieve they'll take it. But they know what they signed up for.

[@edwardsmith7131]

Kino Loy himself. This had to have been set up by the writers as a mirror though his character was unaware of his path. Kino lives in the stressful peacelessness of being responsible for the tortures inflicted upon others if he can't satisfy the Empire. He certainly feels damned for using the weapons of his enemy to attempt to make it through. When the opportunity presented itself he yearned to be a savior but when he finally looked down there was no longer any ground beneath his feet. He was willing to burn his life to make a sunrise that he didn't know that he'd ever see. So what does Kino Loy sacrifice? Everything. But Kino sacrificed everything for others without any of the dark impulses of Luthen. Both have killed to fight the Empire but Kino never had any delusions of ego and retribution that Luthen did. I suspect that the message here is that, in a revolution, deeds which seem evil from the perspective of the future peace don't mean that the revolution nor individual revolutionary was evil.

[@BoardWalkToke]

Exactly. For so long its felt like starwars has been stuck in this "shakespeare" acting which just feels dated. Not to mention the PG aspects of it. StarWars needs to evolve and this is a step in the right direction.

[@robderich8533]

No, Luthen Rael's tragedy is that he actually had no idea what he signed up for 15 years ago. He obviously made a decision then and then learned the hard way that there is no way to undo the consequences.

[@BoardWalkToke]

@@robderich8533 hence "until there was no more ground beneath my feet"

[@robderich8533]

@@BoardWalkToke Exactly.

[@ofearghailthefearless6481]

Luthen Rael is one of the most fascinating characters in Star Wars in my opinion. To be honest, his ideology (like in his speech) when it comes to making a rebellion happens to make him one of my favorite Star Wars characters of all time. He truly is the anti-Palpatine and his words and actions say that. Seriously, it was after his speech in the end of episode 10 did it solidify my genuine love for Luthen as a Star Wars character.

[@SmartypantsTutoring]

“Not the individuals who quit after the first 2 episodes bored them” say it my guy.

[@Planag7]

I will say I have more respect for the people who actually tried to see the show a couple episodes then a couple fans that I've run into on other videos that refuse to watch it yet think it's the worst thing about Star Wars... And then another guy which almost made me scream that said the whole show was boring and not a slow burn. Lol

[@ohkaygoplay]

Yes! The 'instant gratification' crowd is really missing out. They've lost the value in the slow-burn-story-telling investment that allows for a story to really stick to you where it counts.

[@SmartypantsTutoring]

I don’t like telling anyone you need to watch a certain amount of episodes to be invested but there is no doubt that those first few episodes of any show are just trying to get your interest and not immediately assume your investment and I really liked watching a Star Wars show that didn’t assume my investment and took its time to get me invested.

[@robhughes8198]

I don’t like dismissing people as simply unintelligent, but is it safe to say many of the hate crowd just simply doesn’t understand it?

[@raetekusu1]

@@robhughes8198 I remember going into the show and I was making fun of people for complaining that the trailer was boring and I was like "u w0t m8? They said this was going to be a political espionage thriller. It's going to be a more quiet, introspective, and grittier show than the Star Wars we're used to." I think the name Star Wars just comes with certain expectations these days. Flashy fights, fun adventures, moral binaries, etc. But along comes a show that's not afraid to be more grounded, realistic, and morally ambiguous, and people don't see the usual Star Wars tropes in it and are just immediately turned off by it.

[@gothicshark]

I love this monologue. "What did you Sacrifice? Calm, Kindness, Kinship. Love. I've given up all chance at inner peace. I've made my mind a sunless space. I share my dreams with ghosts. I wake up everyday to an equation I wrote 15 years ago, from which there's only one conclusion, I'm damned for what I do. My anger, my ego, my unwillingness to yield, my eagerness to fight, they've set me on a path from which there is no escape. I yearned to be a savior against injustice without contemplating the cost and by the time I looked down there was no longer any ground beneath my feet. What is my Sacrifice? I'm condemned to use the tools of my enemy to defeat them. I Burn my decency for someone else's future. I burn my life to make a sunrise that I know I'll never see. And the ego that started this fight will never have a mirror or an audience or the light of gratitude. So what do I sacrifice? EVERYTHING!" btw as a reminder: There is no emotion, there is peace. There is no ignorance, there is knowledge. There is no passion, there is serenity. There is no chaos, there is harmony. There is no death, there is the Force.

[@HurricaneMiltonsDad]

He is a jedi for sure, slipping into the dark side slowly but surely.

[@charlesjenkins2090]

Yeah, I don't expect it, because I do think there is a good chance that the writers, are, like Alan, high on Luthen's supply of antihero worship - who believe not merely that it takes all kinds but that there is something actually MORE heroic in being a bad person for good than in just giving it all and being good for good, but the Rebellion should eventually suffer because of Luthen's methods. Now unlike Alan, who absolutely GUSHED about Luthen's speech to Saw about pragmatism, I do suspect the writers have more in store for us, that Luthen's dodge of Saw's question of what he believes is in fact relevant and what his true beliefs are will eventually matter and that his "mere pragmatism" is a smokescreen for something more. But the truth is, antihero worship, while it might be a newish concept for onscreen SW, is actually pretty tired out at this point, and no, antiheroes don't make for successful rebellions, they make for successful tyrannies, almost all the most destructive people you will ever meet believe some variation of Luthen's fatalistic justification. And this being the United States of America, truth to be told, we don't need to look very far to see how "hard choices porn" of the kind that folks like Alan seem to like are typically ways of acclimating people to being complicit or supportive of war crimes and tyranny.

[@jedikatalina]

@@HurricaneMiltonsDad "I'm not slipping!" (c) ))

[@B463L]

@@charlesjenkins2090 the entire point of Star Wars is that taking ethical shortcuts to achieve your goals isn't worth it. That is literally what we were supposed to learn from Anakin. Luthen is such a cold bastard that even Saw Guerrera is horrified by his actions. If he doesn't turn out to be a major villain, the Andor writers clearly do not understand Star Wars.

[@rocker00000]

@@B463L He might become an antagonist to Andor but I don't think he'll ever hit "villain" status.

[@RX552VBK]

Powerful, Alan. This why I think Andor is probably THE best SW “story” it’s also one of finest example of tv dramatics that’s has been broadcast in quite a while. I am…concerned that many do not like the show. I understand younger fans would get bored (I wouldn’t have it enjoyed it too 40 years ago), but adult SW fans who feel the franchise isn’t “big enough” for the serious examination of the sacrifices to conflict or what lies at the heart of a dictatorship or a rebellion is troubling. Gilroy has imo departed a gift to us fans allow to us who follow the way the real world operates when it comes to questioning our engagement in the way our societies do, and should operate. Excellent video essay, keep up the great work, Alan.

[@GenerationTech]

A lot of factors came into play i think, first disney didn't really advertise this show well, you also have the release of Got and the LOTR show and just general fatigue from star wars shows this year (kenobi,bobf). I think in the long run this series will get the views it deserves

[@matthewblack2926]

@@GenerationTech Boba Fett and Kenobi has their fanfare when the came out, but those shows have been forgotten about now and cast to the side. There's no indepth discussion about them, no new perspectives they offer, they're just simple Star Wars comfort food. Andor will receive low numbers I'm sure, it has no legacy character or nostalgia bait to draw people in. But what it does have, for those who will give it time and think about it, is a story of suffering and sacrifice for the greater good. It is inspirational. The greatest works are not often appreciated upon their release. The Shawshank Redemption bombed at the box office, Heath Leager was seen as an awful casting choice for The Joker, Van Gough's work was never recognised until after his death. But look at them all now. Works of Art.

[@HolyknightVader999]

@@GenerationTech It's like what happened with the Prequels. People look at this and see political stuff, and tune off. A decade down the line, they'll be seeing this as a masterpiece.

[@hicknopunk]

@@HolyknightVader999 George only put that stuff in Episode 1 to cater to the interests of children. That is why we get lots of meeting scenes. Yes he said Episode 1 was written for young viewers 🤣🤣😂 He also said Jar Jar is the funniest character the movies have ever had 🤣🤣😂

[@raetekusu1]

@@matthewblack2926 "they're just simple Star Wars comfort food." And tbh, that *is* what we should expect from Disney. I'm not saying this as a knock on them, they're a corporation, corporations exist to make money, they will do what is most profitable for them, which means catering to the crowd with things that are just good enough but not necessarily great. Look at the MCU. Rather than go for broke trying to make every film a spectacular movie, the MCU banks on a "Moneyball" approach (yes, I've seen that video) where they don't go out to make every movie amazing, but they make each movie entertaining and enjoyable enough to get people into the theatre. The movies don't have to be exemplary, they just have to be fun, and that's what they are, and that's enough for most people. And I'm sure when Disney began this revenue model with Star Wars, that was the idea too. As long as the movies and shows get people watching and make line go up, things are good. The thing is, with both the MCU and Star Wars, in the midst of the "just good enough" fun, the truly spectacular shows will appear and really shine in comparison to everything around it. Infinity War, for instance. People are still quoting that movie and running character studies on Thanos. No Way Home. The first Iron Man. Winter Soldier. So we have Star Wars. We're gonna get more Star Wars comfort food. Bank on it. Mandalorian is gonna keep being used to launch new shows. BoBF and Kenobi Season 2 are reportedly in the works. Maybe there'll be some new movies. They'll be fun, but they won't be particularly deep. But occasionally, there will come along a show that just knocks it out of the park, like Rogue One and Andor, and *those* are the shows and films that will be remembered.

[@marcosmartins7581]

What a show!! Well written, slow paced, gives everyone a chance to shine and Serkis and Stellan grabbed the opportunity with both hands... Some of the best acting ever on Star Wars "I share my dreams with ghosts"... It's a vision that will haunt me until Luthen faces his unavoidable bad ending 👏🏾👌🏾

[@3phemaral]

Wow, dude. I loved your expositions on the Clone Wars previously and your stuff in general. I’m 50, so for me, the original trilogy is Star Wars. I remember, younger, being so surprised that, in ESB, the good guys didn’t win. It was enthralling because it had a depth to it. The rebels get sacked in their base, many are killed, victory is escaping…the protagonists get hunted down, tortured, trafficked, defeated, and dismembered. What was hopeful was simply the fact of survival. Andor gives me that same experience. But, what is rewarding is that it gives you content worth the exposition. You’re spot on. Most of us live in a world so sheltered and comfortable that if the grocery doesn’t have our favorite cereal or peanut butter in stock, people think it is time to start fortifying their homes and hoarding rice. If political or court decisions don’t match their values, they buy guns and ammunition. The thing that terrifies me all the time is, over the past 100 years reality has improved so fast, for so many, that most of the problems in the world are an apocalypse of productivity. We’re over-winning to such an extent it becomes hard to recognize substantive victory and danger in the confusion of acceleration. People get this sense that there is nothing meaningful to do anymore, and they worry that without a socially validated purpose they’re going to be abandoned as dispensable. People just have got to win…even when there isn’t anything left to fight over or an obvious way to keep score. They have got to have a scoreboard, so they make them up. Suddenly everything about life transforms into a game, and people live life like a MMPORG. But, in life, there aren’t many artifacts of transcendent power. Those few that exist are built and maintained, cooperatively, by enough people to make a mid-sized nation. In life there are seldom true dragons to slay, and the experience brings debilitating PTSD as opposed to unlocking another level of HP and Feats. When you break the economy of a computer game, real people don’t starve. An annoying real person is not a NPC, and people treat each other too much like that. I’m afraid, often, that our ability to enjoy such verisimilitude in our power fantasy is making everyone less socially competent. You’re awesome, and clearly brilliant. The simple and obvious wins in social approval aren’t enough. So, you do what you love, and you take it seriously…even the dolphins…because, you’re right, if the dolphins could figure out how to, they would certainly destroy us in a genocidal war. Human civilization will continue to be catastrophically environmentally destructive. If we’re wise, we will preserve and maintain enough that we don’t throw away something of value. But, a Gaia maintained by humans will, by definition, serve human needs, desires, art, and facticity. Ultimately, making the most of the world for our children means there is less for every other organism. For us to experience freedom and continued development as a species, all the others are going to be forced to occupy whatever niches we think they ought to occupy, to suit our aesthetic. Even the greenest utopia of conservation is going to change everything that is wild into something caged, monitored, controlled, and maybe even appreciated and loved. But, none of nature will look back in gratitude. Would we? It is the fact that you take it seriously that makes it art, and worth listening to. If people take fantasy seriously, they don’t need play life like a game. You are just so right. I feel like…I wish there was some way to can that last statement and have it replayable on demand. Don’t go looking for revolutions. When things get bad enough, revolution will find you. That is such a simple thing to say. But, it was really profound - and, it is a major theme in Andor. These people aren’t heroes. They’re helpless. The revolution found them and the protagonists are simply the ones that haven’t died yet. And the fact that as a viewer you know that Cassian himself dies so early in the rebellion gives the other characters in Andor more weight even as they’re dying one after another. Historical events transform society. Violent chaotic ones can lead to dramatic change, for better or worse. But, sometimes not that much changes. And, no matter what, whomever experiences the violence and chaos doesn’t become stronger for it. Survivors are more cunning. But the wise person, given a choice, would skip it. Let us all hope we continue to have that choice as often and for as long as possible.

[@chrisaguilera1564]

So masterfully stated.

[@TroySchoonover]

This was very well stated, sir. I have done a lot Family History research, and I find it interesting how little vignettes of my ancestors' lives often focus on some struggle in which they participated, and I've thought more than once what my legacy will be when it's boiled down to a Life Sketch one day. What were my life's achievements worth mentioning? I have a few, but this internal sentiment I feel is similar to the one you were describing. I keep coming back to one thing: family. My family is my legacy, and I should not feel compelled to be anything more than a good husband and father for my family: to not be the weak link in the chain of my generations. I am reminded of a quote from John Adams that has added to my perspective as I've thought about this over the years: "I must study politics and war that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy. My sons ought to study mathematics and philosophy, geography, natural history, naval architecture, navigation, commerce, and agriculture, in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music, architecture, statuary, tapestry, and porcelain." We who are enjoying this 'third generation' sort of lifestyle often appear to struggle to find meaning, but it is often out of a sense of ignorance, or, worse, ingratitude for our own nation's history and often our own families' histories. Perhaps we are still too close to the memory of those who struggled so much, that it will take another few for those in future generations to find greater appreciation and meaning in their lives of ease and abundance compared to our ancestors. I love the fact Andor is just that good that it can inspire reflection and exposition like yours and mine. ☺️

[@JohnFoerster-i5y]

This was a quite interesting read, good sir.

[@dystopianlucidity4448]

Luther is a man that has reached his limit. He knows how to fight, and is unencumbered in his pursuit. He understands the cycles of tyranny. A man who is knowledgeable, has resources, and is totally determined to fight. Much like Kino Loy, the determination in the characters is apparent. This is Star Wars on a whole new level.

[@R463R]

I was behind, and just binge watched Andor last week…. ALL of the praise is justified. Andor is Star Wars done RIGHT!!

[@SuppleBadger]

Gosh the whole speech Luthen gave just gave me chills, it really echoed that powerful final goodbye from Epsilon/Church in RvB 13 (at least to me); "There are so many stories where some brave hero gives their life to save the day, and because of their sacrifice, the good guys win, the survivors all cheer, and everybody lives happily ever after. But the hero never gets to see that ending. They'll never know if their sacrifice actually made a difference. They'll never know if the day was really saved. In the end, they just have to have faith. Ain't that a bitch."

[@emilyy_echo]

I thought the same thing! I’m so glad to know someone else also made that connection

[@TheHonoredMadman]

The "I think about you constantly" delivery is something only Stellan can pull off. It reminded me of when he said "I've never had a man in here before" in the girl with the dragon tattoo

[@ohkaygoplay]

I love this show because of how hard it punches me in an area Star Wars had yet to hit. It has me thinking about the episodes all week long until the next one, and beyond compounded with the previous episodes that stay in my head. To come to love characters like Nemick, Luthen, Mon Mothma, Cassian, Marva, and Kino - that takes real talent. To be half as good at this level of writing and development would be an absolute gift. Tony Gilroy is the perfect director for "Andor." "So don't go looking for revolutions, because - I assure you -when things get hard enough, when life gets difficult enough, revolution will find you." Dude, that line hit me hard. Your writing skills have always been amazing. You could write for the show, especially with how versed you are in politics and the workings of societies - not just Americans. I'd like to have half that writing skill. Permission to quote that line, please? It resonates hard with the sci-fi story I'm writing.

[@wither5673]

Luthen embodies what it takes to fight an absolute authoritarian power, and for that alone he has my admiration and respect.

[@henrystandard6033]

Luthen is one of the best star wars characters and mothma is getting the portrayal she always deserved. The character building and expansion in this show is top tier

[@GOODYGOODGOOD789]

“People shouldn't be afraid of their government. Governments should be afraid of their people.” - V

[@likecrazyhorse]

I do think Luthen was trying to see how fired up Andor was about taking out the Empire, but he sees Andor as a tool. The kyber crystal he gave is significant, but not to Luthen, it is just an accessory to get the tool to work. Andor was motivated mostly by money at the time, still the case during the heist, so the kyber was an assurance he would complete the job.

[@littlekong7685]

It was also a powerful artifact of guilt. A good man would be motivated to return it, thus proving he is good and meaning he is a good tool to be reused until spent. If he didn't return it, then he is just a thief, and either died with it, or died trying to sell it. Either way, investment returned with an agent, or silence.

[@glcsander]

He was making sure that Andor would do everything in his power to get the job done even if it costed his life, to be sure he had to test his will and character, the arrogance Andor despise on the empire it's the same he himself display, to think that walking into a imperial base to steal material it's not something you pull off without demeaning the empire and he was right as when Andor gets arrested and his mother dies he truly sees whats he is against.

[@davidbennettracing538]

“There will be no rules going forward.” He says as he literally takes his gloves off. Fantastic!

[@mattparsons2045]

Luthen makes this show work for me. Without him, it'd still be a solid show, but I wouldn't be half as captivated. Farm boys in X-wings blowing up Death Stars might get all the credit, but its men like Luthen who laid the groundwork to make the opportunity possible, making plans years before they'd bear fruit.

[@simoncampoy4131]

Andor showed what a true rebellion was. It's commitment, it's sacrifice, it's becoming something and not being able to turn back. It's despair. And all of that, for hope.

[@70briareos]

At the end of the episode when Luthen said "You stay with me Lonni, I need all the heroes I can get." he sounds like he's pleading with Lonni to stay. I think he found a kindred spirit in Supervisor Jung, because they're pretty much trapped in the same boat. That's why when he did his monologue it was a brief moment of vulnerability where Luthen was pouring his heart out to Lonni.

[@IsaacKuo]

First off, thanks so much for recognizing that Luthen lies and is manipulative! I'm disappointed that so many people "defend" Luthen as not manipulating Lonni; that Luthen is just telling the plain truth. I'm like ... how can you think that? Luthen's lying left and right, and clearly saying whatever will get Lonni back with the program.

[@GenerationTech]

yeah when he called lonnie's effort epic, it felt so flat

[@alvhinator]

Luthen tells Lonni to get back "on program", literally the language/tool of his enemy.

[@dianabarnett6886]

His praising of Lonnie wasn't honest, but I think the rest was. But, one can manipulate with the truth. In fact, it can be more effective than lies. His speech for Lonnie boiled down to "Your sacrifice ain't shit compared to mine. Now get your head back in the game, or I'm going to have to remove it."

[@aran9952]

"Don't go looking for revolutions because, I assure you, when things get hard enough, when life gets difficult enough, revolution will find you" Such a good line in a very well made video, well done!

[@progrocker2112]

“A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they shall never sit.” - Greek Proverb

[@aatrima30]

"when things get hard enough, when life gets difficult enough... Revolution will find you" damn allen that hits hard

[@123456gordon]

This show is getting better by the minute. It's absolute peak Star Wars at the moment.

[@brettjordan88ful]

Before Andor (and especially after Kenobi and BOBF) I thought Star Wars would never again be something I was passionate about. Andor has made me enjoy Star Wars again, and then I found your channel and now I feel like I CARE again. I check every day for new content and then binge through at least a few of your old SW videos. Thank you, Allen.

[@robsanty5256]

"We get dirty, the world stays clean that's the mission" - Captain Price I think this quote sums up Luthen almost perfectly

[@SmartypantsTutoring]

Up there with some of my favorite Star Wars characters. He might not carry a lightsaber and have a cool helmet, but he is far more fascinating than your average action figure.

[@TheHonoredMadman]

He's got a cool trench coat tho

[@SmartypantsTutoring]

And a cape. A cape is always cool.

[@lcflngn]

He has a very cool staff type deal as well (arriving on Ferrix) that retracts into a much smaller hilt. Kinda light saber like, but not one. Waiting to find out what the heck that is… Plus there’s the Kyber crystal. Can’t think he’s a Jedi, but may a serious fan in some way? Or he cared about someone who was killed in Order 66?

[@christopherkucia1071]

I love Luthen. And he has SHIP LIGHT SABERS. I however don’t really like they put that in. It doesn’t feel realistic or practical. In all of this show that was the ONLY thing I saw or heard that made me go “uhhhh yeah right” and that’s pretty impressive for a space fantasy, most of starwars, although the OT are pretty good at being realistic and believable. Or at least just have the PUNCH that Andor does. I grew up with the prequels and loved them, but the OT still stands better to me, especially as I grow older at 26. I enjoyed rogue one, loved the mandalorian, although it seems like it’s changing a bit to be more mainstream and clickbaity…. You know it’s trying to broaden its audience to the non critical thinking masses and children. But I still love it. I really didn’t like the sky walker sequels but I enjoyed seeing some new starwars. Boba fett at least kept me watching until the end, but then I was pretty disappointed finishing it.. it was pretty bad…. Kenobi I couldn’t even finish. I loved the 2003 animated cartoon, I didn’t get super into the clone wars show but one of these days I’m going to start it at the beginning and pay attention. I have judged it as juvenile and for young people but I could be wrong. I think that’s pretty much all the starwars movies/shows I’ve seen. And ANDOR is now my all time favorite so far. I’ll see how the last episode is but I know it’s going to KNOCK IT OUT OF THE PARK and leave me utterly insane with withdrawal anticipating the next season. It’s just absolutely INCREDIBLE. I think that’s partially due to the fact that most recent starwars has set the bar so low and Im awestruck too, but overall…. I mean I think that this is one of if not THE best starwars to date, but remove the starwars and it’s just actually an incredibly well made TV show. A piece of art. Media is art and so much of the mainstream recent media is TRASH and full of propaganda for whatever current social issue is being propped up. It is soooo refreshing, but even more so-it’s addicting and thought provoking watching Andor and I am a happy starwars geek!

[@benjaminjane93]

What I love about Luthien and what his existence represents is that the rebels we see in Rogue One, who all were won over by saying the word 'Hope' fifty times are all there because one man laid the foundation with deceit, blood, and violent cohersion. Luthien understood that Hope is a good motivator. But that's all it is. To get it done, to topple an empire, you have to be as ruthless as your enemy. And he can do it from the Shadows, he's basically the anti-Palpatine. And it works so well story-telling wise because we know he didn't see the fruits of his labour, and he himself KNOWS it. And once more, he is okay with it. He's made his peace with the fact that he won't see the outcome of his work. But doing his work he has given people the opportunity to rise up themselves.

[@MR.ICE.]

I love how smart and dangerous Luthen is. Then, we see him drop the pretence’s for a moment so we get to truly understand who he is, yet not giving too much away. This dude is as smart as Palpatine only difference is he doesn’t have the same power. Yet he still makes it work.

[@ryankwon8785]

My Theory Considering how he is an archivist and a collector, Luthen probably knows about the Sith Order and how they are the true rulers of the Galactic Empire. He knows the stakes as he might've read in the past of the ruthlessness and brutality of the Sith Empire during the Old Republic. Luthen joined to fight the Sith and take down their oppressive Empire.

[@dianabarnett6886]

The dude literally has a Sith holocron and Sith stalker armor in his shop. His ship reminds me of the vessel of ancient Sith Inquisitors. I have no doubt he's studied them extensively. The man is a historian.

[@Virtual_Jester]

@@dianabarnett6886Rael literally claim that the Kyber crystal he gave to Andor was from the Rakattan Empire, of course he knows his galactic history.

[@GOODYGOODGOOD789]

“Behind this mask there is more than just flesh. Beneath this mask there is an idea... and ideas are bulletproof.” - V

[@jwoellhof]

Luthen's entire speech, starting with 'Calm' is the straight description of a Jedi who gave up his connection to the Force, in order to hide and continue to fight, while using the ways of the Sith to win.

[@dianabarnett6886]

I don't think he's a Jedi, but he IS a historian.

[@Osentalka]

'I share my dreams with ghosts' has a very literal meaning if he's an ex-jedi.

[@jacob4920]

I have only one word for this show, as a whole: BRILLIANT!!!!!! The people not watching "Andor" are truly missing out on quality entertainment. And that makes me sad.

[@Meatwadsan]

“A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.” -Greek Proverb They are like the revolutionary heroes who are often nameless and forgotten. The dark knights who must dirty their hands for a better future, but realize that their taint means they will no longer deserve to see or lead that future. They were the ones who used the tools and weapons of their enemy, and then must hand those reins off to those whose hands are clean and can lead that future with the respect and dignity that they themselves have sacrificed long ago.

[@gerrye114]

"I believe in something greater than myself. A better world. A world without sin... I'm not going to live there. There's no place for me there... any more than there is for you. I'm a monster. What I do is evil. I have no illusions about it, but it must be done."

[@oscarobrien5304]

I totally guessed who the spy was just because of the camera directing in the ISB scenes if you watch them they always show him reacting to everything said

[@littlekong7685]

I always assumed that was just because of how brutally cutthroat the ISB can be, especially to new officers trying to make it up the final rung. On rewatch, it does make sense that he is doing his best to hear and remember anything of import.

[@BungieStudios]

I hope Lanni doesn't get hung.

[@Vantud391]

The most shame for creating such a good character like Luthen is most people will not know of him, what he done for the cause, he will not be remembered.

[@jlokison]

Even in history the spymasters that bolstered or toppled regimes are seldom know. If they are it is often due to spectacular failure.

[@mcgoo721]

But Palpatine will rightfully be immortalized in history

[@ellelivestream1919]

Love this character,, and actor, never have I gradually come to truly admire an actor and his character as I have with this character/and actor in Andor. I don't know that any other actor could have done this character the justice that he has, revealing only pieces of the puzzle that is Luthen. Looking forward to many more performances from this actor. Stellan Skaarssgard rules! Bravo!

[@lucasgalvao843]

Imagine being an imperial official, thinking your job is serious and all, then just realizing your whole career is part of a batshit crazy space sorcerer's plot. What a shock.

[@encahill]

He reminds me somewhat of the young Irish rebel and politician Michael Collins who brutally orchestrated a guerrilla war for over 2 years against the British Empire, he was by all accounts .. including personal account from my grandfather who fought with him .. highly intelligent, absolutely calculated and fully prepared to get his hands filthy to achieve his goals.. and he was utterly unforgiving with traitors. He knew his actions would cause his death, and he was assassinated at age 31 after negotiating the peace agreement in 1922.

[@noicecars3052]

Luthens Monologue is one of the most beautiful works of art that comes from Star Wars within the past decade

[@justy303]

Stellan Skarsgård was perfect for this! Once again.

[@cptannehalle5289]

Generation Tech I think this is your best video yet. The way you deconstructed Luthen speech and quoted specific lines to dynamically support your claims shows a real talent in framing this impressively complex character into a tight and convincing narrative. Props to you, this video was a joy to listen to !

[@hamzapetridis206]

Luthen and Marva’s speech are the best two speeches I have ever seen in cinema. Beautiful.

[@martincamacho2444]

12:07 the difference between those two is saw is only thinking tactically Luthen is being strategic he knows that no matter how many soldiers he kills the empire recruits more then he kills the same thing with military equipment, or how much equipment is destroyed the ability to produce, and even improve their military equipment is far outpaces the rebels ability to destroy it or sabotage it

[@elizabethbrokos5363]

Luthens Monolog brings tears to my eyes... as much as Rebels Episode 'Jedi Knight' Kanons Sacrifice... makes me Bawl like a Baby... If it wasn't for Luthen and Kanon the Resistance, would Never have made a Difference....

[@roykronvall3396]

15:40 ~ "Great men are forged in fire. It is the privilege of lesser men to light the flame." ~Dr. Who

[@Theegreygaming]

Generation Tech: Luthen Rael has no connection to the force Luthen Rael: has a cane made from a lightsaber hilt, wears a Kyber crystal around his neck, knows the origins of the Jedi Order and the Rakatan Infinite Empire, and pilots a ship that has freaking lightsabers and effectively uses them to destroy two tie fighters in a single maneuver. resents being forced to basically do exactly what palpatine did during the clone wars, laments the loss of his inner peace (a callback to the Jedi Code). Rael is most definitely an Order 66 survivor.

[@javierescuella4084]

Literally one of the greatest speeches in star wars change my mind

[@cw7legionofpewrights596]

The ending of this vid is a life lesson for the last years of the 2020 riots the other chaos and the ones demanding revolution is sickening cuz the cost of lives alone and people only care about themselves majority of the time just remember we’re a United States of America men & women this is all our home treat them well and love things get better and if you want to oppress them economically, socially or by government force it’ll only make things worse. Andor is bringing that to light.

[@Bhicken61]

Love the content!

[@hamzapetridis206]

Something I love about this show, is that, both of my grandfathers, and one of my great grandfather were spies in France for the Algerian Liberation Front. I truly just appreciate this show for showing me the danger they were really in and the risk they took to get rid of the colonial French empire.

[@swift4657]

What you said at the end reminds me heavily of people in the US who talk about a second civil war when for most life really isnt hard enough there for it to be worth the death and destruction of war. A excellent video extremely thought provocking!

[@49Calibur]

Dude Alan, I’m fairly new to the channel, but have been absolutely engrossed with all the content you put out, very intelligent and concise, inspiring a deeper trail of thought. Thank you for being a total legend, can’t wait you see more, keep up the amazing work my brotha!! 🫡🤙

[@_emory]

This show solidified Stellan Skarsgard and Andy Serkis as my favorite actors of my time. They’re such incredibly dynamic people

[@Kaz-qz2oq]

Lonnie's scene in the elevator was brilliant, for a moment I thought I was watching the Imitation Game

[@starwars90001]

Thulen is a the perfect example of being on the dark fighting for the light, he uses tactics that Palpy and most Sith would smile at but does it for selfless reasons. If he had the force he'd be the perfect dark jedi. He and saw are the rebel versions of Palptine and Vader but still fighting for a good cause.

[@shanenolan8252]

Thing you mentioned about managing people. Its not dissimilar from a teacher who knows the answer but leads a student to the answer. And to cooperate in the students education. Mutual goals

[@MiguelVicoR]

The way I read it is that Spellhaus was allways a suicide mision, maybe by design, and Luthan's insistense for Guerrera to join was an atempt to get rid of all the non-cohoperative revel factions in one go.

[@alphaclean3364]

That's a pretty dark take but it would fit Luthen's m.o. as we know it now

[@raetekusu1]

A "no loose ends" approach.

[@matthewcarroll2533]

Yeah he all but states it in one of the earliest episodes, not sure which but it was an off-hand comment between him and his assistant in Coruscant. Something to the effect that it was "doomed from the start" or some such and that was brought up before he goes to visit Saw.

[@cephydash1533]

This channel compliments the series so well

[@KnightsWithoutATable]

When you are doing espionage, your hands do not stay clean. The Rebellion is at the stage of only being in the shadows. The work done in such dark places is never glorious, but it is vital for a movement to get off the ground and to keep it going, even after it has won. You just have to be careful, as was pointed out in this video, to not become the monsters that you are trying to slay.

[@savageaeternum6047]

Andor without a doubt and Rogue One which fallows his end are best of the best in Star Wars History story telling and writing. I enjoy more watching ordinary man and woman fighting for the cause than some magic wielding character that can end them all in one breath. And for the first time ever we now have a show that shows the birth of the Rebellion in Andor story which fit's perfectly.

[@Man_Emperor_of_Mankind]

This character is both the best thing disney has introduced into SW, and the best hope disney has to bring a new hope into to the franchise

[@kmart93]

Your deep dives on Andor have all been fantastic. Some of the best work you've done over the years.

[@jeffreycarman2185]

As per usual Generation Tech is spot on. Andor is an excellent TV show and some of the best Star Wars ever.

[@ae121584]

Theres a scene in spy x family that speaks to your final point, where Handler dresses down some would-be revolutionaries about the reality of war. Seeing family crushed in rubble, seeing friends brains splattered againsts a wall, and friends whose souls are as stained as yours choosing to end it over another day of guilt. Glory is great for recruitment and movies, and war is occasionally necessary, but its not something that should EVER be sought

[@darthdespot5120]

Luthen's Sacrifice speech is amazing. I wish more Star Wars shows were like Andor. Andor is serious and real and deep. Between Luthen's Speech and "One way out" like come on. stuff is gold.

[@hughseagraves7036]

Something I hadn't thought about before: does Mon Mothma fear that Luthen isn't after democracy but power? I love the complexity here.

[@Aaron-fb6mb]

Ah wow I’ve never thought of that. I wonder how much she trusts him. Or maybe she feels how quickly the empire is closing its fist and her thought is “we’ll figure out these things later, right now I need whoever I can get”

[@Forever_orwhatever]

I love how Andor has so much depth that it warrants this type of analysis!

[@kenward1310]

Best SW content since 1980. Give Gilroy the keys to the kingdom.

[@yahikouzumaki4955]

"Revolution will find you". Nice punchline.

[@TheGhettoGinger]

Luthen is what true Rebellion looks like. It's not the glamour of being a starfighter hero who happens to get the lucky shot that destroys an important military facility. It's the people who sacrificed everything to get that information. It's those who died for a cause they don't know will come to fruition. Rebellion is not something that's done with clean hands. The Rebellion did horrible things in the name of their cause. The reason I love Andor is because it's long overdue. We needed a show or movie to demonstrate that the Rebellion wasn't all good and the Empire wasn't all bad.

[@wedgeodyssey3275]

Nine months on from this show and I am still in awe of it. I was lucky enough to attend the pannel for Andor at Celebration, and hearing the producers explain in detail how they crafted this show only further proved to me that it is a masterpiece.

[@seanmckee6061]

Anybody else kind of want to see Luthen Rael pitted against Grand Admiral Thrawn in a cat and mouse game of strategy and spies?

[@DamienAlexander-Ducroix]

Luthen would win, because he would shamelessly cheat. Thrawn is ultimately a military man, not a spymaster. Spies fight extremely dirty. That and Luthen wouldn't even bother revealing he was an enemy to Thrawn. Thrawn isn't all-knowing.

[@AC-youtube6384]

Alan, your analysis of the show is excellent. Your social commentary is even better. Thanks for your work

[@Т1000-м1и]

This channel is greatness

[@jsealejandro06]

The fact that you made so many videos about andor made me want to watch the show as it showed you were excited about it and I wanted to watch your videos... Great fucking show, great fucking videos.

[@GOODYGOODGOOD789]

“There's no flesh or blood within this cloak to kill. There's only an idea. Ideas are bulletproof.” ― V

[@Aaron-fb6mb]

Who’s V he’s spittin

[@GOODYGOODGOOD789]

@@Aaron-fb6mb V is the protagonist in the comic and movie V For Vendetta.

[@BlizzardofKnives]

This reminded me of the Operative from the movie Serenity. His lines about making a better world in which he’ll have no place, due to the actions he’s taken to bring it about.

[@rtyler1869]

One thing I loved about the interaction between Loni and Luther in Ep 10 was the way Luther played Loni like any spy master and his agent. It is something that comes up a lot in spy novels. Sometimes the agent feeding the info needs their ego massaged to remain faithful. Sometimes they need to be scared. The writing in this scene used both effectively

[@Noizemaze4]

this speech legit sent CHILLS down my spine ! have NOT felt this way about star wars since disney took over .............

[@BungieStudios]

You didn't get shivers when Holdo rammed the First Order? When Kylo split the lightsaber? When no one was coming to General Leia's aid?

[@Noizemaze4]

@@BungieStudios nuuupe, those were lammeee :P

[@CakeorDeath1989]

His character shows that some men are willing to twist themselves into monsters in order to fight other monsters. It asks the question, "how far down the road of madness are you willing to go, sacrificing your own moral code, your relationships, any semblance of happiness, your sense of self, your self-esteem, if doing so meant you could protect the ones you love from harm?" If you go down that road, there comes a point where there's no turning back. You have no choice but to go further. If you survive, you come out the other end so irrevocably changed by the experience that you're unrecognisable. You are a different person. So you sacrifice every part of yourself to build this new world, to save people, knowing full well there's not even a place for you in the new world that's created. I see a lot of parallels between Luthen and General Grievous. Grievous chose to transform himself into a monster because it meant he could avenge the people of his homeland by destroying the Republic. He went willingly down the path of madness, discarding literal pieces of himself as he went, transforming and sharpening his body into something monstrous. All that remained of Grevious were tatters of the old being. You couldn't even call him a Kaleesh anymore, not really. But that was a sacrifice Grievous was willing to take to fight against the Republic. Luthen went under a similar transformation, but it was an internal one, obviously.

[@yoface2537]

This man really hates dolphins

[@Aaron-fb6mb]

Don’t we all

[@TroyBeThyName]

This channel is soooo good keep it up!!

[@genesis1701]

Garak's speech from Star Trek: DS9 "In the pale moonlight" is the perfect example of what needs to be done.

[@glenn_r_frank_author]

An excellent analysis of Luthen and the general concept of the mantle people take on to accomplish a monumental task like the Star Wars Rebellion. Extra fitting and bringing it home to the subtle screen in the background of your videos with the colors of a country's flag who is enduring great sacrifice and tenacity to overcome and survive.

[@jeffengel2607]

I think Luthen can admire Lonny AND consider Lonny a liability at the same time. He's done good and terrifying work - Luthen knows that as well as can be, and it's the work Luthen's needed from him. But they're all signed on to sacrifice all it takes, and if Lonny can't remain alive without being an unacceptable risk, well, he signed on to be killed by Luthen in that case too. It'd be one more bit of dirty business for Luthen but again, he signed on for that himself.

[@matthewcarroll2533]

Yep, exactly.

[@alexsmith8240]

Wow, this was a strong video. Its a big wake up to how truely devastating a revolution and war can be