The Best Episode Yet: "Andor" Episode 10 (Spoiler Review-cap)

[@ryvlaw]

You have to consider that Kino knew this wasn't going to work out for him. He knew there was water all around them and that he wasn't able to escape. He did the whole thing for everyone else. Maybe that's why he struggled to start the escape in the first place since the knew there was nothing in it for him but his caring side won in the end, starting the riot.

[@jetblast190]

Yup, when Kino said “I’m gonna assume I’m already dead” was a bit of foreshadowing. He knew exactly what “one way out” involved.

[@goldfishprime]

@The Rotten💯 I'm sure Cassian and Melshi would have helped him, but they got pushed over before they knew he couldn't swim.

[@ellicel]

@The Rotten💯 I’m not sure if we’d get the same gut punch from last images of him struggling in the water. The way his face transforms when he reaches the edge, the haunted look in his eyes, his last spoken line, “I can’t swim…” It’s a quiet moment in the midst of chaos and noise. It’s such a cinematic, heart wrenching moment that will stay with the viewer for a long time afterwards. I just can’t imagine the same emotional weight and loss if the last thing I see is him struggling in the water, looking panicked (as he would be, of course). No quiet, dignified exit that. 😢

[@mecurian485]

@The Rotten💯 It's easy to say that, but if you were standing at the edge would you have jumped? The human desire for self preservation is overwhelming, and faced with the possibility of an almost certain death from drowning, vs a more distant possibility of being killed by the Empire, one might choose the latter.

[@Flyingbearfitness]

He could've just asked for a few quick tips on swimming haha

[@Hanoua2]

A scene that also "Felt Real". Was all the guards hiding in that tiny room, scared for their life, they knew they were screwed and outnumbered.

[@Daniel_Huffman]

Clearly, whatever fate their superiors have in store for them is preferable to the countless things those angry prisoners have in mind for them.

[@MedalionDS9]

Hundreds of prisoners, some having blasters vs 12 guards with stun batons but no electrical floor to zap them, they didn't stand a chance

[@Philipp3022]

I loved the scared face of the one guard during the speech when they announce all guards on all floors are outnumbered and they know it. "Power doesnt panic"

[@Centaur255]

100%. What I loved about the episode is how everyone acted in ways that made sense. The guards at first go to see what's wrong, find themselves ambushed, and things go dark. The guys on Level 8 have no idea what's actually happening, treat it as a small hiccup, only to find things are far worse than they thought. And by the time the prisoners are all set free, the guards make the smart decision: get your buddies together, hide, and hope they don't find you. The only thing that didn't make sense to me was the decision not to put on shoes, either from the dead guards or from the racks. I feel like more of the prisoners should have done that. But otherwise just a flawless episode.

[@Wally-pu2hh]

They were so cruel to the prisoners and they didn't bother to draw them out and punish them like reality

[@dankokamcevski]

Luthen is like Palpatine in almost every aspect, except one: he is working towards a goal that he knows he will not live to see. With all his ruthlessness, there is a selfless core in him. Whereas Palpatine completely lacked awareness of his own fall and used and sacrificed others, Luthen almost sacrifices his own humanity so that others may one day see the light. It makes him a tragic and, of course, an absolutely brilliant character. His monologue is genuinely Shakespearean.

[@delta.6160]

Lol so true. I was thinking the same thing. Luthen totally is the rebellion’s palpatine.

[@meg1827]

He even looked like Palps during the monologue!

[@jeffreycarman2185]

If Andor does not get a few Emmy nominations and one or two Emmys there is no justice in the world.

[@Superdelphinus]

It was until he said “I need a hero, I need a hero ‘till the end of the night”

[@ItsTimeToPull]

That monologue was incredible. Never thought I’d see something like that from Disney era Star Wars content.

[@DidWeWin1]

The "already dead" line takes on new meaning when you find out he can't swim. You could interpret it as, he knew he wasn't getting out. His pauses, those blank stares, they were him coming to terms with the fact that he has no way of getting free. He's dead no matter what, and his choice to take action wasn't to save himself, it was to save his men. Amazing how one line can change the way you think about so much of what came before. Brilliant writing.

[@benjaminroe311ify]

@Toask True but I think this commentor is right as well. Kino is saying that to say there is nothing left to fear but also acknowledging the likelihood of death during the escape is very high... perhaps he never thought he would ever even get to the water's edge. I kind of think that is the case as he kind of makes a wry laugh. Like I have come all this way but "I can't swim" etc.

[@lightpoint4426]

I was seriously wondering when they were going to snag a getaway ship or something. And then I realized that THERE WAS NO SHIP...Damn...

[@mrpink99]

@@benjaminroe311ify all those moments of hesitation, like when he was still passing out blasters when Cassian urged him to keep moving, or when he hesitated to make his speech over the comm; like he knew death was lurking around every corner, he just didn't know where or when.

[@Wally-pu2hh]

He couldn't even make a flotation device, or grab something. All that water surrounding them and there's no emergency lif jackets in case of an emergency?! Ridiculous

[@mrpink99]

@@Wally-pu2hh This is the Empire we're talking about here. They have no guard rails on the Death Star catwalks & bridges that overlook massive chasms where stormtroopers can easily fall to their deaths. I'm pretty sure the Empire punishes disobedient troopers by making them listen to recordings of their buddies' Wilhelm screams over and over to get them back in line.

[@xFaitt-]

Andor not sleeping is a callback to the conversation he had with nimek the morning of the heist. The little things like that really build up and make the show more and more brilliant by the episode

[@creagandubh4411]

For real! I didn't realize that.

[@imperialodst7335]

Yesss

[@shironasama0445]

I felt really bad for Any Serkis’s character, the whole escape was successful just for us to realize he can’t swim

[@cjcrrazy]

Hope he makes a comeback, even though Star Wars has overdone the seemingly dead and shock return of too many characters. In this case it would be more realistic as we don’t actually see him impaled, sliced in half etc. and flotation aids or help from others is entirely possible.

[@Peter-id9wh]

@The Rotten💯 I was thinking the same thing! Like Cassian was the only person who could say “Bruh, I’ll get you to shore.”? I also wonder though if it isn’t something where they reveal him in one of the final episodes or next season. But kuddos no matter what to Andy for conveying the right amount of fear and resignation at that moment.

[@cjcrrazy]

Otherwise if you kill him off you should have a scene with him sinking to his death (bit cliche I know) or recaptured on the facility

[@andyb1653]

We have yet to see a body. All we know is he was left behind, I give 50/50 chance we see him again. Perhaps he steals a ship from the facility, and that's how Cassian and Melshi get off-world.

[@buskergirl]

The realistic situation would be that the crowd sweeps him into the water, or he jumps anyway. He said in his speech to help each other, surely they can help him to the shore. But if the writers want to give him a bittersweet ending, this would be it. Hope he survives, he has no reason to die.

[@michaelknox3715]

I was tearing up when the prisoners started chanting one way out. These men, along with Ezra, Kanan, Zeb, Sabine, Copper, Hera, Jyn, Cara Dune, the Bad Batch, Rex, Ahsoka and everyone on Scariff walked so Luke Skywalker could make that one in a million shot on the Death Star.

[@technolegends306]

And then 30 years later it all went to shit again and it was all for nothing

[@matthewjohnson2428]

@@technolegends306 I just pretend those films don't exist and I'm much more happy with the story that way

[@michaeldemarco9950]

@@technolegends306, shhhh. We don’t want to talk about the sequels.

[@hellothere1216]

I absolutely love that perspective that this show provides. The sacrifice, the pain, the effort, the sheer will we're seeing that it takes for this rebellion to happen makes everything so much more satisfying

[@jeffreycarman2185]

You and me both. This was perfectly executed TV. The build up was as effective as the payoff.

[@ominouspuppet4556]

This is the most emotion I’ve ever experienced from Live-action Star Wars! I seriously care about every one of these characters even though we only just met them.

[@ellicel]

@The Rotten💯 I saw a YT commentary that touched on this question and made some sense of it for me, as I’m feeling something similar. They pointed out how all the characters we’ve come to love are very active whereas for the most part, Andor has been a very passive protagonist. So far, the story and the plot have tossed him about, with him making decisions of the moment (and affecting mostly himself). As he moves into a more central position where he takes a stand and begins to act for others, perhaps we, too, will also be more engaged. I thought that was an intriguing way to see it and hope that’s the case. I imagine when they go back to Ferrix and we see him react to whatever consequences Maarva has to bear for his actions that I will feel more for him.

[@ellicel]

@The Rotten💯 You make a good point. I saw him in Narcos and remember liking him in that. But it’s been many years since then. I should take a look at one of those early episodes and see if he’s essentially playing the same person there too. I was super interested in this show when it was announced for only one reason: K2SO 🤣😂

[@benjaminroe311ify]

@Toask I think you see a more broad range in the Rogue One movie with Diego Luna's acting. I expect to see it in this as well as he evolves and the situation changes. For the most part he has been running for his life since the start of the show. So we have gotten very serious... very stoic and angered and intense and frightened Cassian but I think we will see more intense Anger and Pain with the Maarva situation later and more emotions as he gets deeper in the alliance. Diego is a good actor.

[@danielvanveen2960]

It’s all about Andors’ character arc. And we know that there will be a second season. So nuch time for the character development.

[@stevebreedlove9760]

He's just a Tourist. And One Way Out are implicitly part of his own growth from a monkey wrencher to a full fledged rebel Agent. He's the one who Wasn't Listening when Luthan tried to explain What Is To Be Done. On Narkina 5 he began to show his ability to recruit and inspire. This show is everything I wanted in Star Wars. Every character we follow experiences their own conflict within the episode theme. One Way Out for Mon is realizing that she has to put her principles aside to meet the objective. For the ISB spy, his One Way Out is death as Luthan implies with his threats.

[@best_Dave_ever]

I smiled throuout the entire prison break scene. It just feels so good to be able to love something star wars produced again. Kino almost had me crying when he said "I cant swim". 10/10 easily

[@darrengordon-hill]

Why? Do you love dangerous criminals roaming the streets?!!! Andor is a MURDERER and THIEF

[@jetblast190]

Luthen’s monologue was epic! As was the entire episode. The series is so well written and crafted that each episode is more gripping than the previous one.

[@kskaiseraaron]

Yes his line was amazing and immediately drew me in

[@jetblast190]

@@kskaiseraaron I had to watch it multiple times. It’s such a well written and delivered monologue.

[@Pokane1998]

Also maybe just a coincidence.. but when he says "i burn my life to make sunrise i know ill never see" it just reminded me of how this story all ends.. with Cassian dying on Scarif looking out at the explosion which looks like a sunrise.. scarily poetic

[@kskaiseraaron]

@@Pokane1998 wow.... didn't even connect that. Makes it even better. His facial expressions and voice inflection were spot on

[@kylekatarn5964]

Stellan Skarsgård is killing it as Luthen.

[@KS-cz9qc]

Again, the payoff in this series is phenomenal-we feel deeply for each man fighting his way out of the prison to the point that my heart sank at seeing “extras” shot by the guards as they were trying to escape. That’s next-tier storytelling! I also love how this show illustrates the PRICE of resisting evil and how the many sacrifices of unnamed, unknown everyday people make a tremendous difference for the ultimate chance at overthrowing the Empire. It enriches the OT with every episode as we see just how difficult it was for the Rebellion to attack the Death Star and stay alive long enough for Palpatine and Vader to be taken out. Andor is what every spin-off show, Star Wars or otherwise, should aspire to be.

[@darrengordon-hill]

Lies. People care about their precious Andy Serkis PURE ASSUMPTION they're innocent Andor is a KNOWN MURDERER AND BANK ROBBER!!! Is THIS what is meant by "criminal justice reform"??

[@marcusanark2541]

Yes!

[@88DreadGT]

That poor new guy walked into a prison break and while he got the jump on one guard, another guard killed him... And yeah, Kino not being able to swim was heart breaking. Here's to hoping he DID by some miracle make it.

[@theflashgordon193]

I like how he took the first occasion to fight back. really sad he couldn't make it

[@stanco4ever]

In some ways, that guy might have saved the rebellion. If he hadn't taken that first guard out, things mightve gone differently. RIP random dude.

[@marcusanark2541]

@@stanco4ever A true anonymous hero.

[@katedoesnature1967]

Go #TeamKinoLives!!

[@jsimes1]

I honestly haven't been that emotionally charged by a movie of television show in such a long time. My hand were literally shaking throughout the whole episode. What amazing storytelling and beautiful dialog and wonderful acting.

[@stuartcampbell4626]

Absolutely!

[@GarrettTheViking]

Little did I know this would become my favorite live-action Star Wars show when they first announced it. I'm happy to finally just enjoy Star Wars again without frustrations or nitpicks. This show is excellent from the writing to the directing to the set design (actual sets, not just the Volume) to the fantastic acting by everyone, etc. This is the best Disney+ show yet. I'm a bit sad it's only going to be 2 seasons long.

[@mrpink99]

Yeah, but by the same token how many stories can you tell in about Andor in the few short years between the events of this season and his death in Rogue One? Maybe a spinoff centered around one or more peripheral characters who outlived him and were inspired by him?

[@IsaacKuo]

It's not just about Mon Mothma sacrificing her daughter. It's about her sacrificing her own soul. What an incredible set up and payoff with Mon Mothma's family. We were all wondering what Mon might do about her family when the Empire comes. Or wondering if Perrin, or even Leida, would betray Mon Mothma or the Rebellion. But this ... this cuts so much deeper.

[@hkmrsrg1367]

Luthen's speech is very moving. Only two episodes left, I'm gonna miss this show

[@danielvanveen2960]

You know there will be a second (and final) season?

[@hkmrsrg1367]

@@danielvanveen2960 i know, but that'll be out in 2024.

[@MHChang2014]

Every episode builds on the last, the payoff for this one was awesome and the performances from everyone are stellar

[@jeffreycarman2185]

So true, this was such excellent story telling and beautiful delivery.

[@PixelKatana]

Just when the episode couldn’t possibly get better we get Luthen’s speech. What a series!

[@jeffreycarman2185]

That monologue is one for the ages. This show transcends Star Wars and the genre of space opera. Every moment of this episode is just pure perfection.

[@hunterreeves6525]

Yes I’ve been looking for someone commenting on this. The prison break is great but this speech was the stuff of LEGENDS! Also I’m happy with myself knowing his answer immediately, when he was asked what he’s sacrificing my immediate thought was “his soul” because it had already been subtly shown this was the case. Just one example of this amazing show respecting its audience I think

[@celebrim1]

That was so good. This is pushing Andor into the fabled territory of some of the greatest TV sci-fi seasons of all time: Star Trek season 1, Babylon 5 season 3, Battle Star Galactica (2004) season 1, Firefly. Just amazing TV. Great writing. Great acting. Great set designs. Amazing.

[@TheDaks27]

It definitely gives me that Babylon 5 feel

[@stephenlyon1358]

Firefly was overrated.

[@qui-gone]

Luthen's monologue in the end was so epic. A perfect way to cap off a perfect epsiode. Everyone's performance was fantastic. Especially Andy and Stellan. Amazing.

[@Mandoboyband]

I love the juxtaposition of Melchi and Andor running to freedom, and just before that the scene of Lonni and Luthen feeling trapped in their own situation from the choices they've made.

[@VonJay]

I found it weird that they had just the two of them running at the end. But I loved the episode overall.

[@cowmoo5596]

@@VonJay It would be the best thing to do once you've escaped. More than two is a crowd, you'd want to split into as small a group as possible and scatter in opposite directions, makes you harder to find and greatly improves your odds

[@VonJay]

@@cowmoo5596 that makes sense.

[@stevebreedlove9760]

Great observation. This show is full of these parallels. The writing is unmatched by anything Star Wars. Including the OT. Western/Samurai/Saturday serials are all good. Still fun to watch. But the depth of story telling is limited by the format. Rewatching the Mandalorian for the third time now and it is clear that each moment is only meant to elevate Din as a hero and flex his credentials as "the best in the parsec." Everyone else is the inn keeper or travelling merchant that helps the hero along the way. In this show even the throw away characters are compelling.

[@zakaryperrin7126]

This is by far the best written show I have seen in Star Wars. This episode in particular gave me chills, made me tear up, and left my mouth gaping open. 10/10!!!

[@Wally-pu2hh]

Better than the Mandalorian? Better than ALL star wars? C'mon no

[@grandkhan9261]

@@Wally-pu2hh on writing quality alone it is better tbh

[@DeeperIntoTheUnknown]

@@Wally-pu2hh Mandalorian? Mando was a good show only because everything else near him was bad... it is a cool show, not a well-written one. Andor truly is the best Star Wars we've had in years, it is such good television. The movies made us dream about starships and Jedi, Andor makes us feel fear and reality.

[@choonbox]

Mon Mothma's arc is full of intrigue and suspense. So many factors at play in every scene. It's pure elegance; it stands out from the otherwise gritty, helpless plot the series conjured. This series is the closest we've come to seeing EU books in live action. Ridiculously good and I feel sorry for our fellow fans with subpar attention spans who are clearly missing out on a true gem of television.

[@artboymoy]

It's amazing how the world building for Mon Mothma and her home planet's traditions would rear it's ugly head into making her have to decide on a path she doesn't want to do but may have to and the toll that's going to take on her, if she goes through with it. But not doing it may be the exact thing that makes her exposed and leaves the senate, and possibly her world at risk... SOOO GOOD.

[@MarcoCarag]

The "on program" swap in Kino's and Andor's back and forth in the beginning was so brilliant. I loved that clever and powerful scene.

[@Starwarslegorob]

The perfect analogy I’ve heard for Kino was he’s like Moses , he can see the promise land but can’t go ! This was perfect, music ,dialogue,and HOPE !

[@ellicel]

Rebellions are built on hope…and sacrifice. Never have I been so gutted by the fate of a supporting character in the way my heart broke for Kino. Even the deaths of essentially “no name” prisoners hit me much harder than I thought it would. Even though these prisoners weren’t fighting for the rebellion itself I imagine their story will get out and just like the heist in Aldahni, they will inspire many others to take a stand. All these lost lives (and the other sacrifices highlighted in this episode) add so much context and stakes to the original Star Wars trilogy. I’ll never be able to watch A New Hope without thinking about Nemik, Maarva, Kino, Luthen, Andor, and all the others. I love how this show is making me appreciate other SW stories all the more.

[@arpo_marxx]

💯 right there with you… I havent felt this way about the majority of new disney characters but everyone here and in Rogue One have my full attention.

[@carloseot5548]

I was afraid that Kino was gonna die during the escape, but no he kept fighting besides Cassian and surviving, even killing one of the guards in cold blood and delivering that amazing speach. And then in the end, seeing how he couldn't swim, and how he had no way out literally broke my heart.

[@QuestionMan]

I think Kino was slowly realizing that he was going to die regardless of what he did (because he must have known that the only way to escape meant doing something he couldn't-swim) and grappling with HOW he wanted to die is where his internal conflict laid, and he eventually (after Cassian's words) decided that he was going to die sticking it TO the empire rather than BY the empire. (That said, I hope he lived.)

[@2507jasonpoon]

Well said

[@mrpink99]

I wonder how many other inmates were in the same situation as Kino; either they couldn't swim at all, or they feared they would exhaust themselves & drown before reaching land. I'm picturing it being like the people trapped in the Twin Towers on 9/11 who made the decision to jump to near-certain death rather than face burning alive & dying slowly & agonizingly.

[@benz3685]

At some point during or after every episode I find myself saying out loud, “Oh my God, this is SO GOOD.” My faith in the possibilities has been restored.

[@qemuel]

Week after week I am left in awe of how friggin' good this show is. Yes, it is a slow burn (which I like), but boring? Nope. The exact opposite, actually. This is EXACTLY the kind of show I wanted set in the SW universe, and I'm positively living for Andor.

[@dank.6942]

Me too. FAR from boring. A fabulous slow burn.

[@DeeperIntoTheUnknown]

Not even an actual slow burn. People tend to forget movies once weren't action-packed superhero stories.

[@CantankerousDave]

6:00 - the pilot "turned quickly" because Gorst played him his mix tape. It was mentioned last ep. I like how they're setting up Luthen as a ruthlessly pragmatic Churchill type. If the attack on the power station is called off, the Empire will know that they have a leak. It's called the Coventry Conundrum.

[@theresakopishke2439]

My coworker was so excited by this episode that she was literally about to burst when she came in last Thursday. First words were did you see Andor?!? YESSSSS girl, and it was AHHH-MAZING!! So well crafted -> writing, pacing, acting, sets...this IS Star Wars and what I've wanted to see for a long time. Do more of THIS kind of content Disney -> real fans want good content.

[@pcplsd]

6:44 Cassian not being able to sleep is a nice call back to the episode where he was able to “sleep like a stone” on the day of the heist

[@azure4527]

Kino had to know the only way to freedom was by water. He probably knew the entire time that he would not escape. It give so much more context to why he's hesitant at the beginning of the episode. Yet he chose to help with the breakout anyway. I think about Luthen's speech at the end, where he acknowledges that he will never be able to take credit for anything he does to fight the Empire...and I realize this show is about unsung heroes. The galactic population will never hear about Nemik who died fighting to fund the rebellion he believed in, or Kino who helped liberate a prison despite not being able to free himself. Yet we know that their sacrifices will ultimately put Andor in position to steal the Death Star plans. It's hard to describe, I'm not sure if tragic is the right word. This truly is unlike any Star Wars story we've ever had before.

[@javiervidal366]

Excellent observation!

[@peculiarpangolin4638]

It's also worth noting that Cassian will be one of those forgotten heroes as well, dying like Nemik for a cause, like Kino for his brothers in arms; Luke and Han will get medals for flicking the dominoes over, but everyone in this show was just as crucial by setting them up. Wonderful point!

[@azure4527]

@@peculiarpangolin4638 I think Andor will at least be remembered by the Alliance. Kino and those who died during the Aldani heist though don't even get that much.

[@RMNarratives]

The best episode of any television show this year (& it goes right up there with any I've ever watched)

[@javiervidal366]

Same here, right up with Breaking Bad

[@Dzamora612]

The episode in general was great! One detail I noticed when you pointed 6:42 out is the fact that this moment is a parallel from the heist in aldhani and because Andor believes in the cause this time, he can’t sleep.

[@leafgreensniper13]

I love the theme of how far one is willing to go for a cause. I think it’s fascinating that there are some things that people care about so much, and are willing to give up their family, humanity, and morals to meet that goal. Excellent writing all around. And at the ending, the music while the two men are running on the dark tundra plain, just perfect.

[@javiervidal366]

That speech at the end by Luthen is epic. It can be analyzed from different levels. "I share my dreams with ghosts". Are these ghosts Jedi (is Luthen a dark Jedi)? Or family/friends that died? He said 15 years ago, so maybe around the time of order 66. "The ego that started this fight will never have a mirror or an audience or the light of gratitude.". The ego reflects his prior self, before he started down this dark path.

[@blackshogun272]

I wouldn't mind him having some personal Force belief or having a Force user relative suffering a similar fate to the Jedi Order after resisting the Empire. Having him be Force-Sensitive would just be a little too much for a series that's steered clear of putting any blatant use of Force Users on the front screen. And if they do go this route, I hope they show he's on the low spectrum of Force Users that can subtlety influence the minds of others or have heightened reflexes/intuition like Han Solo.

[@gungantuan5124]

I think he’s a fallen Jedi… at this point there’s so much evidence of this they don’t have to say it. It establishes his motives and tragic history. That’s enough. He doesn’t have to wield a lightsaber or lift something with his mind.

[@YegRon]

Great episode. The acting was the best we’ve ever seen in Star Wars. Writing was perfect. As far as I’m concerned, Andor is a masterpiece.

[@Lord-Emperor-Vader]

Andy Serkis said he played Keno in this episode knowing he would die because he can’t swim. I also love that everyone actually jumped off the platform and it was not CGI characters. I loved this episode and think that they did an amazing job making this episode and I can’t wait to see the next episode.

[@ellicel]

I imagine there were others in the prison who also couldn’t swim. In my head canon, I see them still choosing to jump, preferring the agency of at least choosing the time and manner of their death over being enslaved

[@andreiga76]

Tony Gilroy said in an interview if we are sure Kino is dead, did we see his body or being killed? I'm not sure he's dead after what the showrunner said.

[@maesterchris2120]

I can't speak for everyone but I certainly would listen to an hour long video about this series

[@Peter-id9wh]

This episode was just absolute stellar! 2 amazing actors (Andy and Stellan) just delivering in every way! Their monologues were just so perfect for Imperial era Star Wars. Take notice Lucasfilm, this is the way to bring fans back in from the cold of the sequel trilogy!

[@NukedStar]

Maximus's "I will have my vengeance" speech from Gladiator, Picard's "the line must be drawn here" speech from First Contact, along with pretty much the whole of Ricardo Montalbans performance as Khan in STII, have long been the most breathtaking bits of writing and acting to me. They were joined this week by Luthen's monologue on sacrifice. It made the hair stand up on the back of my neck. Truly epic TV.

[@INMRuben]

I got chills in my back with that "Everything!" from Luthen. The echo, the previous speech... What a masterpiece of an episode.

[@LOVEMUFFIN_official]

I wonder if the “I’d rather die trying to take them down than die giving them what they want” line is from Nemik’s Rebel manifesto. It played such a central role in rallying the prisoners, whether Kino individually or the whole population over the PA system.

[@aaronzook9540]

I loved your observation near the end about the nature of this show's action: internal, moral struggle above all. This element has been missing in many, if not most, live-action Disney projects for years-- perhaps because of the studio's relentless focus on extracting profit from existing intellectual property, as opposed to creating space for lively and complex storytelling. I've also wondered if some of the shallowness I perceive in these projects are an extension of creeping generational cynicism: a creeping disbelief in the validity or even the existence of an internal life. I can imagine a writer like Rian Johnson rolling his eyes at Yoda's speech to Luke in Empire, especially "Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter." So the best he can come up with is essentially: "Learn from your failures." I hope, as word of mouth builds an audience for Andor, its success will encourage the studio, and the showrunners and writers it hires, both to return to storytelling fundamentals and have a little more faith in audiences' capacity to engage with depth and complexity.

[@kylekatarn5964]

You can tell a lot about the writers who don't understand transcendence, their world views are shallow and empty. Just like their attempts at conveying philosophical concepts on screen. I cannot say that about the writers of this show though, this show has had an unbelievable amount of morality wrapped into everything without being preachy or ham-fisted about it at all.

[@danielvanveen2960]

Studios focus too much on the common denominator. Give the audience something of a challenge.

[@matthiasm4299]

Amazing. The prison break was one of the most gripping things I've ever seen. I think Kino knew from the start that they were probably going to end up in the water, which makes his actions even more impactful. Luthen being willing to sacrifice Kreegyr reminds me a lot of the Allies in WW2, who didn't always act on Bletchley Park intelligence in order to avoid the suspicion that the German codes had been broken.

[@jeffreycarman2185]

Yes, that must have been a heart-wrenching decision for the Allies, and for Luthen.

[@mydreaminorbit9297]

I'm so happy this series takes the time to build up to events. They could have fast tracked the prison break. However, they choose to take the time to display the prison. Letting the audience as well as Cassian see how the prison operates. It's day to day routine and protocols. This way when the prison break happens. It feels earned and not some magic trick escape full with questions. Nothing in Andor has been filler every scene has a purpose. This isn't Naruto where you get a random cat mission episode in the middle of a battle arc. I'm just blown away by how amazing this show has been to this point.

[@nightgirlgaming1985]

I love how Andor is becoming a better person as the series progresses. In the first arc he was only really out for himself and was the reason that the Empire tool control over Ferrix. In the second arc he helped the Aldhani team, listened to Nemik's ideas and started to think more about the cause. And now in the third arc he would rather die than helping the Empire and saves thousands of prisoners from the prison's tyranny. He's gonna evolve throughout the series until he becomes the Cassian of Rogue One, someone who can make cold decisions but is all for the cause and lays down his life for it.

[@darrengordon-hill]

"Rather die than help the Empire" HE'S JUST MAD HE'S BEING HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR HIS ACTIONS!! He fux up, he runs. TIME AND AGAIN!! Murderer RUNS Bank robbing murderer RUNS Prisoner RUNS

[@nerdlydelicious1876]

I choose to believe (and hope) that Kino Loy made it out one way or another. Just because he can’t swim on his own doesn’t mean others can’t help him tread water, and I think that’s what Cassian was about to suggest before he was knocked over the edge. Really the whole prison sequence was the highlight of the entire episode, probably even the whole season up till now, for me. It shows just how far the empire is willing to go for control, and how that willingness to squeeze its fist ever tighter just proves what Leia said in a new hope correct: the tighter you squeeze the galaxy, the more people that will escape your grasp. The axe forgets, but the tree remembers. And the empire is swinging at an awful lot of trees right now.

[@wilcherglobal6685]

For me, this is Star Wars for grown-ups. No light sabers or even the force (although I like them too.) Just acting, drama, meaningful monologues, and introspection, as you described so well. Special thanks to Stellan Skarsgaard and Andy Serkis for outstanding performances 👏.

[@Mike_Genisys]

Hopefully they'll make more shows like Andor.

[@oshea41]

Absolutely brilliant. Thank you Tony Gilroy.

[@dwaynecuster]

Excellent episode! Luthen...wow! His character is awesome! Andy Serkis! Fantastic actor. I hope there's some awards in store for the actors and crew.

[@colonel_angus]

Thor, I love listening to your breakdowns of each episode. It always makes me want to watch it again. So filled with tension, not boring at all. My only (tiny) issue with this episode is, what happened to the prisoners in the other prisons in the water on this planet? And wouldn’t they somehow be alerted to this prison break? Just a thought, I’d love to hear your take. Until next time…

[@thorskywalker]

I think it all kind of shows the arrogance of the Empire yet again, that they seemingly had no plan for a worst case scenario. That they never ever thought there would be any kind of prison break scenario.

[@CantankerousDave]

You see some searchlights from aircraft in the distance as Andor and Melshi run off.

[@istari0]

I think this episode was about sacrifice and loss: Past - Luthen's loss of almost all his humanity in support of the rebellion Present - Kino helping lead the rebellion to escape the prison even though he could not swim Future - Mon Mothma's realization of how much her support of the rebellion could cost her

[@joaoborges6851]

Cassian going from sleeping all night before the Aldhani assault to apparently not sleeping at all before the escape from prison. What a genius way of telling us that it's getting serious for him

[@MedalionDS9]

I loved the aerial shot of the prison that resembles the Imperial Crest, as the tiny specs of the prisons swimming away from it... metaphorical and visual storytelling... escaping the Empire, so the Rebellion can do the same for the Galaxy.

[@MedalionDS9]

Masterful episode... 10/10, best ep of the season. Fuck me... Andy Serkis... Stellan's monologues... the prison break... I actually clapped a few times. I feel so bad for people who are sleeping on this show.

[@allwalledup]

I literally yelled “YEAH!” When they started to escape man, and I was completely alone in my room lol. It’s been a long time since a movie or show has elicited a reaction like that out of me.

[@MedalionDS9]

@@allwalledup I know right? I've seen other prison break episodes/movies.. but most of them, we never spent enough time with the people to care if they get out or not... this is why it's important to slow burn a show to care for people, understand stakes... so when the action comes... it is most impactful... and it was here!

[@brettbadac4970]

Solid episode for Andor this week! Andy Serkis is very good in this episode. The scenes he is in are the best parts of the episodes recently. Also, the monologue that Luthen gives is very good writing

[@thimovijfschaft3271]

The new guy is an absolutely Chad. He was terrified at first, he knew nothing, and yet when the riot broke out, he started risking his life by fighting the guard without any hesitation.

[@cmd31220]

Sarsgaard's monologue was some of the best writing and acting in anything Disney Star Wars has made. From the words to the delivery, it felt like something out of Shakespeare's Julius Caeser where Brutus and Mark Antony both give their own soliliquies about how they have soiled what they saw as the right thing through their actions and the actions of their factions, and how Macbeth laments the monster he becomes.

[@witendias5200]

This show is awesome but I also want to ask a big round of applause to Beau Willimon that wrote episode 10 a masterpiece!🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@creagandubh4411]

A couple of parallels drawn: (1) Kino = Han - Sets his blaster on the communicator, with an awkward beginning of a speech in a DETENTION CENTER. (2) Luthan = Vader - Flowing, black cape on a breezy causeway, speaking of parentage and loyalty.

[@pheonixfireblazer]

I'm loving Mon Mothma's inclusion in this series because she has a meaningful place in it and has had her character enhanced by that place so much rather than just being a cool cameo. We really get to see what she goes through before the Ghost Crew help her escape The Empire and go into hiding.

[@mutley7773]

This series has been nothing short of epic. Characters from the first episodes are still there in pivotal parts of the story and some just unfolding now 10 episodes in. All the slow episodes with just great dialogue have been just as important to the story which is why the action when it does arrive holds so much weight for the viewer. Every prisoner that got shot down I felt it, and nearly cheered the demise of every guard. Kino I feel would have done what he could to make sure all the others all got out before making a sink or swim effort. I hope he somehow made it. The feelings again in this episode is down to the time taken to make you care and understand how dark and evil the Empire really is. Because of that, how dark the Rebellion is going to have to be to be triumphant. The scene with Luthen on the bridge literary gave me chills, now that's a first for me in Star Wars. If the prison break was this good, how incredible Is this 2 episode finale be. I can not wait!

[@ryandodrill6904]

I didn’t think it was possible to keep getting better with each episode but somehow they do. My heart was pounding during the escape. I’m legit shaking and tearing up after watching this.

[@nessa5759]

This honestly was the best episode so far! I couldn’t take my eyes of the show the whole time!

[@immortallurker185]

I have a different take on "Don't die until you put up a fight". It isn't an attempt to get some use of of a doomed man. Its a reminder that his life has worth, and that he should fight for it.

[@javiervidal366]

@12:55. Those little details. It's not just bossing everyone around, it's saying a code to the rest of the group. By saying "We're two down", that was Cassian and the other prisoner have taken their places and to stand by. Just outstanding story writing and attention to detail.

[@hazeform7689]

thanks man i realy enjoy almost any of your videos and review's and my feelings about this show and specially this episode can't be closer to yours...when they jump into the water gave me this goal, touchdown, tor or what ever kind of feeling...pure dope this episode ! the sad part is only 2 more left to go

[@tenn_ore]

Us watching this show is akin to those of us who saw Star Wars in the theater in the Spring of 1977. You were there in the beginning. George Lucas must be smiling (surely he knew) at how good this is, what has finally happened with his creation. I only wish this could've happened with the series I craved for so long, Kenobi, why, oh why? Anyway, looking forward to more good things, and I'm loving the positivity around all of this, just geeking out with my friends over this show.

[@Ptaaruonn]

The part when Kino says he can't swim is trully heart breaking.

[@darrengordon-hill]

"I really enjoyed the bit everyone enjoyed, I shall replicate the 100s of comments saying the exact same thing; I am an individual"

[@ben-gm4ij]

I would without a doubt listen to you ramble and breakdown everything in the episode for over an hour. That would be great.

[@meg1827]

Seconded!

[@Blafina]

I love that Kino knew that he was a dead man, not only because of the reasons you explained, but also due to him not being able to swim. He would have known the prison is surrounded by water, and that there are no shuttles of the prison. Every damn piece of dialogue is so impactful, it's unbelievable.

[@darrengordon-hill]

Or you guys are easily pleased... "OMG, Andy Serkis"

[@Blafina]

@@darrengordon-hill this was about the writing, not the actor, but you do you

[@8rgk]

Letting the good guys die so the source of the leak remains undiscovered was a big ethical issue during WWII. When the Allies had deciphered the Enigma machine, they knew of German attacks, but they chose not prevent them just yet, so that the Germans would not change their codes and the Allies would become dead and blind again. That Andor episode was excellent.

[@krisyona7080]

I was actually sweating and tensed through this episode. Every component of this episode was perfect.

[@merengueatang4]

Great episode, quite possibly the best so far. I was a bit sad that Cassian's buddy who helped plan the escape from the start got killed, we didn't see much of him, not even a name (that I picked up, at least), but I like him a lot

[@weezyslob]

How can anyone think this is boring. The only part of this show I found boring were the first 2 episodes as it was settling in and setting up the world and characters. Since then it’s been GRIPPING. This is some of the best Star Wars ever made, ever acted, ever written, it’s fantastic. That Skarsgard monologue was one of the best scenes in all of Star Wars, that dialogue was poetic. This episode on the whole was amazing, I found myself pumping my fist and cheering for the prisoners to escape, this IS Star Wars, it makes you FEEL.

[@Daniel_Huffman]

And even then, the boredom of the first two episodes is something that comes with a new show. Any good show worth their salt needs to start with slower episodes to establish the setting and characters. As such, I don’t fault this show for that.

[@weezyslob]

@@Daniel_Huffman Right, I agree. And I’m not sure that going back and rewatching it knowing where this show was headed that I’d even find it boring. I think a good part of my boredom was going in trying hard to shrug off the apathy that Book of Boba Fett and Obi-Wan gave me for Star Wars shows lately because to me they were awful. So even going in as open minded as possible it was still me struggling to shake off being jaded and a lot of apprehension for a new SW show. But by the end of episode 4 I was all in, I was loving this show, and I think on rewatch I doubt I’d be “bored” as I really do feel now that I was mostly just being pessimistic and looking to be disappointed.

[@shamanpj]

I had goosebumps the entire show! This is sooooo good

[@warborn_inc.]

Agreed...Luthens monolog about what he has given up for the Rebellion was brilliant. Hands down the most well written/delivered piece in the entire SW franchise. It borders on prose in the sublime almost hypnotic delivery he offers. This is an outstanding episode in an exemplary series

[@Cheesehead_Caleb]

What a truly insane episode of television, right up there with the likes of Ozymandias from Breaking Bad. The prison breakout was the red wedding of minor side characters, the side stuff with Mon Mothma's money dealings were great development for Mon's love for her daughter and her commitment to the cause, and the explanation of Luthen's sacrifices was chilling. Totally agree with your assessment of this episode 10/10

[@achaudhari101]

Ozymandias… the one Rian Johnson was involved in. Ironic isn’t it?

[@Cheesehead_Caleb]

@@achaudhari101 indeed lol

[@ellicel]

@@achaudhari101 I haven’t seen a lot of his work, but people generally regard him as great with the visuals and the directing aspects of the work. Perhaps if he’d had such strong writers as the team that handled Breaking Bad, he would have been just fine as director of episode 8.

[@R.a.f.a.e.l.]

​@@ellicel Rian Johnson is great. I disliked TLJ, but Knives Out, Looper, Brick, Ozymandias... There are many reasons TLJ sucked and I'm pretty sure Rian is not one of them. He tried to make do with what he had, which was shit.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Did RJ write Ozymandias or just direct it?

[@michaelhorning6014]

When Keeno said he couldn't swim, I heard Paul Newman's voice saying, "You idiot! The fall will probably kill you!"

[@-AtomsPhere-]

This episode was where I started feeling things for this show

[@IanM92]

And you only do so because of all the work the prior episodes did to make this episode a masterpiece

[@bena2357]

That was 6 for me

[@darrengordon-hill]

You're just an action junkie

[@-AtomsPhere-]

@@darrengordon-hill I wouldn’t say that necessarily. I like a LOT of slower paced movies that mostly rely on dialogue. I think with this show though I do appreciate it and wish it had a bit more action. I think every episode should have one exciting moment while still progressing the plot. House of the Dragon did this very well.

[@L33Reacts]

I can’t imagine with that hell they have in store for us in these last episodes 😮

[@HiHi-lt1cb]

I have no idea how they'll top this episode!! But each week it proves it gets better and better, so I can only imagine what next week then the finale will be!

[@KwaIified]

Andor is gonna go back to see his Mom and get discovered then all hell is gonna break loose

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

I bet it ends with Mon Mothma’s cover being blown

[@thitran1362]

@@eyeheartsushi2212 Probably not, Mon's cover is blown when she criticize the Emperor publicly in Rebels which will take place some years from now. So Mon's cover is not gonna be blown yet but maybe Luthor?

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

@@thitran1362 I really need to finish Rebels

[@DJFrankeeTNT]

Amazing episode my good friend ! I’m not sure who had the more intense scene. Kino giving the speech to the men through the mic or Luthen admitting he’s sacrificing everything. It’s just another sitting on the edge of your seat kinda episode. As you and your adoring lady friend said, this show can go toe to toe with “any” show on all present TV today. I feel I’m gifted knowing I’m watching Andor and receiving the best show hands down while so many still don’t have the patience to just sit; watch and listen. They prefer Obi-Wan. Oh well. Until next time 😊♥️🥰👍🏻

[@otakubullfrog1665]

Luthen seems well aware that his own role is also just to lead others to the water across which he will be unable to swim.

[@NisGaarde]

"Never more than 12" is my motto whenever I hit the bar

[@Poempedoempoex]

One detail I've noticed is that in the 3 episodes that Cassian spends in prison we see him stare at his remaining day counter a lot, but we never actually see it tick down a day. It's only after the news of nobody getting out breaks that we see the counter tick down in the night. What I love about that is that the counter, which used to be the only thing indicating your progress toward getting out has now completely flipped in meaning, as with each day it is counting down it now gets harder to escape since they will undoubtedly start bringing in more guards soon, as Cassian said. To only show the counter tick down after we know this is really great visual storytelling.

[@Thunder978]

Agree completely with your opening statement. This episode was the best of the series, which is saying something since it’s been a solid run throughout. Phenomenal performances, writing, and execution.

[@stuartshannon8561]

I watched it twice because of all those “blink and you will miss it moments.” Davo was so smartly written I was floored that he just wasn’t a dirty gangster but instead someone that looked like he could be in Mon’s orbit.

[@grumble2501]

He reminded me of Michael Corleone in godfather 2.

[@ProdCritic]

Luthen's monologue speaking to Lonnie was *the BEST* piece of writing in any Star Wars property, and one of the best pieces of writing in any prestige TV drama.

[@benjaminroe311ify]

Gosh yes. It was SOOOOO good. This is just what I shared to my social networks tonight. One of the best monologues in TV and Film EVER.

[@Scratchmane]

This is a series that transcends its Star Wars moniker. It's a triumph of great story telling. This could have been made in with any sticker slapped on it. That it is Star Wars is just the cherry on top. Mon Mothma's physical restriction at the thought of 'sacrificing' her daughter, was heart wrenching. Superb portayal by Genevieve O'Reilly. The realisation that the rebellion is costly is put on display with the words from Luthen. It's not all fluff and good times. The OT displayed the cream from the rebellion, this series shows us the hard work and sacrifice that went into churning the milk. I'm in awe at how exceptionel this series turned out to be, Mando was decent, BoBF and Kenobi was bad and I didn't have high hopes for Andor, but oh boy what a rollercoaster of suspense, emotional turmoil and thrill this is. One thing you said I somehow missed: the underlying message of hope that has been a red thread from the start. Thank you for your insight 🥰

[@alienbaby7873]

W O W ! What a great episode I am all in on Andor

[@shadeblackwolf1508]

Who else here would happily listen to a two hour breakdown of these episodes one by one?

[@meg1827]

Another fantastic episode, wowza. I'm loving the picture of Cassian we're getting through this show. He's smart, analytical, and clearly a leader. We saw him expertly plotting his escape from the moment he entered the prison and this is the second time we've seen him cohere and motivate a group of people to take on the Empire. I love that he's not just portrayed as the one hero who gets them out of their pickles, but rather is able to figure out how to use other people's strengths or how to influence group dynamics to get them to fight. He is almost secondary to Kino in this episode, as he should be, since this is Kino's prison break to lead. (Aside: I hope dearly that Kino doggy paddled away from the prison.) It's great to see this part of Cassian because he almost becomes a bit of a sidekick to Jyn in Rogue One. That's not a complaint about the movie (I love Rogue One), just noting that she is definitely the main character and I'm enjoying seeing more of who Cassian is through the show. I can't wait to see him progress and then regress into the jaded rebel we see in the movie. Last thought is that I love the "climb" theme that is showing up in his stories. Nemick told Cassian to climb off Aldahi, K2SO told Cassian and Jyn to climb with the Death Star plans on Scarif, and here we see him climbing again, out of the prison. Brilliant writing.

[@helge666]

Such a great show. I'm rarely ever at the edge of the seat these days anymore, but this episode did it for me. So good!

[@CableAnna]

The show does such an amazing job with playing with our feelings. The whole rollercoaster of the actual prison break, the joy suddenly turning into sadness and then you can’t even have closure. Damn it’s good!

[@eliasg1312]

It really is such an amazing show. Single handedly has been restoring my faith in Star Wars week by week!

[@EICKonaHIKE]

These are great recaps. Really appreciate the deep reading, the breakdown of little elements the writers use to deepen the material. Great stuff, thank you!