Ryan Shoots First: Andor (S1 Ep7) “Announcement”

I really loved this episode…

Following last week’s heist we see a nice bridge episode toward the next three-episode arc. This is by no means a filler episode however as the Empire uses the moment to seize greater control across the galaxy, this both causes unrest and animosity in the public towards the rebellion of all things. This point really hit me as oppressive regimes have used this type of psychological tactic to seed distrust in revolutionaries for centuries. The Empire is no different and on the flip side, some of the leaders in the Rebellion know this. They know it has to get worse before people will wake up and that this reaction from the Empire and increased oppression of the people is necessary in their plans. It’s all so layered and seeing those layers peeled back and how the characters reconcile with their role now that the fuse has been lit was fascinating to watch. I really can’t express how much I loved this episode, I think it was my favorite of the season so far. Seeing Cassian slowly come to terms with the rebellion, his place in everything, and his responsibility has been nice too. It’s not as simple as “a thing happens” and Cassian stands up, looks in the camera, and says “I am now a Rebel!”. It’s a gradual, organic switch, from being introduced to Nemek and his ideals, to now slowly realizing he can’t escape and that there is no peace as long as the Empire reigns. That those he loves are affected as innocent as they may be. 

We also started to get some brief flashbacks to help inform a little more of Cassian’s past and what shaped him to the person he is at the start of the show. I don’t doubt we will see more of them, and clone troopers, in flashbacks as we go on. On the flip side seeing the inner workings and the bureaucratic workings of the Empire and more specifically the ISB was entertaining. In reality, the way they have divided responsibility handled objections, encouraged initiative, and rewarded it is kinda a blueprint for how to run a large organization. Don’t get me wrong they are the bad guys but the scene I am referencing where discourse between two agents is escalated and handled was pretty textbook and I was impressed. 

I will probably have more thoughts as I digest and rewatch this episode, the scenes with Mon Mothma were great as well. The walls closing in and needing allies but also not trusting anyone is so tense to watch. The nerve and chance she is taking to finally say those words and bring someone else into the fold made me very squirmy. Again great stuff, light on action but not on drama this episode will serve as the lynchpin into the second half of the season. 

Observations

• I love these title cards
• The dude hasn’t left that booth in like 3 episodes
• Ok this is crazy to see. The oppressors tighten their grip on innocent people then point the finger at the rebels and say “They’re to blame for your misery, they made us do this” is so messed up and something we see all over the world from oppressive or would-be oppressors. Man, they Nailed that. 
• “People will suffer” “That’s the plan” Wow.
• Interesting helmet there
• Stormtroopers finally!
• Again Imperial ships in this show are so menacing
• That little speeder shot gave me heavy “Ninth Jedi” vibes. 
• B2 is back!
• This is the moment, Cassian thinks he can go anywhere and he will soon realize the Empire has made that an impossibility no matter how much money you have. 
• I can’t imagine the courage it would take to go out on that limb and bring someone into the Rebellion. 
• Clone Troopers!!
• I get they are Imperials but that whole process was handled actually really well from a bureaucratic point of view. 
• I love the like beachy theme music and location title card. 
• I find everything about this galactic malibu fascinating
• Nice hint at what’s coming with K2
• ATAB
• It’s always those clerical errors that catch criminals.