Star Wars: Rebels is more than ‘a cartoon’

This week we’re celebrating the lead-up to #RebelsRemembered Day with stories of what Star Wars: Rebels means to us. In doing that, let’s touch on something extremely important: This show is not “for kids.” It’s not “just a cartoon.” It’s so much more than that.

The largest stigma surrounding animation, both in the Star Wars fandom and outside of it, lies mostly in who’s watching it. For some reason, adults are “too old” for cartoons. Especially those that air on platforms like Disney+, which tend to be geared even more toward a younger audience.

But animation is at its core a different form of storytelling. It combines images with voiceover work to share stories in a different medium than live-action shows that involve cameras and different forms of acting. Many “cartoons” are made for kids. That absolutely should not diminish their value, especially when you look at the stories they’re telling and the messages they’re sending.

Star Wars: Rebels is the perfect example of this. On the surface, it’s a 23-minute episodic Star Wars adventure that follows a group of rebels trying to outsmart the Empire. But it’s so much more than that. It digs so much deeper into themes of found family, of the ongoing and quite relatable struggle to define who we are … and how our identities change with time. Leaving behind what you loved in order to save what matters more. Learning to let go so you can become everything you’re meant to be.

These are story elements we see everywhere. Just because they happen in an animated medium doesn’t mean they’re any less powerful or worthwhile. Star Wars may have started with live-action films, but it expanded its storytelling methods. And it continues paying off. Additionally, you also get to see the show’s animation and style become more refined as the series progresses. Its story combined with its art is unforgettable in the best ways possible.

Don’t judge Rebels by its medium. It continues to be one of the most life-changing stories ever told in this franchise, beloved by many. Remembered by all.

Use the #RebelsRemembered hashtag on March 5 to share your love of Star Wars: Rebels with the fandom!