Rebels proves we need more Star Wars shows like it

It may not always be easy to talk about certain Star Wars Rebels’ moments, but #RebelsRemembered week is a great reason to touch on such a fantastic series and why we need more shows like it in the Star Wars franchise.

As someone who watched the series for the first time in the past few years, it felt so easy to bond with the crew of the Ghost. Maybe that bond is why it’s so special, but also why it’s difficult to relive some of those final moments from season 4. Should you watch Rebels? Absolutely! Will you get attached and suffer heartbreak? Most certainly.

This shifty crew does so much more than cause chaos for the Empire, but they emphasize what it means to be part of a unique family. Sometimes, it’s easy to feel alone in the galaxy, and Ezra Bridger begins this series as a young Force-wielder who fends for himself without any parents to help him through his teenage years. In steps Kanan Jarrus and Hera Syndulla.

Capable leaders who aren’t perfect, but end up being perfect for those in their circle. Ezra witnesses this familial bond firsthand, especially as they make their way through cities, planets, and solar systems in the name of rebellion. Ezra’s desire to do something useful beyond the confines of his hometown sparks a connection with his new guardians, and each season builds upon the previous season’s momentum leading to an ultimate final season and series finale.

New characters in Rebels gave us new hope

As much as I love revisiting beloved characters, experiencing a new group of characters in a familiar setting provides a completely unique experience for me. Perhaps that’s why I’ve enjoyed the Mandalorian as a character; not only does he have a sense of honor and doing the right thing, but following his journey was new and exciting to witness it all unfold.

That’s the experience I think anyone will get when they watch Star Wars Rebels for the first time. The animated series is fun as you see new faces, learn their backstories and capabilities, and hang on the edge of your seat as they try to outrun their Galactic troubles. From a pair of Jedi, an amazing pilot and leader, a Mandalorian, an acrobatic and angry Lasat, and a chippy and resilient droid, Rebels rides into the galaxy in amazing style. Seriously, Sabine Wren is an amazing artist who left her impression on a galaxy far, far away with a gifted touch.

Yes, I will watch Obi-Wan Kenobi when it comes out. Yes, I will watch every bit of the Star Wars’ universe whenever I can, but these rebels are a phenomenal reason why experiencing new characters on their own is quite possibly my favorite way to do it. Did I enjoy The Clone Wars? Yes, but my favorite aspects were the newer characters and the relationships they forged together. Why do you think I’m so ridiculously excited for Ahsoka, who is quite arguably my favorite character in all of Star Wars?

That is the power of Rebels. Not only did it bring in amazing characters from The Clone Wars, like Ahsoka, but it didn’t make the its main cast less in any way. For example: When Ahsoka Tano rolls onto the scene when the rebels are down and out against a pair of Inquisitors, it’s hands’ down one of the best scenes in all of Star Wars. Okay, the hands comment is a bit of a cheap shot (and bad joke), but even Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker would admit that Ahsoka laid the “smack down” in this episode.

In this scene, I did not know how the crew was going to get out of this trouble. So, when doors opened up to show Ahsoka; let’s just say it’s a “get out of your seat moment.” This former new character was coming to the rescue of a new set of characters who I’d grown quite attached to already; much like I did with Ahsoka. The important thing to realize with all of this is that Ahsoka is one character; and Star Wars Rebels is filled with a handful of new characters and experiences that make you genuinely appreciate the creators who put them all on the small screen.

A scene like this was epic to watch, because it also made me realize how important these characters were to me. I don’t think I realized at the time how much I loved Rebels until they needed to be rescued in such dramatic fashion. I didn’t want to see anything happen to them, not even a scratch, but this show put fans through a wide-range of emotions regarding these beloved characters; and it hurts to talk about it.

I won’t spoil the injuries, the devastating realization that relationships ended, and the sacrifices that took place in this show. It’s something you need to watch for yourself. Whether it’s the first time or fourth time watching Star Wars Rebels, these characters epitomize the need to bring new shows with new characters into the franchise.

The creators of Rebels brought together a cast of unique individuals who more closely resembled a family than any assembly of Jedi put together to defeat the enemy. Much like Din Djarin and Grogu have this special bond, so does the crew of the Ghost. Their missions matter, because rebelling against the Empire is the cause they’re fighting for. More so, their desire to do what’s right for each other, to make sure they survive through to the next day is equally important.

Yes, they recognize the hodgepodge of a family system they have, but they also value each other in such a way where each person is seen as needed for the very cause they hold so dearly. And they’re willing to do whatever they can to make sure that each mission is successful and that each person makes it home in one piece, even if it means paying the ultimate price.

If you haven’t watched Star Wars Rebels, all I can say is this, “Go watch it now.” It will provide a sense of joy to your viewing, and despite the emotional toll it might take by the end, those pains do not outweigh the necessity of each character throughout Rebels’ four-season run. There are beautiful moments, tearful goodbyes, and the belief of watching something truly magnificent will hit you along the way.

Rebels; it’s the show you need to watch, and proof of why we need more shows like it in our lives.

Have you seen Star Wars Rebels? What were your thoughts as you watched the series? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow the Dork Side of the Force for more Star Wars TV content.

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