Tales of the Underworld is the newest installment of the Star Wars: Tales anthology series. The series has taken us inside the lives of the Jedi, Imperials, and people in the underworld. While these stories have featured characters we're all familiar with, the show's format allows us to see what these characters went through during different periods of their lives.
Here are the best 3 storylines from Star Wars: Tales thus far.
1. Count Dooku's arc from Tales of the Jedi
Count Dooku's arc revealed his attachment to his padawan Qui-Gon Jinn and grief over his death. We were given genuine reasons why Dooku was disillusioned with the Jedi and the Republic. It featured the return of Yaddle, Qui-Gon, and several prequel-era Jedi Knights. Dooku's shorts were well-written, emotional, and surprisingly soulful, and featured stunning animation and music.
My rating: 10/10
2. Asajj Ventress in Tales of the Underworld
Asajj Ventress' story did not disappoint, and her redemption feels earned, unlike Bariss Offee's redemption arc from Tales of the Empire. Ventress' story explains how she survived and what she sacrificed to be given a chance to live. Her story leaves the door open for her to return in another show, and is probably the most hopeful out of all the Tales shorts. The series hasn't shied away from heartbreaking moments, including Dooku grappling with the loss of Qui-Gon, and Ahsoka Tano at Padme Amidala's funeral.
However, it's great to see a short so full of hope for a character who's suffered her whole life. I really hope it will only get better from here for Ventress and we'll see how her bond develops with her new friend and potential Padawan in the series.
My rating: 9.5/10
3. Cad Bane in Tales of the Underworld
Cad Bane's background story was little known, so these shorts were necessary and added depth to Bane's story. Seeing Bane go from an innocent, mischievous child to a ruthless bounty hunter is a heartbreaking reminder that all children are good, but a series of bad choices can alienate us from our loved ones, leaving no room to turn back.
Cad's story revealed that he has a son, Isaac, who was raised by his childhood friend Niro, which leaves the door open for Isaac to appear in another series. Will Isaac forgive Cad Bane for killing his adoptive father, or will the loss push him towards the same path as Bane? These are all questions we need answers to in future projects.
My rating: 9/10
Tales of the Underworld is streaming on Disney+.