The highly anticipated “Star Wars: Ahsoka” series is set to premiere, and the first reactions are rolling in. This series, starring Rosario Dawson as former Jedi Knight Ahsoka Tano, takes place after the fall of the Galactic Empire and follows Ahsoka as she investigates a new threat endangering the galaxy. The show is helmed by writer and showrunner Dave Filoni, the original creator of the Ahsoka character.
A Seamless Extension of the Star Wars Saga
Critics are noting that “Star Wars: Ahsoka” feels like a direct continuation of previous animated series, particularly “Star Wars: Rebels”.
Ahsoka is 100% a sequel to Rebels. The 2 episode premiere felt like it was right out of The Clone Wars & Star Wars Rebels, but in live action. — Jorgie, POC Culture
Previewed the first two eps of #Ahsoka. Though it’s an exciting new chapter to the Star Wars story that Dave Filoni has created, it feels more like a sequel to Rebels than a true Ahsoka series. That said, it has all of the charms, humor, and thrills of Rebels… if you watched it. — Michael Lee, Geeks Of Doom
Initial #Ahsoka thoughts: Dave Filoni lovingly brings his rebels to life in a story that embraces mythology, magic, and lore in a way that could turn off, say, ANDOR fans. Slower paced than expected but still enthralling for this Rebels fan. — Meghan O’Keefe, Decider
A promising start for #Ahsoka with many cool story elements that expand the #StarWars universe and feel different from Mando. — Eric Goldman, Fandom
The first two episodes of #Ahsoka are very good. It really does feel like Star Wars Rebels season 5… great news for fans, but others might feel a bit lost at first. — Mark Cassidy, ComicBookMovie.com
A Stellar Cast Shines Bright
The ensemble cast, including Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Eman Esfandi, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and the late Ray Stevenson, has been praised for their performances.
Rosario Dawson is SO at home in her adaption of the character but it’s Natasha Liu Bordizzo & her Sabine that steals your heart. Cant wait to see her & Askoka’s story in full. — Lauren LaMagna, NextBestPicture
Also, the late Ray Stevenson is excellent in the episodes I’ve seen, creating a compelling character and performance with minimal screen time and dialogue. — Matthew Simpson, Exclaim!
I cant take my eyes off Ivanna Sakhno whenever she’s on screen and I’m so intrigued by her character. —Ash Crossan, ETNow
Rosario Dawson plays Ahsoka perfectly; Hera and Sabine solid; intriguing villains. Adorable Lothcats. — Mark Cassidy, ComicBookMovie.com
A Story That Breathes
Critics are lauding the show’s pacing and storytelling, emphasizing that scenes are allowed to unfold organically rather than being rushed.
#Ahsoka is AWESOME. It’s got just about everything a #StarWars fan could want out of a live-action TV series, but the thing I admire most about it might actually be its deliberate pacing. Scenes are allowed to play out at an organic rate rather than being rushed along by rapid-fire editing. — LaughingPlace.com
Every scene gets time to breathe & feels completely organic! Perfectly paced & putting characters first!! — Zach Pope
Dave Filoni has perfected his craft with this one. It’s a stunning show with incredible storytelling & great writing. Some moments will SHOCK you. — Atom
I enjoyed the first two episodes of #Ahsoka, and the best part about it is that it’s focused on telling one grand story.
I’ve never watched the animated shows, so I don’t know the ins and outs of these characters’ backstories, but their dynamics are clear. — Brian Davids, Hollywood Reporter
Impressed with the action & how it’s all story. No side missions or filler. Can’t wait to see episode 3. Wish I could watch future episodes on a movie screen. — Steven Weintraub, Collider
Visual Mastery
The visual effects and production design of “Star Wars: Ahsoka” are being hailed as exceptional, with critics noting the show’s atmospheric and immersive quality.
I enjoyed the first two episodes of #Ahsoka, which kind of play out like an elegiac coda to rebels – the tone is very similar to the Mandalorian episode The Jedi – silent and still with brilliantly eerie music and a lot of cool tableaux — Andrzej Łukowski, TimeOut
If you’re a fan of #StarWarsRebels you’ll love all the nods. #Ahsoka is Dave Feloni’s masterful vision in live action form. — That Hashtag Show
The first 2 episodes of #Ahsoka are a lot of fun, especially for fans of REBELS and CLONE WARS. Love Ashoka’s fight scenes the most. The 1st episode is written & directed by Dave Filoni & it’s my fav of the two. Definitely more serious in tone. This is some good #StarWars — Erik Davis, Fandango
Star Wars GAMECHANGER! Surpasses Andor & will win several awards. Great cameos, epic action & gorgeous visuals that will soak uh your pants. — Atom
A Divisive Reception?
While the show is being praised, some critics are suggesting that it might divide audiences, particularly between those familiar with “Star Wars: Rebels” and those who are not.
Expect reviews for this show to be heavily divisive among those who are fans of Rebels and those who are not. And it’s still hard to reconcile the difference between Ashley’s Ahsoka and Rosario’s Ahsoka. And yet, I am excited to see what comes from this. It’s an intriguing setup — Joe Schmidt, ComicBook.com
As a Rebels fan, I felt a connection to it that was truly special. And yet it’s hugely epic at some times & oddly flat at others. — Germain Lussier, Gizmodo
Not just another tv show, it’s the BEST Disney+ series ever! A fitting end to her journey while also setting up what’s next — Atom
The entire cast is incredible and perfectly embodies the Rebels. THIS FEELS LIKE REBELS. I am obsessed already. Cannot wait for more. I didn’t want it to end. Dave Filoni is a genius. #Ahsoka — Tessa Smith, Mama’s Geeky
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
“Star Wars: Ahsoka” promises to be a significant addition to the Star Wars universe. With its strong cast, deliberate pacing, and visually stunning production, it is set to captivate both long-time fans and newcomers alike. As the series is about to premiere, the excitement is palpable, and the galaxy far, far away feels closer than ever.
“Star Wars: Ahsoka: Season 1” premieres Tuesday, August 22 at 6 p.m. on Disney+.