A few brief spoiler-free thoughts on the Ahsoka Fan Event and Media Screening of the first episodes of the new Disney+ series Ahsoka that just finished screening from the Tomorrowland Theater inside Disneyland Park (on August 17th, 2023). To keep it simple I will just touch on a few thoughts that keep revolving in my mind as I walk out of the park to my car. I am sure full episode reviews will be out after the embargoes are lifted and the shows come out on Disney+ from proper writers while this photographer is back to doing what he does best and that is not this my friends.
Filoni
When a young and talented storyboard artist and director was handpicked by George Lucas to helm The Clone Wars something magical started that was on display on the screen in front of me tonight. Lucas handed down to Dave Filoni the essence of what Star Wars storytelling can be. For me he just gets it, the balance that makes Star Wars feel like Star Wars, action, humor, drama with a spark of force. When you watch Ahsoka, you will be captivated by his craftsmanship, it is just right. Ahsoka has a feeling of all that work coming full circle for Filoni.
Ahsoka: Ashley to Rosario
We already saw a preview that Ahsoka Tano is the perfect character for Rosario Dawson. She’s wry and sassy, with a bit of an edge. She’s also very much her own person, which makes her interesting to watch. The way she brings Ahsoka to life is just so spot-on. She’s always got this sort of mischievous grin on her face that says, “I know what you’re thinking, but I’m going to do something that surprises you.” It’s so fun to watch! For us that go further back with Ahsoka to the character Ashley Eckstein brought to life through The Clone Wars to Rebels everything Ashley developed lives on in what Rosario brings to the screen. I could appreciate Rosario’s tribute to both the animation and Ashley from her performance.
Do I need to watch The Clone Wars and Rebels
The short answer is no, I feel that regardless of your entry point to this story, the first two episodes stand on their own. It is classic Star Wars for the beginning, the Force, lightsabers, adventure, and pew pew pew! However, this new adventure is also a continuation of the Rebels storyline if you are familiar with it, so it is rewarding to the viewers with that history. Prior to the shows’ arrival many of us have seen must-watch lists floating around to further our enjoyment and no doubt it will enhance the show for you, but it is not necessary. You don’t need to be well versed in The Clone Wars or Rebels to enjoy Ahsoka, honestly if you don’t know who she is I think you still are going to enjoy the story telling and adventure because from what I saw it is pure Star Wars and fun.
I said no spoilers, and I kept my promise, just a few random thoughts. A special thanks to Lucasfilm and Disney Communication for hosting me for this incredible event and James at Jedi News for the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon in the park and this special event. Ahsoka is scheduled to premiere on August 23, 2023, with two episodes. It will consist of eight episodes and is scheduled to conclude on October 4 only on Disney+.
