“Andor” Sparks New Hope for Star Wars Franchise with Bold, Complex Storytelling

For Disney, the success of Andor marks a pivotal moment—a rare bright spot in a franchise that has seen its share of hits and misses in recent years. With high stakes and even higher costs, the 12-episode series represents a gamble that appears to be paying off.

Reportedly costing a staggering $645 million to produce, Andor diverges from the traditional hero’s journey by delving into the motives and darker sides of both the Rebel Alliance and the Empire. Unlike Rogue One, which centered on a desperate mission to steal the Death Star plans, Andor explores how one of those rebels—Cassian Andor—arrives at that point. The series offers viewers a gritty, political, and morally complex universe, with characters like Swedish actor Stellan Skarsgard’s rebel operative adding depth and nuance.

Showrunner Tony Gilroy, speaking alongside lead actor Diego Luna during a Paris visit, revealed that the original plan was for five seasons. However, realizing the immense scope and workload, he concluded that only two seasons could be realistically achieved. The result is two tightly crafted, intense seasons that push storytelling boundaries—episodes that are richer, darker, and more complex than typical Star Wars fare.

Critics and fans have responded enthusiastically: season one wrapped in late 2022 with a stellar 96-percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and season two is now front and center on Disney+ starting Tuesday in the U.S. and Wednesday across Europe. The new season continues to explore the series’ darker, more political tone, setting it apart from the more adventure-driven The Mandalorian, which saw waning interest by its third season before transitioning to a feature film scheduled for next year.

Gilroy’s approach to Andor was heavily influenced by his lifelong fascination with revolutionary uprisings—from the Russian Revolution to Thomas Paine, Oliver Cromwell, and the Haitian Revolution. His deep dives into history have infused the series with a sense of realism and gravitas, resonating with audiences craving a more mature and thoughtful Star Wars experience.

Andor stands as a testament to how bold storytelling can reinvigorate a beloved universe, offering a fresh perspective that appeals to both critics and fans eager for more substance and depth in their galaxy far, far away.