TFN Rebels Review: "Homecoming"

An old Clone Wars favorite returns in this weeks episode of Rebels, and it leads to some good old fashion family drama -- Star Wars style.

The Rebels are in trouble, and with no other options, Hera has to call on her father for help above Ryloth. The long standing question of why Hera isn't in contact with Cham is answered, and it's delivered in a powerful way.

WHAT WORKED:
I love the way the creative team behind the show reveals the struggles of the Rebels. This adds some nuance and vulnerability to our heroes, and makes the story feel more real. Having Sato give the details show that this issue goes above the crew of the Ghost.

Brining in Cham Syndulla was a nice nod to Clone Wars fans, and also helped bridge the two animated series. Hera is one of the main characters in this story, and her connection to a minor character in The Clone Wars makes this feel like one story. Cham was executed well, and his mission-driven attitude was evident from the start.

The story of Cham and Hera worked well. Both are type-a personalities, so it makes sense that neither want to see the other's perspective. Cham clearly cares about Ryloth and Ryloth only and Hera is devoted to the cause she has created against the empire.

Vanessa Marshall nailed it in this one. The way she flowed in and out of the French accent was one of the best performances in the show's history, and her heritage showed up in a big way. Also, the way the tension was palpable in an animated show is a testament to how well this show is put together, and how much we care about these characters.

WHAT DIDN'T WORK:
I don't want to sound like a broken record, but pacing is still something this show has to work on. I am confident they will.

It would have been nice if we got significant time on Ryloth. This show has done a poor job of world building outside of Lothal thus far. We often spend the majority of time in space and just a few minutes each episode on a planet. I'd love to see how different planets and systems are effected by the empire, and with Ryloth we could compare how it was in the Clone Wars with how it is now. That was a huge missed opportunity.

FINAL THOUGHTS:
Overall I thought this was another strong episode. Hera's backstory is now almost all filled in between Wings of the Master and this episode. Also, seeing the family atmosphere on the Ghost grow helps add depth to the characters. It was also cool to see some backstory on Chopper as well.

We will definitely see Cham again, and his introduction to this series was a strong one.

This review was done by Fan of TheForce.net Ryan Donoho. You can contact him at donohonba@gmail.com.

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