The Only Recap You Need Before Andor Season 2

Cassian Andor, portrayed by Diego Luna, debuted in 2016’s “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” and his fan base grew so large that he got his own series on Disney+. The series titled “Andor” launched in 2022, offering a full twelve episodes in its first season, which is quite unusual for a Disney+ show. In fact, the two main storylines of the first season could have easily been divided into two seasons instead.

I’m thrilled to bits! The House of Mouse didn’t hold back and released all 12 episodes of “Andor” simultaneously, and it turned out to be a smashing success among fans and viewers. This overwhelming response practically sealed the deal for a second and concluding season, which will grace our screens on Disney+ on April 22, 2025. The new season promises another 12 episodes. In terms of timeline, Season 1 is set five years before the Battle of Yavin (5 BBY), where Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) famously destroyed the Death Star in “Star Wars.” “Andor” Season 2 picks up right where the first season ended, in 4 BBY, and continues all the way to 1 BBY, leading us straight into “Rogue One.

If you’ve seen the movie, you’re familiar with Andor’s tragic ending. However, “Andor” the series delves into the transformation of its titular character from a survivalist thief to a powerful member of the Rebel Alliance. Here’s a recap of everything you need to know about Season 1 of “Andor,” as we prepare for Season 2.

Andor grows up on Kenari

Approximately 24 BBY finds Kassa (Antonio Viña) as part of the Alphas, a group of youngsters dwelling self-sufficiently in the secluded jungles of Kenari. Accompanied by his sister Kerri (Belle Swarc), Kassa is one of several children who stumble upon a Republic spacecraft crashing close to their settlement. Intrigued, the kids decide to explore, and it’s Kassa who shows the greatest eagerness among them.

In summary, a corpse is found outside the spacecraft, with one crew member fatally shooting the Alpha faction’s leader in ambush. The kids respond by eliminating him using blowguns. Subsequently, the Alphas depart, leaving Kassa behind to unravel the enigmas of the starship. He enters the vessel and is subsequently joined by Maarva Andor (played by Fiona Shaw) and her spouse Clem (Gary Beadle), as well as their recovery team, B2EMO (portrayed by Dave Chapman).

Inside, the Andors are scavenging when they overhear Kassa and decide to investigate. Upon finding the child, Maarva administers a sedative, making him unresponsive. As the Republic approaches, the Andors board their spaceship with Kassa in tow, effectively cutting off his ties to his homeland forever. They adopt the boy and transfer him to the colony on Ferrix, where he assumes the name Cassian Jeron Andor.

Andor gets into a fight on Morlana One

5 BBY finds Cassian venturing to Morlana One in quest of his sister. Upon arrival, he learns that a woman originating from Kenari had been employed at a local entertainment hub. Eager for information, he steps into the Amusement District. Engaging with the bar attendant, he inquires about his search. However, two Corporate Security personnel from Preox-Morlana division interrupt, as they were there before him, causing a minor disturbance.

Cassian departs after gathering little information, but is chased by some men who confront him. In self-defense, he fires and unintentionally kills one of them, then escapes to his home planet Ferrix. Later, Deputy Inspector Syril Karn (played by Kyle Soller) initiates an inquiry, discovering that a man had been inquiring about a woman from Kenari.

There isn’t much known about the planet, but Syril is relentless in his pursuit to discover who caused the demise of two of his comrades. His team manages to narrow down Ferrix as a likely destination for their suspect’s next move. Consequently, Syril gives orders to interrogate any men from Kenari on Ferrix. For now, Cassian remains untouched, as he has consistently asserted his origin to be the planet Fest.

Andor’s side hustle proves risky

Upon arriving back at Ferrix, Cassian seeks out his friend Bix Caleen (Adria Arjona) to assist him in transporting a stolen Imperial N-S9 Starpath Unit. Initially hesitant, she consents to reach out to her contact for the sale, using a concealed communication device. However, Bix’s partner Timm Karlo (James McArdle) becomes wary when he discovers Corporate Security is on the hunt for someone from Kenari, causing him to question Cassian.

Cassian visits Maarva at her residence, where he learns that he’s being pursued. To create an alibi, he consults his friend Brasso (Joplin Sibtain). Later, when Cassian shares the truth with Bix, Timm becomes envious and informs the authorities about Cassian. Disregarding instructions to stay clear, Syril gathers a team of men to locate Cassian on Ferrix and apprehend him.

While Luthen Rael (played by Stellan Skarsgård) lands on Ferrix and heads towards the settlement to buy illicit gear, Cassian is preoccupied with finding a way off this planet since he’s aware that authorities won’t be far behind. As events unfold, Cassian, Luthen, and Syril find themselves in closer proximity as they each work towards their individual goals. This eventually leads to a conflict.

Corporate Security arrives to take Andor as he meets Luthen Rael

Syril, accompanied by a group of Corporate Tactical Forces, lands on Ferrix in search of Cassian. Meanwhile, Cassian is heading to meet with Luthen. A confrontation occurs when Syril’s team invades Maarva’s home, putting her and B2EMO at risk, which angers the locals and adds more complexity to the situation. Inside an old warehouse, Cassian and Luthen converse about the history of the Starpath Unit.

In town, Bix notices someone has deceived Cassian, prompting Timm to hinder her from informing him. Meanwhile, Luthen interrogates Cassian about his acquisition of the device, to which he reveals he disguised himself as an Imperial and stole it, mentioning the Empire’s negligence. Impressed by Cassian, their conversation is cut short by Corporate Security, leading to a brawl. They flee, leaving behind the device.

While the security forces fatally shoot Timm, causing an uproar in town, the situation escalates further when Cassian and Luthen clash with Syril, resulting in the deaths of several personnel. The entire operation falls apart, forcing Syril to clean up the mess, while Cassian and Luthen flee on speeder bikes, heading for a starship and their escape.

Andor and Luthen travel to Alghani

As I soar through the cosmos, my trusty companion by my side, we flee from Ferrix bound for Aldhani. Luthen, with his charm and cunning, convinces me to play a trick on the Empire – joining forces for a daring heist. Intrigued and enticed by the prospect of 200,000 credits, I accept the mission without fully realizing that this is merely the beginning of something much larger. Our goal: pilfering the quarterly payroll of an entire Imperial sector – a bold move indeed!

At Aldhani, Cassian adopts the name “Clem” and meets Vel Sartha (Faye Marsay), the leader of their mission, who is initially reluctant but eventually accepts him as they set off together on a journey to their camp, distanced from Luthen’s landing spot. Luthen presents “Clem” as an experienced pilot, fighter, and valuable asset for sale.

Vel identifies their objective as the armory within Aldhani Garrison, and upon reaching the camp, she presents Cassian/Clem to the rest of the group: Karis Nemik (played by Alex Lawther), Arvel Skeen (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), Taramyn Barcona (Gershwyn Eustache Jnr), and Cinta Kaz (Varada Sethu). There’s a sense of suspicion among everyone, but Vel orders the team to make Cassian/Clem feel comfortable.

The Imperial Security Bureau takes command

After the unsuccessful attack on Ferrix, Syril and his colleagues are let go by their supervisor at the Imperial Security Bureau (ISB), Blevin. He takes advantage of the “Ferrix Incident” to establish long-term Imperial dominion over the Morlana system. Upon reaching Coruscant, Syril’s mother Eedy Karn greets him with a hard slap followed by a warm hug.

In a different part of Coruscant, Senator Mon Mothma (Genevieve O’Reilly) visits Luthen at his bustling shop, Galactic Antiquities and Curiosities, brimming with “Star Wars” nods. Mon confides in him about her struggles transferring funds, suspecting she’s under surveillance. Luthen shares news of a recent recruit, and their mutual trust is evident. Back at home, however, Mon finds it challenging to connect with her family.

On Aldhani, Lieutenant Gorn (Sule Rimi) makes his way to the camp and is presented as our undercover operative. He fills everyone in on an upcoming Dhani festival known as the Eye of Aldhani, a grand celebration where the locals gather at the Aldhani Garrison to witness a stunning astronomical occurrence. Their intention is to leverage this event for their covert operation.

Lt. Meero begins to suspect a wider galaxy-wide conspiracy

In the headquarters of ISB on Coruscant, Supervisor Dedra Meero (Denise Gough) participates in a gathering where they delve into galaxy-wide matters. Major Lio Partagaz (Anton Lesser) queries Blevin regarding the Ferrix Incident, and he shares the details of the event. Additionally, Blevin reveals that an Imperial Starpath Unit was discovered, sparking curiosity in Dedra.

At the conclusion of the meeting, there arises a conversation about expanding secure transport to Scarif, a place where the Imperial database containing Death Star blueprints from “Rogue One” is located. Dedra’s curiosity surrounding the Starpath Unit makes her think she’s responsible for handling this case, but she clashes with Blevin. As events unfold, she starts discerning a galaxy-wide trend of mysterious high-profile heists targeting Imperial equipment.

As Dedra tries to connect scattered occurrences into a bigger picture, she accidentally discovers a budding rebellion. At the same time, Nemik initiates the spark of rebellion within Cassian, sharing with him a draft of his manuscript titled “The Trail of Political Consciousness.” This work, which focuses on freedom and anti-imperialism, will later serve as one of the foundational ideas for what becomes known as the Rebel Alliance.

Ferrix falls under Imperial control

Supervisor Blevin journeys to Ferrix and assumes authority over the area. His team works to clean up the wreckage from the Ferrix Incident, thereby asserting an Imperial influence within the community. Blevin decides to use a nearby hotel as the base for the ISB (Imperial Security Bureau), taking possession of it for this specific purpose. He approves Captain Vanis Tigo’s (Wilf Scolding) petition, appointing him as the town administrator.

At his family’s residence on the planet Coruscant, Syril’s future looks bleak due to the tarnished impression left by the Ferrix Incident. Eedy suggests reaching out to mysterious Uncle Harlo for employment opportunities. Meanwhile, Mon experiences strife in her marriage with Perrin Fertha (Alastair Mackenzie) and their child, Leida (Bronte Carmichael).

Mon’s stance against imperialism in the Senate is leading to a divide between her and her family. Additionally, she starts to suspect her chauffeur of being an ISB informant. Meanwhile, on Aldhani, the team prepares for their mission, as Lt. Gorn works at the garrison to sabotage his fellow Imperials. In the Empire, Dedra’s analyst discovers a pattern of thefts across important locations such as Kessel, Jakku, and others.

The target takes shape: the Imperial garrison on Aldhani

As the team readies itself for its upcoming task, Skeen starts feeling uneasy about Cassian’s intentions and challenges him on it. A heated argument ensues, but Vel interferes before things escalate too much. In the heat of the moment, Cassian confesses that he is not a revolutionary, but merely there for financial gain, unlike the other rebels. Following some deliberation, the team decides to move forward with the plan and sets off towards the Aldhani Garrison, where Commandant Jayhold Beehaz (Stanley Townsend) gathers his troops in preparation for the Eye of Aldhani.

The Commandant talks about the yearly journey that used to bring 15,000 participants, but this time, they anticipate only 60. He dislikes the event and the Dhani people, yet he’s determined to carry out the performance with his family present. As they approach the base, a team arrives and ignites a fire to alert Lt. Gorn. In the meantime, Vel hands over control of the mission to Barcona before departing, vowing to meet up again following the operation.

In the heart of Coruscant, Luthen finds himself seated in his store, anxiously waiting for a message from his communicator. His nerves are frayed as he frets over their mission, voicing uncertainty to his assistant, Kleya Marki (Elizabeth Dulau), regarding the enlistment of Cassian. She reassures him that there’s little they can do at the moment and suggests focusing on preparations for the next day.

The fight is on at the Aldhani Imperial garrison

At the behest of the Eye of Aldhani, a diversion commences, granting the team the opportunity for stealthy penetration into the Imperial fortress. Once within its walls, they skillfully apprehend the Commandant and his kin without rousing any sentries. By dint of coercion, they compel the Commandant to guide them to the vault, a treasure trove of credits. Their entrance was peaceful, and the Commandant commanded his troops to assist in transporting the wealth.

They’re loading the stationary spaceship with credits, but Corporal Kimzi (Nick Blood) gets suspicious about the interrupted signal and the lack of lights, so he decides to investigate. As his team intervenes during the robbery, a shootout erupts between them and the thieves. Meanwhile, TIE fighters rush to the base as the Commandant falls due to exhaustion.

The shipment of credits is being loaded onto the stationary vessel, but Corporal Kimzi (Nick Blood) grows suspicious when communication breaks down and lights go out, prompting him to inspect. During this time, his team disrupts the robbery, leading to a firefight between them and the robbers. TIE fighters hurry towards the base as the Commandant succumbs to exhaustion.

Kimzi perishes after slaying Gorn, then meets his end at the hands of Cassian within the freighter’s cockpit. Barcona succumbs to a blaster shot, while Nemik is tragically squashed by a heap of credits as Cassian steers the vessel skyward. They elude TIE fighters in hot pursuit and successfully reach their prearranged meeting point, where a physician and Vel are stationed in anticipation.

Fallout from the heist is the cost of rebellion

The news about the robbery gets to Luthen, who chuckles contentedly in his store. As time passes, the team lands on Frezno’s moon, but the doctor cannot save Nemik. Conversing outside, Cassian and Skeen ponder their massive new wealth, proposing a division of the loot. Cassian promptly shoots him down, later informing Vel about this while taking Nemik’s manifesto with him as he departs.

On Coruscant, the Empire is seething due to the robbery, making it their top concern for the Imperial Security Bureau (ISB), since Emperor Palpatine has taken notice. Major Partagaz calls an immediate meeting and instructs his team to prepare retaliation strategies by the end of the day. Meanwhile, at the Senate, Mon tries to persuade her colleagues to establish a committee to investigate the siege of Ghorman, but she’s met with indifference as they all depart.

As a devoted admirer, I find myself gearing up for an interview arranged by my esteemed uncle with the Imperial Bureau of Standards. Despite the hustle and bustle, my thoughts often stray to the whereabouts of Cassian, relentlessly pursuing his capture as I grasp the latest news about the raid and theft at Aldhani. The media has announced a blockade and Imperial investigation, which in turn triggers the imposition of a substantial tax—an exorbitant five times the value of what was stolen—on any system suspected of hosting rebellious activity.

Everyone involved moves forward from the heist

In a different turn of events, the daring heist significantly disrupts all Imperial operations. Meanwhile, Luthen rejoices within his store, when suddenly Mon drops by to chat about recent happenings. She queries whether Luthen is behind the Aldhani heist, yet he remains silent and avoids confessing, hinting at the high costs associated with revolutions. The conversation then shifts towards Mon’s struggles in managing her funds as stricter banking regulations are implemented.

The two heads of state hold contrasting strategies; one aims to construct an agent system, whereas the other leans towards a more immediate tactic, utilizing the network as a tool for attack. In the end, he acknowledges that his main objective was to provoke the Emperor into an excessive response – a reaction that the Intelligence Bureau is currently providing. Meanwhile on Coruscant, Syril embarks on his fresh assignment but remains persistent in investigating Cassian’s background.

At the ISB (Intelligence Service Bureau), Dedra is still collecting information, while Kleya consults with Vel about Cassian. They concur that it’s essential to wrap up any lingering issues involving him before they part ways. In the meantime, Cassian stealthily goes back to Ferrix, attempting to convince Maarva to depart with him. However, she refuses, choosing to stand her ground and fight rather than flee.

The Imperials play politics as Cassian escapes to paradise

The Aldhani heist fallout has resulted in the ISB acting too harshly, causing more arrests across the galaxy. Dedra convinced Major Partagaz to let her handle Blevin’s sectors, making her the one pursuing Cassian in Ferrix for the Empire.

Following his departure from Ferrix, Cassian collects his portion of the funds and a concealed blaster, stashing them away at a tranquil beach resort on Niamos. This locale offers him a peaceful retreat, yet the Imperial influence is substantial, with Shoretroopers and KX-series security droids constantly patrolling the area, seeking out any signs of incongruity. Fortunately, the Empire remains unaware of Cassian’s whereabouts.

Cassian stays in a room with someone named Windi (Katrina Nare). Their relationship isn’t delved into beyond a quick chat. She asks him to buy Peezos and Revnog for her, which are code names for drugs and alcohol in this context. Cassian goes out to get these items as requested, but he is unfairly apprehended by the Imperials, who record his arrest under an assumed name, “Keef Girgo.

Cassian is unjustly imprisoned on Narkina 5

In a false trial, Cassian is advised not to defend himself, receiving a six-year sentence for alleged anti-imperial speech and disturbance. Despite his guilt in many areas, it’s clear that Cassian, under the alias Keef, was apprehended solely to boost arrest numbers. Swiftly processed, he boards a transport vehicle where both he and the other detainees are ordered to take off their shoes.

As I step onto Narkina 5, an ocean-bound prison, it’s a stark contrast to the bustling cityscape of Coruscant. Here, I cross paths with Dedra, who persists in her probe into the Ferrix Incident. I attempt to persuade her, but she remains steadfast in her convictions. The induction process at this prison is chilling – they showcase the Imperial’s method of population control through electricity. At any moment, guards can deliver a painful shock to the prisoners, right through the floor beneath them.

Initially, they enforce this ruthless strategy at the most basic level, rendering everyone weakened. Later on, Cassian encounters Kino Loy (Andy Serkis), head of his team, who assigns him a single duty for the prisoners: relentlessly building peculiar machines. As Cassian learns the intricacies, he uncovers the harsh reality that these inmates are controlled to maintain maximum output at any expense.

The financial and political pressure mounts on Coruscant

In the lavish and extravagant environment of Coruscant, the elite gather and converse about intergalactic happenings. While maintaining a polished exterior, Mon covertly works to weaken the Emperor’s rule. Due to ongoing challenges in managing her funds without unwanted attention, she arranges a meeting with her confidant, Tay Kolma (Ben Miles), to seek his counsel on these matters.

Later on, Mon convenes with Senators who share similar views to discuss the Public Order Resentencing Act, a law used for incarcerating citizens over minor or subjective offenses. They also address the Emperor’s expanded, unrestricted security authority and acknowledge that they find themselves in precarious circumstances. Meanwhile, Cassian gradually adapts to life among the fellow prisoners at the detention center.

30 gaming sessions in, I’ve got the hang of it pretty good. Cassian forges bonds with the other guys at my gaming table: Birnok (Rasaq Kukoyi), Ham (Clemens Schick), Taga (Tom Reed), Ulaf (Christopher Fairbank), Jemboc (Brian Bovell), Xaul (Josef Davies), and Rusecott Melshi (Duncan Pow). Whenever I falter, Loy is always there to spur me and the rest back into action, as we’re the table that keeps everyone else moving because the slowest players are always amazed at the end of each session.

The situation on Ferrix worsens as the Empire tightens its grip

On Ferrix, life grows increasingly challenging as Imperial forces intensify their presence, asserting authority over the settlement. Streets are monitored by Stormtrooper squads, causing the populace to suffer under oppressive rule. As the Empire expands its grip, many of Cassian’s allies and companions make attempts to resist but with limited success. Eventually, Maarva falls gravely ill, prompting Bix to reach out, hoping to contact Cassian.

On the planet Ferrix, Vel and Cinta reconnect, simultaneously searching for Cassian, although his location is unknown as he’s being held captive under an alias. Imperial authorities start arresting individuals connected to Cassian haphazardly, and when they spot Bix in a crowd, she gets detained. In the prison, an individual decides to walk onto a deadly floor rather than continue imprisonment one night.

In the Segra Milo location, Luthen encounters Saw Gerrera. They discuss ongoing Rebel operations across the galaxy, but their views on the best approach differ significantly. Contrary to tradition, they don’t form an alliance. This kind of outcome is common with Saw, as he rarely agrees to join forces and prefers seeking revenge above all else.

An interrogation leads to Bix’s torture by ISB goons

Bix is escorted to the old hotel that serves as the ISB headquarters, and Dedra publicly displays him before a friend who has been brutally beaten. Dedra presents herself to Bix while forcing him into a seat for interrogation. Initially, Dedra adopts a friendly demeanor, but the looming threat of torment is always there. Rather than posing questions, Dedra narrates her version of events, occasionally allowing Bix to provide missing details.

As a devoted admirer, I find myself on a quest to uncover the enigma known as “Axis,” a pseudonym bestowed upon Luthen due to his anonymous status, perplexing even the ISB. Yet, my comrade Bix remains tight-lipped. Unfortunately, my attempts to draw information fail, leading me to summon Dr. Gorst (Joshua James). In a bid to escalate matters, he resorts to an unsettling tactic: playing the haunting cries of a species tragically wiped out by the Empire, shattering Bix’s resolve.

Inside the penitentiary, Ulaf gets hurt, sparking conversations among the inmates about the incoming replacement for the deceased prisoner. There are whispers too, about potential executions of 100 prisoners on Level 2, but Loy dismisses these as unfounded rumors. Meanwhile, Cassian heads towards a restroom and starts to slice into a water pipe, a daring escape idea forming in his thoughts.

Mon Mothma takes a stand against Imperial overreach

In a turn of events, Mon stands before the Imperial Senate, expressing disapproval towards the Emperor’s latest law. She labels his actions as an excessive expansion of government power, but is answered with mockery and minimal response. Upon departing, she encounters her cousin, Vel, at the Chandrilan Embassy, where they reminisce about Vel’s rebellious deeds over the past six months.

Syril persistently balances his day job with the ongoing Cassian case investigation, dedicating as many hours as he can. He encounters Dedra outside the ISB headquarters and openly expresses his respect for her professional prowess. Financial difficulties persistently mount for Mon, as she struggles to conceal a 400,000 credit transaction. She ponders collaborating with an unsavory character to alleviate this predicament.

In the prison, Ulaf’s condition is rapidly declining due to the demanding physical work. He comes close to fainting, prompting his colleagues to offer what assistance they can. Unfortunately, Ulaf’s health deteriorates even more, leading to a severe stroke. A doctor steps in to end Ulaf’s life out of compassion. After this incident, Cassian and Loy confront the physician about the deaths they had heard rumors of, and he confirms these reports.

The prisoners uncover the truth of their situation

In their grim predicament, Loy and Cassian discover a chilling truth: inmates who finish their duties are not freed as promised but rather transferred to another sector within the prison. The deceased inmates had stirred up trouble when an individual from Level 4 managed to navigate to Level 2. Upon learning this information, Loy starts collaborating with Cassian on a strategy, revealing that there are twelve guards stationed on each floor.

The exact number of Empire’s citizens imprisoned isn’t always specified, but it might seem like an oversight if the figure reaches tens of thousands or higher, as such a large scale incarceration could be easily spotted across the galaxy. It’s important to remember that the Empire is a strict totalitarian regime, where any form of dissent is met with severe repression.

As the inmates at Narkina 5 start to comprehend that they won’t be leaving regardless of remaining shifts, their mindsets shift. While Cassian had been eager to flee from the moment he arrived, most prisoners were content to wait out their allotted time. Now that the truth has emerged, Cassian and Loy’s fellow inmates realize that surviving means they must escape.

An escape plan begins to take shape at Narkina 5

Cassian and Loy persuade everyone to plan an escape the day after a new man takes over Ulaf’s position as guard. With just a dozen guards keeping watch over 5,000 trapped men who will never be freed, it seems like a perfect opportunity. Additionally, Cassian points out that whatever the Empire has them producing must hold significant value, although its purpose remains unknown to all.

While Mon discusses matters with a banker who proposes assistance in exchange for allowing her daughter Leida to marry his son, thus strengthening their families. However, this idea displeases Mon greatly. In a difficult predicament, she briefly ponders the offer. Unlike her mother, Leida upholds tradition, whereas Mon dismisses the thought of marrying off her 13-year-old daughter.

On Narkina 5 the following day, Loy and Cassian work to persuade their fellow prisoners that they must either break free or perish within the jail. Their argument convinces everyone, who anxiously anticipate the arrival of a replacement guard for Ulaf. With all prepared, Cassian manages to break a pipe, causing a flood on the floor, while a few prisoners engage in a feigned altercation.

Cassian launches a full-blown escape from Imperial prison

During the scuffle, Cassian uses a wrench to halt the elevator, providing an opportunity for the prisoners to ascend towards their captors. The inmates toss various items at the guards and leap onto tables to dodge potential electric shocks. A sudden flood triggers a power outage on the floors, rendering the Imperial’s deadly tactic useless. With this unexpected turn of events, the escape plan swiftly unfolds.

A group of men charge onto the platform, engaged in combat with guards as they advance deeper into the penitentiary. Along the way, they seize weapons, swelling their numbers significantly. Reaching the main control center, they seize power, creating an opportunity for Loy to address the entire prison population. He discloses the truth and incites them to flee, rebel, and break free. And that’s precisely what they do.

The prison is overrun as guards succumb to the breakout by prisoners. Everyone races towards the rooftop, where they have no choice but to plunge from a substantial height into the water. As Cassian urges Loy to dive, the latter confesses he can’t swim and stays put. A short while later, Cassian is carried away with the wave of men leaping into the water below. He resurfaces later, accompanied by Melshi, evading Imperial patrols throughout.

Luthen’s sacrifice is made plain

Luthen’s motivation for orchestrating the theft of 80 million credits was not primarily for the money, but rather to fuel the Rebellion against the Empire. This mission indeed sets events in motion that irreversibly alter the galaxy. Despite largely operating behind the scenes throughout “Andor,” Luthen emerges from the shadows to meet with his contact, ISB Supervisor Lonni Jung (Robert Emms). He cautions Luthen about Dedra’s intentions to uncover “Axis,” suspecting that Luthen is building a rebellion network.

Lonni shows interest in stepping down due to worries about his family’s safety, but Luthen remains resolute. He tells Lonni that he’s crucial for the rebellion, and when Lonni inquires about his own sacrifices, Luthen replies, “I’m forced to employ my adversary’s weapons to vanquish them. I sacrifice my integrity for a better tomorrow. I sacrifice my life to create a dawn that I won’t witness. And the arrogance that initiated this struggle will never have a reflection or applause or the glow of appreciation. So, what do I give up? Everything!

In this scene, Luthen effectively persuades Lonni to carry on supporting their shared purpose, emphasizing that all his actions are aimed at promoting a higher cause. The dialogue is particularly touching due to Stellan Skarsgård’s outstanding performance.

Cassian and Melshi find their way off Narkina 5

It isn’t certain what becomes of most fugitive prisoners, but Cassian and Melshi manage to reach the shoreside in unison. They scale a cliff face, eluding TIE patrols until they come across a couple of fishermen and their vessel. The runaways try to hijack the ship, but end up ensnared in the fishers’ nets instead. Rather than earning a reward by handing them over to the Empire, which they loathe, they negotiate a deal to pilot the two men to Niamos, a place where Cassian was once apprehended earlier.

Upon returning to Niamos, Cassian recovers his blaster, the manifesto, and the savings he hid prior to his capture by the Imperials. He then contacts Xanwan (Zubin Varla) to inform Maarva that he’s safe. It is during this moment that Cassian learns of Maarva’s passing, with her funeral imminent. This revelation stuns Andor, causing him and Melshi to separate. Before departing, Cassian hands over a blaster to Andor.

In another location, the information about Maarva’s demise finds its way to Luthen following Vel’s breach of protocol to inform him. He subsequently departs to encounter Saw again and narrowly avoids capture by an Imperial warship, but skillfully evades, annihilating TIE fighters before fleeing using a hyperspace jump.

Cassian’s homecoming delivers the spark of rebellion

Regardless of the risk, Cassian persists in going to Maarva’s funeral and returns to Ferrix. Interestingly, many others with connections to the situation are drawn to the planet too – some for the funeral, others to track down Cassian. Upon his arrival, it becomes apparent that Ferrix is under military rule, as the ISB has firmly established its presence within the system, enforcing their laws without pity or leniency.

Maarva, a resident of Ferrix, held significant regard within the community, prompting everyone to gather in honor of her life. On the other hand, Cassian uncovers Bix’s predicament as Dedra strategically withdraws troops, laying a trap. Elsewhere on Coruscant, Mon points to her husband’s gambling debts for the 400,000 credits that have gone missing, temporarily alleviating suspicion.

In another rendition, Cassian boldly charges into the transformed hotel-cum-prison to rescue Bix, all while a funeral is underway elsewhere. Meanwhile, Syril makes his way back to Ferrix, tracking Cassian. The tension escalates as B2EMO arrives at the town center, leading the funeral procession. Upon reaching his destination, he initiates a holographic message of Maarva’s final farewell, captivating the crowd who hang on every spoken word.

The uprising on Ferrix and Cassian’s escape

In a voice that carries through the city, Maarva recounts her memory of touching a funeral stone for the first time when she was only six years old. She explains how she walked to the Funeral Square, where she found inspiration in the tales of those who had perished. As she shares her story, the listeners hang on her every word, and Maarva’s passion becomes increasingly evident.

In her usual defiant spirit, she employs her words to ignite and uplift those she departed, fearlessly addressing the Empire about their corrupt rule: “A festering sore lies at the heart of the galaxy. A shadow spreads like corrosion into all we touch … The Empire is a malignancy that flourishes in the dark … If given another chance, I would rise before dawn to challenge those scoundrels from the outset. Resist the Empire!” As she utters these words, Imperial forces knock over B2EMO, triggering an uprising among the crowd inspired by Maarva’s actions.

The situation has escalated into a fierce rebellion, catching the Imperials off guard. Casualties are mounting on both sides as the conflict rages on. In a flash, Syril steps in to protect Dedra from protestors. This unexpected distraction allows Cassian to slip away, bidding farewell to his companions before boarding Luthen’s spacecraft. Curious, Cassian queries Luthen if he had come to eliminate him, and eventually, Luthen invites Cassian to join the growing resistance movement.

Epilogue

At Ferrix, the situation is becoming less chaotic near the galactic core. Mon and her husband observe as their daughter meets the banker’s son and his mother, a tradition that Mon herself isn’t fond of. Mon feels a profound sacrifice as this decision could affect her only child significantly, but she’s prepared to take these steps to safeguard the galaxy from the Empire’s tyranny.

Following Luthen and Cassian departing for their space battle, setting the stage for “Andor” Season 2 and “Rogue One,” the focus changes to a team of droids laboriously working on a colossal machine. They attach parts that Cassian and other captives were constructing onto a massive dish-like object. As the camera pulls back, it becomes apparent they’re assembling thousands of peculiar devices.

The camera gradually moves away, revealing the machinery more clearly: the droids are tirelessly building the main weapon of the Death Star. Regardless of the device Cassian had created, it was utilized for constructing the weapon that eventually claimed his life in “Rogue One,” demonstrating how ruthless the Emperor can be in exploiting citizens for forced labor, ultimately leading to their demise.

2025-03-29 19:34