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In my opinion, Ahsoka Tano is the most well-rounded and complete character in the Star Wars canon. Since first appearing in 2008 as a virtual child, she was Anakin Skywalker’s padawan during The Clone Wars. Since his fall, she has grown into a complex and dynamic character who has undergone ample growth and change over the years. She became strong, independent, wise, and compassionate. Furthermore, she should be considered one of the most skilled warriors in the Star Wars galaxy … or any other.

The first two episodes of Ahsoka are a natural continuation of the cartoon Rebels, and that’s a good thing. Rebels is now required viewing, but trust me when I say that this is a pleasure, not a burden. The show is excellent, and it provides a lot of important context for Ahsoka’s story. This shouldn’t be surprising in that Dave Filoni, the co-creator of Ahsoka Tano, has stewarded her journey, as well as her fellow Rebels characters, for years and years. If you haven’t watched Rebels, I urge you to do so. (In fact, I did–eight years ago.)

Rosario Dawson is perfectly cast as Ahsoka, for she delivers the necessary depth and nuance to the role. Her Ahsoka is battle hardened and wizened by both time and tragedy. Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Hera Syndulla, which is a very interesting choice for the role. Winstead is always excellent in whatever she does, but her casting as Hera caught me by surprise. I’m certain she’ll prove herself more than capable. Finally, Natasha Liu Bordizzo plays Sabine Wren, and she is a scene-stealer as the rebellious and resourceful Mandalorian artist. Sabine predates The Mandalorian, and I think her popularity had much to do with garnering the confidence to break away from the Jedi and focus on other Star Wars elements.

Overall, I truly enjoyed the first two episodes of Ahsoka. I cannot wait to see what the talented group behind this show have in store for us … and for these characters that I love.