In the third installment of "Star Wars: Ahsoka," titled "Part Three: Time to Fly," the narrative escalates into a thrilling odyssey that delves deeper into the complexities of the Force and the relentless pursuit of justice. As the master-apprentice dynamic between Ahsoka Tano and Sabine Wren is rekindled, the duo embarks on a journey that tests their skills, their bond, and their understanding of the Force.
The episode commences with Sabine resuming her training under Ahsoka, practicing lightsaber combat with the stern and imposing Huyang. The training sessions are intense, with Huyang pushing Sabine to her limits, highlighting her proficiency in basic sword fighting, a skill honed by her Mandalorian upbringing. However, Sabine's connection to the Force remains tenuous, a challenge that Ahsoka aims to address by recreating a scene reminiscent of Luke's training aboard the Millennium Falcon in "A New Hope." Sabine, donning a helmet that obscures her vision, is forced to rely on the Force, a move that underscores the show's reclaiming of the Force as an innate part of all living beings, rather than the exclusive domain of a select few.
This training sequence leads to a poignant exchange between Ahsoka and Sabine, where Sabine expresses her doubts about her own strength, fearing she will never be powerful enough due to her inability to sense, let alone wield, the Force. Ahsoka's response is both instructive and comforting, reminding Sabine that while talent plays a role, training and focus are paramount, a theme that resonates throughout the Star Wars universe.
As the master and apprentice, accompanied by the ever-sarcastic Huyang, reach their destination, they are met with a spectacular and unexpected sight: a giant hyperspace ring. However, their arrival is met with immediate hostility as Shin Hati, Marrok, and a squadron of fighters launch a fierce attack. This dogfight scene is a standout moment, arguably the most exhilarating since "Rogue One," with director Steph Green masterfully framing the action to create a thrilling spectacle. The visuals are complemented by Kevin Kiner's score, which artfully blends John Williams's iconic "TIE Fighter Attack" from "A New Hope," adding a layer of nostalgia to the high-octane sequence.
Yet, amidst the excitement, the scene raises questions about Sabine's portrayal. As a seasoned warrior and leader, her reaction to downing a fighter seems out of character, undermining the experience she displayed in "Rebels." This moment is a microcosm of the show's broader challenge: balancing the need to make the story accessible to newcomers while honoring the rich history of the characters.
The episode also features a daring move from Ahsoka, who, in a display of Jedi prowess, exits the ship and engages the enemy fighters in zero-g combat with her lightsabers. It's a moment of pure Star Wars magic, a reckless act that would make Anakin Skywalker proud and serves as a reminder of the show's ability to blend the logic of live-action with the fantastical elements of the Star Wars universe.
While Ahsoka, Huyang, and Sabine face their adversaries, Hera Syndulla confronts her own past aboard the New Republic fleet. Her discussions with Mon Mothma and other senators reveal the systemic issues within the New Republic, foreshadowing the challenges that will lead to the Resistance and the First Order. Hera's concerns about Thrawn's return are met with skepticism, highlighting the political divisions and the lack of understanding of the true threat posed by the remnants of the Empire.
"Part Three: Time to Fly" is not just an action-packed episode; it is a narrative that weaves together the threads of the Star Wars saga, connecting the dots between the Rebel Alliance, the New Republic, and the Resistance. It is a testament to the show's ability to enhance the broader Star Wars universe while delivering a compelling story in its own right. As the season progresses, fans eagerly await the unfolding of Ahsoka's journey, hoping that the show will not only honor the legacy of the Jedi but also carve out its own place in the galaxy's history.