In the exhilarating third chapter of "Star Wars: Ahsoka," titled "Part Three: Time to Fly," the narrative unfolds into a gripping odyssey that delves further into the intricate tapestry of the Force and the unyielding quest for justice. As the mentor-protégé bond between Ahsoka Tano and Sabine Wren ignites anew, they embark on a perilous journey that puts their prowess, their bond, and their comprehension of the Force to the ultimate test.
The episode opens with Sabine resuming her rigorous training under the guidance of Ahsoka, engaging in lightsaber combat drills with the stern and formidable Huyang. The sessions are nothing short of intense, as Huyang pushes Sabine to her very limits, showcasing her mastery in basic swordsmanship, honed by her Mandalorian heritage. Yet, Sabine's connection to the Force remains tentative, a challenge that Ahsoka vows to conquer by staging a scene reminiscent of Luke Skywalker's training aboard the Millennium Falcon in "A New Hope." Donning a helmet that obscures her vision, Sabine is compelled to rely solely on the Force—a poignant reminder of the show's emphasis on the Force as an intrinsic part of all living beings, rather than the exclusive province of an elite few.
This pivotal training sequence culminates in a heartfelt conversation between Ahsoka and Sabine. Sabine voices her lingering doubts about her own strength, fearing she may never attain the necessary power due to her inability to sense, or even wield, the Force. Ahsoka's response is both instructive and reassuring, reminding Sabine that while innate talent certainly plays a role, relentless training and unwavering focus are the true cornerstones of greatness—a timeless theme that echoes throughout the Star Wars saga.
As the mentor, protégé, and their perpetually sardonic companion Huyang arrive at their intended destination, they are greeted by a breathtaking and unanticipated sight: a colossal hyperspace ring. However, their arrival is swiftly met with overt hostility as Shin Hati, Marrok, and a squadron of fighters unleash a ferocious assault. This dogfight sequence stands as a highlight, arguably the most thrilling since "Rogue One," with director Steph Green expertly framing the high-stakes action to create a pulse-pounding spectacle. The stunning visuals are complemented by Kevin Kiner's score, which skillfully intertwines John Williams' iconic "TIE Fighter Attack" theme from "A New Hope," adding a layer of nostalgic resonance to the adrenaline-fueled sequence.
Amidst the thrilling excitement, the scene gives rise to inquiries regarding Sabine's portrayal. As a seasoned warrior and leader, her response to defeating a fighter jet seems out of sync with her established character, undermining the depth of experience she expertly showcased in "Rebels." This pivotal moment serves as a microcosm of the show's overarching challenge: balancing the necessity to make the narrative accessible to new viewers while respectfully acknowledging the intricate histories of the characters.
Moreover, the episode showcases a daring maneuver from Ahsoka, who, with a display of unparalleled Jedi prowess, exits the ship and engages the enemy fighters in zero-gravity combat with her glowing lightsabers. It is a moment that encapsulates the pure magic of Star Wars, a reckless feat that would make Anakin Skywalker beam with pride, and serves as a stark reminder of the show's extraordinary ability to seamlessly blend the logic of live-action with the fantastical allure of the Star Wars universe.
While Ahsoka, Huyang, and Sabine fiercely confront their adversaries, Hera Syndulla grapples with her own haunting past aboard the New Republic fleet. Her thought-provoking discussions with Mon Mothma and other senators bring to light the systemic flaws within the New Republic, hinting at the formidable challenges that will eventually pave the way for the Resistance and the First Order. Hera's genuine concerns about Thrawn's ominous return are met with skepticism, underscoring the deep-rooted political divisions and the pervasive lack of understanding concerning the genuine threat posed by the remnants of the Empire.
"Part Three: Time to Fly" is not merely an action-packed episode; it is a narrative tapestry that skillfully intertwines the threads of the Star Wars saga, connecting the dots between the Rebel Alliance, the New Republic, and the Resistance. It stands as a testament to the show's formidable ability to enrich the broader Star Wars universe while delivering a compelling and engrossing story in its own right. As the season unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate the progression of Ahsoka's journey, fervently hoping that the show will not only uphold the storied legacy of the Jedi but also carve out a distinctive and enduring place within the galaxy's storied history.
