Star Wars Resistance Review

Star Wars Resistance

Premiering in the fall of 2018, Star Wars Resistance takes a refreshing and colorful departure from the darker, more mystical tones of its predecessors, The Clone Wars and Rebels. Created by Dave Filoni and developed with supervising director Justin Ridge, this animated series explores the previously uncharted timeline just before the events of The Force Awakens. In this detailed TV show review, we explore how this sci-fi adventure successfully balances lighthearted comedy, thrilling aerial racing, and the looming threat of the First Order, offering a distinct anime-inspired flavor to the beloved franchise.

Life on the Colossus

The series centers on Kazuda “Kaz” Xiono (voiced by Christopher Sean), a somewhat clumsy but deeply passionate New Republic pilot. Recruited by Resistance hero Poe Dameron (featuring guest voice work by Oscar Isaac), Kaz is assigned an undercover mission to spy on the growing threat of the First Order. His destination is the Colossus, a massive aircraft refueling station. Instead of focusing entirely on Jedi and Sith, Resistance zeroes in on the everyday citizens of the galaxy—mechanics, racers, and pirates. Kaz joins the crew of the Fireball under the gruff mentorship of Jarek Yeager (Scott Lawrence) and alongside friends like the endlessly optimistic Neeku Vozo (Josh Brener) and ambitious mechanic Tamara “Tam” Ryvora (Suzie McGrath).

Anime-Inspired Animation and High-Stakes Racing

Visually, Star Wars Resistance stands out immediately with its vibrant, cel-shaded 3D animation, deliberately drawing inspiration from Japanese anime. This bright, fast-paced aesthetic perfectly complements the show’s emphasis on high-speed ship racing. The aerial acrobatics and starfighter dogfights are intricately choreographed, capturing a genuine sense of velocity and danger. While the early episodes lean heavily into slice-of-life comedy and kid-friendly hijinks, the animation style shines brightest when the perilous aerial maneuvers take center stage.

A Rising Threat and Character Shifts

As the first season progresses, the narrative steadily matures. The creeping infiltration of the First Order, symbolized by the imposing Commander Pyre and Captain Phasma (Gwendoline Christie), transforms the peaceful racing station into an occupied territory. The tension slowly mounts as Stormtroopers begin patrolling the corridors, mirroring the rising dread felt across the galaxy during this era. The show’s most compelling emotional arc belongs to Tam, whose feelings of abandonment and desire for purpose lead her to naturally sympathize with the First Order’s promises of stability. This nuanced depiction of how ordinary, well-meaning people can be seduced by authoritarian regimes provides a surprising layer of depth to an otherwise cheerful series, elevating the stakes heading into the show’s second and final season.

The Final Verdict

Ultimately, this Star Wars Resistance review highlights a series that, while geared toward a slightly younger demographic than its predecessors, succeeds in telling a heartfelt, character-driven story. By swapping lightsabers for starfighters and chosen ones for everyday mechanics, the creators offer a unique, ground-level perspective of the galaxy right as a new war breaks out. It remains an enjoyable, action-packed chapter for fans looking to complete their modern Star Wars animation journey, proving that heroes can be found in the most unexpected corners of the universe.

Show Information

  • Title: Star Wars Resistance
  • Release Date: October 7, 2018
  • Director: Justin Ridge (Supervising Director)
  • Stars: Christopher Sean, Scott Lawrence, Josh Brener, Suzie McGrath
  • Genre: Sci-Fi, Adventure, Action, Animation