When ‘Ahsoka’ landed on Disney+ in 2023, it carried the weight of bringing a fan-favorite character from animation to live-action. Rosario Dawson’s portrayal of Ahsoka Tano, alongside familiar faces from ‘Star Wars Rebels’ and new threats, promised a thrilling dive into the post-Empire galaxy.

As a Star Wars fan, I was hooked by the show’s ambition, but looking back, some parts feel dated while others remain captivating. Below, I break down five ways ‘Ahsoka’ (2023) hasn’t aged well and five ways it continues to shine, reflecting on its place in the Star Wars saga.

5 Ways ‘Ahsoka’ (2023) Aged Poorly

Clunky Dialogue Feels Forced

The writing in ‘Ahsoka’ often feels stiff, with characters delivering lines that sound more like plot exposition than natural conversation. Moments meant to carry emotional weight, like Sabine’s talks with Ahsoka, come off as rehearsed.

This awkward dialogue makes it hard to connect with the characters’ struggles. On rewatch, I noticed the script’s lack of flow, which dulls the impact of otherwise strong scenes.

Thin Villain Presence

Grand Admiral Thrawn, played by Lars Mikkelsen, is built up as a galaxy-threatening mastermind, but his screen time feels underwhelming. His plans unfold off-screen, leaving him more mysterious than menacing.

Secondary villains like Morgan Elsbeth don’t fill the gap, making the stakes feel low. I wanted more of Thrawn’s cunning to match his ‘Star Wars Rebels’ (2014-2018) legacy.

Heavy Reliance on Past Lore

The show leans heavily on ‘Star Wars Rebels’ (2014-2018) and ‘The Clone Wars’ (2008-2020), which can alienate viewers unfamiliar with those series. Characters like Hera Syndulla appear without enough backstory for newcomers.

This makes ‘Ahsoka’ feel like a sequel rather than a standalone story. I found myself explaining context to friends, which broke the viewing experience.

Pacing Slows the Adventure

The series drags in its middle episodes, with long stretches focused on setup, like searching for a map to Thrawn. These moments lack the urgency expected from a Star Wars quest.

The eight-episode structure feels bloated, and trimming a few scenes could’ve kept the momentum. Rewatching feels sluggish when the plot takes too long to ignite.

Ahsoka’s Arc Lacks Depth

Rosario Dawson’s Ahsoka is compelling, but her character growth feels limited. Beyond a standout episode with Anakin, her journey from lone warrior to leader isn’t fully explored.

This leaves her feeling static compared to her dynamic animated past. I hoped for more insight into her inner struggles, which would’ve made her story more gripping.

5 Ways ‘Ahsoka’ (2023) Aged Masterfully

Lightsaber Duels Dazzle

The action sequences, especially lightsaber fights, are a high point that still thrill. Ahsoka’s battles with Baylan Skoll and Shin Hati are fluid and intense, showcasing her skill.

The choreography, paired with stunning visuals, holds up beautifully. These moments capture the Star Wars spirit and make rewatching a joy.

Baylan Skoll’s Lasting Impact

Ray Stevenson’s Baylan Skoll, a disillusioned Jedi, brings a fresh angle to Star Wars villains. His quest for a new path beyond Jedi and Sith adds depth and intrigue.

Stevenson’s commanding performance makes every scene electric. His character remains a highlight, leaving me eager for more of his story despite his passing.

World Between Worlds Magic

The introduction of the World Between Worlds in live-action is a bold and memorable choice. Ahsoka’s journey through this mystical realm, facing her past with Anakin, feels otherworldly and emotional.

This sequence blends Star Wars’ spiritual side with stunning visuals. It’s a standout moment that still sparks awe and curiosity.

Sabine’s Emotional Journey

Natasha Liu Bordizzo’s Sabine Wren grows from a reckless rebel to a focused warrior, giving the show its heart. Her struggles with loss and loyalty resonate deeply.

Despite some uneven moments, her arc feels authentic, especially in scenes with Ezra Bridger. Sabine’s growth keeps me invested in her future.

Expansive Galaxy Building

‘Ahsoka’ pushes Star Wars into new territory with elements like the Nightsisters and intergalactic travel. These additions expand the universe in exciting ways, setting up future stories.

The show’s ambition to connect ‘Rebels’ (2014-2018) to a broader saga feels fresh on rewatch. It keeps the galaxy feeling vast and full of possibilities.

What’s your favorite ‘Ahsoka’ moment, or did any flaws stand out to you? Share your thoughts in the comments!