The Empire strikes back at the Bad Batch in the latest episode of the Lucasfilm and Disney+ Original series, “Star Wars: The Bad Batch.” Hunter, Wrecker, Tech, Echo and Omega go to a location to try to understand the message Crosshair is trying to send to them. While they are trying to learn more, Saw Guerrera and his crew are trying to destroy the location because Hemlock and Tarkin are there. In the end, the Bad Batch is put in a situation where they have to flee as the Stormtroopers have them surrounded.

The penultimate episode of season two sets up the Bad Batch for their inevitable separation heading into season three. This series has been setting up for the Bad Batch to try to rally all of the clones the Empire is trying to dispose. This episode is one of the more action heavy of the series, but the action enhances the story, which is excellent. While season one of this show was cameo of the week, season two has built a season long arc that has guided to new heights.1

This episode ends on an excellent cliffhanger to set up the season finale. The Bad Batch is in a precarious situation, and it becomes clear that it is unlikely they will all complete this mission. It’s still possible, because the Bad Batch usually finds a way, but this episode really feels like it’s setting up actual stakes for the season finale. That doesn’t happen a lot in Disney+ shows, so it’s a good move forward for the series.

This season has also gone a long way to set up the sequel trilogy’s focus on cloning and how Palpatine is able to return in “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.” I’m sure that will be controversial for those who hate either “The Rise of Skywalker” or the sequel trilogy in general. Personally, I like these series tying back to the movies whether I liked the films or not. It’s increasing my enjoyment of both “The Bad Batch” and “The Mandalorian.” I’m looking forward to the finale.

Rating: 4 stars

What did you think of the penultimate episode of season two of “Star Wars: The Bad Batch?”

Jeremy Brown

Jeremy has been a big Disney fan since he was a kid growing up during the Disney Renaissance. One day he hopes to go to every Disney Park in the world.

View all posts