"You didn't knock, so what makes you think you need an invite?"
Star Wars Rebels is back from a brief break and it returns with an episode that is dedicated to the Padawan-Jedi Master dynamic between Ezra Bridger and Kanan Jarrus. Now, I know what some of you are thinking. "Another episode about these two?" Yes, this is Ezra's story and his path is critical, but yeesh, the rest of the crew isn't getting a whole lot of love, are they? It's a little disappointing they're once again limited to smaller roles, but you know what? It's okay in this case because "Path of the Jedi" is a terrific episode. The twists won't shock you (unless you haven't seen The Empire Strikes Back, I guess, but not seeing that movie is blasphemy), but it's still handled superbly and you won't mind knowing what'll happen because you're just having so much fun. It's an episode that'll pull you right into the Star Wars universe. The action is energetic and gripping, the voice acting is convincing, and the story is very well paced; it never hits a weak point.
Even though I've already seen the clip of Yoda (yes, it's Frank Oz!) talking to Kanan, the Jedi Master's role still gave me goosebumps. In context, it's such a good feeling hearing Yoda again, offering wisdom and really making someone question what they know and want. This simply feels like Star Wars. I know that's a bit of a silly and pretty vague statement, but if you're a fan and you watch the episode, I'm confident you'll agree. Everything from the narrative to the audio to the environments are familiar and it's amazing. It delivers just the right tone. It's character-driven with bits of horror, a few laughs, and plenty of awe.
A nice surprise was the handling of the lightsaber duel. It's important to remember how swift these characters are and that's something this episode does especially well. Their movements are a blur before they momentarily stop because their lightsabers clash against each other. There's a much appreciated extended wide shot, as well as several effective close ups which show just how frenetic the battle is while also giving us a good look at their expressions. Inquisitor's sinister and twisted close-ups were a great touch.
This one's all about getting a good look at Ezra's psyche. He's forced (so not a pun, I swear) to face his fears and, while the themes and twists are certainly obviously, they're not heavy-handed. You may know what'll happen, but it's still presented in a way that'll keep you immensely entertained and wanting to root for the kid. After seeing his display in the last episode, this is an excellent and appropriate way to follow-up. And the final scene? You can't help but get excited thinking about what'll come next. Kanan also receives just a wee bit of insight. It of course isn't nearly as much as Ezra receives, but it's just enough to make us more interested in his history and appreciate the challenge he faces as Ezra's teacher. Meanwhile, we're given a proper reminder of just how frightening and intimidating Inquistior can be. Just like with Kanan's small role, I'm left wanting to see more of the foe, and that's saying a lot considering just how many memorable villains populate the Star Wars universe.
Does this episode have some predictable beats? Yes. Is it a bummer the rest of the crew is still getting pushed aside? Sure. But those criticisms are so small when compared to what this episode does well. It's technically yet another training sequence with plenty of familiar elements but it's handled in such an exciting way and embraces what this universe has to offer. "Path of the Jedi" just oozes nostalgia as it pulls you into its world and gives you the same kind of feeling you had while watching the original trilogy. The twists may not blow your mind, but this adventure will absolutely give you goosebumps and make you smile.