Star Wars Binge

Top 10 | Darth Vader Lines

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 09:45:00 -0600

As a Tribute to the great James Earl Jones, we brought together our list of the greatest Darth Vader lines.

Acolyte | Postgame

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 07:45:00 -0600

We wrap Season One of the Acolyte with reflections on the show and the future of Star Wars.

The Acolyte | Episodes 4-5

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 10:45:00 -0600

We continue our commentary on Season One of the Acolyte.

Do take a moment to check out the rest of the Star Wars Binge, for--as many know--this is the way.

The Acolyte | Episodes 1-3

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 17:30:00 -0600

We talk shop about all that we are loving in the Acolyte: our theories, hopes and joys.

Ahsoka | Postgame | Episodes 1-8

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Our dive into the final episode of Ahsoka.

We elevate all the things we loved about the first season, all that can be improved, and what we hope to see moving forward.

#Ahsoka

Ahsoka | Pregame

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 19 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0600

Here is our full Binge list:

I. FALL OF THE REPUBLIC

PROLEPSIS | SIEGE OF MANDALORE

S7E9 : Old Friends but Not Forgotten

S7E10 : Phantom Apprentice

S7E11 : Shattered

S7E12 : Victory and Death

PART 1 : STUDENTS

HEROES

S2E5 : Landing at Point Rain

S2E6 : Weapons Factory

S3E1 : Clone Cadets

LEADERS

S1E1 : Ambush

S1E5 : Rookies

S6E10 : The Lost One

FAMILY

S3E2 : ARC Troopers

S2E10 : The Deserter

S1E22 : Hostage Crisis

ANAKIN

4.11 Kidnapped

4.12 Slaves of the Republic

4.13 Escape from Kadavo

VENTRESS

S1E16 : The Hidden Enemy

S3E12 : Nightsisters

S3E13 : Monster

S3E14 : Witches of the Mist

20 Episodes

PART 2 : DARKNESS

AHSOKA

S3E18 : The Citadel

S3E19 : Counterattack

S3E20 : Citadel Rescue

KENOBI

S2E12 : The Mandalore Plot

S2E13 : Voyage of Temptation

S2E14 : Duchess of Mandalore

REX

S4E07 : Darkness on Umbara

S4E08 : The General

S4E09 : Plan of Dissent

S4E10 : Carnage of Krell

MORTIS

S3E15 : Overlords

S3E16 : Altar of Mortis

S3E17 : Ghosts of Mortis

MAUL

S4E21 : Brothers

S4E22 : Revenge

S5E1 : Revival

16 Episodes

PART 3 : BETRAYAL

BAD BATCH

S7E1 : The Bad Batch

S7E2 : A Distant Echo

S7E3 : On the Wings of Keeradaks

S7E4 : Unfinished Business

MANDALORE

S5E14 : Eminence

S5E15 : Shades of Reason

S5E16 : The Lawless

AHSOKA

S5E17 : Sabotage

S5E18 : The Jedi Who Knew Too Much

S5E19 : To Catch a Jedi

S5E20 : The Wrong Jedi

YODA

6.11 : Voices (Death, darkness coming)

6.12 : Destiny (Dark Yoda)

6.13 : Sacrifice (Sidious)

ORDER 66

S6E1 : The Unknown

S6E2 : Conspiracy

S6E3 : Fugitive

S6E4 : Orders

18 Episodes

53 Episodes : 22 Minutes Each : 19.5 Hours

1 year plus 1.

EPISODE III | REVENGE OF THE SITH

II. RISE OF THE REBELLION

PART IV : FAMILY

S1E1 : Spark of Rebellion

S1E2 : Spark of Rebellion

S1E5 : Rise of the Old Master

S1E7 : Out of Darkness

S1E10 : Path of the Jedi

S1E15 : Fire Across the galaxy

You tube: “Ashoka Remembers” | http://bit.ly/35sTdoQ

S2E1 : The Siege of Lothal

S2E2 : The Siege of Lothal

S2E9 : The Future of the Force

S2E11 : Legacy

S2E17 : The Honorable Ones

S2E18 : Shroud of Darkness

YouTube : Rex Remembers Anakin |

http://bit.ly/2ODaR2b

S2E21 Twilight of the Apprentice

S2E22 Twilight of the Apprentice

YouTube : Ahsoka Vader | http://bit.ly/37rE9cV

PART V : REBEL

** SOLO **

S3E1 : Step into Shadow

S3E2 : Step into Shadow

S3E3 : The Holocron’s Fate

S3E5 : Hera’s Heroes

S3E15 : Trials of the Darksaber

S3E17 : Through Imperial Eyes

S3E20 : Twin Suns

YouTube : Obi Wan and Maul | http://bit.ly/35tsGHT

S4E3 : In the Name of the Rebellion pt 1

S4E4 : In the Name of the Rebellion pt 2

S4E9 : Rebel Assualt

S4E10 : Jedi Knight

S4E11 : Dume

S4E12 : Wolves at the Door

S4E13 : A World Between Worlds

S4E14 : A Fool’s Hope

S4E15 : Family Reunion

** ROGUE ONE ** (Movie)

PART VI : EMANCIPATION

** EPISODE IV | NEW HOPE ** (Movie)

YouTube : “Brothers” | http://bit.ly/37u6rmX

BETWEEN IV and V Episode

** EPISODE V | EMPIRE STRIKES BACK ** (Movie)

Youtube “Before the Dark Times” |

http://bit.ly/2pMMeI6

** EPISODE VI | RETURN OF THE JEDI ** (Movie)

The Last Jedi | The Fifth Anniversary Discussion

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0600

No Star Wars in recent years has inspired more conversation than the one released 5 years ago today : Ryan Johnson's "The Last Jedi".

From the character beats to controversial locations to the dramatic choices effecting all of canon, "The Last Jedi" soars for some and crashes for others and it's time to talk about it.

Andor Finale and the Future of Star Wars

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Thu, 24 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0600

We wrap up our reaction to Andor and its phenomenal episode 11 and 12 finale, as well as diving into whether our hopes have shifted for the future of Star Wars.

Six Shows 5 | Andor | Episodes 7-10

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0600

We have been *thrilled* with all things Andor, so we decide to record early.

Do Subscribe, and begin listening to the Binge from "Episode1".

Look forward to our a Third Part releasing after Thanksgiving.

Six Shows 4 | Andor | Episodes 1-6

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0600

We are half way through the first season of Andor.

There is so much to love and talk about and we're jumping into the first six episodes.

Six Shows 3 | Dooku | Tales of the Jedi

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0600

We complete our trilogy of episodes on the wonderful animated release: "Tales of the Jedi." We have saved the best for last, and we are joined again by the TJ Wilson.

Six Shows 2 | Ahsoka | Tales of the Jedi

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0600

We continue our commentary on the new shows, and take a fresh look at Tales of the Jedi, the themes, the characters, the ethics, and their place in the wider realm of Star Wars.

Six Shows 1 | The Promising Future of Star Wars?

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0600

Last time we spoke, we were pretty down on the creatives at Star Wars.

But we have seen the first half of Andor and Tales of the Jedi and there are all kinds of fresh, hopeful signs.

We will release thoughts between now and December 2022 on the two new shows.

Six Shows Intro | Ahsoka * Andor * Tales of the Jedi * Bad Batch 2 * Mandalorian 3 * Skeleton Crew

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0600

We have gone from 150 hours of Star Wars on Film to 200.

Before we can Binge the best, we need to consume all the good things coming out that cover the Prequel and Original Trilogy Eras.

Daniel and Jeff spend some solid time on the huge announcements this last week at D23 of 6 new shows. They discuss all they hope for, what they're most excited about, and what Star Wars can uniquely say to our culture in this moment.

Kenobi | Postgame and the Future of Star Wars

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sun, 31 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0600

We're giving some honest thoughts on where we think Star Wars is struggling, what they are doing well, and what we think they should do moving forward.

We love Star Wars and sometimes you encourage and coach and cheer for stuff you love.

Kenobi | Pregame

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Tue, 10 May 2022 07:00:00 -0600

We comment on all the possibilities and potential of one of the most anticipated returns to screen in decades.

We talk Vader. We talk world building. And we talk about The Ewan McGregor.

Music is by Samuel Kim here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_2YJF5DQiY

Year Two

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0600

Friends, we have been doing the Binge for a year.

In this episode we celebrate by talking shop about all the new Star Wars projects being released in the next year, and giving the low down on how we are tackling Act 2 off the Binge.

Episode 28 | "Witches in the Mist"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0600

The culmination of the fantastic "Nightsisters Arc".

All the pieces are in place as we end the first Act of our Star Wars Binge.

Episode 27 | "Monster"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0600

In this central episode to "The Nightsisters" arc, we see the introduction of a key character voiced by one of the great actors of our time.

The themes of abuse, identity and corruption continue as we move to close out the first act of the Star Wars Binge.

Episode 26 | "The Nightsisters" | Part 2

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 17:00:00 -0600

Part 2 as we break down this wonderful arc!

Lots of backstory for the first time for Asajj Ventress, and the introduction of magic into the Star Wars universe.

Episode 25 | "The Nightsisters" | Part 1

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 29 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0600

This episode begin, what Jeff believes, is an arc superior to almost all the movies.

Lots to love and discuss here as we are introduced to the inner life of Asajj Ventress.

Episode 24 | "The Hidden Enemy"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0600

A wonderful early episode that not only elevates a primary theme in Star Wars of betrayal and evil working under the surface, but this gives us an opportunity to unpack what is the most interesting character in all of the Clone Wars.

Episode 23 | "Escape From Kadavo" | Part II

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sun, 14 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Season 4 : Episodes 10-12 | This is our culminating episode into one of the most underrated of all the Clone Wars arcs.

We see Obi Wan escape from slavery, Rex murder a slaver, Ahsoka elevated by her people and Anakin at the height of his powers and goodness.

This arc is special.

Jump in.

Episode 22 | "Escape From Kadavo" | Part I

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 30 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0600

We end this arc with one of the great tropes in all story: heroes moving to rescue a whole people from misery and enslavement.

Do watch this Clone Wars arc -- Season 4; episodes 10-12 -- as we discuss the overlaps running through all of pop culture, and hit what we believe is the central idea within all of Star Wars.

Episode 21 | "Slaves of the Republic"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 16 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0600

One of the better Clone Wars episodes, borrowing heavily from Return of the Jedi.

We talk about heroes stealing cars, Anakin's Don Juan persona, and we talk about "Slave Leia" and the assassination of gangsters.

Episode 20 | "Kidnapped" | Part II

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 02 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0600

We conclude the first episode of the Kadavo Arc: Season 4 | Episodes 10-12.

Excellent themes hit here from terrorists with bombs to Post Traumatic Stress caused by slavery.

So much to discuss!

Episode 19 | "Kidnapped" | Part I

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 25 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0600

We tackle a significantly underrated 3 episode arc from Season 4.

This may be the best unveiling of the hearts of Ahsoka, Anakin and Kenobi in all of the Clone Wars. In this arc we see trauma, we see the inability of friends to help heal deep wounds, and we see the hearts of our characters exposed in ways seldom seen in this series.

In terms of its importance and ability to set up everything to come, this is top shelf material.

Episode 18 | "Hostage Crisis"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 04 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0600

In a wonderful salute to Die Hard and The Dark Knight, we see Anakin Skywalker seeking to save his bride from what is arguably the best villain created in the Clone Wars Era.

We had a lot of fun here, and we may also make fun of buffoons who storm capital buildings ... so be warned.

Episode 17 | "The Deserter" | Part II

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0600

We talk freedom, duty, and the importance of family in Star Wars, concluding a primary episode that elevates the heart of Rex and the Clones.

Episode 16 | "The Deserter" | Part I

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 11:45:00 -0600

In what Daniel describes as the best episode of Star Trek he's seen, we enjoy a Rex focused episode that elevates the Captain's humanity, sense of self, and his own thoughts on "freedom".

This is not only a character building episode, "The Deserter" highlights many of the central themes and conflicts in the Clone Wars: family, free will, duty and the desire for happiness.

This may be the best episode in all of Season 2. Enjoy!

Episode 15 | "Arc Trooper"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0600

This is easily a Top 10 Clone Wars episode!

"Arc Troopers" is the animated series at its best : Gorgeous lightsaber battles, Brilliant Star Wars tech, deeply evil moments, and one of the most moving death scenes in all Star Wars ... without question.

"Arc Troopers" desired two parts, but we slammed all the goodness into one epic episode.

Enjoy!

Episode 14 | "Lost Ones" | Part II

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Tue, 20 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0600

Our second dive into this essential episode of the Clone Wars.

"The Lost Ones" is Season 6 Episode 10 and shows us the Jedi discovering that the Clones have been created by dark forces.

Episode 13 | "Lost Ones" | Part I

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Tue, 13 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0600

We jump forward to Season 6, Episode 10 where the Jedi Council discovers that something is not right with the Clone Army ...

Episode 12 | "Rookies"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0600

This is the second episode in the Domino Squad Arc: Season 1, Episode 5.

We love everything about this episode. Great action, solid character beats, unexpected deaths, it all culminates in a fantastic Star Wars moment, but most importantly we get to talk about the pop significance of "bloody hand prints".

Episode 11 | "Ambush"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0600

The very first Clone Wars episode ever released falls as number eleven in the Binge, but there's a reason it was number one.

This is a wonderful Yoda story that further elevates not only the humanity of the Clones but of Asajj Ventress as well. Very rewatchable. Do jump in with us.

Episode 10 | "Clone Cadets"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0600

An origin story for arguably three of the most important characters in Star Wars!

This is a stellar episode that introduces us to the inner life of the clones, and sets up much of the heart of all that is to come.

We recorded on "Clone Cadets" prior to the release of Bad Batch, but many of you will notice all the set up in this episode for all that is being unveiled right now in 2021.

Episode 9 | "Weapons Factory"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0600

We dive deep into the early relationship between Anakin and Ahsoka in a very moving Clone Wars episode.

This is Season 2 Episode 6 | "Weapons Factory."

If you are just jumping into the Binge, we do suggest starting with "Episode One | "Old Friends Not Forgotten". But otherwise, buckle up for a discussion of mansplaining, love, and what weapon you want to have in your pocket when you get mugged at night.

Episode 8 | "The Landing at Point Rain"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0600

We begin Act 1 of our Binge with Season 2 Episode 5 of the Clone Wars.

"The Landing at Point Rain" is the very first chronological material in the binge and we watch a young Ahsoka and Anakin establish their connection, see the loyalty of the Clones, and elevate the war in Star Wars.

Act 1 | "Students" | Episode 7

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Mon, 31 May 2021 07:00:00 -0600

We introduce the first of six acts in the Star Wars Binge!

"Act One" elevates all the major "Students" introduced during the Clone Wars, including Ventress, Ahsoka, Anakin and the Domino Squad.

Here we talk about the hero's journey, the role of the mentor and the home that a hero eventually finds on their path.

Intro audio from CW Edits : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDcRoGHDiD4

Bad Batch | "Aftermath" | Episode 1

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Wed, 19 May 2021 06:00:00 -0600

Here are our first thoughts, predictions and celebrations from the release of the new Bad Batch series.

Subscribe at : https://www.starwarsbinge.com/listen

Bad Batch | Pregame

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Tue, 18 May 2021 07:00:00 -0600

There are 10 new Star Wars projects coming out in the next few years.

This is the Star Wars Binge where we not only select, order and elevate the best 40 hours of the Star Wars Canon. But we also add our thoughts to the conversation regarding all new Star Wars.

Episode 6 | "Victory and Death" | Part II

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Mon, 17 May 2021 07:00:00 -0600

We conclude the "Siege of Mandalore" with a discussion of gravesites, epic character introductions, and the future of all things Clone Wars.

Episode 5 | "Victory and Death" | Part I

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Mon, 10 May 2021 01:00:00 -0600

We tackle Episode 12 of Season 7, the last episode of the Clone Wars Animated.

There is a lot to say in this two-parter as we end this epic series in tragedy.

Episode 4 | "Shattered" | Part II

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Sat, 01 May 2021 06:00:00 -0600

Season 7 | Episode 11 | Clone Wars Animated

We conclude the penultimate episode of the Clone Wars Animated Series with our deep dive into arguably the best Star Wars episode ever.

This is our commentary and annotations for part 3 of the "Siege of Mandalore" arc.

Episode 3 | "Shattered" | Part I

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0600

We begin a long discussion of the penultimate episode of the Clone Wars Animated series.

This is our commentary on Season 7, Episode 11: the third part of the fantastic "Siege of Mandalore" arc.

We divided "Shattered" into two parts because this 20 minutes may be the best of all Star Wars not in one of the films.

Truly a treasure.

Do take a listen.

Episode 2 | "The Phantom Apprentice"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0600

We continue our dive into the exceptional "Siege of Mandalore".

We explore the character beats, moments and plot of Season 7, Episode 10 of the Clone Wars.

Episode 1 | "Old Friends, Not Forgotten"

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 09:00:00 -0600

We begin the entire Star Wars Binge with the Concluding Arc of the Clone Wars.

The next five of our episodes will cover Season 7, Episodes 9-12 of the Clone Wars Animated Series conclusion.

We will feel this is the absolute best way to jump into a galaxy far, far away.

The Trailer

Jeff Cook and Daniel Mothershed — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 07:15:00 -0600

There's over 150 hours of Star Wars on Film.

This is the Star Wars Binge where we select, order and elevate the best 40 hours of the Star Wars Canon.