Who Else Knows?

Damn this show continues to deliver with every single episode! Suspense, a feeling of dread and actors who gives their all in every scene, no matter how big or small their role is!

This episode felt like the moment where the small pieces, that will lead to Rogue One and eventually A New Hope, are starting to come together!

The scenes with Krennic was great! I never thought much of him in Rogue One, but he feels like an actual threat, not to be underestimated, in this episode! The way he interogates Dedra.. chills!

This episode also shows us K2 and the relationship and banther he has with Cassian! I like how he also turns into an important character in this show!

The final scene.. amazing speech from Kleya! She really nails home just how important Luthen was to The Rebellion!

One of the strengths of this series is its effective portrayal of the Empire as a meticulously organized entity, characterized by a systematic approach to the oppression of the galaxy. There are no loose factions within the Empire; every action in one sector is calculated to serve a greater purpose elsewhere. This highly coordinated structure contributes to the Empire's chilling sense of authority and control. Early in this season, the show reaffirms this sense of unity during a meeting with Director Krennic and Imperial leadership, highlighting the transparency within the Empire's ranks. However, in a fascist regime, such cooperation can only endure as long as internal peace is maintained. Once an individual deviates from the rigid order, they become the weak link, vulnerable to expulsion or punishment. The series excels in its nuanced development of characters like Dedra, establishing her as a formidable presence within the Empire, only to use a single episode to underscore the ruthlessness of the regime she serves and the severe repercussions of her failures. This episode not only delivers on its thematic depth but also adds to the show's continued excellence, offering an exciting mission, the ethical dilemma of breaking rules for the greater good, and, notably, the return of the fan-favorite reprogrammed Imperial murder droid.

The beauty of this episode, and the series as a whole, lies in its depiction of gradual, yet significant, shifts in power and alliances. At this stage, the rebels are evolving into a cohesive force, united in their determination to ensure the preservation of the greater good. No longer scattered across the galaxy, they have transcended the disorganization of multiple, disparate factions with conflicting goals and inadequate leadership. Instead, they are converging on Yavin IV, forging a unified front. In contrast, the Empire is in a state of gradual disintegration, largely due to the breach of Death Star intelligence in the previous episode, which was leaked to Luthen. This stark juxtaposition effectively highlights the enduring power of genuine leadership, emphasizing that it will always prevail over self-serving motivations.

The narrative delves into the fundamental contrast between self-interest and selflessness. Cassian and his team embark on their mission not for personal gain, but because it is the morally right course of action, even at the expense of defying orders. In contrast, the Imperials operate primarily out of self-preservation, offering aid only when it aligns with their own security. As the layers of the story continue to unfold, this theme has never been as explicitly explored as it is here, highlighting the evolution of the series. This development underscores the remarkable progress of the show and the thoughtful treatment of its characters and the complex situations they navigate.

Another notable strength of this episode lies in its seamless integration into the world of "Rogue One," with distinct yet subtle differences between this segment and its predecessors. A key example is the return of K-2SO, who, by this point, has become an integral partner to Cassian. Their dynamic, which was one of the standout elements of the film, is effectively reestablished here, providing a sense of continuity and comfort that immerses viewers back into their shared universe. Moreover, the episode excels in capturing the pervasive atmosphere of "Rogue One," with a palpable sense of dread that permeates the narrative. This atmosphere not only reinforces the stakes of the central mission but also enhances its emotional weight, making it feel significant and potentially transformative.

The final moments of the episode raise a thought-provoking question that has not often been explored within the "Star Wars" universe. For many of these characters, the conflict has been their entire existence; thus, when this fight is no longer present, what remains? In the absence of the perpetual fear or the intense hatred toward the Empire that once defined their lives, what truly matters to them? This question, though subtle, resonates profoundly, highlighting the series' capacity to tackle complex themes in nuanced ways. The show excels in addressing grand ideas through intimate, effective storytelling.

"Who Else Knows?" begins to expose the fissures within the seemingly invincible Empire, illustrating that its strength is contingent upon the weakness of its opposition. This episode raises significant questions and masterfully sets the stage for the final act, all while delivering some of the most compelling storytelling within the "Star Wars" universe.

Episodic TV at its best. I hope that other genre series look at this as a template. The writing is superb but no matter how good the writing is if the actors aren't up to it it simply doesn't work. Acting is fabulous and so very believable. Hats off to the casting directors and mainly European cast who were magnificent.

Star wars show's have gotten a rough ride recently (somewhat justified) but this show should be the show you encourage those friends we all have who say "I don't really like Star Wars" as it's far enough away from Star Wars for them but close enough for all of the long term Star Wars fans out there....

Who Else Knows continues where Make it Stop left off and creates another tension filled situation.

I cannot mention details without spoiling, but it is safe to say that characters such as Cassian, K-2SO, Kleya, Dedra, and Krennic are used in the best possible ways by the writers.

It is clear to see that the main purpose of this final 3-episode arc is to lead us into the film Rogue One. It is pleasing to see that the first two thirds of the trilogy feels like purposeful storytelling and not fan service that simply connects the two entities. I am interested to know the fate of characters like Kleya and Dedra and this makes it feel compelling up to the final moment.

All actors give strong performances and the visuals are great as always.

I am too emotionally invested in this series, I watch it, and I can feel it. It is of our time, the impotence we feel against systems that are there to oppress us, denigrate our support for one another,, that we can fight against this, that we do matter as a collective, that we can stand up ourselves and for others.

I'm middle aged, but when I dream and remember what it is to be young, to have that feeling that I can feel the potential to make a difference as an individual, that I feel the adventure and potential that we all have in us at some point... it makes me remember that. It reminds me of a world full of possibilities where I have a chance against the oppressors, where I could be the hero, or at least part of something heroic, kids can do that. The gift that this series has given me, is making me feel that again. That's pretty special, and I am very grateful.

This must be art.