Film and TV Review: Star Wars: Visions Volume 3
Star Wars: Visions Volume 3 continues the tradition of blending diverse storytelling styles across nine episodes, appealing to a wide range of fans including those less familiar with anime. While some episodes stood out more than others, each offered unique elements worth appreciating.
The Duel: Payback (23m)
Created by Kamikaze Douga/ANIMA, this episode features one of the most captivating anime styles in the series, even if its visuals can sometimes be challenging to decipher. It explores the essence of being a Jedi in an unusual way.
The story centers on the Ronin, a former Sith hunter, and Aneé-san, a former Sith turned bodyguard. Both characters embody more Jedi-like qualities than the Jedi Grand Master sent to track them down. This reverses traditional Star Wars roles, where instead of Sith hunting Jedi, the Jedi Grand Master is portrayed as more mechanical than human.
The animation uses a grey color palette that contrasts strikingly with the bright reds and blues of the lightsabers. Although Grey Jedi are not canon, this episode embraces the concept creatively and effectively.
"The Ronin, the former Sith hunting Sith, and Aneé-san, the former Sith turned bodyguard, have more Jedi qualities than the Jedi Grand Master sent to hunt them down."
"This sort of flips the canon Star Wars on its head, whereas the Sith hunt the Jedi; here, it’s the opposite, with the Jedi Grand Master being more machine than man."
Fans will appreciate the subtle inclusion of iconic sound effects from the films, such as Ewok chatter and horn blows from Return of the Jedi.
Summary: Star Wars: Visions Volume 3 skillfully blends traditional anime artistry with fresh perspectives on familiar lore, offering something engaging for every type of Star Wars fan.