Film and TV Review: Star Wars: Visions Volume 3
We review the third volume of Star Wars: Visions, a series that many Star Wars fans enjoy, including those who are not anime enthusiasts like myself. Volume 3 contains nine episodes, matching the count of the earlier volumes. Like the first two, it offers something for every viewer. While some episodes resonated with me more than others, all had elements I appreciated.
The Duel: Payback (23 min)
Produced by Kamikaze Douga/ANIMA, this episode showcases one of my favorite anime styles within Star Wars: Visions. Although the visuals can be challenging to interpret at times, The Duel: Payback probes the meaning of being a Jedi.
The story focuses on the Ronin, a former Sith hunter, and Aneé-san, an ex-Sith turned bodyguard, both of whom embody Jedi traits more than the Jedi Grand Master sent after them. This episode reverses the usual Star Wars dynamic where Sith hunt Jedi; here, the Jedi Grand Master appears more machine than man.
The animation's gray tones emphasize this theme, contrasting sharply with the iconic bright red and blue lightsaber colors. While "Grey Jedi" are not a recognized part of Star Wars canon, this interpretation works effectively within the story.
"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."
Fans can also spot familiar movie sound effects, such as Ewok chatter and the horn calls from Return of the Jedi, which adds to the nostalgic charm.
Would you like me to format reviews for the other episodes in Volume 3 as well?