Summary of "Special Podcast: In Praise of 'Andor'"
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Commentary Magazine Podcast
- Host/Author: Commentary Magazine
- Description: Commentary is America's premier monthly magazine of opinion: General, yet Jewish. Highly variegated, with a unifying perspective. Listen to The Commentary Magazine Podcast, along with more than 40 other original podcasts, at Ricochet.com. No paid subscription required.
- Episode: Special Podcast: In Praise of 'Andor'
- Release Date: May 26, 2025
Introduction
In the special Memorial Day edition of The Commentary Magazine Podcast, hosts John Podhoretz and Matthew Continetti delve into their appreciation for the Disney+ series Andor, a political thriller set within the Star Wars universe. Both hosts express their enthusiasm for the show despite its ideological undertones, aiming to recommend it to listeners unfamiliar with or indifferent to the Star Wars franchise.
Overview of 'Andor'
Andor serves as a prequel to the 2016 film Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, exploring the origins of Cassian Andor's involvement in the Rebel Alliance's struggle against the Galactic Empire. The series spans two seasons with a total of 24 episodes, meticulously detailing Andor's transformation from a disillusioned individual into a key figure in the rebellion.
Notable Quote:
Matthew Continetti (00:51): "It's a political thriller in the guise of a Star Wars story."
Political Themes and Ideology
The hosts discuss the show's strong political narrative, highlighting how it portrays the complexities of revolution and the moral compromises involved. They acknowledge that Andor presents an ideological perspective that might not typically align with conservative viewpoints. However, the compelling storytelling transcends these political boundaries, making the series accessible and engaging for a broader audience.
Notable Quote:
John Podhoretz (03:15): "I found that the politics of it are... it's not like I, I'm a conservative, but I don't really support the Galactic Empire."
Production and Writing Insights
John and Matthew explore the behind-the-scenes efforts that shaped Andor. They emphasize the pivotal role of Tony Gilroy, a seasoned screenwriter known for his work on the Jason Bourne series and Michael Clayton. Gilroy was brought in to salvage the initially troubled production of Rogue One, ultimately leading to its success. His involvement in Andor brought a similar depth and complexity to the series, focusing on character-driven narratives and intricate plotting.
Notable Quote:
John Podhoretz (09:35): "Tony Gilroy... is a script doctor... and his involvement... turned what was kind of a mess into one of the best Star Wars movies."
Character Development
A significant portion of the discussion centers around Cassian Andor, portrayed by Diego Luna. The hosts commend Luna's portrayal of Andor as a multifaceted character whose journey embodies the struggle against authoritarianism. They also touch upon other key characters, such as Mon Mothma and Luthen Rael, highlighting their roles in the broader rebellion and the personal sacrifices they make.
Notable Quote:
Matthew Continetti (12:10): "And he is clear, he is the charismatic central figure of the movie... how he slowly becomes... he accepts his role as a cog in a large machine."
Comparison with Other Star Wars Media
Andor is contrasted with other entries in the Star Wars franchise, particularly in its departure from traditional hero-centric narratives. Unlike the original trilogy's focus on figures like Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia, Andor delves into the lives of ordinary individuals who form the backbone of the rebellion. The hosts appreciate this shift, likening the series to a political thriller akin to Game of Thrones but without the fantasy elements.
Notable Quote:
John Podhoretz (15:58): "Imagine it's the movie Casablanca... it's about the best political thriller about this descent into totalitarianism."
Narrative Structure and Storytelling
The podcast highlights the show's intricate narrative structure, particularly in the second season, which employs multi-episode arcs with jumps in time to deepen the storyline. This approach allows for a more nuanced exploration of political maneuvers and character motivations, enhancing the overall dramatic impact.
Notable Quote:
Matthew Continetti (23:16): "The second season gets so brilliant because it's broken into three, four sections."
Visual and Production Quality
John and Matthew commend the series for its exceptional visual aesthetics and world-building. The meticulous attention to detail creates an immersive experience, effectively transporting viewers to the Star Wars universe without relying on fantastical elements like lightsabers or telekinesis.
Notable Quote:
Matthew Continetti (40:00): "It is spectacularly beautiful to look at and the level of care that was taken... to make you feel as though you are nowhere near Earth."
Conclusion and Recommendations
Both hosts strongly recommend Andor to listeners, emphasizing its high production values, compelling storytelling, and deep political themes. They acknowledge that while the series is embedded within the Star Wars franchise, its unique approach and quality make it a standout piece of television deserving of attention beyond the typical fan base.
Notable Quote:
John Podhoretz (55:11): "...this is one of the high water marks of television in the last decade... very rich, very unusual and really worth your time."
Final Thoughts
John and Matthew conclude the episode by reflecting on the show's satisfying yet bittersweet ending, expressing a desire for more adventures of Cassian Andor despite the constraints faced during production. They highlight the importance of creative storytelling within genre fiction and commend Andor for its ability to balance complex political narratives with engaging character development.
This comprehensive discussion underscores Andor's significance as a thought-provoking and artistically accomplished addition to the Star Wars saga, making it a highly recommended watch for both fans and newcomers alike.