As we close in on the series finale, you'd like to see episodes with longer runtimes. The concern being that we might run out of time to effectively wrap up all the story threads before the series wraps up. Despite only coming in at 26 minutes this week (about average for the series), "Into the Breach" gets a pass on this nitpick for two main reasons. Firstly, the pacing is near perfect. There isn't an ounce of fat in this episode, and the momentum caring the viewer into some extremely tense final moments is masterful. Secondly, they nailed the Star Wars tone here. Despite extremely high stakes, the general sense of adventure is maintained, and Rampart's humorous interjections keep things from getting too dark. As a whole the episode feels exactly as long as it needs to be and is an extremely compelling installment in the Star Wars saga. If you can't find yourself investing in these characters after these nail biting moments I'd recommend checking your pulse.

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Dec 19, 2024

SSSW - Skeleton Crew S1E4 "Can't Say I Remember No At Attin"

Halfway through the season and 'Skeleton Crew' maintains its strong momentum, even if this fourth episode isn't necessarily a home run. The kids find themselves on a dark mirror-like version of At Attin that has been ravaged by generations of war. Unfortunately, this solid story idea is undercut by being executed slightly too simplistically, even for a kids show. That being said, there are some great moments here. The world-building, was interesting and a we get a few satisfying twists in the larger adventure, including a terrifying final moment. Of course we can't forget about Neel, who finally gets the attention he deserves, sieving upon the opportunity and becoming the internets new favourite adorable Star Wars character (at least until Grogu shows up again).

Dec 12, 2024

SSSW - Skeleton Crew S1E3 "Very Interesting, As An Astrogration problem"

With the two-episode premiere out of the way, 'Skeleton Crew' can start finding its groove, and while this episode is enjoyable, the show might need to keep searching for what exactly that groove is for at least another week. Despite getting to spend a full, though somewhat short, episode with Jude Law, it's the kids (and especially Nick Frost's SM 33) that continue to steal the show. It's probably just a matter of time, but Jod (Jude Law) has yet to fully land as a character. A handful of charming scenes gets him going in the right direction though. Overall, this is a relatively safe step along the path for a show that has yet to get into the meaty parts of the adventure. Our prediction? Things really pick up in earnest next week. Stay tuned!

Dec 4, 2024

SSSW - Skeleton Crew - Series Premiere

Ahoy me mateys! Star Wars is back on TV and this time it's pirate themed baby! Julian and Rachel return to recap and review this two-part series premiere, and are happy to report that the show is off to a great start. Star Wars has been in a difficult place as of late. Something that has been discussed a lot as of late. Each new piece of content announced or released is under a microscope, and probably rightfully so, considering the mixed levels of quality we've been getting from Lucasfilm of late. Amongst all that angst, 'Skeleton Crew' was not at the top of a lot of fans wish-lists, but sometimes low expectations can do wonders. Despite a somewhat slow first episode, the series seems to quickly figure out what it wants to be (Treasure Island in space basically) and hits it's stride through it's second episode. The child cast is charming with great chemistry, but it's Nick Frost's droid character that really steals the spotlight so far. Be warned shipmates, thar be full spoilers ahead!

Nov 25, 2024

Episode 199.5 - Marvel/DC News Roundup

For the most part, genre entertainment news has been relatively light. Yes we’ve had a round of castings for DC projects, and Kevin Fiege is slowly opening the kimono for X-Men info, but on the whole nothing earth shattering (who knows, we might see a planet shatter whenever the ‘Superman’ trailer finally comes). This makes for a perfect time to defer the 200th episode of the show and take a look at the state of things over at DC and Marvel. They are both looking to emerge from a slump, despite taking very different approaches (though I’m sure DC would have loved a $1B hit that allowed them to have their cake and eat it too). The guys unpack the similarities and differences and sprinkle in a few different news bits along the way. All that and so much more on this week’s Tower of Babble Podcast!

The Bad Batch S3E13 "Into the Breach"

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