Obi-Wan Kenobi, as an extended part of the Star Wars Universe, explores the character of Obi-Wan Kenobi, played by Ewan McGregor as he goes about trying to protect Princess Leia. The show is a Disney+ original and has been long awaited by Star Wars fans.
The story of this one is set ten long years after Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. The show also stars Hayden Christensen, Moses Ingram, and Vivien Lyra Blair in important roles.
Fans across the world have begun preparing for the release of this one by re-watching older Star Wars shows and movies to recap the plot as well as to pump themselves up with some of the most iconic and memorable scenes from the franchise.
Here are five Star Wars movies and shows you should check out before you dive into Obi-Wan Kenobi on Disney+.
5 Star Wars marvels to watch ahead of Obi-Wan Kenobi's premiere
1) Star Wars: The Clone Wars
This is one of the most important watches before you begin watching Obi-Wan Kenobi. It is computer-animated and went on for seven seasons. The relationship between Anakin and Obi-Wan Kenobi is explored in great detail, making it essential to understand the turn of events that led to Anakin turning into a foe.
It also sets up the reasons that led up to Obi-Wan Kenobi going into hiding. Themes of love and friendship are subtly woven into the narrative and can be expected in the new series too.
2) Star Wars: Rebels
Star Wars: Rebels precedes the trilogy and is also an animated series. This one leans more onto the side of science fiction than the others. With four seasons and 75 episodes, binging this show would be a task but still an enjoyable one.
The show explores a group of rebels who rise to power years after the Jedi has fallen. The rebels hold secret operations against established forces and become an important phenomenon in the empire. Obi-Wan interacts with some of the characters in this series to create some truly cinematic moments.
3) Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of Sith
One of the most important watches to understand the world of Star Wars, Revenge of Sith explores Anakin’s journey right from when he is an ally to Obi-Wan until he gives in and switches sides.
This film features Obi-Wan and Anakin fighting to save Palpatine from the dark intentions of Count Doku. It has a significant portion dedicated to exploring the differences and similarities between Obi-Wan and Anakin, which further explains the rise of Darth Vader. The violent confrontation between Anakin and his partner creates intense drama and makes for some important plot points in the Star Wars universe.
Although it received low ratings when it released, the film is central to the plot and characters of the saga. The fight between Obi-Wan and Anakin, however, is a treat to watch, and the fact that it could be reinterpreted in the new show is in itself a selling point.
4) Star Wars: Episode VI - Return Of The Jedi
Return of the Jedi is an essential watch before you dive into Obi-Wan Kenobi. The new Disney+ show elaborates on a single, seemingly specific conflict that occurs in Return of The Jedi. The central plot follows Luke Skywalker as he does everything he can to bring his father, Anakin, back into the light. The writing in this film is particularly good as it explores the factors that led to the rise of Darth Vader.
In one of the most important scenes in the film, Anakin tells Luke that even Obi-Wan shared Luke's beliefs that he could be changed for the better. However, this comment isn’t consistent with Obi-Wan’s behavior in most Star Wars stories. The new show is expected to address this dilemma and bring light onto the arc that Obi-Wan went through to become who he is.
5) Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of The Clones
When he discovers evil forces attempting to destroy the Republic, Obi-Wan takes it upon his shoulders to protect the galaxy. He rises to the occasion once again in Attack of The Clones. High stakes and great forces in the plot are complemented with heavy use of computer graphics and angsty characters. Although it was heavily criticized for its unrealistic and animated portrayal of Anakin, Attack of The Clones is crucial to follow the plot points in Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Owen Lars, who plays a significant role in Attack of The Clones, is expected to return in the new show and might also have a more dramatic arc this time.
The Disney+ original Obi-Wan Kenobi looks like another attempt at creating a very intriguing character’s world to better build a world of the franchise’s own. Some wonderful performances and good writing is expected out of this one, like other character-driven shows.
The fact that an age-old story such as Star Wars still has a vast canvas like Disney+ and a huge audience to watch it, stands as proof of the brilliance of the 1987 franchise.