The first two episodes of Maul- Shadow Lord absolutely blew me away. I could have written about every two episodes after that but decided to wait for the season finale to post this.
The first two episodes were merely an appetizer. I realize that recency bias is definitely at play here but I can confidentially say that there has not been any better star Wars content since Empire Strikes back. There may be shows or movies equally s good, but I don't think it is possible that anything has been better. And I am really doing mental gymnastics to avoid simply screaming"This is the best Star Wars content in the last 45 years!"
Let's start with the visuals. They are simply dazzling. Even if it were just the main action and characters that were so incredible, I would be in awe. But the detail is breathtaking. Every single background and city scene is so rich and detailed that I sometimes forgot I was watching a cartoon. Filoni knows how to direct animation in a way that makes you feel like you are watching a film. He clearly had a hand in making sure the directors of each episode did the same. Is there a reason to make it look like the "camera" is panning from a characters feet to their torso? In old cartoons, the answer is absolutely not. But if you are creating a cinematic experience using animation, that it is essential. And there are so many small details like this that allow you to become immersed in the visuals. This attention to detail really comes through in the action sequences. The characters motions are so incredibly perfect that the combat scenes rivaled John Wick.
And speaking of action. Holy shirtballs! There is action in every single episode leading up to one of the greatest (if not the greatest) light saber duels of all time. Once again, recency bias is clearly creeping in, but I can't think of a better light-saber battle than the one in the season finale. The main saving grace of the horrendous prequels is the Duel of the Fates between Obi-Wan, Qui Gon... and of course Darth Maul, but even that can't surpass what you will be treated to in the final episode.
Sadly due to my compulsive obsession with avoiding spoilers, I can't tell you anything else about that duel. But you will have to trust me, it is incredible! I actually jumped off my couch like I was watching a sporting event when it started.
Ok so it looks cool and there is action. What about the story and characters? Filoni doesn't make garbage. He loves Star Wars too much to just push out eye candy (Thank the maker!).
Filoni avoided the one pitfall that could have ruined this show. He did not make Darth Maul a good guy. Maul is a bad dude... but he really hates the Empire so he can be both a hero and a villain... it just depends on your point of view. Centering the story around maul being a crime lord is just so damn fun. This allows the writers to add police drama, Sopranos-type intrigue, and just good old fashioned violence and backstabbing.
That's another huge positive. This is not a kids show. This is not one of the shows where only robots die and pilots miraculously bail out of their exploding ship. Its war and people (and creatures) die. Don't let the animation fool you. This show is made for adults who love action and sci-fi.
Go. Watch. Maul.