Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld debuted on Disney+ on May 4, 2025, bringing fans back into the galaxy far, far away with a fresh anthology series that delves into the lives of two notorious characters: Asajj Ventress and Cad Bane. This animated series, consisting of six episodes written by Matt Michnovetz, continues the trend of exploring backstories and motivations of fan-favorite figures from the Star Wars lore.
The series opens with Ventress, a former dark side assassin, who is given a new lease on life. After her sacrifice in the novel Dark Disciple, she finds herself on the run alongside a spirited Padawan named Lyco Strata, voiced by Lane Factor. Their journey unfolds as they navigate the challenges of a galaxy under Imperial rule, searching for hidden Jedi and forming an unlikely bond.
Asajj Ventress’ story is rich with potential, and the first episode showcases her battling Imperial Stormtroopers and a Sith Inquisitor. Nika Futterman’s voice performance brings a captivating charisma to Ventress, making her a compelling character to follow. However, as the episodes progress, they begin to feel repetitive, with familiar plot points that echo past narratives in the Star Wars universe.
In contrast, Cad Bane’s arc offers a more structured narrative that spans across three distinct phases of his life. The series begins with Bane as a young street dweller named Colby, showcasing his transformation into the cold-blooded gunslinger fans know. His story, inspired by classic Westerns, explores themes of class and the choices that lead him down a dark path. The episodes are filled with intense moments, betrayals, and showdowns, emphasizing the dramatic essence of his character.
Despite the strengths of Bane’s storyline, some viewers may question the necessity of revisiting these characters. Both Ventress and Bane have established arcs within the Star Wars canon, and their tales in Tales of the Underworld often feel like extensions rather than new explorations. Critics have noted that while the animation quality is superb and the voice acting is top-notch, the narratives lack the depth and originality that fans might hope for.
Visually, Tales of the Underworld impresses with its lush animation and distinct art style, which has become a hallmark of Lucasfilm Animation. The music also stands out, providing a fresh take that distinguishes this series from previous installments. However, some reviewers argue that the series does not fully capitalize on its potential, with Ventress’ arc being described as a postscript to her character development, lacking the weight of her previous narrative.
Even as the series attempts to explore the criminal underbelly of the Star Wars galaxy, it often veers into lighter territory, with Ventress’ story feeling less gritty than anticipated. The initial promise of delving into the darker aspects of the galaxy is somewhat diluted by the lightheartedness of her escapades.
On the other hand, Cad Bane’s journey is a classic tale of tragedy and redemption, reflecting the struggles of a character born into chaos. His episodes resonate with a sense of momentum and intrigue, capturing the essence of his morally ambiguous nature. Yet, even Bane’s story raises questions about the necessity of such a detailed origin when much of his allure stems from the mystery surrounding him.
Ultimately, Tales of the Underworld provides a satisfying, albeit uneven, experience for Star Wars fans. The series successfully expands on the lore of Asajj Ventress and Cad Bane, offering insights into their motivations and backgrounds. However, the reliance on prior knowledge of the characters and their histories may limit its accessibility for casual viewers.
As the series wraps up its exploration of these beloved characters, it leaves fans pondering the balance between nostalgia and innovation in the ever-expanding Star Wars universe. While Tales of the Underworld is a visually stunning addition to the franchise, it ultimately raises important questions about the direction of future stories and the depth of character development in this beloved galaxy.
For those eager to dive into the latest adventures of Ventress and Bane, Tales of the Underworld is now streaming on Disney+.
