There is something fresh about the look of Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord. The character of Darth Maul (Sam Witwer)is familiar, but we do learn something new about him. In this new series, we learn about the effects of the Empire on a person’s psyche and what anger boils inside of those whom the Empire cast aside. Maul-Shadow Lord is the animated show we did not know we needed. The story of Darth Maul is not complete, and through Shadow Lord, we get some gaps filled.

How did Maul become involved in Crimson Dawn? Did he get any help to rise in the ranks? Were the Inquisitors aware of him and tried to capture him? Some of these questions are asked in this series, but not all are answered. The series not only gives the viewers a better insight into who Maul was, but the audience also sees how the Empire affects the people on the outskirts of its surveillance.

What’s the Story?

There has been a series of robberies that have led the syndicates to fight amongst themselves. In trying to find out who is causing these troubles, Detective Brander Lawson (Wagner Moura) and his droid partner Two-Boots (Richard Ayoade) are on the case. Whereas Two-Boots wants to get help from the Empire, Lawson does not want that to happen. As the series progresses, we learn about why he doesn’t want their help. What is great about this dynamic is that while some see the Empire as helpful, others know their true instinct.

Yes, there are moments in Shadow Lord that get political, but Star Wars was always political. The series also breaks down the ideals and ties people have to certain organizations. In trying to keep it spoiler-free, Maul talks about those who betrayed him and how people follow others blindly without asking questions. It is in these conversations/monologues that we get a better understanding of Maul’s motives and the anger that flows in him.

We were lucky to see the first 8 episodes of a 10-episode series, and here is our spoiler-free reaction to each episode. The episodes vary from 22 to 28 minutes.

Episode Reactions

Chapter 1 – The Dark Revenge (28 minutes)

There is something about hearing Duel of the Fates that feels so good! From the beginning, we get an action sequence that rivals those we have seen before. Heist. We get introduced to all the major players of the series in this episode, and hints at what is to come.

Chapter 2 – Sinister Schemes (22 minutes)

Maul meets Devon (Gideon Adlon) in this episode. More is revealed about who Maul works for. We get to see Lawson do some detective work. The ending of this episode is “WOAH!” We also learn more about Lawson and his home life.

Chapter 3 – Whispers in the Unknown (22 minutes)

Conversation over Tea. One of the many amazing lightsaber duels.

Chapter 4 – Pride and Vengeance (23 minutes)

We see how Maul is 2-steps ahead of those around him. A little callback/nod to The Last Jedi. Mention of The Battle of Madalore. There are some twists, turns, and more lightsaber duels. Guess who comes knocking on the planet’s door!

Chapter 5 – Inquisition (22 minutes)

What Lawson was dreading happens. Devon and her master, Eeko-Dio Daki (Dennis Haysbert), are not safe in the city. Things do not go as planned. The ending is just bananas!

Chapter 6 – Night of the Hunted (22 minutes)

Just by the title, you know that things are going to go down. From this episode on, you will need a seat belt for the ride you are about to go on.

Chapter 7 – Call to the Oblivion (25 minutes)

This and episode 8 are my favorites from the few that I have seen. A new light is shed on Maul, and the fights here are just incredible.

Chapter 8 – Maul – Shadow Lord (26 minutes)

Of the 8 episodes I have seen, this is the best one! That is all I will say for now!

Final Thoughts

A few moments in Maul: Shadow Lord made me say “Holy Shit” aloud! There are images in this that we have not seen before in Star Wars animation! The writing is fantastic and the storyline pulls you in. The entire voice cast gets their moments to shine, but this is Sam WitWer’s show!

Like Kevin Conroy will always be associated with the animated Batman, Witwer IS Darth Maul and his voice emotes more than vegeeance and pain! His voice makes Maul a well rounded character that you find yourself feeling sorry for him at some points. The animation for Maul’s lightsaber blades look angry & vengeful! The entire show looks fantastic and has a rough edge to it.

Star Wars: Maul -Shadow Lord has given us a fantastic look at a complicated character. This show has set the standard for what Star Wars animation can be.