David Bridges
Following the events of Rogue One, Saw Gerrera has emerged as one of the most compelling figures in the Star Wars universe, representing a complex aspect of the Rebellion. Often viewed as both ally and adversary to the main heroes of the original trilogy, Saw epitomizes the gritty reality faced by those resisting a tyrannical regime like the Galactic Empire. His character serves as a nuanced counterpoint to Mon Mothma and Luthen Rael in Andor, illustrating the multifaceted nature of the Rebel Alliance. While his critiques often place him in a villainous light within the narrative of the Alliance’s victory, the recent episodes of Andor provide a moment for Saw to articulate his unique perspective on rebellion and resistance.
In the second arc of season two of Andor, Saw’s narrative unfolds not through his direct actions but through the eyes of Wilmon Paak, a former resident of Ferrix. Wilmon provides a compelling reflection of Saw’s origins, as his backstory reveals a tragic connection to the Empire’s brutality. His father, Salman, was ruthlessly tortured to death while the Empire sought to eliminate the insurgent known as “Axis.” This harrowing past propels Wilmon to become embroiled in the chaotic uprising during Maarva’s funeral in season one, paralleling Saw’s own traumatic experience of losing his sister during the Republic-backed insurgency against the Separatists in the Clone Wars. As the story progresses, we witness Wilmon evolve from a hesitant tool of Saw’s resistance to a fervent supporter of his radical vision.
The defining moment of their relationship arrives when Saw, having harnessed Wilmon’s technical expertise to pilfer a dangerous supply of starship fuel known as rhydonium, invites him to partake in inhaling the toxic fumes that accompany its handling. Initially, Saw extols the virtues of “rhydo,” as he affectionately calls it, viewing it as a potent symbol of defiance against the Empire. He describes it as a substance that embodies raw power and rebellion, eager to resist control and inevitably punishing those who attempt to dominate it. Up to this point, Saw’s character has been portrayed as overly distrustful and unpredictable, a narrative device to contrast the more palatable heroes of the Rebellion. However, this pivotal moment allows audiences to witness a different side of Saw, one where his charisma shines through, transforming Wilmon’s horror into willing participation in this dangerous act.
This transformation underscores a significant shift in how Andor frames Saw’s volatility. Rather than viewing it as a flaw, the series presents it as the inevitable outcome of years spent battling against the oppressive forces of the Empire. Saw’s reckless behavior is depicted as both a symptom of his instability and a reflection of the profound trauma he has endured—years of fighting against the Republic and then the Empire have left him scarred. This portrayal invites viewers to empathize with Saw, understanding that his extreme actions stem from a lifetime of loss and struggle against systemic oppression.
“You believe I’m insane? Yes, I am,” Saw declares to Wil as he encourages him to inhale the lethal rhydonium, a substance that symbolizes both death and the very essence of rebellion against the Empire. Saw has battled to survive since adolescence, enduring internment in labor camps, the loss of his family, and ultimately sacrificing a normal life for one where he is constantly hunted by oppressors and betrayed by supposed allies. Faced with such relentless evil, Saw feels that he has no choice but to embrace madness, burning internally as he confronts the reality that his days in this fight are limited, whether he wishes it or not.
In this critical moment, Saw’s character is juxtaposed against the struggles faced by Luthen and Mon in Andor, who grapple with their roles in forming a united front against the Empire. This representation of Saw is a departure from earlier portrayals; he is no longer merely a voice of dissent but a figure whose actions are tragically justified. Despite knowing Saw’s ultimate fate, there remains ample opportunity to explore his character further before reaching that fateful conclusion, and in this narrative, Andor presents a Saw who is tragically aware of his impending doom, inching closer to the end we witness in Rogue One.
Should this be our final glimpse of Saw before the closing chapter of his story unfolds, it is fitting that he receives the recognition he deserves—his intensity and passion for rebellion allowed to blaze as brightly as the very rhydonium he reveres.
Andor season two is currently available for streaming on Disney+.
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Brandon Fletcher
Ethan Carter
