One of the most beloved characters comes back to life
Fans have been waiting for this work as if waiting for mercy for many long years. Obi-Wan Kenobi is indeed a fundamental character in both the original and prequel trilogies. He is known for his boundless wisdom, prudence, and great charisma. But unfortunately, these traits are somewhat lacking in the new series.
Just as in Episodes 1-3, actor Ewan McGregor portrays Obi-Wan Kenobi here as well. Ewan is considered one of the best and most charismatic protagonists of our time, but this isn't very apparent this time around.
However, this likely isn't the actor's fault. The problem seems to lie in the way his character is written.
While viewers simply had to fall in love with Obi-Wan in previous incarnations, this time it's much more complicated. The series presents one of the most beloved Jedi knights as a person who, for the most part, doesn't give a damn, not only at the start of the story but even when the plot is in full swing. But the script isn't too high-quality.
A story full of illogicalities
From the very announcement of this project, there was speculation about the series' plot for fairly understandable reasons. The films don't suggest that Obi-Wan experienced any breathtaking adventures on Tatooine, or even off it. But that alone doesn't necessarily have to be a problem. The script just needs to be adjusted so it doesn't disrupt the line of Episode 4. And this is precisely what the series' writers did not respect.
The basic premise of the story is quite simple. Little Princess Leia has been kidnapped, and her adoptive father asks Obi-Wan to bring her back. He doesn't want to get involved, but in the end, he lets himself be persuaded and embarks on a rescue mission.
But it's all a big trap set by an ambitious Inquisitor, who wants to climb up the ranks of the Empire by capturing Kenobi. Darth Vader, one of the main representatives of the Imperial system and Kenobi's former pupil, is very eager to catch one of the most famous Jedi knights.
Yes, the harshest asthmatic in the galaxy returns in full glory, and we can even look forward to a duel between him and Obi-Wan. And this is exactly where the continuity of the story gets a real beating.
The duel in the series doesn't make any sense in the context of Episode 4. The same can be said about the plot line with Princess Leia, who spends a lot of time with Obi-Wan in the series. However, in A New Hope, there's no hint that the two knew each other from before, let alone established a deep relationship.
The script is also problematic when it comes to side characters. They are often annoying and don't behave very logically.
Unlike the excellent Andor, which takes place in roughly the same time period, the rebels here are not depicted as cold-blooded killers willing to sacrifice anything and anyone for their lofty goals. Instead, they come off as a band of eager fools who can't even open a rooftop door.