Should You Watch Rebels or Clone Wars First?

When diving into the Star Wars animated universe, fans are often torn between watching Star Wars: The Clone Wars or Star Wars Rebels first. Both series are highly acclaimed and provide rich narratives that deepen the lore of the Star Wars universe. Deciding which one to start with can depend on various factors, including your familiarity with Star Wars lore and what aspects of the saga interest you the most. This article will explore the key elements of each series to help you make an informed decision.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars debuted in 2008 and was created by George Lucas. It is set between Episode II: Attack of the Clones and Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, focusing on the period of the Clone Wars. This series introduces several new characters, including Ahsoka Tano, and explores the complex dynamics of the conflict between the Galactic Republic and the Separatists. The series is known for its intricate storylines, deep character development, and exploration of themes such as morality and the nature of war.

Star Wars Rebels, which premiered in 2014, is set between Episode III: Revenge of the Sith and Episode IV: A New Hope. It follows a group of rebels fighting against the rise of the Galactic Empire. The show introduces characters like Ezra Bridger and Kanan Jarrus, and provides a bridge between the prequel and original trilogies. The tone of Rebels is often more optimistic and focuses on the formation of the Rebel Alliance, leading up to the events of Rogue One and A New Hope.

Key Points to Consider:

1. Timeline and Plot Continuity:

   • The Clone Wars: This series delves into the events and characters of the Clone Wars era, providing a backdrop for the rise of the Galactic Empire. It enhances the understanding of characters like Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi.
   • Rebels: This series connects the dots between the end of the Clone Wars and the beginning of the Rebel Alliance's fight against the Empire. It introduces important characters and plot elements that are referenced in Rogue One and A New Hope.

2. Character Development:

   • The Clone Wars: Offers a deep dive into characters such as Ahsoka Tano, who evolves significantly throughout the series. Her journey and character growth are crucial for understanding her role in the Star Wars universe.
   • Rebels: Focuses on the new generation of characters like Ezra and Kanan. Their stories are pivotal for understanding the origins of the Rebel Alliance and the transition from the Clone Wars era to the Galactic Civil War.

3. Themes and Tone:

   • The Clone Wars: Tackles darker and more complex themes related to war, including morality, sacrifice, and leadership. The tone can be quite serious, though there are lighter, more humorous episodes as well.
   • Rebels: Generally has a more adventurous and hopeful tone, emphasizing the fight against tyranny and the importance of hope and courage. It appeals to a broader audience, including younger viewers.

4. Connection to the Movies:

   • The Clone Wars: Provides background on events and characters from the prequel films, offering a richer context for the Star Wars saga. It fills in gaps and adds depth to the storylines presented in the films.
   • Rebels: Serves as a prelude to the original trilogy, setting up key events and characters that play a role in the later movies. It helps bridge the gap between the prequels and the original trilogy.

Viewing Order Recommendation:

For newcomers to the Star Wars animated series, starting with The Clone Wars is often recommended. This approach provides a foundational understanding of the events leading up to Rebels. Additionally, watching The Clone Wars first helps in appreciating the backstory and development of characters that later appear in Rebels.

After finishing The Clone Wars, transitioning to Rebels will offer a continuation of the Star Wars narrative and introduce new elements that build upon the foundation laid by The Clone Wars. This order ensures a more comprehensive grasp of the overall storyline and character arcs.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, whether you start with The Clone Wars or Rebels can depend on your interest in exploring the prequel or original trilogy eras of Star Wars. Both series offer valuable insights and engaging stories that enrich the Star Wars universe. However, if you want a deeper understanding of the characters and events leading into the original trilogy, beginning with The Clone Wars and then moving on to Rebels is a solid approach.