A Thousand Stars: Episode II, Part 32

A message from Obi-Wan provides the impetus that will ultimately lead to the film's climax, like the first domino to start the cascade. His investigation has yielded quite a bit of information, but the most crucial bit comes in a nonverbal revelation -- the attacker who cuts short Obi-Wan's report.



It's quite fitting that it comes with Padmé's reaction. She was the one whose planet was plagued by these same destroyers ten years ago. You can see the horrified recognition on her face, the memory of war and death. She knows exactly what that droid means. And so it is she who takes action, ignoring Mace Windu's edict to stay where they are. Her insistence on going to the rescue gives Anakin a convenient loophole, as well as a reason to smile for the first time since losing his mother.



So much of his feelings for Padmé have been drenched in angst, it's nice to have this moment of pure admiration and joy. It's also a fulfillment of Captain Typho's worry that Padmé could do something even more rash than Anakin. She might have the appearance of the sensible, mature leader, but in her heart she's just as prone to recklessness when it comes to those she cares about. And no wonder Anakin loves her for it.

Next time, a circling predator....