The end of the Clone Wars marks the rise of the oppressive Empire. Amid the chaos, an elite unit of unusual clone troopers defies its orders and chooses to go on the run. Joined by a young clone named Omega, the so-called Bad Batch struggles to evade the constant pursuit of its enemies. Following the highly praised and extensive show that is Star Wars: The Clone Wars (TV Series 2008-2020), we are allowed to see the immediate shift of the galaxy as the Empire begins to form. I was ecstatic at the chance to see such an intriguing period of the Star Wars galaxy get fully delved into. Especially since this magnitude of change between eras had rarely been shown, particularly not from the direct moment things flipped in the aftermath of Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005). The best part about it is the fact we follow a group of clones who, because of their defective nature, didn't follow through with the treacherous Order 66 like the rest of the clones. Their genetic mutations made them resistant to the effects of the order and allowed them to see for themselves the truth about the Empire. The Bad Batch's explosive introduction in the Clone Wars was simply fantastic giving us an insight into the highly skilled unit and their enhanced abilities. The group and their mutations are as follows: Hunter the leader exceptional tracker, Wrecker the muscle and demolition expert, Tech the brains with a heightened mental capacity and Crosshair the sniper with a keen marksman eyesight. The group also includes Echo, once a regular clone, experimented on by the enemy, and left with cybernetic modifications, which he now brings to Clone Force 99. Each member is individually entertaining and only becomes more enjoyable as they play off of one another. They almost feel like a space equivalent of The A-Team (TV Series 1983-1987), and I was all for it. This squad is a formidable team that never fails to get the job done, be it in their unique way. I do wish we had gotten to see more of their Clone Wars stories (since we know episodes were partially made before cancellation) but I can't deny that getting a whole show dedicated to them isn't a bad compromise. I was immediately hooked by the opening episode that saw the beginning of the galaxy-wide shift and how each member of the crew handled the experience. The confusion, distrust, scepticism and conflict was a captivating lead into the show as witness the lead to their cutting ties with the Republic turned Empire. The crew are aided in their escape by another genetically modified clone, a young girl called Omega, the only female variant. They take her with them, away from their changing homeworld of Kamino in search of somewhere safe, now as fugitives. I truly adore this group, they have such a special bond and each has a lot to learn out in a galaxy where the only life they had known was being a soldier. Clone Force 99 develops across each season as a whole and individually as the group take on the form of mercenaries. Of all the members, I felt the most captivated by Crosshair who underwent the most growth and was a truly fascinating aspect of the series. On their countless missions, we see many familiar faces from both Clone Wars and Rebels, with plenty of incredible references and nods to enjoy. This squad goes against just as many foes as friends with Imperials, bounty hunters and varying threats on the planets they encounter up against them. Whilst the show may feature the occasional 'filler' episode, I felt that the show mainly consisted of quality content with some exceptional stories throughout. It is full of planet skipping, enthralling missions, character growth, action and heart. What more could you want from an episodic sci-fi adventure serial? Overall, I absolutely love The Bad Batch just as much as Clone Wars. Whilst I may prefer the other, I think this is the perfect sequel. Each season is outstanding and ups the stakes, pushing the squad to their limits in plenty of thrilling ways. With a phenomenal cast and an abundance of space-hopping journeys, it is certainly worth its entertainment value. For more animated shows, check out Star Wars: Rebels (TV Series 2014-2018).
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