Star Wars Rebels Introduces Some Very Familiar Droids: This Week’s TV Picks
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While it wasn’t perfect, I quite enjoyed the first episode of Star Wars Rebels, which was our first new Star Wars TV show since the Disney/Lucasfilm buyout, not to mention one of the first chapters in the new “Expanded Universe.” Today the show shifted into its regular slot on Disney XD with the episode “Droids in Distress.” We’re late getting this column up today, so hopefully most of you who were interested already had Rebels set to record on your DVR. If not, don’t worry: it’s repeating early tomorrow morning, so check your provider’s listings.
As you might have noticed, “Droids in Distress” includes a very familiar pair of droids, a duo that have a tendency to pop up right in the middle of turbulent galactic events…
Sure enough, it’s R2-D2 and C-3PO, now on their own after Anakin turned to the Dark Side and Obi-Wan went into hiding. I’ll be interested to see how their paths cross with the crew of the Ghost, and their presence is a nice little reminder that this show is unfolding fully and officially within the same universe as the movies. Consider R2 and 3PO to be Star Wars’ patron saints, bestowing their blessing on those young Rebel upstarts. And it’s nice to know they were there at the very beginnings of the Rebellion, even if only in their small way.
TUESDAY
Face Off (Syfy, 9/8c) — “Beautiful Disaster”
The final five artists are given the task of creating beautiful elemental fairies born from disastrous scenarios.
The Flash (The CW, 8/7c) — “Fastest Man Alive”
Barry changes into the Flash when six gunmen storm a university event honoring a scientist, but his heroics don’t match up to his expectations. Meanwhile, Iris becomes even more intrigued by the ‘red streak.’
Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (ABC, 9/8c) — “Face My Enemy”
Coulson seeks to unlock the mystery of his alien writing and is attacked by a trusted ally. Meanwhile, with the team trapped, Fitz might be their only hope.
Person of Interest (CBS, 10/9c) — “Brotherhood”
An NYPD gang investigation targets a pair of young siblings whom Reese is protecting, threatening his cover job as a detective.
Town of the Living Dead (Syfy, 10/9c) — “Dong of the Dead / Zombie Karate”
We were surprised at how entertaining this new Syfy reality show was, and tonight you can watch two episodes back to back.
Tina’s concern for the safety of her cast leads her to hire a fight coordinator even though John is against the idea. Later, John’s mother makes an unexpected visit, causing even more tension on the already stressed-out set.
FRIDAY
Z Nation (Syfy, 10/9c) — “Resurrection Blues”
An encounter with a seeming Utopian enclave and a religious cult results in a game changer when the survivors travel near Branson, Mo.
SATURDAY
Doctor Who (BBC America, 9/8c) — “Flatline”
Separated from the Doctor, Clara discovers a new menace from another dimension. But how do you hide when even the walls are no protection? With people to save and the Doctor trapped, Clara comes up against an enemy that exists beyond human perception.
SUNDAY
Manhattan (WGN, 10/9c) — “Perestroika”
In the Season 1 finale, Frank is offered a life-changing opportunity; at the same time, the U.S. Army put Charlie on the hot seat.
Resurrection (ABC, 9/8c) — “Old Scars”
Margaret convinces Lucille to host a dinner celebrating Jacob’s return, but the evening turns tense with the arrival of unexpected guests who end up putting a further strain on family relations. Meanwhile, Bellamy continues to research the history of the mysterious bones; and Rachael receives unsettling news about her baby.
The Walking Dead (AMC, 9/8c) — “Strangers”
With supplies running low, Rick leads a mission where the risk might not be worth the reward.
