Film and TV Review: Star Wars: Visions Volume 3
Star Wars: Visions Volume 3 continues the anthology’s unique take on the galaxy far, far away. The series remains a rare meeting point for nearly all fans, including those not typically drawn to anime. This third volume follows the familiar structure of nine episodes, just like its predecessors, offering a wide range of tones and styles.
Some episodes stand out more than others, but each delivers something of value. Even the less engaging chapters carry artistic or narrative moments worth noting, showing how Visions continues to expand the creative limits of Star Wars while respecting its spirit.
The Duel: Payback
Runtime: 23 minutes
Produced by Kamikaze Douga/ANIMA
This episode remains one of the most visually arresting entries in the anthology. Its complex, sometimes hard-to-read style complements the story’s moral depth. The focus is on what it truly means to be a Jedi, pushing established ideas of light and dark sides into grey areas rarely explored in canon.
“The Ronin, the former Sith hunting Sith, and Aneé-san, the ex-Sith turned bodyguard, display more Jedi qualities than the Jedi Grand Master sent to hunt them down.”
The episode cleverly inverts the usual Star Wars dynamic: here, Jedi pursue former Sith, with the supposed hero appearing more machine than human. The subdued grey palette of the animation contrasts sharply with the vibrant lightsaber hues, symbolizing the murky boundaries of morality. The reimagining of “Grey Jedi,” though non-canonical, feels natural in this context and is executed with subtle artistry.
Dedicated fans will also appreciate small auditory callbacks—Ewok chatter and horn calls echoing from Return of the Jedi—enhancing its nostalgic charm.
Author’s Summary
This review highlights how Star Wars: Visions Volume 3 maintains its creative momentum through varied storytelling, bold visuals, and fresh philosophical depth within the Star Wars universe.