Perrin Fertha, as portrayed by Alastair Mackenzie, is one of Andor’s biggest surprises and best decisions. From the galactic manbun to the title of consort to the way he seems like the last person who would ever catch his own wife’s deception, the whole vibe is a winner. The idea that one of the most powerful women in the story of Star Wars has a total dud of a husband, especially one who we’re told was once very motivated, is totally inspired. Perrin is kind of man that is underrepresented in sci-fi and over-represented in real-life: a bore. The idea that the Empire is enabled as much by the ennui of the over-resourced as it is by zealots feels very true to life.
Look! One of those! If they don’t open a replica gallery like this on Batuu, they’re crazy. Everyone wants one of these. They’re perfect for audiences with queens, walking with luggage, and exercising your neck.
“Leave us.”
One of my favorite aspects of Ian McDiarmid’s performance as Palpatine is his on-a-dime code switching. A perfect example is the opera scene in Episode III. Right after Palpatine praises Anakin as the “best choice by far” for the assignment to capture General Grievous, he tells Anakin to sit down. Then, in a suddenly very different voice, he tells his advisors to leave. He goes from grandfather to Emperor in a blink.