Spoilers Will Cost You
The eighth episode of season three, “Bad Territory” is mostly an excuse to revisit popular characters from the series, gracing us with Wanda Sykes performance as Phee; and then tossing us into alligator-infested waters. In the main story of this episode, Hunter and Wrecker chase down a lead to continue the “What’s Hemlock up to?” arc, as the Batch tries to figure out why Omega is of such importance to the Empire (again!).
This brings them into an arrangement with Bounty Hunter Fennec Shand. (Hooray for more Ming-na Wen!) Adventure ensues. We’re treated to a trip downriver on a hostile planet that felt like a mini-Apocalypse Now. It’s not a particularly revealing journey from a character perspective, but it is a fun one. Wrecker body-slams a lizard, Hunter tracks like a pro, Fennec is evasive and intimidating, and their showdown with a man-sized Praying Mantis has a lot of chaotic energy.
This main story shows off one of The Bad Batch’s greatest strengths: it’s a vibrantly animated tour of the galaxy. From space stations to rivers to tropical sunsets, the animators really take their time and show off in “Bad Territory.” It’s a beautiful episode.