The wait is almost over, Voltron fans. The show returns to Netflix this Friday, but if you’re looking for something to tide you over until there, here’s my review of the first two episodes.
I haven’t been quiet about my love for Voltron: Legendary Defender. From incredible action, to side-splitting humor, to genuinely touching moments that have brought a tear or two (or more) to my eyes, Voltron stole my heart quickly and effectively — and doesn’t look set to hand it back any time soon.
The beloved creation of Avatar and Korra alums Joaquim Dos Santos and Lauren Montgomery, Legendary Defender is the reimagining of ’80s classic Voltron: Defender of the Universe. It continues to, without fail, win over fans new and old with its reverence for Voltron’s origins without feeling completely beholden to them.
Whilst much of Voltron: Legendary Defender might seem familiar, the show has quickly established itself as its own, unique entry into the Voltron universe — and rightfully so. The love and care that both Montgomery and Dos Santos, as well as the entire crew behind them, pour into the series is palpable in every conceivable way.
So, if you haven’t had the change to check out the series on Netflix yet, there’s no better time than right now. You certainly won’t regret it.
Already a fan and eager to glean a little more information ahead of the season 3 premiere? Read on for our mostly spoiler-free review of the first two episodes. And start preparing yourself… if they’re any indicator, we’re in for another emotional ride.
If there’s one thing that’s apparent across both episodes, it is that the emotional upheaval of Shiro’s mysterious disappearance is affecting the entire team and their mission. Albeit in very different ways.
Lance and Hunk are working closely with the Blade of Marmora to free additional planets from Galra rule. Pidge is pouring over every last detail of the footage she acquired of Matt last season, gleaning whatever clues she can from it. And Allura is stepping back into her diplomatic role in order to keep their tenuous alliances together.
It is in Keith’s steadfast and stubborn refusal to give up on finding Shiro, however, that the true weight of that loss sets in. He is the most obvious member of Team Voltron struggling to come to terms with Shiro’s absence, which manifests itself in several grief-laden outbursts. Where the others appear, in the time since the season 2 finale, to have compartmentalized the loss of Shiro from the need to find a replacement Black Paladin, those two things are still inextricably linked for Keith.
Finding a new Paladin for the Black Lion becomes a rapid and imperative task, as their allies increasingly seek to rally behind Voltron itself – something that, for now, they are unable to form. It sets them at a distinct disadvantage, even with the Galra operating in a state of disarray, from the outset of the season. (Though, that’s not to say that their prowess as individual pilots isn’t apparent and on display — there are several impressive battles in both episodes.) But finding that leader isn’t as simple as just appointing one — it is a choice that the Black Lion itself must make.
Regardless, Keith, who Shiro deemed his successor last season, struggles with finding that same confidence of leadership in himself. It is an arc that will be interesting to explore, alongside his grief, as he is increasingly relied upon to make strategic decision — though he won’t make them alone, with the burden seemingly set to be spread out across the entirety of Team Voltron.
The search to fill out the ranks of the team lead to some beautiful and emotional moments between characters — humanoid and otherwise — including one that I can say I wasn’t expecting. Whatever relationship you find yourself drawn to most in Voltron, there’s time dedicated to each of them, and it should see most (if not all) fans satisfied.
Additonally, despite the heavier narrative, there are still moments of levity to be found throughout — balanced expertly enough as to not seem jarring to the tone. In particular, you should watch out for a Pidge moment that might just rival her impressions of the Paladins from last season.
But the true potential of this season, however, lies with its central antagonist: Prince Lotor.
Where the Galra, previously, have been a single-minded conglomerate, focused on the complete and utter domination of the universe through pure force, Lotor is an entirely different breed of dangerous. Played to pitch-perfect abandon by A.J. Locasio, he is nothing like anyone that Team Voltron have faced before — and a far cry from the Lotor of old that some fans may be familiar with.
Lotor is calculating, manipulative, and has an ideal for the Empire that could throw a significant wrench in Voltron’s efforts to save the Galaxy. He has a strategic might that is showcased in two defining moments for his character that will spell trouble with a capital T for anyone opposing him — even if it comes from within the Empire itself.
His generals — all female, and Galra half-breeds, as promised by the SDCC panel — are unwavering loyal to Lotor and his cause. And, with the full force of his charm on display in both episodes, is likely to inspire that same loyalty in others. Not just the Galra.
So, while the Galra Empire might have stumbled briefly with the loss of Zarkon — with rumblings of usurping the throne coming from a familiar face to older fans — don’t expect them to stay down and out for long. Especially not with Lotor at the helm.
Team Voltron has what might be its toughest battle yet on its hands and I for one can’t wait to see how it all shakes out.
We want to hear your thoughts on this topic!
Write a comment below or submit an article to Hypable.