Obi-Wan Kenobi Part V Review: 7 Ups & 3 Downs
4. The Flashbacks
After weeks of anticipation, it finally happened: Hayden Christensen returned as Anakin Skywalker, in a prolonged flashback that finds the then-padawan sparring with Obi-Wan, and another that follows him executing younglings in the Jedi Temple.
These flashbacks form the emotional core of Part V. The first and longest flashback pays homage to Vader and Obi-Wan's duel in Revenge of the Sith, whilst acting a stark reminder of just how volatile and emotional Anakin was before his fall. The second shows the full extent of his slip to the Dark Side.
Not only is it a nostalgic and wholesome treat to see Christensen back in his most famous (or is it infamous?) role, but all of it serves as a refreshing look at how fan service can be meaningful and necessary, instead of simply manipulative.
Watching how these memories continue to effect Obi-Wan's current mental state - as well as his understanding of the half-man, half-machine Anakin has become - makes for a wrenching display that's hard to shake. Hopefully we get more in the finale.