REVIEW: ‘Star Wars: The Bad Batch’ Season 3 Episode 4 — “A Different Approach”

Going into The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 4, then tension is at an all-time high for the series. Following its season 3 premiere episodes, The Bad Batch has firmly established Clone Force 99 as one of the most crucial figures for the fate of a galaxy far, far away. As these clones are absent from other Star Wars media, their ending remains a mystery. What we do know is that Omega will eventually reunite with Wrecker and Hunter.

Nonetheless, reunions are never easy, particularly after the despairing tone set by the first three episodes of the season. Yet, under the direction of Saul Ruiz and script by Ezra Nachman, The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 4 delivers an emotional reunion that left me both teary-eyed and uncertain about the future dynamics of Clone Force 99.

The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 4 opens with Omega, Crosshair, and Batcher fresh off their escape from Mount Tantiss and crash-landing on Lau, a previously unexplored planet in the Star Wars canon. Stranded, the trio faces the challenge of escaping before the Empire can trace their stolen Imperial shuttle. Omega’s identification as a match for Project Necromancer, a sinister endeavor by Emperor Palpatine to achieve immortality, adds pressure to their efforts. Unfortunately, the planet Omega, Crosshair, and Batcher find themselves on is heavily patrolled by the Empire.

To get off Lau in The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 4, Omega opposes Crosshair’s aggressive tactics and instead draws upon the lessons learned from her time with Clone Force 99. Even though she is creditless, Omega attempts bribery to secure their departure, capitalizing on being stranded on a backwater planet. The amount for the bribe gives Omega and Crosshair something to aim for.

However, their skills are tested as they confront the oppressive tactics of an Imperial officer exploiting and extorting the local population. Despite Omega and Crosshair’s ingenuity, they find themselves outmatched by the overwhelming greed and authority wielded by Imperial officers in the farthest reaches of the galaxy.

What the Empire overlooked is the unwavering determination of clones to rescue their comrades. Every member of the crew, including Batcher, is important. Omega and even Crosshair, despite his initial reluctance, are resolute in their mission to save Batcher, whom the Empire captured as bait. Initially, risking their freedom for a beast may seem irrational, especially when escape is within reach. Omega’s deep bond with Batcher, forged during five months of captivity, illustrates the strength of their connection. It also shows the lengths she is willing to go to ensure Batcher’s safety, just like any other member of Clone Force 99.

The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 4 vividly illustrates why Omega is the linchpin of Clone Force 99. Despite her age and experience, Omega embodies the group’s finest qualities. At every turn, she consistently chooses methods that minimize loss of life. She constantly displays an unwavering determination to aid those in need. Even in dire circumstances, her commitment remains unshakeable, serving as a beacon of inspiration.

Most importantly, Omega’s influence rubs off. This is most evident in her ability to bring Crosshair back from the darkness during their time together on Mount Tantiss. It’s a feat that eluded the rest of the Bad Batch throughout the previous seasons. It makes their reunion at the end of the episode that much more powerful. By series end, I can see Omega going down as one of the greatest clones in the franchise.

Ultimately, The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 4 demonstrates the art of balancing a divided group. It seamlessly intertwining character moments with plot progression. Each installment thus far carries substantial weight, and “A Different Approach” is no different. The series is poised to deliver heartbreak, and I’m fully invested. Omega as the heartbeat of the series, coupled with the uncertainty for her future builds the kind of tension that keeps me tuning in every week to see where this ride ends. I just hope the rest of Clone Force 99 are by her side.

The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 4 is streaming exclusively on Disney+, with new episodes every Wednesday.