REVIEW: ‘Star Wars: The Bad Batch’ Season 3 Episode 5 — “The Return”

The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 5 continues Crosshair’s redemption arc back to get him back into the good graces of Clone Force 99. “The Return,” carries dual significance, with Crosshair returning to the team and to the point that put him on this path. To find Mount Tantiss, the Batch must return to the outpost where Crosshair betrayed the Empire in season 2. Reminiscent of Zuko’s arc in Avatar: The Last Airbender, director Nate Villanueva and writer Amanda Rose Muñoz show this week that the path back isn’t an easy one.

The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 5  opens with the team grappling with the aftermath of their reunion. Crosshair’s struggle with diminishing marksmanship skills sets the tone for the adjustments the entire team must make. The tension within the group, particularly between Crosshair and Hunter, remains palpable. Hunter’s reluctance to fully trust Crosshair is understandable, given their tumultuous history. The brother’s issues may run deeper than either have thought.

The acceptance of Crosshair by Wrecker, Omega, and Echo is more straightforward. The dynamic between Hunter and Crosshair, meanwhile, will take time. The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 5 explores Crosshair’s evolving character to show that there is hope for reconciliation. Crosshair demonstrates growth and a willingness to change, evident in his partnership with the Batcher. This subtle transformation suggests that Crosshair is becoming a better person than when we first encountered him as part of Clone Force 99.

However, the absence of Tech leaves a noticeable void within the team dynamics. Tech’s expertise in cracking Imperial codes and his unique personality within the group are sorely missed. While Omega and Echo offer technical abilities, they cannot fully replace Tech’s presence. This absence highlights the importance of each member of Clone Force 99, a common theme that even applies to Batcher. Further, the absence of Tech adds a layer of complexity as they struggle to decrypt Nala Se’s stolen data pad. It’s their only source of information on Mount Tantiss. Crosshair suggests an abandoned Imperial outpost, a location from Season 2, to find a solution.

Upon arriving at the abandoned outpost, tensions are palpable as Crosshair confronts the remnants of his past betrayal of the Empire. Almost immediately Crosshair sees scattered helmets belonging to fallen clones. One of which is Mayday whom Crosshair had a strong connection with. The scene is a poignant reminder of the consequences of his choices even if he doesn’t share this with his brothers. However, Crosshair’s act of reverently placing each helmet back where it belongs reflects his acknowledgment of the past and commitment to redemption.

The solemness is short-lived when the Bad Batch confront a giant ice worm threatening to strand them on the planet.  To best the beast, the team split up and restore power to the outpost before it is too late. Echo stays on look out, Wrecker goes to turn on a breaker, Omega stays on the control panel, and Crosshair and Hunter must draw the beast away together. What better way to show your commitment to your fellow clones than being in a life-or-death situation?

As the team contends with the challenges presented by the outpost, they are forced to confront their past grievances. The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 5‘s climax serves as a metaphor for overcoming obstacles and repairing fractured relationships. Through their shared struggle against the ice worm, Crosshair and Hunter reaffirm their bond and mutual commitment to the team’s well-being. The moment symbolizes a pivotal moment in their reconciliation.

“The Return” delivers necessary character exploration, delving into Crosshair’s internal struggles and his journey toward redemption. Crosshair’s reunion with the team is not without challenges. The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 5 effectively portrays his efforts to earn their trust and acceptance. The incorporation of familiar locations adds depth to the narrative, tying back to previous storylines and characters. However, the absence of Tech leaves a noticeable void within the team dynamics. It emphasizes his irreplaceable role and the need for his expertise.

Furthermore, characters like Hunter, Omega, and Echo receive substantial focus. “The Return” highlights the importance of giving each member of Clone Force 99 their moment to shine. Wrecker’s quick acceptance of Crosshair’s return showcases his forgiving nature. It helps add depth to his character beyond being the muscle of the group. However, there remains room for further exploration of Wrecker’s characterization and contributions to the team beyond his physical strength. With the final season now a third of the way done, I hope we see more character moments from the loveable himbo.

As the final season unfolds, “The Return” sets the stage for an emotional journey, with each member of Clone Force 99 poised to shine. The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 5 may not be as engaging as previous episodes, but it’s necessary. The episode’s exploration of character dynamics and relationships offers a glimpse into the complexities of redemption and forgiveness. With familiar characters and locations returning, The Bad Batch Season 3 is living up to its final season, promising an unforgettable conclusion to the series.

The Bad Batch Season 3 Episode 5 is streaming exclusively on Disney+, with new episodes every Wednesday.