The Book of Boba Fett Double Take: Chapter 4

Directed by Kevin Tancharoen, The Book of Boba Fett Chapter 4: The Gathering Storm, definitely has a mid-season feel, fitting as it’s smack dab in the middle of the 7 episode series run. It has a fairly straightforward plot as Boba continues to build his army for the war that’s forming against the Pyke Syndicate. It wasn’t without its entertaining moments though, so let’s dive in.

In another bacta tank flashback we see Boba attempting to get The Firespray (the new, official name of his ship) back from Jabba’s Palace. New boss Bib Fortuna has the place too guarded so without a solid plan (or a team for that matter), Boba’s forced to bide his time. Thankfully, he doesn’t have to wait long as the timeline of The Mandalorian Chapter 5: The Gunslinger episode overlaps with Boba’s flashback. Viewers are treated to witnessing just how Boba saved Shand from death thanks to a mod shop and a pretty intense surgery. I’d wager we’re also witnessing the formation of the new Boba, one not motivated by greed but by compassion. Sure he sees Shand as an asset but his motivation, while still selfish, is rooted in helping versus hurting.

Shand agrees to repay Boba by being his accomplice in getting his ship back from Fortuna’s palace. Utilizing the leadership strategy of showing versus telling, this experience of working together goes a long way to show Shand just how serious Boba is about having her work with him long term. Sure the plan didn’t go as smoothly as planned, but with two masters of their craft working together, success was never out of the question. It was great seeing the trust between these two flourish in front of our eyes, and whose heart didn’t melt just a little when Shand decided to stick around “for the next one”?

“The next one” being Fett taking revenge for the death of his Tusken pals, making quick work of the Nikto gang thanks to the The Firespray (a vengeful scene that was as satisfying to watch as it was for Boba). Next stop is the Sarlacc Pit, a setting I thought we’d never see again but it makes sense as Boba thinks his armor’s still down there. This scene easily became one of my favorites of the episode. A monster, some cinematic tension and a seismic charge detonation? Pure entertainment. Ultimately proving a fruitless effort, I still can’t say this scene was absolutely necessary but boy was it fun!

Back in the present day, Boba’s bacta tank sessions are now over but as Shand points out, he still has some internal healing to do (touché Fennec). Are we actually done with the bacta flashbacks now? Only time will tell but I for one would be more than ok if this plot device is retired for the remainder of the season.

Never a dull moment in the Mos Espa cantina, as Boba witnesses Black Krrsantan doing what he does best, ripping the arms off Trandoshans as payback for their history of Wookiee enslavement. Seeing someone who bears similar physical scars as himself but likely still dealing with internal trauma, Boba offers Krrsantan a spot on his team. I doubt they’ll be having many heart to hearts but I’m stoked he’s joining Boba’s ranks.

Boba then hosts a dinner party with the guests of honor being bosses from Tatooine’s other crime families. His attempt to recruit them in his battle against the Pykes doesn’t quite go as planned, even with some nudging from his rancor. Thankfully, Boba does get them all to agree to remain neutral in his fight against the Pykes, a small victory but a victory nonetheless. While Fett’s team hasn’t grown to the extent he’d like, we end the episode with Shand suggesting they hire some help from elsewhere against the musical backdrop of the theme from The Mandalorian. I know I’m not alone in being absolutely ready for whatever this means for the remainder of The Book of Boba Fett.

The Gathering Storm lights the fuse for what’s sure to be an explosive last 3 episodes. Come back next week as we continue to break down and discuss the next chapter of The Book of Boba Fett.