Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu doesn’t expand the Star Wars mythology or lore, but it shares the same DNA. Jon Favreau’s film delivers nuanced fan service that rewards die-hard loyalists while also functioning as a fun family adventure for audiences of all ages. Those looking for the film to push an agenda or larger narrative may be disappointed. It’s a straightforward story.
The Mandalorian no longer works alone, now partnered with his sidekick, Grogu. The bounty hunter and mini Jedi work for Sigourney Weaver’s Colonel Ward, tracking down Imperial warlords hiding from the Rebellion.
The exciting opening sequence tells viewers everything they need to know about Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and Grogu’s evolving relationship. Grogu no longer needs Din’s protection and functions more as an apprentice than a burden.
Written by Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, and Noah Kloor, The Mandalorian and Grogu shifts settings frequently as the bounty-hunting mission takes the duo to new worlds, some reminiscent of Blade Runner. Along the way, audiences meet new characters, including Jabba the Hutt’s son, Rotta the Hutt, voiced by Jeremy Allen White.
The Mandalorian and Grogu may carry the Star Wars moniker, but the latest Lucasfilm entry is ultimately a standalone adventure. It’s best to go in without expecting the movie to significantly expand the franchise mythology. However, there are plenty of reminders of George Lucas’ original creation throughout.
I would recommend rewatching Star Wars: A New Hope and paying close attention to the chess scene aboard the Millennium Falcon between Chewbacca and R2-D2. There’s a payoff midway through the film, 49 years later, that will blow longtime Star Wars fans’ minds.
Contrary to what some online critics claim, the sets do not look cheap. My only CGI complaint involves Rotta the Hutt, who occasionally appears superimposed against the backdrop. There’s no true replacement for animatronics, but the cost of practical visual effects is high. After the lukewarm response to previous Star Wars films, it’s understandable that the studio would scale back in certain areas.
Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu is a fun time at the movies and delivers plenty of charm for viewers looking to escape to a galaxy far, far away.
Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu hits theaters on May 22.
