Star Wars holds a special place in my nerd kingdom. Ever since I saw episodes 4, 5, and 6 before it was even known as that. But, I will admit that it was getting tiring seeing the same fight between Jedi and Sith when the Universe of Star Wars has so many other characters. Which later on we were greeted with cartoons, books, and video games showing off the universe properly. The Mandalorian brought in a new style of Space Western and with the added cuteness of a new Yoda Species. Yes, Yoda species since they do not have a proper designation of Yoda. This grew into a proper Father and Son story that lead to a feature film. Spoilers may happen, but by the time you read this review over the Memorial Day weekend. There is enough information to safely read.
Take Your Son On a Galactic Trip
Many of you are well aware by now that Grogu is son of The Mandalorian and also his teacher in the ways of the clan. This is the way and the way Grogu chose after saying, “Peace Out” to Luke Skywalker, because that Mandalorian drip is hard to pass up! Granted, he still dabbles in the force, but he just wants to grow up to be like his Dad! This comes fully at the end of season 2 and in the movie as Grogu rocking his robes with his armor equipped helping his Dad hunt down Imperials trying to hide out still doing their F**k S**T holding on to the ideals of, “Long Live the Empire!”.
Now, Mando is taking a more moral path by fighting with the New Republic. He is working under Colonel Ward played by the badass Sigourney Weaver and she holds no punches. Taking charge, making sure she is the boss and even flying an X-Wing taking the lead. Boss status still on point with this Sci-Fi Legend!! Hell, Mando is teamed up with Zeb Orrelios voiced by another legend Steve Blum and even he holds no punches. Going from the animation of Star Wars Rebels to the Live Action screen, be it CGI. The role was done so well. However, the mission at hand is to find the Mysterious key player in all this and that means having to work with some shady folks for the information.
ENTER ROTTA, son of Jabba the Hut, but with a twist. Boy has been working out as a strong gladiator. I have never seen a Hut character in fit performance, I mean dude has muscles and abs. Does not look anything like a Slug with a big back eating problem. Now, you fans out there try to behave yourselves with the fanfiction on Rotta. To my surprise Rotta is voiced by Jeremy Allen White. Mando is hire to rescue him, but there seems to be a twisted situation going on around his capture. AND THATS WHERE I WILL STOP THERE!! Moving On!
Beskar Plated Space Cowboy!
Just like tales of old where a badass walks into an area and the whole town goes silent. That’s what Pedro Pascal as the Mandalorian brings to the Star Wars universe. He is the human hurricane in Beskar armor either taking you in cold or hot. That is the toughest line in a long time and he sells it well. The action is paced well without any weird shakey cameras, even when it comes to the ship combat. The cinematography that has a nice shot in the pilot seat flying into the sky and up into space is magical. Thats the kind of cinema that makes you question what’s real and fake even if you already know. Its the believability that is needed in any story.
The mixture of both practical effects and CGI blends well. I almost thought the Jim Henson studio was in the works again, but it comes from the artist of Legacy Effects. They gave enough room to give Grogu his own spotlight adventure that made me feel like watching Gremlins 2 all over again. There is a lot of growth happening in this movie that made you feel something for both characters. Leaving you in suspense on a realization between both Mando and Grogu, but that gets washed away each time their connection grows.
The environments and atmosphere made you believe in these places in a galaxy far far away. Even the Huts Palace which made me feel how funky that place must be. Even the City Planets have more of a grit to them which I prefer vs. the super shine some sci-fi shows give off.
Sound Design is on point:
Now, at times I am not really going in for some grandios soundtrack all the time, but Star Wars does not fail me. The Mandalorian and Grogu music set the scene in each area he is about to throw down. Each blaster fire, flamethrower, vehicles weaving, and monster snarls work beautifully. I also saw the movie dolby digital laser which was fantastic.
Setting the Helmet down:
Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu hit it home. It didn’t feel like a closing of their story, more like just another chapter ending. It was a simple story that solidified how much both Grogu and Mando grew as characters. There is no end or post credits scene to wait for so you can leave right after. Either way, all the characters worked well and hopefully the story can continue on maybe in a time jump giving Grogu his own stand alone show or movie. It will hurt, but if done right Mando can still have a role in his memories as he learns further.
I give Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu 4.5 out of 5 Beastly Paws. Check it out and just go to enjoy the movie if possible. – Beast Out –
Verdict:
