In a non-canonical or semi-canonical tale from the ever-expanding Star Wars universe, Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu offers an entertaining but familiar narrative on a spectacular Imax scale. Developed from the Disney+ series The Mandalorian, the film is set just after Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi, where remnants of the defeated Empire plot a comeback against the New Republic.
Familiar Heroes and Villains
Pedro Pascal stars as the Mandalorian, a rugged bounty hunter reminiscent of Han Solo, now accompanied by Grogu, his Yoda-species ward with nascent telekinetic powers. The Mandalorian rarely removes his helmet, save for one key scene, allowing body doubles Lateef Crowder and Brendan Wayne to handle physical scenes while Pascal provides the voice. This approach underscores the shift from traditional star power to genre IP, drawing comparisons to Dave Prowse's portrayal of Darth Vader.
A New Quest
Colonel Ward, played by Sigourney Weaver in a subdued performance, hires the duo to rescue Rotta the Hutt (voiced by Jeremy Allen White), son of the infamous Jabba the Hutt, from an imperial warlord played by Jonny Coyne. In exchange, the Hutts will provide intelligence on Imperial scheming. The mission begins in a refurbished battlecraft reminiscent of the Millennium Falcon, leading to encounters with eccentric characters, including a hyperactive four-armed street-food vendor voiced by Martin Scorsese.
Action and Creatures
Director Jon Favreau delivers exotic and dangerous creatures for the Mandalorian to battle, such as a massive snake emerging from the depths controlled by the reptilian Hutts. The film barrels along capably but lacks the humanity, humour, and melodrama that make Star Wars beloved. Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu releases on 21 May in Australia and 22 May in the UK and US.
