⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ 4
Being someone who remembers seeing the very first Star Wars film at the cinema, this franchise carries a lot of nostalgia for me. I had watched the first couple of series of The Mandalorian and expected it would be easy enough to jump back into, while the addition of Sigourney Weaver also added some appeal.
Although I booked tickets a long time ago, I had already noticed some mixed reviews online. The big question for me was whether this would mark the start of a stronger run of Star Wars films at the cinema after years of the franchise largely living through TV shows. I also chose to watch it in 3D, with glasses at the ready.
One of the main criticisms online is that the film feels like an extended TV episode. That may well be true, but it is not necessarily a bad thing. The film looks fantastic and clearly benefits from a larger budget, although modern television production values are now so high that the jump to cinema is less dramatic than it once was. The more telling sign is likely a dumbed down story for cinema.
The story itself is very simple, easy to follow and very family friendly. Grogu remains both cute and amusing throughout, while the film keeps a light tone for much of its running time. The score and supporting music also stood out to me, leaning far more into an electronic style than I had expected.
I was slightly disappointed that Sigourney Weaver did not feature more prominently. She appears briefly at the beginning, again around the middle briefly and then a little more towards the end. The film opens with strong action and finishes in a very traditional Star Wars style which is satisfying. Pedro Pascal of course being the main character.
The effects, CGI and puppetry are all impressive. My only real criticism is that the 3D presentation felt slightly dark and at times a little hazy, although it still created an immersive experience overall.
Even without being fully up to date with the series, the story was easy to pick up, and it clearly feels designed to remain accessible to casual viewers as well as long-time fans. It may not rank among the very best Star Wars films in the classic sense, but it is entertaining and will likely prove especially popular with younger audiences.
If you like Star Wars, then you will enjoy.
The Mandalorian & Grogu continues the story of Din Djarin and Grogu as the pair leave behind the events of the Disney+ series for a new big-screen adventure. Set within the wider Star Wars universe after the fall of the Empire, the film follows the Mandalorian bounty hunter taking on dangerous missions while continuing to protect and guide Grogu, whose Force abilities are becoming increasingly powerful.
The film is expected to combine the western-style feel of The Mandalorian with a larger cinematic scale, featuring new enemies, Imperial threats and galaxy-spanning action. Pedro Pascal returns as Din Djarin, while Sigourney Weaver joins the cast in a mysterious New Republic role, making this the next major theatrical chapter in the Star Wars franchise.
Online synopsis
Film Rating
Music
4 out of 5 (mainly instrumental)
Story/plot
3.5 out of 5
Acting/Performances
4 out of 5
Overall
4 out of 5
Certification: 12A
Running time: 132 minutes
Screening type: 2D and 3D
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