When Disney released its new streaming service, Disney+, many were looking forward to the new Star Wars TV show, The Mandalorian. Taking place in between the events of the Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens, this was the first Star Wars show that takes place within George Lucas’ Star Wars universe. Many fans were excited for its release, as the story was inspired by the bounty hunter Boba Fett, a fan favorite character from the original trilogy. 

This series is essentially (for lack of a better term) a Space Western. Following the character known as “Mando”, the show tracks his journey and struggles as he attempts to save the child, which has been nicknamed “Baby Yoda” by fans. But his true title is “the child.” Along his journey, he meets various characters, which either help him or hurt him throughout the series. One thing that the show does very well is that it comes full circle with many of the characters story arcs, especially those who don’t seem important when they are first introduced. This is true for characters such as IG-11 and Kuiil, who both make their first appearances in episode 1, only to come back again in the last episode. Both of these characters, who seemed to be irrelevant to the plot, end up sacrificing themselves for the sake of Mando and the child. 

One of the best aspects of this show is the way in which it captures the Star Wars feel that makes the franchise beloved and special, even without any lightsabers or Jedi. From the red-eyed Jawas, to the thuggish Twi’leks, and even the scout troopers who couldn’t hit a can with a blaster if they tried, the show has everything any fan could have ever dreamed of. Because of these things, the show is even more enjoyable to the hardcore fans, as they pay off little references and inside jokes from the previous films. Through the outstanding cinematography, special effects, and dialogue, director Jon Favreau created arguably one of the best Star Wars products we have seen since the original trilogy. 

Overall, it is safe to say that this show met all of the hype that it received. For myself and most fans, it was refreshing to watch a Star Wars story that takes place in the less glorified corridors of the Star Wars universe. With all of the positive feedback that the show received, it was announced that season 2 is already in production, meaning that fans shouldn’t have to wait too long to see Mando and Baby Yoda back in action. 

Rating: 9/10