Movie Review: The Mandalorian and Grogu
There is a point in The Mandalorian and Grogu in which Grogu finds himself alone and having to make decisions using the things he has learned from his Dad, Din Djarin. It’s very reminiscent of the scene between Yoda and Luke Skywalker as Yoda attempts to train Luke in The Empire Strikes Back. The setting itself even feels familiar, with a swampy forest-like planet creating the same quiet atmosphere that made that original moment so memorable. It’s one of those scenes longtime Star Wars fans will immediately recognize and appreciate, while also showing how Grogu continues to grow and learn on his own.
This movie is packed with action and fun easter eggs for fans to catch along the way. Pay close attention to the fighters in the gladiator scenes because there are definitely details longtime viewers will appreciate. While you don’t technically need to watch The Mandalorian series beforehand, it will definitely help viewers understand the relationship and emotional dynamic between Din and Grogu. Their father-son bond remains at the center of the story and continues to be one of the strongest parts of this Star Wars property.
Grogu is slightly older this time around and trying very hard to listen better, whether that means remembering which buttons not to touch on their newly obtained Razor Crest or learning how to behave around the Azellans, which, apparently, means not squeezing and hugging them. These smaller moments add humor and warmth throughout the story and remind viewers why Grogu became such a beloved character in the first place.
The Mandalorian and Grogu movie also take audiences back to some familiar names, including Jabba the Hutt and members of his family, including the Twins. At the same time, the film introduces new faces that help expand the story further.
New character Rotta the Hutt is introduced and voiced by Jeremy Allen White. Rotta turns out to be a surprisingly empathetic character, interested in creating his own persona and separating himself from the shadow of his father, Jabba, whose reputation continues to follow the family. When Mando and Grogu agree to help rescue him, they are thrown into an adventure that sends them pursuing warlords and traveling to new planets like Shakari. Along the way, the film mixes larger action sequences with quieter moments between its characters, keeping Din and Grogu’s relationship at the heart of the story.
While The Mandalorian and Grogu movie delivers the action and familiar Star Wars elements fans would expect, it also feels like it continues to embrace nostalgia, family, growth, and watching Grogu slowly find his place in the galaxy.
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