The Mandalorian - This is the way...to be amazing!

In my original video review for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, I stated that I was eager to see Star Wars content with its own identity. That is to say, a Star Wars story that retained the established universe and lore but was presented in a different genre and tone. Furthermore, this new content needed to be unrelated to any of the traditional characters, storylines, and events. In short, I wanted to see something like a crime drama or even a comedy but set within the world of Star Wars and had no direct connection to any of the previous movies. Now, four years later, I think we finally got our first take on this very concept with The Mandalorian, which is best described as a classical Western interpretation of Lone Wolf & Cub but set within the world of Star Wars. Proving not only that many different and quality stories can be told in this fashion, but also that Star Wars has become a genre in its own right, demanding to be removed from the shackles of nostalgia before it blasts its way out.

Taking place sometime after the events of Return of the Jedi, the story follows a mysterious bounty hunter known as The Mandalorian, who is, well, a Mandalorian, which is basically the Star Wars equivalent of a Ronin warrior, a masterless Samurai. Anyway, Mando (as he is nicknamed) is one of the best bounty hunters in the Galaxy with a promising reputation and steady workflow. That is until he takes on a job to retrieve a mysterious asset by former Imperials who pay handsomely for discretion and efficiency. It seems harmless enough until Mando discovers what the asset is. A child, more specifically, a baby of unknown species who bears an uncanny resemblance to a legendary Jedi. Upon this discovery, Mando cannot in good conscience leave the child in the hands of his client, so he takes it upon himself to rescue the child and take him to safety. This brings about the wrath of his former clients who promptly send every other bounty hunter in the galaxy on his tail. Now, Mondo must keep moving and keep fighting until he can find a solution that will ensure both of their safety.

What makes this series so incredible is its commitment to providing compelling characters and narrative. Unlike the last film, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, the series doesn't spend its entire runtime weaponizing nostalgia, letting rabid fanboys dictate the scripts, or spitting in the face of narrative cohesion. The Mandalorian takes hold of its own identity while embracing the fantastical aspect of its setting. It generates a genuine emotional connection with the characters and the story as it should by what Star Wars has always been synonymous with. It is more Star Wars than anything else I have seen in recent years.

Jon Favreau, the series creator/prime writer, showcases not only his deep appreciation for Star Wars but also his passion as a storyteller. The story he has created delves deep into aspects of Star Wars lore not often explored. At least not in the visual medium that I can recall. His characters feel three dimensional, sympathetic, intelligent, and worthy of my time and emotional investment. Every single episode feels necessary with very little in the way of filler. I suspect George Lucas is very proud of what Jon has done with his creation.

The cast from top to bottom is absolutely stellar, especially the lead character The Mandalorian himself (Pedro Pascal). Despite spending the vast majority of his screentime with his face covered, Pedro Pascal successfully portrays the character through thoughtful body language and vocal inflections. He never feels one note or dull. His performance is uniquely enhanced by his chemistry with the rest of the supporting cast, all of whom are equally fascinating to watch. Although the best and most notable is, arguably, his relationship with The Child. Who is so adorable and so captivating that it becomes easy to forget it's just a puppet. Not unlike a certain legendary Jedi.

The Mandalorian is precisely the kind of Star Wars content I have been waiting for. It sets the best example for future content while providing a narrative on par with the likes of A New Hope. Star Wars fans will rejoice, and casual viewers will be entertained by the show's own merits. Admittedly, it is a bit annoying that this beautiful show is, at the time of this writing, only available on Disney+ (Disney's new streaming service),  but that should not deter you nor anyone else from watching it. Sign up for the free one week trial or borrow your friend's password. Maybe afterward, you will find something else there that sparks your interest. I already have. However you chose to watch this series, I assure you, it is well worth it.

Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm, thank you all for reading.

This is the way.