This is the way
Star Wars is back on the big screen with The Mandalorian and Grogu. Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni, who were both instrumental in making the series on Disney+, return to bring the story to the big screen. “I have loved telling stories set in the rich world that George Lucas created,” Favreau said. “The prospect of bringing the Mandalorian and his apprentice Grogu to the big screen is extremely exciting.” Former Lucasfilm head, Kathleen Kennedy, added, “Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni have ushered into Star Wars two new and beloved characters, and this new story is a perfect fit for the big screen.” The Mandalorian and Grogu will be released in theaters on May 22, but the film has just had its premiere. So, what are the first reactions from its first public viewers?
What are they saying?
Those who were in attendance at the screening have now taken to social media to react to the film. So, what is the consensus? Erik Davis of Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes stated, “#TheMandalorianAndGrogu is a thrilling adventure full of big fights, gnarly creatures and plenty of adorable Grogu moments. It’s less about the lore and more a fun, freaky romp across the galaxy. I really dug that about it. Also really dug Ludwig Göransson’s score, especially the parts that felt like an homage to ‘80s synth-driven horror and action thrillers. Martin Scorsese’s brief role is a big scene stealer, as are the Anzellans. It reminded me how fun #StarWars can be when it stops worrying about canon homework and just cuts loose. Treat it like a pulpy Saturday matinee ride and you’ll have a blast.”
However, Jonathan Sim of ComingSoonNet and Us Weekly had the opposite reaction. He was severely underwhelmed, saying, “#TheMandalorianAndGrogu is one of the weakest Star Wars movies. An emotionless, predictable experience that doesn’t push Din Djarin anywhere interesting. Dull, unexciting fight scenes; just CGI monsters. Action figures mashed together. A long, colorless made-for-TV movie.”
Journalist Simon Thompson’s reactions fell more in line with Erik Davis. His reaction was pretty positive, saying, “#TheMandalorianAndGrogu is a grin-inducing crowd-pleaser that puts Star Wars back on theatrical track. Director Jon Favreau is (again) a safe pair of hands that deliver a solid, thrilling and engaging romp. A solid popcorn movie that is the summer blockbuster you’re looking for.”
Germain Lussier of Gizmondo had some enjoyment from the film, but was ultimately left frustrated, saying, “#TheMandalorianandGrogu is as expected. A longer, bigger episode of the show. It has one or two stand out scenes but it feels much more interested in developing the story to new locations with new creatures than the characters. Enjoyed some of it, left frustrated but the rest.”
Courtney Howard of Variety had a blast with the movie, saying, “#TheMandalorianAndGrogu is a ton of fun! A perfect Summer movie. Action-packed with a lot of humor & heart. Not episodic. A fully cinematic journey. Grogu steals the show. See it on the biggest screen possible.”
Chris Killian of ComicBook and ComicBookNow says that the movie is a lot of fun in his reaction, “I’ve seen #TheMandalorianAndGrogu! Above all else, M&G is a super FUN Star Wars movie. It’s not perfect, but there’s a lot for fans to love. It plays like an extended episode with double the budget and moves from one incredible action set piece to the next. IMAX is a must.”
Author Josh Weiss says that this movie is just what you want in a summer blockbuster. His reaction was, “#TheMandalorianAndGrogu is a pure Star Wars delight. While it doesn’t blaze new territory, the film delivers exactly what you want out of a summer blockbuster set in the galaxy far, far away. Action, thrills, humor, eye-popping alien designs, a deep respect for the practical effects of the OT, and just enough callbacks for longtime fans (keep those eyes peeled!). Baby Yoda remains the most adorable thing this side of the Outer Rim and Martin Scorsese will never not be a welcome addition to this (or any) franchise. This is the way.”
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