This isn't bad but maybe not as good as the first two seasons, still quite enjoyed it though. For this episode to make any sense whatsoever from the end of season 2 you really need to watch The Book of Boba Fett, at least episodes 5,6 and 7 some of which should really have just been tacked onto the end of season 2 of The Mandalorian. I hadn't watched this initially and really didn't know what was going on in this episode as it begins poles apart from the last episode of season 2 and doesn't really seem to make a lot of sense. Still pretty good though and worth a watch I think. Hopefully season 3 will improve and get back up to the standards set in the first two seasons.
139 Reviews
This is NOT the way
bluenine-21 March 2023
I really want to like the Mandalorian. S1 brought me back into StarWars after the sequel trilogy had ruined this franchise for me. S2 was good, tho a bit gimmicky. This first Episode is the worst bits of S2 and little of the charm of S1.
The issue is the story. Its just not moving. A lot of scenes are just there to showoff familiar characters, and add nothing to the story. Nothing happens in this episode that we already didn't know. Except the Mandalorian flying across the galaxy again & again to meet old friends & have meaningless conversations most of which we already knew.
If they think this is "fan service", I'm sorry but they are mistaken. Once or twice is fun. But they already overdid this "fan service" in S2 & Boba Fett. Now focus on the story please. Learn something for Andor, which is now my favourite StarWars content since Mandalorian S1.
The issue is the story. Its just not moving. A lot of scenes are just there to showoff familiar characters, and add nothing to the story. Nothing happens in this episode that we already didn't know. Except the Mandalorian flying across the galaxy again & again to meet old friends & have meaningless conversations most of which we already knew.
If they think this is "fan service", I'm sorry but they are mistaken. Once or twice is fun. But they already overdid this "fan service" in S2 & Boba Fett. Now focus on the story please. Learn something for Andor, which is now my favourite StarWars content since Mandalorian S1.
Not a good start
Chrismorosow3 March 2023
I don't know what happend, but the pacing is so much worse than the season before, how was Mando so much cooler in one Episode of Book of Boba Fett than in his own show?
Despite the pacing, they tried to tell to much in one episode, it feels rushed, they try to revive a dead droid, they can easily get another IG and program him, the pirates couldn't count and everything feels off... I wished that the episode which we got in Book of Boba Fett would've been the first episode here... Overall I'm disappointed in the season start and hope it'll get better as soon as possible, they have so much potential and with no end in mind, as Favreau said himself, there is no reason for this rush.
Despite the pacing, they tried to tell to much in one episode, it feels rushed, they try to revive a dead droid, they can easily get another IG and program him, the pirates couldn't count and everything feels off... I wished that the episode which we got in Book of Boba Fett would've been the first episode here... Overall I'm disappointed in the season start and hope it'll get better as soon as possible, they have so much potential and with no end in mind, as Favreau said himself, there is no reason for this rush.
This was weaker than usual
johnnybravoctk5 March 2023
I'm not sure, but maybe it was the Andor effect, as Andor was so adult and incredible and this felt more childish and rushed. Also, we are tracking multiple storylines now? I also kind of wish they did the robot workers as CG and not puppets as those things moved horribly. I guess Mandalorian is going with these basement looking alien pirates as the bad guys now, which could use so much more sinister variety. I thought Grogu would be a tad more grown up by now after living with Luke for a few years. But he's still cooing and not behaving. Still, it's Star Wars and I always smile when I get new Star Wars content. And history has shown that this show can bounce back because each episode gets a new Director.
Is Disney starting to run out of ideas for The Mandalorian?
lovemichaeljordan1 March 2023
It's scary how many poor projects Disney has put out in the last couple of years. I was scared that this new season would follow in the other projects' footsteps, but it doesn't. Once Mando's leitmotif starts playing I'm reminded why I love this show so much. Is it not insane how Göransson has created a score that rivals John Williams'?
30 minutes for an episode is way too short. The action scenes are spectacular and the humor is alright but the episode loses a few points due to it being too short. What can we really walk away with after this episode? A few things happen but I wish we got to see more. It's almost like there's not much story to tell so they have to keep making short filler episodes like these to have enough material for an eight-episode-long season.
I don't mind any time we get to spend in this world with these characters, but maybe I expect more from one of the biggest entertainment companies in the world. The usage of Grogu is clever and somewhat cute, but I perhaps wish the show was a tad more serious at times. Still great though.
30 minutes for an episode is way too short. The action scenes are spectacular and the humor is alright but the episode loses a few points due to it being too short. What can we really walk away with after this episode? A few things happen but I wish we got to see more. It's almost like there's not much story to tell so they have to keep making short filler episodes like these to have enough material for an eight-episode-long season.
I don't mind any time we get to spend in this world with these characters, but maybe I expect more from one of the biggest entertainment companies in the world. The usage of Grogu is clever and somewhat cute, but I perhaps wish the show was a tad more serious at times. Still great though.
Where's the Magic?
catmailing3 March 2023
I was so looking forward to beginning a new chapter of the Mandalorian. Especially after the spectacular end to Season 2.
This episode doesn't feel the same. It is more like Disney or Marvel fluff than the last two seasons. The actors say their lines woodenly and there are strange pauses as if they're being over-directed.
The action scenes are filler and serve no purpose. How does some random story about a group of pirates further the main story at all? This episode could have easily been replaced by a 5-minute recap from Boba Fett.
Mr. Favreau, are you ok? Blink once for yes and two for if you need a trip to the dispensary.
This episode doesn't feel the same. It is more like Disney or Marvel fluff than the last two seasons. The actors say their lines woodenly and there are strange pauses as if they're being over-directed.
The action scenes are filler and serve no purpose. How does some random story about a group of pirates further the main story at all? This episode could have easily been replaced by a 5-minute recap from Boba Fett.
Mr. Favreau, are you ok? Blink once for yes and two for if you need a trip to the dispensary.
10/10 from the start
shuva-641421 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
What an excellent beginning of the season. Although in season 2 the show gave us a longer first episode, this time around is a short episode but filled with the information needed to understand where Din and Grogu's journey is headed for the next 8 weeks. I loved the beginning of the episode, giving us a little peak of Mandalorian traditions, at least the Children of the Watch. Grogu seeing purgill flying besides them gave me actual chills and the ending of the episode with Bo-Katan is simply perfect. I wonder if she will act as the antagonist of this season, at least that's what this episode suggest. I'm incredibly excited for what is next, quickly realizing that the trailers barely showed anything, and was a lot of scenes and dialogue from this first episode. THIS IS THE WAY.
Disappointing
dmshrmed2 March 2023
I didn't expect much better, considering the quality of some of the recent Disney Star Wars shows, but I'm still ultimately disappointed.
I feel like there was no heart behind this episode, like no one involved, aside from the cgi artists, actually cared about what they were working on here. The cinematography, costume work, pacing, writing, and editing, were all let downs.
Each shot was very unimpressive (especially compared to the concept art shown at the end). The quality of most of the alien costumes immediately distracted me from the story (I swear it's somehow significantly worse costume work than the original Star Wars, like Lucasfilm is pretending poor costume work is a stylistic choice, in order to cut costs). The grass pirate guy looked especially laughable. The pacing was erratic at best, making for an awkward experience. The writing, in terms of story, was questionable, as too many different side quests were thrust upon Mando too quickly (and that monster attack scene at the beginning felt poorly implemented, like Mando just needed a cool looking entrance, and this random scenario is what the writers came up with). The editing was really distracting throughout the episode, but especially in the monster attack scene.
The two Mando episodes embedded in The Book of Boba Fett were very good (the rest of The Book of Boba Fett was awful), so I was hoping that some of what made those so good would have carried over to the third season of The Mandalorian. Unfortunately, only the questionable alien costume work (the low point of those episodes) appears to be the only thing that made it to season 3 of Mando.
I am not convinced, yet, that this season will be a loser, but this was not a good start.
I feel like there was no heart behind this episode, like no one involved, aside from the cgi artists, actually cared about what they were working on here. The cinematography, costume work, pacing, writing, and editing, were all let downs.
Each shot was very unimpressive (especially compared to the concept art shown at the end). The quality of most of the alien costumes immediately distracted me from the story (I swear it's somehow significantly worse costume work than the original Star Wars, like Lucasfilm is pretending poor costume work is a stylistic choice, in order to cut costs). The grass pirate guy looked especially laughable. The pacing was erratic at best, making for an awkward experience. The writing, in terms of story, was questionable, as too many different side quests were thrust upon Mando too quickly (and that monster attack scene at the beginning felt poorly implemented, like Mando just needed a cool looking entrance, and this random scenario is what the writers came up with). The editing was really distracting throughout the episode, but especially in the monster attack scene.
The two Mando episodes embedded in The Book of Boba Fett were very good (the rest of The Book of Boba Fett was awful), so I was hoping that some of what made those so good would have carried over to the third season of The Mandalorian. Unfortunately, only the questionable alien costume work (the low point of those episodes) appears to be the only thing that made it to season 3 of Mando.
I am not convinced, yet, that this season will be a loser, but this was not a good start.
He's backkkk !
suvechhabose1 March 2023
That was an epic first episode!
But as usual youngsters are crying because they expect like 10 12 characters to appear in the first episode, they expect 1 hour storytelling, blood gory action or bunch of weird stiff which is not even a theme of Star wars But this episode doesn't deserve this low as 7.9.
It covered everything i had hope for !
Episode had a pretty serious opening, necessary for building up the lore . The scene emphasized on the ancient Mandalorian rule , it built up the tension perfectly before the protagonist arrived at the right time & saved the day .
Fanns who have obviously forgotten or missed book of boba fett were given an early note before the new episode began , showing important characters who are going to help Din this season.
The graphics as the prosthetic on the pirates & the eye candy aerial dogfight was stunning! Meeting old friends was an absolute delight & slowly giving hints on two magnificent characters whereabouts has been done with perfection.
Bo katan is hot as usual with her princess born ego What more do you expect from a season opening episode?
A jedi? Jedi/sith lightsaber action?
Come on people don't put dirt on quality content Keep patience cause now that purrgils are here,
I can not wait for everything to connect.
You absolute legend Jon faverau!
But as usual youngsters are crying because they expect like 10 12 characters to appear in the first episode, they expect 1 hour storytelling, blood gory action or bunch of weird stiff which is not even a theme of Star wars But this episode doesn't deserve this low as 7.9.
It covered everything i had hope for !
Episode had a pretty serious opening, necessary for building up the lore . The scene emphasized on the ancient Mandalorian rule , it built up the tension perfectly before the protagonist arrived at the right time & saved the day .
Fanns who have obviously forgotten or missed book of boba fett were given an early note before the new episode began , showing important characters who are going to help Din this season.
The graphics as the prosthetic on the pirates & the eye candy aerial dogfight was stunning! Meeting old friends was an absolute delight & slowly giving hints on two magnificent characters whereabouts has been done with perfection.
Bo katan is hot as usual with her princess born ego What more do you expect from a season opening episode?
A jedi? Jedi/sith lightsaber action?
Come on people don't put dirt on quality content Keep patience cause now that purrgils are here,
I can not wait for everything to connect.
You absolute legend Jon faverau!
Wildly Disappointing
tinlittlenerd7 March 2023
This episode had its redeeming moments, but the fact that I have to start with that already means I'm grasping at straws. Everything has taken a significant dive off the deep end. The acting and dialogue is laughable, especially in comparison to the recent series Andor, which featured some of Star Wars' best performances. Everything is told, not shown, and we should be far beyond that by this point. The action feels very clunky with some very awkward shots and choreography that just completely take you out of the moment. However, I will admit the starship scenes were quite good. The main thing that was redeemable was Grogu and Din, who are as fun to watch as ever. However, what made the dynamic so special is that their interactions were used as relief following intense sequences. If there's nothing going on, you don't get that relief. It's cute to see Din explain like things to Grogu, but when he's explaining every minute detail to him, it becomes a burden to the audience. As a writer/producer, you need to trust the viewer's intelligence to follow along and keep up with what you're doing. "This is a Mandalorian castle" might be up there with "I don't like sand" for worst dialogue in the franchise. I have no way to put it other than lazy. I'm hopeful for the coming episodes but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't concerned. Especially when the premier falls short in so many regards.
Did you really watch this episode? 😉
wujbatman4 March 2023
All of you, who rated this opening season episode less than 7 out of 10 - did you really and actually watch it? It's very decent opening with many suggestions about further story development. I'm fully in.
I know that today's standards require you to be hooked right away, being drowned not into the story itself immediately but what about this smart, slow burning storytelling that gentlemen like Favreau try to bring back to 2020' cinema? Can we still appreciate the amount of creativity needed to write new episode, not to mention the whole story? Can't we just slow down for these few moments this story needs? BTW: I write this to you from Iceland where there is perfect time flow for such tempo. And as people live here about 100 years - I think they know what they are doing... 😉
I know that today's standards require you to be hooked right away, being drowned not into the story itself immediately but what about this smart, slow burning storytelling that gentlemen like Favreau try to bring back to 2020' cinema? Can we still appreciate the amount of creativity needed to write new episode, not to mention the whole story? Can't we just slow down for these few moments this story needs? BTW: I write this to you from Iceland where there is perfect time flow for such tempo. And as people live here about 100 years - I think they know what they are doing... 😉
unexpectedly mediocre
neslenko7 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
The storytelling felt very wrong. It was not bad, not really, but it felt more like a walk through the sidequests in Witcher 3 before going to bed. For the sole purpose of not starting some important main quests, but still doing something at least mildly entertaining to kill some time. The only thing missing would be looting of the dead crocodile thing and going through the pirates' belongings.
The visit to Bo-Katan felt like a brief zoom call. They could literally have exchanged a couple of messages on space telegram and be done with it. It's not that it was unrealistic, or unnnatural. On contrary even, it felt way too realistic and awkward, and i could almost hear Mando thinking "I should have just texted her..."
I hope the next episodes won't end up like this one.
The visit to Bo-Katan felt like a brief zoom call. They could literally have exchanged a couple of messages on space telegram and be done with it. It's not that it was unrealistic, or unnnatural. On contrary even, it felt way too realistic and awkward, and i could almost hear Mando thinking "I should have just texted her..."
I hope the next episodes won't end up like this one.
Are we expected to do homework?
tommy-9776117 March 2023
The episode is short and sort of "MEH". I don't really have strong feelings either way about it, though it is nice to see the characters that I enjoy again, and the plot will pick up phase in later episodes. I'd like to discuss one thing though.
What angered me, is the structure that Disney+ pushes onto us. Why should anyone be expected to watch every other SW series in order to understand the continuity of this one? Now, I did see the Book of Boba Fett but I expected at the very least a short plot update for the people who haven't. If you finish Mandalorian Season 2 and go on to season 3, you will be lost. At the end of Season 2 Grogu goes off to be trained a Jedy and suddenly at season 3 they are together again and somehow, Din Jarin has a new fighter? Not even an attempt to sum up what has happened before. As stated, I personally have seen the Boba Fett series, but I am appalled by this precedence. What is the point of keeping track of seasons if they do not tie onto one another?
What angered me, is the structure that Disney+ pushes onto us. Why should anyone be expected to watch every other SW series in order to understand the continuity of this one? Now, I did see the Book of Boba Fett but I expected at the very least a short plot update for the people who haven't. If you finish Mandalorian Season 2 and go on to season 3, you will be lost. At the end of Season 2 Grogu goes off to be trained a Jedy and suddenly at season 3 they are together again and somehow, Din Jarin has a new fighter? Not even an attempt to sum up what has happened before. As stated, I personally have seen the Boba Fett series, but I am appalled by this precedence. What is the point of keeping track of seasons if they do not tie onto one another?
Easing back in
ossie851 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
The ol' bait-and-switch to begin the episode, with us meant to believe the young boy was a flashback of our hero getting annointed as a Mandalorian. But instead we got the biggest crocodile you'll ever see, and Mando saving the day.
The episode was a welcome return for The Mandalorian. Been a long time since we last saw him through a sneaky couple of episodes on The Book of Boba Fett.
This episode was about re-introducing us to the world, and setting up the mission statement of Season 3 - Mando's request for redemption, but also a battle between his faith and the realities of a harsh Galaxy.
So, the stage has been set, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the season. This was an enjoyable return.
The episode was a welcome return for The Mandalorian. Been a long time since we last saw him through a sneaky couple of episodes on The Book of Boba Fett.
This episode was about re-introducing us to the world, and setting up the mission statement of Season 3 - Mando's request for redemption, but also a battle between his faith and the realities of a harsh Galaxy.
So, the stage has been set, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the season. This was an enjoyable return.
Good old fashioned Western...in Space of course.
medwards-852631 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
For me Mando as a series works best when it is him undertaking a 'simple' mission within the boundary of a single ep. This is beautifully short and to the point, not an ounce of fat on this ep.
Also when it is somewhat distinct and separate from all the other Star Wars 'established' film characters. This is back to that, at least for the first ep
The beauty of this series is, perhaps even more clearly than even the original films, this is a Western in space, you even get the 'Sergio Leone' stylee close up on eyes during a gun fight in this particular chapter.
Grogu gets more than his fair share of cute moments. Not 100% sure about the Pirates of the Caribbean style baddie, we will see where that is going I guess...
Thank goodness. Not quite up to the brilliant level of Andor for me, but a hell of a good ride in the old saddle!
More please.
Also when it is somewhat distinct and separate from all the other Star Wars 'established' film characters. This is back to that, at least for the first ep
The beauty of this series is, perhaps even more clearly than even the original films, this is a Western in space, you even get the 'Sergio Leone' stylee close up on eyes during a gun fight in this particular chapter.
Grogu gets more than his fair share of cute moments. Not 100% sure about the Pirates of the Caribbean style baddie, we will see where that is going I guess...
Thank goodness. Not quite up to the brilliant level of Andor for me, but a hell of a good ride in the old saddle!
More please.
Worst Start Yet
nathan_mitchell712 August 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This was honestly a pretty boring start to a pretty average season. It really set the tone of what was to come in this season.
Although the Mandalorian Episodes in The Book of Boba Fett were amazing, bringing Grogu back to Mando was rushed, and after seeing how little impact Grogu had on this season, it really seems as though they could've kept him with Luke a little longer.
I feel like trying bringing back a character that had such a powerful and meaningful death such as IG-11 is never a good idea. The whole pirate plot in this episode also really didn't interest me, and this theme continued throughout most of the season as there were really no interesting villains up until Moff Gideon's return in Chapter 23. I've come to realise I much prefer the simpler opening episodes back in Season 1 and 2, where Mando was just on a fun Bounty Mission.
Overall this start was just no where near as promising and fun as the first two seasons. It almost seems as though the show has lost it's magic.
Although the Mandalorian Episodes in The Book of Boba Fett were amazing, bringing Grogu back to Mando was rushed, and after seeing how little impact Grogu had on this season, it really seems as though they could've kept him with Luke a little longer.
I feel like trying bringing back a character that had such a powerful and meaningful death such as IG-11 is never a good idea. The whole pirate plot in this episode also really didn't interest me, and this theme continued throughout most of the season as there were really no interesting villains up until Moff Gideon's return in Chapter 23. I've come to realise I much prefer the simpler opening episodes back in Season 1 and 2, where Mando was just on a fun Bounty Mission.
Overall this start was just no where near as promising and fun as the first two seasons. It almost seems as though the show has lost it's magic.
Brilliant start... building to another great season
tfett4 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
An enjoyable, exciting start to season 3. It sets the scene well for what's to come! Great action, in space and on land! Good special effects and some fun moments...Kowolkian monkey lizards anyone?! The opening scene is thrilling and although not as good as the season 2 finale you can see it's setting up for what looks to be an enthralling season. Third season and its still fresh and must watch TV, reminds me of 8ps shows like Knight rider and A team which gave pure escapism and quality entertainment watching your hero's fight the good fight! Cant wait for the next episode and the whole season to come!
I hope they find the way again
King T 26 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Oh dear what happened?
I am a real fan of this series. Seasons 1 and 2 had a great story and bombastic visual effects. Not much of that is left in season 3.
The visual effects (except for the space battles) are on the level of 30 years ago. The pirates and the little technicians who are supposed to fix IG look like Muppet characters. Especially the captain of the pirates, here Disney has completely carried it away.
Then there is the story ... if you want to call it a story:
I took off my helmet -> OH no, you're not a Mandalorian anymore -> What can I do? -> Go to the waters on Mandalore -> Ok, everything there is destroyed and contaminated, I need (for whatever reason) help of an old battle droid -> Broken -> ok, I need a spare part -> I now fly somewhere (why exactly there - nobody knows) to apparently find such a spare part.
Really now?
Dear Disney team, the Marvel universe was in my eyes already driven to the wall, the main story of Star Wars already partially (EP 7+8+9), please spare the Mandalorian this fate.
I am a real fan of this series. Seasons 1 and 2 had a great story and bombastic visual effects. Not much of that is left in season 3.
The visual effects (except for the space battles) are on the level of 30 years ago. The pirates and the little technicians who are supposed to fix IG look like Muppet characters. Especially the captain of the pirates, here Disney has completely carried it away.
Then there is the story ... if you want to call it a story:
I took off my helmet -> OH no, you're not a Mandalorian anymore -> What can I do? -> Go to the waters on Mandalore -> Ok, everything there is destroyed and contaminated, I need (for whatever reason) help of an old battle droid -> Broken -> ok, I need a spare part -> I now fly somewhere (why exactly there - nobody knows) to apparently find such a spare part.
Really now?
Dear Disney team, the Marvel universe was in my eyes already driven to the wall, the main story of Star Wars already partially (EP 7+8+9), please spare the Mandalorian this fate.
A short start
prometheus198702 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
So season 3 kicks off with with the consequences of the events occurring season 2, din djarin is now attempting to seek redemption after removing his helmet in season 2. Because of that he has sort of been exiled from the watch. Now he has to atone for what he has done by going to Mandalore and bathe in the Living Waters that are beneath the mines.
So this episode mostly revolves around the preparation for the journey to and across Mandalore, with Mando wanting IG-11 bot from Greef Karga or should I say High Magistrate Karga. Yes, he wants the same bot that was destroyed and wants to fix it with the remaining pieces that are intact. Why he wants the same bot, cuz he trusts this same bot after events that had occurred in the previous seasons and it's nice to Din slowly not hating robots.
But things go a bit wrong, as once he fixes IG-11 it goes back to it's original programming which was to terminate Grogu. So he has to shoot it in the end, and goes to a couple small alien mechanics to see if they can fix it, they said they can't unless din gets them the part they need to fix it. So of course Din agrees to it.
In between all of this, Din and Grogu have unnecessary clashes with pirates and there were a couple of cool battle sequences as well.
Din escapes unharmed and goes to a planet in the Mandalorian system, where he asks Bo- Katan for help to explore Mandalore, but we can see Bo-Katan clearly brooding over the loss of the dark sabre and hence she disagrees and also tells din because he has the dark sabre he can command any of the remaining Mandalorians. She also gives him the location of the Living Waters but tells him it's a waste of time going to Mandalore as it has been supposedly poisoned, but Din says he has to take the chance and hence leaves.
Overall id give this episode a 8/10. It's a solid start to the season but very short and hence some sequences felt a bit rushed. But the episode sets up the next episodes very well and eager to see what has actually happened to Mandalore.
So this episode mostly revolves around the preparation for the journey to and across Mandalore, with Mando wanting IG-11 bot from Greef Karga or should I say High Magistrate Karga. Yes, he wants the same bot that was destroyed and wants to fix it with the remaining pieces that are intact. Why he wants the same bot, cuz he trusts this same bot after events that had occurred in the previous seasons and it's nice to Din slowly not hating robots.
But things go a bit wrong, as once he fixes IG-11 it goes back to it's original programming which was to terminate Grogu. So he has to shoot it in the end, and goes to a couple small alien mechanics to see if they can fix it, they said they can't unless din gets them the part they need to fix it. So of course Din agrees to it.
In between all of this, Din and Grogu have unnecessary clashes with pirates and there were a couple of cool battle sequences as well.
Din escapes unharmed and goes to a planet in the Mandalorian system, where he asks Bo- Katan for help to explore Mandalore, but we can see Bo-Katan clearly brooding over the loss of the dark sabre and hence she disagrees and also tells din because he has the dark sabre he can command any of the remaining Mandalorians. She also gives him the location of the Living Waters but tells him it's a waste of time going to Mandalore as it has been supposedly poisoned, but Din says he has to take the chance and hence leaves.
Overall id give this episode a 8/10. It's a solid start to the season but very short and hence some sequences felt a bit rushed. But the episode sets up the next episodes very well and eager to see what has actually happened to Mandalore.
Din's Journey to Redemption
tristan_191 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
The Apostate is a great chapter getting the audience back right into Din's world. Now, for the casual viewers who wouldn't have seen The Book of Boba Fett, this might be so confusing. I feel they might shine some clarity on it later, but yeah it's a shaky ground.
For the actual episode, it seems there may have been a time skip. Because Grogu has been training for Luke for 2 years, and there is a new order of Mandalorians. Before, there were only three, and then two in TBOBF. We get a nice action sequence, with the initiation of a young boy to the Guild, and a creature reminiscing of the Krayt Dragon from the Season 2 Premiere.
Nevarro has change substantially. Greef Karga is thriving and Marshal Dune has left the fold. The citizens are happy. Din has to get to the mines of Mandalore in order to be redeemed, and the show surprises us with a giant statue of IG11. It's super nice of Greef to be honoring him like that and awesome to see. Mando trusts him now though, and wants to take him down to bring the kind droid with him !
IG11 gets back to its initial directive and is therefore brought to the Anzellans, which was such a funny scene by the way. Pirates are lurking over the planet, and I gotta say the design of their leader is really well done and surprising. I have no idea if he was in the EU before and people knew him, or if he is a new original idea for the show, but Kudos for bringing him to life.
The sky chase is great and we even get an asteroid mine field ! Wowza. Din bonds with Grogu, showing him how to navigate the galaxy, which is a really important scene furthering their relationship. The rainy aesthetic of Kalevala is really well produced. The sets, like the camera movements are fluid and dynamic. And then you get to Bo Katan !
Is the quest to reclaim Mandalore finally starting to weigh Bo Katan down a little bit ? We see a little character development there, as Mando and Grogu walk in. Bo provides some sort of information about where the mines are located, and Din leaves.
This season is very much Din's journey I feel like. After Seasons 1 and 2 being really focused on bringing Grogu back to its kind, and learning who he is and why Moff wanted to get him back and such, Season 3 shines a light on where Din stands, and explores redemption themes, and a quest of finding yourself in a way. Same can be applied to Bo Katan, and I have a feeling both characters will learn a lot from each other. Maybe Bo Katan can soften up a bit and open up her mind to sharing the power, and kinda bringing a new structure to the system, and Din can learn other Mandalorian's ways, and to soften on the rules a tiny bit.
There is a lot yet to be explored and I have full confidence on Jon and Dave to bring this season to greatness. The vibe is absolutely unique and its own. It does not feel like Season 1, neither does it feel like Season 2. The pacing is just right and not too forced or anything. Like a big puzzle or galaxy, this is another well crafted chapter and I can't wait for next week !
For the actual episode, it seems there may have been a time skip. Because Grogu has been training for Luke for 2 years, and there is a new order of Mandalorians. Before, there were only three, and then two in TBOBF. We get a nice action sequence, with the initiation of a young boy to the Guild, and a creature reminiscing of the Krayt Dragon from the Season 2 Premiere.
Nevarro has change substantially. Greef Karga is thriving and Marshal Dune has left the fold. The citizens are happy. Din has to get to the mines of Mandalore in order to be redeemed, and the show surprises us with a giant statue of IG11. It's super nice of Greef to be honoring him like that and awesome to see. Mando trusts him now though, and wants to take him down to bring the kind droid with him !
IG11 gets back to its initial directive and is therefore brought to the Anzellans, which was such a funny scene by the way. Pirates are lurking over the planet, and I gotta say the design of their leader is really well done and surprising. I have no idea if he was in the EU before and people knew him, or if he is a new original idea for the show, but Kudos for bringing him to life.
The sky chase is great and we even get an asteroid mine field ! Wowza. Din bonds with Grogu, showing him how to navigate the galaxy, which is a really important scene furthering their relationship. The rainy aesthetic of Kalevala is really well produced. The sets, like the camera movements are fluid and dynamic. And then you get to Bo Katan !
Is the quest to reclaim Mandalore finally starting to weigh Bo Katan down a little bit ? We see a little character development there, as Mando and Grogu walk in. Bo provides some sort of information about where the mines are located, and Din leaves.
This season is very much Din's journey I feel like. After Seasons 1 and 2 being really focused on bringing Grogu back to its kind, and learning who he is and why Moff wanted to get him back and such, Season 3 shines a light on where Din stands, and explores redemption themes, and a quest of finding yourself in a way. Same can be applied to Bo Katan, and I have a feeling both characters will learn a lot from each other. Maybe Bo Katan can soften up a bit and open up her mind to sharing the power, and kinda bringing a new structure to the system, and Din can learn other Mandalorian's ways, and to soften on the rules a tiny bit.
There is a lot yet to be explored and I have full confidence on Jon and Dave to bring this season to greatness. The vibe is absolutely unique and its own. It does not feel like Season 1, neither does it feel like Season 2. The pacing is just right and not too forced or anything. Like a big puzzle or galaxy, this is another well crafted chapter and I can't wait for next week !
A pretty good start to proceedings
atkinsonlouise-7387320 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
So The Mandalorian is back and it gets off to a pretty good start. If you haven't watched the Book of Boba Fett, make sure to watch that before you start this! This reintroduces us to where Mando is now as he travels with Grogu to reclaim his Mandalorian status. He meets up with the Armorer and other members of the watch, helps Greef Karga deal with some pirates and asks Bo Katan for help. This episode very much introduces the themes of the series and where the characters are now. It didn't feel as exciting or as tight nit as previous introductions to the series, but this was still pretty good. Also, I am interested to see what they do with Grogu as I feel like his plot arc was finished nicely in season two. Loved the intro of the Purrgil into live action and the space battle scene with the pirates. The design of Gorian Shard was great as well; will be interesting to see how he features in this series. A pretty good start, but will need a bit more meat and grit in future episodes. Score: 7.5/10.
We got spoiled by the quality of Andor!
victoraspapadimitriou1 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This episode was a weak start to a season with low expectations. It felt like a quest in a 2010s rpg video game with so much travelling/collecting important items and oversaturated content in a 40min episode. A lot of characters are back for the sake of being back and we get a lot of cameos. And apparently IG-11 who was killed in season 1 is coming back, so his death meant nothing and now has no weight. But not yet, because Mando has to get some rare components and deliver them to baboo frick in order to get him working, in order to go to mandalore. Why? This episode does have some good scenes like the one where grogu sees the creatures from Star Wars rebels while in hyperspace or when he dogfights pirates. Overall a very mediocre start. The only thing that can truly save this season is the return from Bill Burr who was amazing in the past and was surprisingly more compelling and complex than boba fett. Only time can tell. By the way I will lose complete faith in the mandalorian if I see more shows being advertised and teased within episodes just like season 2.
Mandalorian jumps the shark into total fanboy service
GentlemanGeorge2 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
After waiting over two years for the newest installment of the Mandalorian saga, my expectations were very high. Considering the season two finale saw the return of Luke Skywalker, in a masterfully written episode with an emotional payoff that literally brought people to tears, this premier had a tough act to follow. Sadly, it didn't rise to the challenge.
Seasons 1 and 2 exhibited great storytelling with great characters you made emotional investments in, and they all had great story-arcs. Instead of continuing this formula, season 3 seems to be descending into a worrying pattern of fan-service.
A series jumps the shark when it becomes clear there is nothing new for its characters to accomplish. What remains is only episodic repetition. Mando accomplished his task of reuniting Grogu with the Jedi. His arc included great character development when he chose to value his commitment and affection for Grogu over the demands of his creed. The emotional impact of rasing his helmet to allow "the kid" to see his face before they parted was strong enough to bring a tear to the eye of this reviewer. Sadly, if the writing of this episode is an indication of what is to come, this series may have hit its zenith.
In my humble opinion, this series thrives ONLY if it continues to chart new dramatic territory, not re-visit old haunts. I like Carl Weathers, but I've learned all I want to about his character. IG-11 was an inspired character and his arc was emotionally powerful. WHY ruin it by bringing him back? Why shoehorn in a scene with a roomful of Babu Fricks trying unsuccessfully to repair him? He needs a new part. Virtually impossible to find. Here we go, a new "quest." After searching the galaxy to reunite Baby Yoda with the Jedi, the "Quest To Find A Droid Part" seems underwhelming. Ultimately, Mando's desire to go to Mandalore to be forgiven for his transgression of removing his helmet seems to be a regression in his story arc. He's learned there's a bigger universe outside the cult of The Watch. Why is he wasting time trying to regain their favor? I will even go so far as to suggest that keeping Grogu around is a bad idea. Yes, he is a fan-favorite, but the character of The Mandalorian is already being over-shadowed by what is essentially A PUPPET. Move on. There is more to accomplish than becoming a space-age version of "The Rifleman."
Many viewers will clamor for whatever is offered under the Star Wars banner. I prefer to be told a great story, with great characters with well written dialog and intelligent screenplay. Fan-service is a cop-out and becomes cringe-worthy very quickly. It will kill this series if it doesn't stop.
The Mandalorian had a lot to prove when it premiered. Star Wars as a franchise was on its last legs because everyone had forgotten how to tell a good story. Favreau and Company got it right, and they earned the rave reviews and plaudits that were heaped upon them. Sadly, it seems the production is now showing signs of hubris. Now that they are Star Wars rock stars, they no longer have to prove anything so the screenplays and the vision suffers. You will get what you get and you will like it. This is a sure-fire recipe for failure. Time will tell. Assuming the entirely of season 3 is already filmed, there may be no time for a course correction if the series goes off the rails.
Seasons 1 and 2 exhibited great storytelling with great characters you made emotional investments in, and they all had great story-arcs. Instead of continuing this formula, season 3 seems to be descending into a worrying pattern of fan-service.
A series jumps the shark when it becomes clear there is nothing new for its characters to accomplish. What remains is only episodic repetition. Mando accomplished his task of reuniting Grogu with the Jedi. His arc included great character development when he chose to value his commitment and affection for Grogu over the demands of his creed. The emotional impact of rasing his helmet to allow "the kid" to see his face before they parted was strong enough to bring a tear to the eye of this reviewer. Sadly, if the writing of this episode is an indication of what is to come, this series may have hit its zenith.
In my humble opinion, this series thrives ONLY if it continues to chart new dramatic territory, not re-visit old haunts. I like Carl Weathers, but I've learned all I want to about his character. IG-11 was an inspired character and his arc was emotionally powerful. WHY ruin it by bringing him back? Why shoehorn in a scene with a roomful of Babu Fricks trying unsuccessfully to repair him? He needs a new part. Virtually impossible to find. Here we go, a new "quest." After searching the galaxy to reunite Baby Yoda with the Jedi, the "Quest To Find A Droid Part" seems underwhelming. Ultimately, Mando's desire to go to Mandalore to be forgiven for his transgression of removing his helmet seems to be a regression in his story arc. He's learned there's a bigger universe outside the cult of The Watch. Why is he wasting time trying to regain their favor? I will even go so far as to suggest that keeping Grogu around is a bad idea. Yes, he is a fan-favorite, but the character of The Mandalorian is already being over-shadowed by what is essentially A PUPPET. Move on. There is more to accomplish than becoming a space-age version of "The Rifleman."
Many viewers will clamor for whatever is offered under the Star Wars banner. I prefer to be told a great story, with great characters with well written dialog and intelligent screenplay. Fan-service is a cop-out and becomes cringe-worthy very quickly. It will kill this series if it doesn't stop.
The Mandalorian had a lot to prove when it premiered. Star Wars as a franchise was on its last legs because everyone had forgotten how to tell a good story. Favreau and Company got it right, and they earned the rave reviews and plaudits that were heaped upon them. Sadly, it seems the production is now showing signs of hubris. Now that they are Star Wars rock stars, they no longer have to prove anything so the screenplays and the vision suffers. You will get what you get and you will like it. This is a sure-fire recipe for failure. Time will tell. Assuming the entirely of season 3 is already filmed, there may be no time for a course correction if the series goes off the rails.
A Great first Episode back to such a phenomenal series.
jay_amer19 April 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I am glad that The Mandalorian is back on Television and it deserves the praise it has been getting for being one of Star Wars best Modern Tv Shows. It is great to see Din Djarin and Grogu back together on screen again, and it's a joy to see them together adventuring the galaxy. This first episode was a good start to the season, I felt it went to a great start to the season and introducing new Characters and Familiar ones, this is one thing I love about Star Wars is the universe and how it just amazes me everytime since I was a kid. Still would love to live In a Star Wars Universe, definitely a dream I had when I was a kid! The build up for the Return of Mandalore I feel is going to be epic and I hope Mandalore does not get destroyed once again. I don't think this would be happening. Overall, a great episode and a great start to Season 3 of The Mandalorian. 8/10. Strong episode, leaves me wanting more.
Very shiny
theknownames15 April 2023
I can't be mad at the evolution and expansion of the Star Wars universe. I imagine that many of us who are ( I think it's called gen x) who watched the first film in the movie theater in 77 are appreciative and far more forgiving of what's available now. For example I still can't get over the fact that I can rewatch something immediately and for Mando I do . From the announcement of episodes 1-3 in the 90's , it's been quite a long and precious journey. The Book of Boba Fett came with nods to sort of new ageish type of vision that felt too close to home to feel as authentic as Mando but did I not long for anything Fett since that Christmas special? Mando felt so true to the essence of right out the gate and it ended with season 2 being incredible, I think I had tears in my eyes haha .
Now season 3 and this first episode ,with the lighting in first flight scene, I suspected it was going to go with some modern flair. There is so much that can be done now it has to be a fine line between puppeteering and all out space spectacles . It must too ,be difficult to find focus in this sprawling universe , yet everything feels to be meeting the challenge .
I once took part in a great debate about old songs being covered and released as new . It felt ridiculous , lazy and rude to try and better a classic song . However, my opponent pointed out that some things need to be repackaged for a new generation to appreciate.
How could someone who grew up with an iPhone in their reach be just as taken with this universe as someone who had to stop -play -eject or use the Dewey decimal system?
-This is the Way .
Now season 3 and this first episode ,with the lighting in first flight scene, I suspected it was going to go with some modern flair. There is so much that can be done now it has to be a fine line between puppeteering and all out space spectacles . It must too ,be difficult to find focus in this sprawling universe , yet everything feels to be meeting the challenge .
I once took part in a great debate about old songs being covered and released as new . It felt ridiculous , lazy and rude to try and better a classic song . However, my opponent pointed out that some things need to be repackaged for a new generation to appreciate.
How could someone who grew up with an iPhone in their reach be just as taken with this universe as someone who had to stop -play -eject or use the Dewey decimal system?
-This is the Way .
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