“The Mandalorian” is one of the most beloved shows in the Star Wars universe, though the third season has received mixed reviews, with many considering it the weakest of the series so far. Despite the varying opinions on the latest season, there are still several moments that stand out as remarkable, while others left me somewhat disappointed. Here’s a breakdown of what I loved and what troubled me about Season 3.
What I Loved
1. Bo-Katan’s Character Development:
One of the most exciting aspects of Season 3 is the character evolution of Bo-Katan Kryze. Introduced in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Bo-Katan was originally a member of the Death Watch, a Mandalorian terrorist group. Her character arc has been far from straightforward, but in this season, we finally get to see her fully embrace her leadership role. After the violent and destructive history that Mandalore has endured, including the invasion by Darth Maul and the tragic death of her sister, Duchess Satine Kryze, Bo-Katan’s ascension to power in Mandalore feels like a well-earned triumph. It’s a perfect narrative arc, and a standout moment of the season.
This transition to leadership is more than just a plot point; it represents Bo-Katan’s evolution from a reluctant warrior to the leader Mandalore needs. Her journey reflects the struggles of her people, and her rise marks a symbolic return of hope to the Mandalorians. In this season, she embodies the themes of redemption and reclaiming what was lost, making her storyline one of the most satisfying elements of Season 3.
2. Din Djarin and Grogu Becoming a Family:
In Season 3, we finally see Din Djarin officially adopt Grogu as his son, marking an emotional high for the series. The bond between Din and Grogu has been one of the heartbeats of The Mandalorian since the very first episode, but their relationship was left in limbo at the end of Season 2. With Grogu being taken by Luke Skywalker for Jedi training, their separation created an emotional void. While Grogu’s journey as a potential Jedi was exciting, it also left fans wondering about the future of his relationship with Din.
Fortunately, Grogu’s choice to return to Din Djarin is a heartwarming moment in Season 3, reaffirming their deep familial bond. When Grogu officially becomes Din’s Mandalorian apprentice, it solidifies the emotional core of the show. This moment brings closure to the uncertainty around their relationship and offers a sense of peace for both characters. It’s a long-awaited resolution for fans who have followed their journey from the start.
3. Stunning Visual Effects and Action Sequences:
One of The Mandalorian‘s defining features is its top-tier visual effects and action sequences, and Season 3 doesn’t disappoint in this department. From the breathtaking space battles to the vivid landscapes of Mandalore, the show continues to impress with its cinematic quality. The series has consistently set the bar for Star Wars television, and Season 3 is no exception. The visual storytelling is exceptional, bringing to life the intricate details of the Mandalorian culture, the grandeur of space, and the danger that lurks at every corner.
The show has managed to keep its production values consistently high, even with the massive scale of some of the action scenes. The use of cutting-edge technology, such as the “volume” for virtual sets, allows for a seamless blend of live-action and CGI, making the action feel immersive and real. The effects are not only visually striking but also serve the narrative, enhancing the stakes and emotional weight of key moments.
4. Setting Up the Future for Din and Grogu:
The ending of Season 3 sets up exciting possibilities for the future of Din Djarin and Grogu. With Din’s role now aligned with the New Republic, the stage is set for his transformation into a potential hero of the galaxy. The dynamic between Din and Grogu, now officially a family, opens new avenues for character development and storytelling. This also ties into the broader Star Wars narrative, hinting at the potential return of long-standing threats like Grand Admiral Thrawn, as teased in Ahsoka. The future of The Mandalorian universe is brimming with promise, and this season’s conclusion adds layers of anticipation.
As the series continues, Din’s partnership with Grogu may evolve into something even more profound, positioning him as one of the great heroes of the Star Wars universe. His involvement with the New Republic could see him stepping into a role that intertwines with larger galactic events. The foundation laid in Season 3 promises that there is much more to come, both for Din and Grogu and for the Star Wars universe as a whole.
What Troubled Me
1. The Fate of the Darksaber:
One of the biggest disappointments of Season 3 was the destruction of the Darksaber. For fans of Star Wars, the Darksaber is an iconic weapon, deeply tied to Mandalorian culture and history. It was introduced as a symbol of power, with the wielder of the Darksaber often expected to lead Mandalore. In previous seasons, the weapon was a focal point of Din’s journey and Bo-Katan’s claim to the throne. So, when the Darksaber was destroyed by Moff Gideon, it felt like a missed opportunity to delve further into its significance and its role in the ongoing Mandalorian saga.
The destruction of the Darksaber was a narrative choice that brought immediate drama to the story, but it left me feeling disappointed. While it may serve to make way for new storylines, the weapon’s loss seemed to diminish an important symbol for Mandalore. It would have been satisfying to see its legacy honored, whether through a new wielder or a meaningful story arc that allowed it to remain a central part of the series.
2. Grogu and Din’s Reunion Wasn’t Part of Season 3:
One of the most significant complaints about Season 3 is that Din and Grogu’s reunion, which came after Grogu spent time training with Luke Skywalker, was not featured in the season. Instead, their reunion was shown in The Book of Boba Fett. Many fans of The Mandalorian were disappointed by this choice, as this pivotal moment in their relationship should have been addressed within the series itself. It felt like a missed opportunity to properly highlight the emotional significance of their reunion in the context of the main show.
While it made sense for Grogu’s training to occur in a different show, the reunion itself was such a crucial moment that it would have been more impactful if it had been integrated into the third season of The Mandalorian. The emotional weight of that moment was diluted by the fact that it was relegated to another series, leaving some viewers feeling disconnected from the characters’ journey.
3. Pacing Issues and Storylines That Felt Dragged Out:
While The Mandalorian has typically been praised for its storytelling, Season 3 has received criticism for its pacing. Some storylines seemed to drag on longer than necessary, and others that should have been more developed felt rushed. One example is the inclusion of the New Republic Rangers, which took up an unexpectedly large amount of screen time. This subplot felt disconnected from the main narrative about Din and Grogu, and it detracted from the momentum of the show.
The pacing issues were particularly noticeable in episodes where certain characters or subplots felt underdeveloped or sidelined. While The Mandalorian is usually known for its tight and engaging storytelling, Season 3 seemed to lose some of that focus, with certain episodes feeling meandering and less impactful than others.
4. Overuse of Celebrity Cameos:
The third season of The Mandalorian also faced criticism for its overuse of celebrity cameos, particularly in Episode 6, “Guns for Hire”. In this episode, the main characters visit Plazir-15 and encounter guest stars such as Lizzo, Jack Black, and Christopher Lloyd. While Lloyd’s appearance was somewhat fitting due to his history with sci-fi roles, the inclusion of Lizzo and Jack Black felt jarring. Their celebrity status overshadowed their characters, making their performances feel out of place within the Star Wars universe.
One of the hallmarks of Star Wars has always been its ability to blend new characters seamlessly into the universe, without relying on the “star power” of actors. The guest appearances in Season 3 didn’t have the same organic feel, which detracted from the story. In a series like The Mandalorian, where immersion into the Star Wars world is key, these cameos broke the illusion and distracted from the narrative.
Conclusion
While The Mandalorian Season 3 had its fair share of shortcomings, it also delivered some memorable moments that will resonate with fans for years to come. The development of Bo-Katan, the deepening bond between Din and Grogu, and the stunning visuals kept the series on track. However, the destruction of the Darksaber, pacing issues, and some awkward cameos hindered what could have been a more cohesive season. Despite its flaws, Season 3 sets up an exciting future for the series and leaves plenty of room for new adventures in the Star Wars universe.