In season 3 of The Mandalorian, Din Djarin aims to redeem himself to his Creed and learns that Mandalore still has some life left in it. The episodes are available on Disney+.
Story
Din Djarin wishes to redeem himself with the Children of the Watch and is told that the only way to do that is to bathe in the Living Waters of Mandalore. He decides to visit the planet and prove himself and he enlists help from his allies along the way.
Meanwhile, Imperial remnants still exist and the Shadow Council has been planning in secret to ensure that the Empire returns to power in the galaxy, with Moff Gideon escaping custody as well.
Djarin, with Grogu alongside him for the journey, discovers that Mandalore is still habitable and once this revelation is shared, Mandalorians join together to reclaim their planet after learning that it is secretly being used by Moff Gideon and the Empire.
Performances
Pedro Pascal has nailed down the role of Din Djarin but Brendon Wayne and Lateef Crowder deserve similar credit for their efforts as the on-set body doubles. To have a character never show his face and still emote to such a high extent is brilliant.
Katee Sackhoff is a fine example of a voice actor who has reprised their role for live-action and it certainly helps that she’s a genuine fan. She is absolutely charming as Bo-Katan and her interactions with Grogu are some of the most adorable moments of the season.
Giancarlo Esposito returns as Moff Gideon and he’s just as menacing as he has always been. Esposito can play a villain in his sleep and still bring variety to the kind of character he’s playing.
Positives
The narrative shift from Djarin and Grogu’s relationship to the wider scale of the galaxy is expertly managed and the showrunners have explored some really interesting topics within the franchise while tying in other properties.
The various locations, whether they are green screens or practical sets, are amazing. From the ruins of Mandalore to the hustle and bustle of Coruscant, to the purity of Plazar-15, there is no shortage of vibrancy in the galaxy.
Speaking of the visual aspects, the special effects are always worth mentioning in a Star Wars property. Obviously, a lot of effort is put into it but the results are certainly up to par. The costume department is also deserving of high praise for the several outfits and armor seen.
The episode focusing on Coruscant and the Amnesty Program is fascinatingly written as it gives the audience a glimpse at a side of the galaxy they do not get to see too often.
Negatives
Moff Gideon’s grand plan is only revealed in the final episode and it is treated as an afterthought despite being so shockingly evil and surprising. There must be valid reasons behind it but it does feel like a tiny misstep.
Verdict
The Mandalorian continues to be one of the best titles in the Star Wars franchise with brilliant storytelling and enticing characters and set pieces. Season 3 balances several spinning plates with ease and manages to course-correct on certain perceived issues within the canon while establishing other intriguing aspects.
Also Read: The Mandalorian season 3 finale recap, review & ending explained
