The Mandalorian (3×01 & 3×02) Chapter 17 and 18 Review

*the following is a review of the first 2 episode of Season 3 of The Mandalorian with the first now available to stream on Disney+*

The Mandalorian is back and better than ever! After an over two-year wait, fans finally get to witness the next adventure of the Beskar armor-clad Mandalorian, Din Djarin and his adorable, force-sensitive surrogate son, Grogu. And that wait was well worth it. It is also worth noting that Mando and Grogu did pop up in the mostly disappointing The Book of Boba Fett for a surprising amount of screen time as that series developed their journey in ways that viewers who missed it may be a little perplexed here. Especially considering the tearjerker ending of last season.

All things considered, The Mandalorian season three is brilliant! Expanding on Din and Grogu’s undeniably endearing relationship, they are surrounded by stunning visuals, thrilling action, great characters and strong writing from showrunner Jon Favreau for these first two episodes. While this season may not start as strongly as season two, it quickly picks up the pace come its second episode.

Following the events of The Book of Boba Fett, Din Djarin and Grogu venture on a deadly quest to the ravaged wastelands of Mandalore, where Din must bathe in the living waters beneath the mines, in order to redeem himself for removing his helmet and being banished from his creed and breaking such a sacred oath. Fan favorite characters such as Greef Karga and Bo Katan also making exciting returns this season but ultimately, it’s the cameo of the Anzellan’s (Babu Frik’s species) that will truly have fans giddy with excitement.

Din Djarin and Grogu are easily the best characters to come out of Star Wars in recent memory. Their endearing father son relationship works has been the emotional crux of the series, and season three helps deepens their relationship. Din quickly begins to teach Grogu how to navigate the galaxy and become a Mandalorian, which quickly comes in to play. Meanwhile, Grogu is as adorable as ever, but with his newly mastered force abilities Grogu is an absolute force to be reckoned with (no pun intended).

The Mandalorian has never disappointed on the action front, with last season offering many memorable set pieces that rank among the best in the franchise. Whilst season three still doesn’t live up to some of those set pieces, the action presented this time around is nonetheless thrilling. Din once again proves why he is the best Mandalorian around, participating in exhilarating gun fights and blood pumping dog fights. That being said, he is still yet to master his dark saber. Some of the coolest moments of action however, are when Grogu maneuvers around with his flips and jumps, reminiscent of the famous Master Yoda.

As mentioned, the visuals this season are breathtaking. Every season steps it up in terms of quality, showcasing new and more vivid planets as well as extra detailed creatures. The mix of CGI and practical effects add to the awe factor and an authenticity which enhances that aforementioned Star Wars magic that can be felt throughout. Ludwig Göransson once again knocks it out of the park with his score, as season three is once again packed full of its iconic theme.

In the end, The Mandalorian season three is off to a great start. Showcasing gorgeous visuals, thrilling action, and compelling characters, including a few awesome cameos, all while deepening the endearing father son relationship between Grogu and Din Djarin. The Mandalorian season three is certainly one not to be missed.

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Olly Dyche

Journalist, Writer, Film Critic and Professional Nerd. You will probably find Olly at the cinema chomping down on some popcorn and taking in the glorious visuals of the latest theatrical release.