The wait for a big-screen continuation of the The Mandalorian and Grogu saga is nearing its end. A newly released trailer offers the most substantial look yet at the upcoming film, promising a blend of familiar faces and fresh dynamics when it arrives in theaters on .
Following what was described as a “short and disappointing appearance” at the Super Bowl, the two-minute trailer expands significantly on the glimpses previously offered. Beyond showcasing more of Pedro Pascal as Din Djarin and Grogu, the trailer notably reveals scenes with Pascal’s face exposed – a departure from the character’s traditionally masked appearance throughout much of the Disney+ series.
However, the trailer’s biggest surprise for many fans is the return of Embo, a bounty hunter originally featured in several episodes of the animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Embo, an ally of the Hutt Clan, appears poised to reprise his role as an antagonist, aligning with the film’s narrative which sees Din Djarin confronting Rotta the Hutt. The trailer suggests a complex dynamic, with Djarin seemingly tasked with navigating a dangerous situation involving the Hutt and his associates.
The trailer also introduces several other new elements. An infant Rodian, quickly dubbed “Baby Greedo” by online commentators, makes a brief appearance. Sigourney Weaver portrays a New Republic colonel, hinting at a potential alliance or conflict with Djarin. And, in a display of Grogu’s growing abilities, the child uses the Force to destroy a mouse droid.
Visually, the trailer signals a shift in Djarin’s transportation. He has abandoned the sleek N-1 starfighter utilized in the most recent season of the Disney+ series, reverting to the more rugged ST-70 assault ship, commonly known as the Razor Crest. This return to a familiar vessel may resonate with fans who favored the ship’s iconic design.
The trailer also offers clues about the film’s place within the broader Star Wars timeline. The presence of Imperial Remnant leaders and supporters, coupled with the declaration “Long live the Empire!”, suggests a lingering threat from the fallen regime. The reappearance of Snowtroopers, reminiscent of the battles on Hoth in The Empire Strikes Back, further reinforces this sense of a continuing struggle against remnants of the Empire.
Beyond the action and visual spectacle, the trailer hints at a more nuanced narrative. Djarin appears to be working with the New Republic, undertaking missions assigned by Weaver’s colonel to eliminate threats and prevent a resurgence of galactic conflict. However, his plans are seemingly disrupted when he is captured by Embo and the Hutts. Fortunately, the trailer also features a glimpse of Zeb, a character from Star Wars Rebels, suggesting a potential rescue or alliance.
The anticipation surrounding the film is already fueling merchandise opportunities. Fans can pre-order a LEGO version of the new Razor Crest, and a The Mandalorian and Grogu cookbook is slated for release later this year, catering to fans eager to immerse themselves further in the universe.
The release of The Mandalorian and Grogu marks a significant return for Star Wars to the big screen, following a nearly six-year gap since the last theatrical release. The film’s success will likely be closely watched by Disney as they navigate the future of the franchise in both cinematic and streaming formats. The blend of established characters, new faces, and a compelling narrative promises a cinematic experience that aims to satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
