Despite the mixed reviews from critics, I believe that “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” is a heartfelt addition to the Star Wars universe that continues the father-son relationship between Mando and Grogu in the TV series. The film also flips the duo’s classic dynamic: instead of the Mandalorian protecting Grogu, Grogu protects the Mandalorian. 

At the beginning of the film, the Mandalorian is told to find Jabba the Hutt’s only remaining heir, Rotta the Hut. After completing the mission, Mando is hunted down by Embo, a bounty hunter hired by the Hutt Twins. He then escapes a Dragonsnake, but staggers away with a poisonous bite.

*Spoiler Alert*

My favorite part of the movie is when Grogu begins caring for Mando. The role reversal brings the story to life and creates some of the film’s funniest and most heartwarming moments. The Mandalorian passes out from the snake bite and can’t move because the poison starts to spread throughout his body. Grogu does everything he can to protect him. He waddles around building a dirt cave to hide him. While putting him in the cave, he makes Mando’s head hit the side of it. After making sure Mando cannot go any farther, Grogu realizes Mando’s feet are sticking out, and covers them with leaves. Then while exploring, Grogu finds an antidote and feeds it to him. But the next day, Grogu sees him walking around. 

Some reviewers think the movie is dull and boring. The Atlantic even wrote they could “fall asleep” to it. The film’s themes of searching for someone while discovering who you are becoming are what I loved about the film. I have been waiting for a Star Wars movie that brings such a sweet, warm, fuzzy feeling.

Compared to other Star Wars movies, “The Mandalorian and Grogu” did not perform well at the box office, only grossing $81,670,433 its opening weekend. But, it has scored an 88% popcornmeter rating that 10,000+ verified audience members vote on. 

Although I do like reading critic’s opinions, they sometimes can be too harsh and don’t appreciate the emotional heart of the movie. It is nice to have a movie where the story is focused more on character development than just action-packed scenes that Star Wars usually includes. As one audience reviewer wrote, “It is the coolest duo since Chewbacca and Solo!” 

If you enjoy family-friendly adventures with plenty of heart, The Mandalorian and Grogu is worth seeing in theaters.