⭐⭐⭐⭐½ðŸ’–
Unlike my reviews of the Star Wars movies, the review that follows is spoiler-free, with only a general description of the plot and my thoughts.
Like season 1 of "The Mandalorian", I watched the second season last year and I watched it again this past week.
This is a very strong series that seems to get even better with time. Season one impressed me, but the second season stepped it up a notch. It had everything I liked about season one, but this time the story was more compelling. Because of this, I went into hyperdrive with season 2. I watched the first half of season two over a few days, but I watched the final four episodes all in one day simply because I was so excited to see what happened next (even though I already knew the outcome after having watched it last year...lol).
Whereas in the first season the plot is centered around keeping The Child safe while Mando makes a living as a bounty, season two's main mission is to reunite The Child where he belongs - with the Jedi. In season 2, we also why the enemies are on the hunt for The Child. Mando learns The Child's name in this season and when he calls him that, it's unbelievably cute how The Child responds. Seriously. That alone makes this season worth watching. But there is more.
Of course there are obstacles along the way, the kind only Star Wars can dish out, and Mando must overcome dangerous situations, bizarre beings, and a team of enemies led by someone whose demeanor is made to resemble Darth Vader a bit too much. That's my main issue with this season. Moff Gideon reminds me too much of Darth Vader, a villain who, in my opinion should not be made to copy in any way. I just wish Moff Gideon was a little more unique. Something new would have been refreshing. It's a minor complaint in an otherwise stellar season, though.
The main characters in each episode are Mando and The Child, with appearances from other characters throughout the two seasons. As the seasons progress, some new characters are introduced and some are the same ones from previous episodes. All Star Wars fans will recognize some of them, which is a real treat. Those familiar characters, as well as the space travel to the different planets, help to connect the series to the overall saga. Although this is a spinoff series, it fits like a glove into the Star Wars galaxy. (Like season 1, it takes place after "The Return of the Jedi", but before the sequel trilogy.)
One thing I really love about "The Mandalorian" is that it really does work as a series and not a movie. As is the case for most series, there is an overall storyline, with new adventures taking place in each one. I've seen some Marvel series that might work better as movies. This is not the case for "The Mandalorian".
"The Mandalorian" is not exactly action-packed, but each episode does have its fair share of action scenes. They continue to be used sparingly, which I find refreshing. Too much action overwhelms me. I found the pacing of season 2 better than it was in season 1. Some may still find it a little too slow at times, but for me, it was just right.
I know that season 3 is in the works and I'm very curious to find out what happens next. Season 3 has a tough act to follow, but I'm excited for the possibilities that have been left open after season 2.
Next I'll be watching all seven episodes of "The Book Boba Fett", then reviewing the overall season. I have not seen it yet, so it will be completely new to me. It received less than stellar reviews, but I'm going to give it a chance anyway.
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