It's The Self That Matters

(To Be Completed Shortly)

THE MANDALORIAN: This Is The Way

The world's most successful space-themed franchise brought forward by the mind of George Lucas, has in recent years become one of the many big talks of the internet through it's third trilogy and several animated adventures. But in spite of all commercial achievements, these discussions shared between millions of people around the globe haven't exactly been as approving of the modern direction. The handling of Star Wars by the Walt Disney Company since its purchase from Lucas seven years ago, continues to create a divide amongst numerous hardcore fans and pop culture enthusiasts. The most recent major release which was Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, had seen such tensions between all resurface and become more prominent than ever before. As of now, the ninth episode is the worst critically received film of the series since 1999's Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace. And from this, the word would be whether or not the franchise could reach the heights it once did. Meanwhile, Disney would begin its own streaming service and provide a few brand new original programmes. One of them in particular, would fast become the number one watched show globally in the space of its first two or three weeks of airing. And surprise surprise, it is Star Wars related.

Before I continue on, I must remind everyone that this isn't just any ordinary view. I Travis James (first and middle name), can willingly confirm of my failure to grow up with any part of the popular franchise. Despite having watched one or two of the films many years ago, I have since not shown much interest in viewing any of them again (though I do hope that will change sooner or later). And to this day, I haven't managed to find the time to sit back and enjoy each episode along with the cartoons. Readers of this piece both fans and non-fans of Star Wars, may understandably consider my thoughts as somewhat ineffective in terms of persuasion due to my unintended ignorance. However, I believe that my words will be enough to surprise and earn a little respect. Especially since my view of the series in discussion is that of extreme approval. I implore all to continue reading and hear what I have to say about one of 2019's hottest new shows; The Mandalorian.

It started off as something I tried to get away from, but I couldn't. For just over three weeks, I was doing my usual thing whilst displeased by the overflowing content based around the new show. Everything was suddenly about the trailers as well as the memes of a baby alien. Not to mention a majority of my favourite YouTube reactors (My 'Reaction' Feels) were immediately jumping in with regular reactions and reviews of the insanely popular web series. It got to the point where I was left with no choice but to join in on the action. Strangely at the time just before jumping into The Mandalorian, I did somehow find myself carrying the tiniest bit of interest. With some time to spare, I took the liberty of viewing the first four chapters all in one night. The next thing I knew, I was hooked and desperately begging for the next chapter to be released. I didn't know what it was, nor could I believe it. My lack of knowledge in Star Wars didn't stop the story being easy to follow. It didn't prevent me from engaging in both the atmosphere and what took place. It didn't stop me from admiring the unique structure, awe-inspiring visuals and cinematic score. Within three or so hours, The Mandalorian instantly became my favourite show.

Allow me to prove enough of my newfound knowledge without spoiling anything too significant. The series takes place within the thirty years that separate the events of Return of the Jedi and Star Wars: The Force Awakens. It focuses on one particular Mandalorian (played by Chilean actor Pedro Pascal), who as a child was rescued and raised into the religion after the purge of his home. Many years later, he is seen as a lone bounty hunter working for a guild to earn armour and weapon upgrades. In the first season, he with his hunger for work is trusted with the major task of tracking the most obscure yet insanely valuable asset. This is not long later revealed to be a child of the same species as Yoda. A bond begins to form as more time is spent with the child, and the Mandalorian grows a soft spot for it. Such heart leads to an ultimate change of attitude, which brings further chaos upon everyone as imperial forces grow. The titular character is forced to face a great ordeal with the child in his care, all while meeting new allies and handling other daunting tasks.

The first season consists of eight chapters, all of which allow the show to embrace both episodic and serial-structured storytelling. While such an approach has opened questions about rough pacing and has left audiences now and then divided, The Mandalorian would remain somewhat grounded and find ways to keep everybody united. One of its finest idiosyncrasies involves its rediscovery of the Star Wars universe. It takes material from many of the films, cartoons and video games, merging them well enough while forging its own original and imaginative tale. Even better is how self-aware it can occasionally be as well as how it communicates and engages with viewers. Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni and the rest of the crew have gone far as to acknowledge both our opinions and those of the general public, using them to often provide nostalgia or comedic content (e.g. making fun of a stormtrooper's aim). The Mandalorian in its entirety, is something more than just another Star Wars project. It's a gift for the people.

Notwithstanding the star attraction that has everyone feeling warm and fuzzy, no light is taken away from its protector who immediately becomes a warrior worth following. First seen as a man of business shrouded from head to toe in cool-looking gear, the Mandalorian himself is quick to reveal multiple different attributes that help with presenting a necessary level of depth. No amount of courage and smarts would have him evade the pain and trauma of his past. There is rarely a moment when he isn't exuding relatable human traits. They sometimes come off so strong, that everybody is left able to read his emotions through either the sound of his voice or simply the focused looks he gives. Turns out that iron helmet and dark, tinted visor don't quite protect him from everything. However, this is a sign of fantastic character development. Perhaps we're to even give extra credit to those responsible for putting him together. And I'm not just referring to Pascal, especially since his availability to perform the Mandalorian wasn't always there.

An even greater level of attention is placed on the much-loved prime relationship between Mando and the child. Despite its occasional departures from the main course, the series never loses sight of the important themes which stem from its unorthodox pairing. Whether it be the components of parenthood or the common topic that is nature versus nurture, Mando's complex yet intriguing attachment to this unlikely partner is the genesis of almost every single one of our responses as viewers. Both the emotional reactions and informative discussions. Growth surrounding the duo fast leads to the establishment of an indestructible cornerstone. The show's main source of oxygen and the super effective magnet that continues pulling in large numbers. If you ask anybody what gets them tuning in, it would obviously be the adorableness of the child. But I thoroughly believe the next best answer would be the child alongside this unusual yet admirable surrogate father.

With a monster budget, Favreau and Filoni always ensure it is put to good use. The latest in technologies and filming techniques, have them delivering a work of art capable of looking both incredibly realistic and cemented into the Star Wars universe. To help stick out from most modern television and web projects, The Mandalorian oozes professionalism in just about every department from the screen to the crew and cutting floor. A strong emphasis is placed on the story being that of a natural one, all whilst mixing in the much-required flavour of amusement. And it's fair to say, all of it successfully works out. All one needs to do is look and listen. The wondrous landscapes hamornised with the perfect lighting. The orchestral, movie-like music which never fails to match the accompanying scene. The cast of colourful people that never ever break character. It's as if every small piece was derived from complete concentration and hard thought. The sort of focus Leonardo da Vinci used when painting the 'Mona Lisa'. 

The Mandalorian widens its target audience with various elements of different genres, providing the complete entertainment experience. For the most part, we receive a modern space adventure that's heavily influenced by old westerns. Sneaking into the picture are plenty of thrilling moments and comedic undertones. And further keeping eyes glued are the frequent easter eggs and tie-ins that always leave the audience smiling or dropping their jaws in amazement. There are clever cameos. There are riveting references. And best of all, the show acknowledges us. It hears our voice, and often meets us on several grounds. This only strengthening the connection with the Star Wars fan base and making The Mandalorian more enticing than ever before. Plus one cannot ignore the talents of Pascal along with Gina Carano as the 'badass' Cara Dune, the experienced Carl Weathers as Greef Karga and Giancarlo Esposito as the formidable Moff Gideon.

So there you have it. Not a completely deep or profound analysis of the series, given I am not that much of an expert. However, my words should mean something. Remember that my knowledge and taste in Star Wars is not by any means strong. I have come across one or two of the movies and have walked out nothing but confused. The cartoons are completely untouched. My understanding of the Star Wars encyclopedia and the terminology is still that of a beginner. None of this though, has prevented me from seeing the best in this beauty of a show. Question Disney's treatment of the famous franchise as much as you wish. But there is no faulting the brilliance of the streaming service's biggest original programme. If you haven't seen it or are yet to, I urge you to hurry and give it a shot. It was one of my best decisions ever made, and I look forward to more of what it will offer. Season two, here I come!

Travis "TJ" James