The excitement surrounding the upcoming film The Mandalorian & Grogu reached new heights at the Star Wars Celebration held in Japan, where fans were treated to a sneak peek of what to expect when the film hits theaters on May 22, 2026. This marks the first Star Wars film since 2019's Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, and it promises to deliver a thrilling adventure featuring the beloved bounty hunter Din Djarin and his adorable companion, Grogu.
Directed and written by Jon Favreau, with production by Dave Filoni and Kathleen Kennedy, the film is set after the events of the third season of The Mandalorian. The footage screened at the event showcased high-octane action, starting with a heart-pounding sequence inside the belly of an AT-AT. As the camera panned through the walker, fans witnessed Mando blasting troopers, using a flamethrower, and showcasing his combat skills by taking down approximately twelve soldiers. The action culminated in one of the AT-ATs exploding and plummeting off a snowy cliff, prompting a character played by Sigourney Weaver to remark, "Messy. Very messy."
Weaver, who plays a New Republic leader and former fighter pilot, expressed her enthusiasm during the event, stating, "Well, someone asked me, 'What is this movie going to be about?' I said, 'It's about action, and it's about adventure, and it's about adorableness. You're gonna love it.'" Her character is pivotal in the narrative, as she hires Mando and Grogu for a mission, hoping they are as capable as they claim. Weaver's journey into the Star Wars universe began with a Zoom call with Favreau, which led her to binge-watch the series and fall in love with it.
Favreau elaborated on the movie's direction, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a sense of play and adventure. He noted, "We always sought to not just be inspired by what George did, but what inspired George." Favreau's approach draws from various influences, including Westerns, samurai films, and mid-century war movies, aiming to craft a cinematic experience that feels both timeless and fresh.
In addition to the action sequences, the footage included scenes of Mando and Grogu navigating various challenges, such as a fight in a bar, Grogu swimming, and the duo piloting a smaller walker under the imposing AT-ATs. One particularly memorable moment featured Grogu using the Force to stop a mouse droid equipped with off-road wheels. The film promises to blend humor and heart, culminating in a scene where Grogu is seen munching on popcorn in a crowd with a musclebound Hutt.
As the film gears up for its release, anticipation among fans is palpable. The combination of classic Star Wars elements, new characters, and the beloved duo of Mando and Grogu is set to create an engaging narrative. With a star-studded cast that includes Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver, and Jeremy Allen White, The Mandalorian & Grogu is poised to be a highlight of the cinematic landscape in 2026.
The return of the AT-ATs, made famous in the iconic battle from The Empire Strikes Back, adds a layer of nostalgia for long-time fans. The film's commitment to bringing back classic Star Wars action while introducing fresh storylines and characters is a testament to the franchise's enduring legacy. As Favreau put it, the challenge lies in crafting a story that resonates with both new audiences and seasoned fans, ensuring that everyone feels welcome in this galaxy far, far away.
As the countdown to May 2026 begins, the excitement surrounding The Mandalorian & Grogu continues to build, with fans eagerly awaiting more news and updates. With its blend of action, adventure, and the undeniable charm of Grogu, this film is set to be a significant addition to the Star Wars saga, promising to deliver the thrills and heart that fans have come to love.
