The Star Wars Celebration event in Tokyo was a spectacle of excitement on April 18, 2025, as director Jon Favreau, along with stars Pedro Pascal and Sigourney Weaver, took the stage to unveil brand-new footage from the upcoming film, The Mandalorian and Grogu, according to Deadline. Fans were treated to an exhilarating glimpse of what’s to come, including the first look at Weaver’s enigmatic character and intense battle scenes featuring the ever-looming threat of stormtroopers.
In the newly revealed footage, action took center stage, showcasing the gritty energy that has become a hallmark of the Mandalorian universe. The teaser not only highlighted thrilling confrontations but also introduced Jeremy Allen White as Rotta the Hutt, the son of the infamous Jabba the Hutt. This addition marks a surprising and highly anticipated expansion of the Hutt legacy within the Star Wars canon.
Returning elements from the franchise also made a notable appearance in the footage. This new reveal follows the last major preview shown at D23 in Anaheim back in August 2024, where fans caught glimpses of towering AT-ATs marching through snow—a nostalgic nod to The Empire Strikes Back. The preview also featured the quirky alien technician Babu Frick from The Rise of Skywalker and a live-action appearance of Zeb, the red, pointy-eared alien from Dave Filoni’s Star Wars: Rebels.
The Mandalorian and Grogu is shaping up to be a significant cinematic event, as it will be the first Star Wars feature film to hit theaters since 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker. The film is scheduled to release on May 22, 2026, and the anticipation surrounding it is palpable among fans eager for more stories from a galaxy far, far away.
Meanwhile, the Star Wars universe continues to expand. According to Variety, another exciting project is in the works: Star Wars: Starfighter, which will star Ryan Gosling and is directed by Shawn Levy. This film is eyeing a production start in the fall and is slated for release on May 28, 2027. With two major films on the horizon, Lucasfilm is clearly ramping up its big-screen Star Wars presence, promising fans a thrilling return to the beloved franchise.
The excitement at the Tokyo event was palpable, as Favreau and the cast engaged with fans, sharing insights about the film’s development and their characters. The introduction of new characters alongside familiar faces seems to be a strategic move to both honor the legacy of the franchise and attract new audiences. As Favreau stated during the presentation, “We’re excited to bring new stories to life while staying true to the essence of what makes Star Wars special.”
Fans have been eagerly awaiting the continuation of the Mandalorian saga, especially after the series gained immense popularity on Disney+. The show’s unique blend of adventure, character development, and rich storytelling has set a high bar for future installments. The upcoming film promises to delve deeper into the lore of the Mandalorian universe, exploring themes of family, legacy, and the ongoing battle between good and evil.
As the release date approaches, speculation about the plot and character arcs is rampant. The teaser footage has sparked discussions among fans regarding the potential dynamics between Grogu and the new characters introduced, particularly Rotta the Hutt. Will Grogu form an unlikely alliance, or will old rivalries resurface? These questions keep the excitement alive as fans eagerly anticipate every new detail.
Moreover, the decision to integrate characters from various media forms—such as animated series and previous films—demonstrates Lucasfilm’s commitment to creating a cohesive Star Wars universe. This approach not only enriches the storytelling but also rewards long-time fans with Easter eggs and references that connect the broader narrative.
As the Star Wars franchise moves forward, it’s clear that Lucasfilm is learning from past experiences. After the mixed reception of standalone films like Solo: A Star Wars Story, the studio has pivoted towards a more integrated approach, focusing on series and films that tie into the larger storyline. This strategy has proven successful, as evidenced by the tremendous reception of The Mandalorian series.
In addition to the excitement surrounding The Mandalorian and Grogu, the upcoming Star Wars: Starfighter film is generating buzz. With Gosling in the lead role, fans are curious about how this new story will fit into the established universe. The film is expected to explore new characters and settings, further expanding the Star Wars mythos.
As both films gear up for production and release, fans are reminded of the enduring appeal of the Star Wars franchise. With its rich tapestry of characters, intricate plots, and timeless themes, the galaxy far, far away continues to capture the imagination of audiences around the world. The excitement surrounding these upcoming projects signals that the Force is strong, and the journey through the stars is far from over.
In conclusion, the Star Wars Celebration event in Tokyo has set the stage for a thrilling return to the big screen with The Mandalorian and Grogu and Star Wars: Starfighter. As fans eagerly await these new adventures, the legacy of Star Wars continues to grow, promising more stories that will resonate for generations to come.
