The unique thing about this episode of The Book of Boba Fett is that it has nothing to do with Boba Fett. The best thing about viewing a somewhat standalone episode like this is that we get another look inside the mind of the other Mandalorian we care about. The episode involves Mando finding what’s left of his people and obtaining a new ship. He even melts down his beskar staff to create a gift for Grogu. Along the way, the Mandalorian reunites with Peli Motto (Amy Sedaris). I forgot how much fun that character is. By the end of the episode, the Mandalorian has a new ship and sets off to help Boba Fett on his next adventure, delaying his own plans to head to Mandalore for the time being.
I love the return of the Mandalorian because it’s a complete departure from what we’re used to getting so far. As an audience member, it’s nice to get an update on Din Djarin. My favorite scene throughout the entire episode is the gritty brawl in the tauntaun meat locker. Seeing the Mandalorian back in action gave me all the thrills that the actual show gave me upon watching it for the first time. The Book of Boba Fett is very meditative about all the bounty hunter’s mistakes prior to his now calmer demeanor. I like that this particular spinoff is making the audience slow down and appreciate the work that goes into trying to change your life, but it was terrific to see all the action pick up in this particular episode because it reminded us of the kind of adventures we want Boba Fett to go on.
Again the thing that makes this episode sing is the adventure we go on with the Mandalorian. I honestly expected him to constantly be partnered with his fellow Mandalorians, but it was a great turn of events to see his culture disown him for taking off his helmet. This opens up a great question of what his identity will be going forward. He no longer has the support of his people, so who does he become as a result of that? The writing on this show just continues to be incredibly intelligent and asking questions Star Wars fans didn’t even think to ponder in the first place. When a show can firmly educate its audience and make them think due to the writing in an episode of television, it’s not just a hit; it’s a phenomenal success at looking at how human nature operates. I can only praise the writers for that.
The last thing I’ll say that’s important to me is that we’re not just given time with the Mandalorian just for the sake of having the character around. There is a complete purpose for why he’s in the story, and ultimately that serves the Star Wars fans in the best way possible because the characters aren’t being used as a gimmick. I love that the creative team is smart enough to give the audience time with characters they love and allow those characters to grow in unique ways even though they’re familiar to us. I can’t wait to see where the Mandalorian goes next, whether that’s part of Boba Fett’s story or his own.
The Book of Boba Fett is now steaming on Disney+.
