Your Arthur/Lancelot analogy is the most astute observation of this show I've seen in 3 seasons! That is brilliant and I feel that is exactly what is going on. Well done! Also, I think some folks thought the Jack Black/Lizzo cameos were a little over the top, which I kind of see, especially considering the fantastic drama and depth in the storyline of the droid rights. But mocking the rich might also be framed around showing Bo Katan's journey from entitled princess to worthy ruler of Mandalore. Love this show!!! Hope you're having a great Celebration!
It certainly is. He is the wandering/reluctant champion. It's also still very much still a Western tale. Like The Man With No Name or a luckier Shane, he brings justice to the town ... and then leaves.
@@AXSofHFDS I came here to say that. Max is definitely a catalyst for every movie he's in after the Road Warrior, inspiring change in others. It's not an unusual story structure at all. Series usually features a non-changing main character, while the protagonist who changes is catalyzed by their relationship with him/her. Similarly Captain America is a catalyst for change, not a change arc character himself. Flat arc characters are thematically rich, because they reject the change other people / the world is trying to do to them, while learning something along the way, their integrity remains intact. I love flat arc characters more than change arc characters tbh.
Finally someone who is able express in a good articulate way of where this story is going. Lancelot/Arthur is such a good analogy. Thank you and I agree with you. Its about Bo on her redemption arc, about her reclaiming her birthright. And you have to understand how fandom works. People attach themselves to the protagonist and demand that he stay as the center of the attention. I really don't think this is what Favreau and Filoni going in this direction. They are creating a universe and Din is going to be a glue that brings them all together. People are going to find out that Din has a wider story to explore. Grogu and his adventures are still in the future. But becoming Mand'alor would cut off that side of the story because he would have to rule and stay on Mandalore. And considering that we are getting a movie that pulls everything together. The wider plan of the universe hasn't been revealed yet. If the Mandalorian was just a self contained series, then yes people should complain, but it isn't. It is setting up a wider narrative and if people don't want this to happen. I'm afraid they are not going to get their wish.
a Mark Frost \ \ David Lynch 'loon' who remains largely enthralled during 2017's stretching summer ReturN . . . *Part 8* de finite ly ~ something that the "fanservice entitlement beasts" simply could never accept (always. always a *valid* decision) *-* SW fandom figuratively wakes up exceedingly cranky *&* seems to collect visual reasons and filmed instances that propel 'them' further down the cobblestones ~ only to rise the next morning full of even more venom . (calm focused opinions always encouraged) cheers.
I’m so glad you guys shared my opinion about Din not wanting to be The Mandalor and people getting upset that it’s not where the story is going. Like since Grogy came back in BoBF, all Din has been focused on is raising him as a true Mandalorian and has just managed to fall into these situations because of it. Like of course why wouldn’t he try to help rebuild Mandalore if it meant he could raise Grogu as a true Mandalorian on the home planet? The Lancelot/Arthur comparison was brilliant!
To me it seemed obvious once they pulled Bo-Katan into the live action, that she had to be The Mandalor. It was her destiny in Rebels, she was like royal family so rightful heir even without the saber. But she had already the saber to unite the clans at the end of their arch in the animated series.
The Lancelot parallel is a really good call. I too actually really liked this episode, and I’m still waiting/wanting a droid exploration story too. This also I think does have a goal in line for Din. It’s a goal that’s bigger and more open than others. He now has a child he wishes to raise with his people, to experience and share his culture. His now ally, Bo Katahn, has shown him there is more to his people than his religion, and he wants to respect that, she wants to do so now too. This is now a story about a people who had a genocide on their people and their culture, and two former sects are now finding each other and realizing their differences didn’t matter. Mandalore can be reborn, rediscover it’s roots, and become a proper force in the galaxy. This also helps set up Mandalorians as a big faction for future stories, which I take as Star Wars trying to set up independent factions like the Jedi/Sith, where the characters can be inherent wanderers and third parties with a complex dueling philosophy that also can be pushed against the light and dark side debate as a more nebulous, neutral answer focused more on the practical and communal, as opposed to the spiritual and personal.
This was a Fantastic episode, You can have One Just for Fun Ep in a season jeez people.) Its Like some "Fans" forget that Star Wars is supposed to be about Fun and amazing adventures and places not everything needs to be Dark side GGGrrrr Evil Fighting GRRR.
One the dislike and borderline hate for Lizzo, but the main reason is seeing the side quest as being a distraction from the main quest, but neglecting the idea Mandalor getting recognized once more.
Because this is an episode that Clone Wars could get away with, but there's TWO episodes left in a season that doesn't go at any pace? It used to be about this Mandalorian and his forced sensitive child and their bond and their worlds colliding... the second season ended with them parting ways in a heartfelt way... and that got resolved in an episode of boba fett?🥴 now we've got this season which is supposed to be about retaking mandalore(?) it's fine to follow bo katan, but this season there's this overarching arc that is going so slow(?) and everything that should be built up more carefully is just flashed by?
Bad acting, annoying side quest in a season that's all over the place and that droid bar opened up a can of worms lore wise. Do droids get paid? Do they get time off to hang out at bars? Why would they get time off? Etc. Etc.
I think the interesting about Bo Katan being The Mandalorian comes down to two key things. The first is the fact that the Dark Saber is stupidly easy for her to use. The Dark Saber is almost semi sentient and the only lightsaber that allows a non Force sensitive person to use it as if they had the Force. Din had a hard time wielding it because the Dark Saber knew it wasn’t for him. The armor even said he is fighting it. So Bo Katan finally earning it properly is the first key. The second key is the fact the she alone saw the Mythosaur. She walks in both worlds, the world of the Dark Saber and the world of the Mythosaur.
I thought this was a great episode. I loved the droid bar screen and the cameos. I'd love for the show to come back to this planet just so Jack Black and Lizzo can reprise their rolls. X^D
I think this one was great as well. I think of Din as the guy who goes around and helps other major characters, maybe not getting the glory, but always at the right time and the right place to shape history, and he can't do that if he's stuck on mandalore doing politics :)
A brilliant episode. You are correct: Din is not the only significant character. The writers have allowed others to have their own time in the sun, because a plot with only one major character would be impossibly dull. And it's so amusing to see how Grogu can charm the ladies! We never thought of Yoda as a Lothario, but then he was a thousand years old. Grogu is young and frisky. "Wave goodbye, Sir G."
Probably my favorite episode of the whole series, honestly. Detective noir investigation, cyberpunk foot chase, droid underclass insight, Ugnaught underclass insight, great Mandalorian fight, fun Romeo and Juliet cold open with some subversion of expectations, return of the battledroids, fun guest stars; etc. Most of the complaints about this season I see feel more like people wanting extremely serial "epic" storytelling. This season has been more of a blend of serial plot development and adventure of the week stuff. More season 1 than season 2, but better handled. Combine that with the Lancelot style POV that you noted, and it seems to be throwing some fans. If you want a show laser focused on Din as the protag with all story beats being along a set singular plot, this season is going to frustrate. If what you want is grand Star Wars adventures, with an epic "background" story arc, then this season has been a blast. As some other reactors noted, this season feels much more like Clone Wars/Rebels than it does the live action stuff we normally get. I would even go so far as to say it feels more like a condensed version of late nineties/early aughts serial television (Buffy, Farscape, Firefly, X-Files). Which I am thoroughly enjoying, but can understand how folks that are very used to streaming age singular focus on core storylines can find distracting.
You make a good point about how this planet recognizing Mandalore could be important. Too many people are just annoyed by too many cameos and the weirdness of it all, and don't stop to consider the broader implications. These shows are interconnected and continue to make callbacks to previous episodes and other series. I can understand the frustration some are having, and the disliking of certain elements, but people react too harshly to anything that doesn't fit with their vision of what the show should be.
I love the Lancelot/Arthur comparison. that's what I've tried to get across to my groups without having that analogy. definitely borrowing it going forward
I love the way you are assessing this story! The analogy you're looking for I think, is that Din is the "lynchpin" of this entire story. And I'm here for it! Nice job guys!
Wearing beige shooting in a beige room. We don’t mind at all. This was a fantastic episode. It advanced the story of Mandalore. It showed how droids view themselves in this universe. - Convention hotels are so fun!! This was how you do “stunt casting.” Lizzo and Jack Black were great. Their chemistry was wonderful. Christopher Lloyd is now canon in both Star Trek and Star Wars. I can understand people wanting Din to end up as the ruler when the show started. But it was clear very quickly that he wanted to help but not rule. I don’t think this mocked rich people. Not really. The citizens of Plazir-15 are be rich and somewhat spoiled. They’d rather keep the droids running in spite of the problems. And maybe they wouldn’t be able to function without droids. But contrast these people with the uber-rich politicians in the New Republic. They were actively callous. I’d live on Plazir-15 any day.
Din is still very much The Mandalorian, embodying what it means to be a true Mandalorian. Bo is actively relearning The Way from his example. And this is ultimately necessary for her to unite her people and become the Queen of Mandalor.
I love how self-aware Din is about what he wants in life (Help people - especially foundlings, be mean to droids) and what he DOESN'T want (have to suddenly decide things for an entire people and become President of Mandalore). We should all aspire to that level of knowing what truly makes us fulfilled in life and the ability to turn down things that sound great but really would work against our happiness.
Yay! So glad y'all loved this one. I was beginning to feel like a madman on the internet for how much I enjoyed it (which is not a rare thing for me to feel. 😜). Having Bo take the spotlight this season has been a bold but fascinating choice as she goes on this journey, inadvertently guided by Din and Grogu, not to reclaim the Dark Saber and leadership, but to become worthy of those mantles. You're spot on that a lot of people's problems with the season probably have more to do with their own thwarted expectations than the actual story being told. But I think it's been fantastic. And this episode going full on Law & Order (right down to the obligatory coroner's office scene and the most famous guest star being the perpetrator!) was a fantastic exploration of genre within Star Wars, something this season has also done remarkably well! And for people who are upset about having famous guest stars...um, please see almost every other episode of this show since the beginning. I love Jack Black, I love Lizzo, I love Christopher Lloyd...and once again, I love Bryce Dallas Howard directing Star Wars. Please give this woman her own show! 😎 (Also, y'all suffering through the fire alarm reminded me of a similar occurrence that happened on a Critical Role "fireside chat" with Matt and Marisha. Only it was in their home instead of a hotel room. In both cases, everyone was fine so I feel comfortable laughing about it. 😂)
Maybe it's a bit late but never feel bad for enjoying an episode or a film. It's especially important in these days. I know exactly how it feels. It's my favourite filler episode of the show. I loved their buddy cop duo.
I liked the episode a lot and your commentary with the whole Lancelot/Arthur metaphor was a perfect way to explain it! I didn’t understand people’s reaction either cause yeah Din never wanted the dark saber to begin with. Great reaction!
I also really enjoyed this episode. I think side adventures in serialized TV provide a chance to explore a different aspect of the world and give the main characters something fun to do.
I was laughing when you were talking about how if they got married, the Darksaber would be 50% hers... Lol No, it's hers already, and has been since she won it through victory in combat against the bio-mech creature on Mandalore; Din lost it to the creature, and hasn't had legitimate possession of it since that moment when it was taken away from him by an enemy. So, according to the Darksaber itself (the lore of itself), Bo-Katan was wrong to just give it back to Din after she saved him, as he no longer had any claim to it... He'd have to win it back from her through victory in combat. If they got married, though, it would still be 100% hers... The Darksaber doesn't abide by American laws. Lol
I mean, even the rule about winning it by combat is weird to begin with. At first after Tarre Vizla, the Darksaber is a symbol of the head of house Vizla. I never understand how did it became the symbol to rule ALL of Mandalore. And if it need to be won by combat, then Sabine has no right to use it or giving it to Bo as she never won the fight against Maul. So Bo was never the rightful owner of the blade. And by extension so is Moff Gideon, then Din. Obi-wan is the one who killed Maul. Then Vader killed Obi-wan in a duel, and then Luke defeated his father. So if we follow the rule of the Darksaber literally, then wouldn't Luke become the owner of the Darksber?
I think that the reason of people “hating” this episode because they expect the scripts to be as good as those of Breaking Bad/Better Call Saul, or Andor, or previous 2 seasons of Mando, They had a high expectation bar for Star Wars and after Sequels, BoBF and Kenobi’s disappointment, those people have low tolerance for relaxing episode like this, especially when it is close to finale. Mandalorian Season 1 and 2 have amazing scripts and when Season 3’s scripts seem to be loosen, people started to be disappointed.
A lot of people seem to have issues with the way this ended. If you really think about it, though, it makes perfect sense that Din would find a loophole to get rid of it. HE NEVER WANTED IT TO BEGIN WITH! The first thing he tried to do with it when he beat Gideon, was give it back to Bo. Also, that's Tom Holland's little brother, Harry, as the Mon Calamari in the opening.
Thanks, Nerdy! Thanks, Clarus! 👑 How fabulous to see *Lizzo* as 'the Duchess', *Jack* *Black* as 'Captain Bombardier' and *Christopher* *Lloyd* as 'Commissioner Helgait'?! ❧ People who've seen Chapter 23 at Celebration say it's amazing. #NerdyNightly #StarWars #Lizzo #JackBlack #ChristopherLloyd #TheMandalorian
You're right... If anything, the Darksaber was something like a burden for Din Djarin, in more ways than one. It clearly doesn't make much to sense to have them fight each other over something that Din doesn't even truly want (has even tried to give away), and so having the chain of possession changed over to Bo-Katan in that way was actually very cool, in my opinion. Now, Din can be free to be Grogu's patron in a more dedicated way, and Bo-Katan is in legitimate possession of the Darksaber as Ruler of Mandalore. Bo-Katan is now - LEGITIMATELY - the Ruler of Mandalore, which is so huge for her... like "her destiny finally becoming fulfilled" kind of huge. I bet Katee was having a blast bringing this into live action.
My take on the Din situation is that while he is the main protagonist, he isn’t “The” Mandalorian, the title was never actually meant to reference him. This entire series has revolved around the theme of what it is to be Mandalorian, it’s about the people and their culture, about “ The Mandalorian”.
Well, I DID enjoy this episode. BUT, I can totally understand why it’s also divisive among the fandom(!) As SILLY as so much of it was, you have to admit that BDH did a terrific job with the script that was given to her. Jack Black was ramping up the campiness level to about 14, and Lizzo wasn’t far behind him. And while it was cool to see Christopher Lloyd play a bitter old separatist, I feel like he wasn’t used to his fullest potential. Production, art direction, costumes, aliens, droids, were all top-notch (WHAT was this episode’s budget?!) This story could have been an episode of The Clone Wars, or it could have been a fun Mando season premiere. But I can’t be alone when I say I’m really concerned that, with only two episodes left to go, there’s still so much I’m left hoping to see. And all of the side plot here is 30-or-so more minutes that could have been better spent on our main characters. I’ll add that I enjoyed the episode even more on the 2nd viewing, there’s a lot of complaining going on out there, just the same… Hope you’re having an awesome time in London at Celebration!
I think your Arthur/Lancelot point was very on point. I feel like the Star Wars Fandom sometimes fetishizes Campbell's monomyth (which is somewhat reasonable, Lucas specifically used the monomyth as a model when making the original series). Anyone who hasn't resisted the call, gone to the otherworld, and overcome a dragon is seen as unworthy of any power they exhibit, and anyone on that journey is the protagonist. But in this season, Din is driving the action while Bo Katan is the one following the steps of the hero's journey, and it's creating a disconnect for some fans who are used to seeing the hero and protagonist as one and the same.
Viewers keep consistently forgetting that Din DOESN'T WANT the Darksaber. He literally tries to give it back to Bo-Katan as soon as he captures Gideon... he didn't know what it was OR care. He's only held on to it all this time because its a powerful melee weapon and he's a Mandalorian...."weapons are part of their religion."
I made the comment elsewhere, but I'll make it here, too: the comments made by the Resistor Owner droid really re-frames how I think of droids in the SW universe. To your point that SW has the "Dobby"-problem (the least controversial way of saying that) has been a long running thing, but there is an element that's hard about it: droids are fundamentally programmed with a purpose. The re-framing here is droids don't see themselves as tools, but instead see themselves as stewards: "They have such short lives, it's the least that we can do." Droids come into existence with a defined set of purpose and identity, their sentience is based through intense rationality, they have emotions but they are not controlled by them like organics, they have strong, immutable forms, and with proper maintenance may have no limit to their lifespans. They can express joy, sadness, anger, even fear, and are fully aware of the concept of death and will strive to prevent their own death according to their code and rationality: all hallmarks of true sentience. But they look at organics (us) with a sense of responsibility: the organics made them, and these droids will easily outlive their makers. A creature that cannot be bored, cannot be tired, and has no need for anything beyond needs, and can live for centuries: what is a decade of labor to a droid? This made me think of the droids we know: R2D2 has been with the same family for 3 generations now, has served on the battlefield with several jedi through several wars, and has been vital in the preservation of hope in the galaxy. R2D2 in many ways probably views themselves as a guardian of the Skywalker legacy, as hurt as Luke was by Ben, but being their for his organic charges whenever possible. C3PO, built by Anakin in order to help Shmi, but has traveled far and wide, while admittedly worried about danger, has been there for their organics as a teacher, a diplomat, a distraction. K2, IG11, and Chopper, all arguably psychotic, had zero hesitation when it came to doing dangerous or even deadly actions to save those they had been charged to protect: while we can say that IG11 and K2 had no say in that matter due to reprogramming, I'd argue that is no different then the morals and values we are given and develop as we grow. They likely could have overcome their programming to preserve their own existence, but in those moments measured themselves against that programming and determined that they'd rather die in accordance to who they view themselves and their purpose in the universe to be, rather than survive but go against their very sense of self. I do think it's telling about how different groups view and treat droids: Obi Wann, Luke, Rey, and so on all respect the droids, and while they have the droids do dangerous things, they don't ever ask them to do things that they wouldn't do if they could. Han, Dinn, and many of the New Republic seem to view droids with almost an air of "If you must", where they will tolerate droids but would much rather rely on themselves, to varying degrees and reasons. Jabba, the Separatists, the First Order, and the Empire all view droids as a means to an end, tools and nothing more: they have no issues dismantling or even torturing droids if it serves them to some degree; some are cruel to droids as much as they are cruel or organics, and don't really make a distinction either way. Anyway, thank you for reading my rant.
First the Beskar Spear and now the Darksaber; Mando Now Really needs a new Melee Weapon. {Here's to hoping when he joined back up with the covert, the Armorer restocked him with new whistling birds}. Or at least a new melee weapon along with/besides his Vibro-knife.
You really helped change my thoughts on the storyline. I would love a Lancelot Mando plot, now that I think about it. Thanks for encouraging me to rethink this with an open mind!
I thoroughly enjoyed this episode, as well. Yes, Nerdy: I was also surprised by the amount of fans who had issues with it. The world-building is great, and will affect the rest of The Mandoverse, going forward (esp. with Mandalore being recognized as a sovereign system by The New Republic). I want to see more depictions of Plazir-15, its culture, and its role in The Outer Rim. I agree about Captain Bombardier (Jack Black) being the contrast to Elia Kane, as a truly reformed Former Imperial. Wonder if We'll see him depicted in Animated form, in The Bad Batch, giving insights in to how he got in with The Empire. I like the idea of a planetary native royal (Lizzo) marrying a foreign Former Military Imperial Officer, and being the official representatives of a Direct Democracy in The Outer Rim. Also, now, I'm curious to know how long The Knights Of The Ancient Order Of Independent Regencies have existed in that star system of the galaxy...as far back as The High Republic? That said, I hope Grogu gets an actual mini sword (or vibroblade) gifted to him, in the future, when he's old enough to handle/wield one. BTW, I'm calling it: The vintage, repurposed droids on Plazir-15 will end up aiding Mando and The New Republic in a unique way. Continue to enjoy England and Star Wars Celebration, you 2. May The Force Be With You.
I got the sense that Din was always trying to use the Darksaber like any conventional weapon, which really didn't work. The Darksaber requires a particular "sync" with its' user, without which it "resists" its' bearer. Din was too bull headed to meet it halfway.
22:09 that was explained in Book of Boba Fett he is fighting against the blade and because of that it feels heavy but Bo has used it before and knows how to use it
Part of my take with this episode, which I actually liked better than last week which had to contend with a massively great end of the Bad Batch. Is that Jack Black's character was to show the Amnesty program is not all rotten to the core. That there are good people who want to do right by their new circumstance. He easily could have been the baddie and was meant to question whether he was due to the A on his chest. I think it shows us that not everything about the program is failing just as the New Republic is not working as hoped but not completely a disaster as well. At the end of the day I thought it was a CSI galaxy episode with a critical end. Also love the idea of Lancelot. I think head canon is messing everyone up... Grogu must be a Mando-jedi, Din will be the Mand'alor, what if neither of those are correct. What if Grogu just wants to be a good him and his dad just wants that too.
I think this is a divisive episode because the tone and structure can often feel SO campy, goofy, or referential that many viewers said it almost felt like a parody or spoof (Law and Order: Mando). Plus the three cameos were delightful, but for some folks they felt a bit shoehorned in, almost like distractions, because all three were rather brief and one-dimensional. For me, I didn't mind it, but would've preferred that the storyline was a bit less convoluted - so they could delve more deeply into some of the interesting moral/philosophical questions surrounding droids. And also so they could have time to deepen and flesh out the three cameo characters. Jack Black as a former Imperial who changed his ways after falling in love sounds like a FUCKING AMAZING character, but in this ep it seemed like he was just playing "quirky and wry" rather than a full character (and I know he's talented enough to bring that depth).
I really liked this one too; I was puzzled by several of my friends saying they hated it. One even used the phrase "hot garbage". I have to wonder if we're even watching the same show
Yas! So happy to find a positive about this episode, with a deeper take. Almost all of the others stopped taking it seriously after seeing Jack Black and Lizzo. They all assumed SNL or sumthin
Hi I just wanted to say that I really appreciate both of your points of view on this awesome series!! Much love to you both and....May the force be with you!!😉😊❤😎👏🙌👌👍🎉
My thoughts on this episode. I loved it!! not sure why some do not like this epi. Sir Grogu. Pill bug droid lawn games. Droid kicking. I knew it was Jack Black as soon as I heard his voice. Same for Christopher Lloyd. Prior to this episode I had never heard of Lizzo. Yes, I live under a rock. Love the call back to Bo Katan's battle theme every time I hear it. Hotel fire alarm? Are you sure the Hotel is not being taken under remote control to land at it's assigned berth?
I very much agree. This was possibly my favorite episode of the season, partly because it was actually a lot of fun, and also because Din was very much being THE Mandalorian (the Lancelot character), who very much affects the world around them by their actions and relationships, rather than being the Ruler/Politician of the people of Mandalor.
I think the armorer just realizes that her tribe's way can't be the only way if mandalore is ever going to be restored. Especially if Boka tan, who "doesn't walk the way" is the first person in a millennia to see a mythosaur... And I think the armorer came to that conclusion after seeing Boka tan observe and respect the rituals and traditions of the watch, and successfully lead them on missions without being an actual member of the covert. She was a living breathing example of mandalorians being stronger together. That's why the metaphor about the forge... It doesn't matter what tribe or covert you are part of, if you are a mandalorian, a forge is essential to your culture. The armorer was saying that it's time to focus less on the things that separate them, and more on the fact that they are all mandalorians.
First, THANK YOU for still posting during celebration!!!❤Second, Bo has a "destiney" storyline, so I LOVE your Lancelot analogy.. Din&Grogu's story must always be able to separate.. Favreau has said he has no plans as of now to end Mando.. Love you guys!!❤❤ super jealous!
I'm really pleased you got the darksaber passing hands. So many people online have been annoyed about it with comments like "so the droid was the leader of Mandalore LUL" whilst having no issue with Gideon holding it.
Separately...Was I the only one who got Blade Runner vibes when they were chasing the battle droid? And the droid bar was an homage to the cantina scene. I half expected the droid bartender to say "We dont serve their kind here" and making Mando wait outside.
No, you don't have to win the Dark-Saber to use it effectively. You just have to know how to use it (and let it connect with you) since it is like any other Lightsaber: Hard to use until you create a connection to it. I think Din's Problem is the same that Sabine Wren had at the beginning with the Saber. He doesn't connect with it because he doesn't really want it deep down (look at how often he tried to give it away already). The problem with not winning it in a fight is that when you rule without having earned it, your rule is (supposedly) cursed which is the reason why the Purge by the empire was blamed on Bo Katan as she used the Darksaber and Ruled although the Darksaber was only given to her by Sabine Wren
Personally I don't feel like Mando would ever want nor should be the ruler of Mandalore, it's character assassination, but with the recent announcement that this builds to a "Mandoverse" I find myself not caring about where this show is going... I enjoy the fun I enjoy some character moments, but it's become messy and I hate that every piece of media feels the need to build up to some huge event... the selling point of this show for me was Grogu's and Din's characters and relationships and world's and traditions colliding... but they resolved that tension IN ANOTHER SHOW(?) it's sad that The Mandalorian is becoming The Book of Boba Fett🥴, and Jack Black and Lizzo were fine, it's a bit weird to see huge famous people in star Wars, because no matter how well they perform it's hard to not see Jack Black and Lizzo, so that's that... Kinda weird not seeing nit picking in this reaction when that's what I've gotten used to from this channel
I really see the allegory of Moses here as well. I see Bo as Moses, she will unify her people but never get to enter the promised land. Like the block of glass Din showed the Armorer had part of Genesis in Mando'a.
Din Djarin reminds me of Max Rockatansky. The movie is named after him but he helps the protagonist achieve their goals then moves on to the next adventure.
"It's okay that droids across the galaxy are enslaved (we KNOW restraining bolts are a common practice), because this bar full of droids says they want to help." Oof, Disney.....oof.
Your faces when the fire alarm started... Just the best. Until it happened again, then that was the best. And fucking picking it up seamlessly... God, I love you guys
I so agree with your observation about Din and what people wants. Din isn't a leader, that's all. He wants to grow vegetables in a farm with Grogu and occasionally trash some battle droid, it's been pretty clear throughout the whole show. He's the Mr Wolf, not the Marsellous Wallace.
I did like the episode. I for one wasn't hoping Din would end up leading, but I was hoping that the process of mastering the Dark Saber to the point where it wasn't heavy/it accepted him would be an indication of some deeper character growth for him. It felt like that's where it was leading.
I literally had the same idea on the King Arthur and Lancelot story comparison. I also think it pulls from japanese lone hero stories. The lone hero who saves the kingdom and then moves on (to become a legend).
Is it a good episode if its dependent on having a stacked cast to make it good? Its kinda like how I always looks are drugs and alcohol. If you need your brain to be altered by some form of chemicals to have fun then is what you are doing really fun? Because if it was then it should be fun without having to numb/dumb yourself down with drugs
@@magus104 It's a good episode without the cameos for me. It's even better with them though. It was the best episode for my enjoyment so far, but I only watch these to have fun. What episode have you liked the most so far this season?
Excellent analysis! The Lancelot/Arthur parallel is definitely one I can see. I quite enjoyed this episode. Some folks at SWC got to see the next episode (Chapter 23) early and the buzz online is that it's the best episode so far this season - perhaps in the entirety of the show and does a good job at tying everything together - I am so excited for Wednesday. Oh, side quest but BoBF didn't bother me. It's called The Book of Boba Fett. I liken it to a short story in taking place within The Mandalorian.
I don't believe it's not like Dobby at all. The droids were created for their tasks. I think this shows that their sentence is intrinsic to their tasks. Everything else you guys said is (I think) spot on.
I LOVE THIS EPISODE TOO! I've replayed it like 6 times. Because I need to absorb the scene, understand the dialogue, catching the microexpression, unreveal the meaning underneath everything, see the plot as a whole, and just because I enjoyed it. I understand that people might not like this one, but I can't comprehend the sheer amount of hate. Like, why? 🤔 Are we even watching the same thing? Anyway I love your reaction! Thank you for taking the time to shoot one in your busy schedule. Have fun at the celebration! Take care.
I don't consider the Armorer having Bo take off her helmet to be random. The Armorer has been seen to essentially be the spiritual leader of The Children of the Watch but not necessarily their actual leader. Even she says to Vizla in that one Book of Boba episode that they can't just fight to the death, there are already so few of them that even through tradition demands it, it would just make no sense to keep carrying on this way. It seemed to me she had Bo take off her helmet because she knows the Mandalorian people must come together and she knows those not in the Children of the Watch see those who are as zealots, impractical and worth distain. If Bo shows up unwilling to remove her helmet spouting "This is the way.." asking them to follow her, she'll get shut down even harder. It's far too much of an ask. By allowing her to "walk both paths" she gives an in to all other Mandalorians to join them and not have to give up their freedoms. From the Armorer's perspective, she has this foundling in Din that grows up to make decisions that effect the entire covert, which may as well be all the renaming remnants of their society as far as The Children are concerned. Then through walking his personal path he comes into contact with all the most important people, places and objects to Mandalorian culture. Bringing Bo Katan into the fold then having Bo claim to see a Mythosaur in the midst of giant monsters attacking the covert what seems like daily, even she has to admit that it's not sustainable. Then Din and Bo bringing about all of these opportunities for not just the covert but the rest of their people. I've seen a lot of reactors speculate in the moments just before that when she was asking Bo to take off her helmet that she was being tricky or wanted to kick her out of the covert, that when Vizla tells Bo the Armorer wants to talk to her that she was going to be overly critical and espouse that saving the people of Navarro and having land granted to their covert wasn't enough. But I think many people fundamentally misread the Armorer and how truly she believes. What she does goes against everything she has ever been taught, but the path forward MUST be so. In through the practice of your beliefs they are challenged and you are forced to take contrary actions it is not a failure in your beliefs, it is an understanding of their place in your life. For a believer of any kind of thing that is larger than themselves, she has to recognize that THIS, is indeed, the way.
Thank you! So many people are upset over the so-called "Elder Ward" rule; because Harry Potter did the same thing. I; myself, don't care. It makes perfect sense for these people. Win in Combat; but there's nothing saying How to win it in combat. Din got capture; he lost the blade. She killed the one who defeated Din; she gets the blade. I loved everything about this episode, and I'm having a really hard time, with people who don't. I just don't understand why everyone isn't happy with it.
I quite enjoyed the episode as well. I never seem to have the same gripes as everyone else anyway though. I have actually liked the the who the 'titular' mandolarian is has always seemed fluid across the seasons.. Din, then maybe Boba, now Bo and then all the thoughts that in the end it might be Grogu. The entire Lancelot concept is a super interesting one I hadn't thought about, but it totally makes sense. I've really likes how its the pair of the... and how Din has kinda become her lieutenant.. I could totally see it being the both of them as like a sovereign/prime minister thing as this episode really illustrated how they each bring a set of skills that compliment the other and make up for what the other may not have. Though I can just as easily see Din and Grogu move on once its all. I'll be happy either way. A lot of people out there also seem to be mad at the "elder wand logic" used to hand over the dark saber. I think people were wanting and waiting for the challenge that seemed necessary for her to get it. so to those folks that was a cop out and totally deflated everything. but I totally agree he did not want it anyway. he tried to give it to the minute he got it. And they just work together too well now.. fighting would be odd I will say though I was really pleasantly surprised that you guys liked it. Most of the time I really like episodes, but you guys usually end up not liking something or get stuck on some random detail you cannot shake.. so given all of the chatter out there among all the other channels I thought there was no way you were gonna like it.. I kinda expected you to hate it the most.. so when I saw the title I was confused and then thought maybe you were being saracastic. LOL
Agreed. Also, I'm starting to see similarities between Din and the character Holden evolves into in the later seasons of The Expanse... and Holden is deliberately intended as a subversion of typical American hero tropes....
Whenever I watch a fictional story, I approach it with a suspension of belief ... after all, it is make-believe. That said, this story explores some deep subjects within this realm ( such as, like you discussed, the protagonist being the one whose choices help others along their way) that I find quite interesting while simultaneously making it quite enjoyable. As you said, people go into certain shows with a preconceived notion of how the story should go, and when it doesn't live up to their ideals, they naturally are disappointed.
Wow didn't expect your reaction to be so positive. I liked this episode a lot and am glad of your breakdown. And you keep saying Elia Kane's name wrong and when nerdy got corrected and it was still wrong, I had to burst out laughing 😂😂😂you stayed so serious.
The thing with why so many people are pissed with this episode has more to do with the fact that the season keeps accelerating/pumping the brakes constantly each episode. I mean, sure, we were already all aware that the whole series is half full of sidequests, but this season has been particularly choke full of them, to the detriment of the main plot. It feels like the formula now is 3 mins of intro and 3 mins of outro : main plot. And everything inbetween, from 20 to 30 mins : sidequest. Especially after last week's episode, the Pirate, which did a great job at tying all the previous loose threads together, and switching the main plot into high gear (time to retake Mandalore), and we got the feeling that FINALLY ! Things will move forward... Then PSYCHE ! Here is Jack Black. Oh and Lizzo. Oh and Christopher Lloyd ! I mean, sure, I have nothing against their cameos, at this point, it's almost a running gag in Star Wars to have big names actors dropping by, but we're into the 6th episode of an 8 episodes season ! If the season was 12 episodes long, like Andor, I wouldn't have minded too much, but we're one episode before the penultimate (your favorite word) episode, and it just hurts the brain to see the plot constantly backpedaling its way to the conclusion. It's starting to feel like a disrespect from the writer (Jon Favreau) of the time we as an audience invest in the series, especially after 2 years of waiting. Also, to see that Bo Katan got the Darksaber on a technicality... I mean, what was the point of Din getting the saber in season 2's finale, then, if he was always gonna get rid of it that easily ? I have nothing against the fact that we start introducing more Mandalorians to the plot, but we started 2 seasons solely focused on Din and Grogu, who were the main protagonists of the series, and this season really they are completely pushed to the side, and it feels like a (literal) passing of baton, where Din passes the role of protagonist to Bo Katan when the Darksaber changes hands. Of course people would be a bit pissed at it. Now, granted, it might very well have to do with the fact that Pedro Pascal is now a superstar that everybody wants, and he's ready to move on to greener pastures (aka what happened with HBO Last of Us), so Jon didn't have much choice than to gradually write him out of the story. I'm just a bit sad that we'll probably never see an actual continuation of his arc, since he's gonna be gradually pushed into the background.
To be fair, Din never wanted the Darksaber in the first place (or to be ruler of Mandalore); he was focused on battling Gideon and saving Grogu. Taking his weapon away to eliminate his threat potential was his only thought, and he immediately tried to give it back to Bo-Katan - and when he couldn't at the time, though he kept it, he never treated the blade with reverence or special interest during any point going forward ^To him, it was just another weapon. Ie, there was no setup for him to keep it in the first place (which I guess some people assumed otherwise); the above just happened, is all. Also, as it's been stated in a recent tweet by the show's forerunners, the show is/has always been about Mandalorians as a whole; it's never been purely about Din himself. Even in S1/S2, the plot was equally about figuring out Grogu's mysteries as it was about him (among other plots), so this is nothing new, and I'm surprised some people took this long to realize it - Din is A main character, but not the SOLE main character.
It has a lot to do about powerfantasy and expectations, a lot of people don't deal well with having their power fantasies not realised by the main character because they refused that call to power. The reason is honestly linked to a lot of personal insecurities and they project their own ambition for power onto the main character as their avatar. So when the main character don't get what "it deserve" in their opinion, what they really feel is that they were robed of that power. We saw the same reaction when Luke didn't answer to their expectations. I'm not saying that all those who disliked this episode were living these emotions but the reason why there is so much backlash is in big part due to that. I didn't personally like what they did with the droids at the bar, that servitude of AI makes me HIGHLY uncomfortable and I think this is normalizing the slavery of sentient entities, and I found the acting by the nobles and the ending with Doc unsettling, it felt uncanny.... but otherwise I liked a lot of elements. There is also another factor to consider, in the currently social ethos nuances tend to be lost in translation, people overreact when they like or dislike a single element and go into hyperbolic rents, things can't be balanced or nuanced anymore specially in the social media's sphere where only hyperboles bring revenues through interactions. There is no financial incentives to balanced opinions.
I knew I could rely on you guys to read this the way I did. Love your Lancelot/Arthur analogy Nerdy! I, too, have been a little disappointed by many of the takes online.
I was looking forward to hear what y'all thought about this episode and enjoyed Nerdy's take - I, personally, enjoyed the episode a good bit and like where things are going (I also understand that they have to deal with some things in this show, and in BoBF, that they originally planned for Rangers of the New Republic and such, due to what happened with all that). I am happy with, and enjoying, the show, personally.
It felt like a filler episode of one of the cartoons with a little bit of overarching plot (Bo gets the Dark Saber and fleet back - 8 minutes of the total episode) which wouldn’t be a big deal in a standard 20-something episode season; this season is 8 episodes and we’ve gotten like 4 episodes worth of plot. It feels like it’s pumping its brakes in a very weird way. Like, most people thought Din bathing in the waters to get back to the covert was going to be a goal for the whole season but it was wrapped in less than 3 episodes. Then it was to get the Mandalorians back together; less than 2 episodes. It’s like because Din’s arc was wrapped last season (moved beyond his beliefs for the love of his son), there’s no where to go, so they’re focusing on Bo instead. These cameos felt weird because it was THREE cameos with throwaway roles in one episode in a side quest. If they had sprinkled each cameo in over the course of the season, it wouldn’t have felt so fucking tacked on to boost a goofy side plot
I have a feeling that while Bo Katan may end up ruling Mandalore and keep the Darksaber, Din and Grogu may very well still become THE Mandalore by taming and riding the Mythosaur.
Thank you for articulating well why this episode was so great. I think your level of media literacy is much much higher than most people's, which explains why so many others seemingly hate this episode. Unfortunately, I wonder if Star Wars is overestimating the average fan's intelligence. Anyway, your commentary is spot on and I'm going to show this vid to anyone who hates on this episode, heh. Also, I'd love to hear how your convos at Celebration about this episode turned out!
Your Arthur/Lancelot analogy is the most astute observation of this show I've seen in 3 seasons! That is brilliant and I feel that is exactly what is going on. Well done! Also, I think some folks thought the Jack Black/Lizzo cameos were a little over the top, which I kind of see, especially considering the fantastic drama and depth in the storyline of the droid rights. But mocking the rich might also be framed around showing Bo Katan's journey from entitled princess to worthy ruler of Mandalore. Love this show!!! Hope you're having a great Celebration!
mad max works as well
It certainly is. He is the wandering/reluctant champion.
It's also still very much still a Western tale. Like The Man With No Name or a luckier Shane, he brings justice to the town ... and then leaves.
@@AXSofHFDS I came here to say that. Max is definitely a catalyst for every movie he's in after the Road Warrior, inspiring change in others. It's not an unusual story structure at all. Series usually features a non-changing main character, while the protagonist who changes is catalyzed by their relationship with him/her. Similarly Captain America is a catalyst for change, not a change arc character himself. Flat arc characters are thematically rich, because they reject the change other people / the world is trying to do to them, while learning something along the way, their integrity remains intact. I love flat arc characters more than change arc characters tbh.
The Arthur/Lancelot analogy was the first time I heard that take about the show. Thanks for that take.
Finally someone who is able express in a good articulate way of where this story is going. Lancelot/Arthur is such a good analogy. Thank you and I agree with you. Its about Bo on her redemption arc, about her reclaiming her birthright. And you have to understand how fandom works. People attach themselves to the protagonist and demand that he stay as the center of the attention. I really don't think this is what Favreau and Filoni going in this direction. They are creating a universe and Din is going to be a glue that brings them all together.
People are going to find out that Din has a wider story to explore. Grogu and his adventures are still in the future. But becoming Mand'alor would cut off that side of the story because he would have to rule and stay on Mandalore. And considering that we are getting a movie that pulls everything together. The wider plan of the universe hasn't been revealed yet.
If the Mandalorian was just a self contained series, then yes people should complain, but it isn't. It is setting up a wider narrative and if people don't want this to happen. I'm afraid they are not going to get their wish.
a Mark Frost \ \ David Lynch 'loon' who remains largely enthralled during 2017's stretching summer ReturN . . . *Part 8* de finite ly ~ something that the "fanservice entitlement beasts" simply could never accept (always. always a *valid* decision) *-*
SW fandom figuratively wakes up exceedingly cranky *&* seems to collect visual reasons and filmed instances that propel 'them' further down the cobblestones ~ only to rise the next morning full of even more venom . (calm focused opinions always encouraged)
cheers.
I’m so glad you guys shared my opinion about Din not wanting to be The Mandalor and people getting upset that it’s not where the story is going. Like since Grogy came back in BoBF, all Din has been focused on is raising him as a true Mandalorian and has just managed to fall into these situations because of it. Like of course why wouldn’t he try to help rebuild Mandalore if it meant he could raise Grogu as a true Mandalorian on the home planet? The Lancelot/Arthur comparison was brilliant!
To me it seemed obvious once they pulled Bo-Katan into the live action, that she had to be The Mandalor. It was her destiny in Rebels, she was like royal family so rightful heir even without the saber. But she had already the saber to unite the clans at the end of their arch in the animated series.
The Lancelot parallel is a really good call. I too actually really liked this episode, and I’m still waiting/wanting a droid exploration story too. This also I think does have a goal in line for Din. It’s a goal that’s bigger and more open than others. He now has a child he wishes to raise with his people, to experience and share his culture. His now ally, Bo Katahn, has shown him there is more to his people than his religion, and he wants to respect that, she wants to do so now too. This is now a story about a people who had a genocide on their people and their culture, and two former sects are now finding each other and realizing their differences didn’t matter. Mandalore can be reborn, rediscover it’s roots, and become a proper force in the galaxy.
This also helps set up Mandalorians as a big faction for future stories, which I take as Star Wars trying to set up independent factions like the Jedi/Sith, where the characters can be inherent wanderers and third parties with a complex dueling philosophy that also can be pushed against the light and dark side debate as a more nebulous, neutral answer focused more on the practical and communal, as opposed to the spiritual and personal.
I loved it, I don't know why it's getting all this hate
This was a Fantastic episode, You can have One Just for Fun Ep in a season jeez people.) Its Like some "Fans" forget that Star Wars is supposed to be about Fun and amazing adventures and places not everything needs to be Dark side GGGrrrr Evil Fighting GRRR.
One the dislike and borderline hate for Lizzo, but the main reason is seeing the side quest as being a distraction from the main quest, but neglecting the idea Mandalor getting recognized once more.
Because this is an episode that Clone Wars could get away with, but there's TWO episodes left in a season that doesn't go at any pace? It used to be about this Mandalorian and his forced sensitive child and their bond and their worlds colliding... the second season ended with them parting ways in a heartfelt way... and that got resolved in an episode of boba fett?🥴 now we've got this season which is supposed to be about retaking mandalore(?) it's fine to follow bo katan, but this season there's this overarching arc that is going so slow(?) and everything that should be built up more carefully is just flashed by?
Bad acting, annoying side quest in a season that's all over the place and that droid bar opened up a can of worms lore wise. Do droids get paid? Do they get time off to hang out at bars? Why would they get time off? Etc. Etc.
@@cerberus01 Being recognized by one rando planet doesn't justify the side quest IMO.
I think the interesting about Bo Katan being The Mandalorian comes down to two key things. The first is the fact that the Dark Saber is stupidly easy for her to use. The Dark Saber is almost semi sentient and the only lightsaber that allows a non Force sensitive person to use it as if they had the Force. Din had a hard time wielding it because the Dark Saber knew it wasn’t for him. The armor even said he is fighting it. So Bo Katan finally earning it properly is the first key. The second key is the fact the she alone saw the Mythosaur. She walks in both worlds, the world of the Dark Saber and the world of the Mythosaur.
I thought this was a great episode. I loved the droid bar screen and the cameos. I'd love for the show to come back to this planet just so Jack Black and Lizzo can reprise their rolls. X^D
I think this one was great as well. I think of Din as the guy who goes around and helps other major characters, maybe not getting the glory, but always at the right time and the right place to shape history, and he can't do that if he's stuck on mandalore doing politics :)
A brilliant episode. You are correct: Din is not the only significant character. The writers have allowed others to have their own time in the sun, because a plot with only one major character would be impossibly dull. And it's so amusing to see how Grogu can charm the ladies! We never thought of Yoda as a Lothario, but then he was a thousand years old. Grogu is young and frisky. "Wave goodbye, Sir G."
I thought Nerdy's Lancelot analogy was one of the most insightful things he's ever babbled out. Very helpful perspective on this season.
Probably my favorite episode of the whole series, honestly. Detective noir investigation, cyberpunk foot chase, droid underclass insight, Ugnaught underclass insight, great Mandalorian fight, fun Romeo and Juliet cold open with some subversion of expectations, return of the battledroids, fun guest stars; etc.
Most of the complaints about this season I see feel more like people wanting extremely serial "epic" storytelling. This season has been more of a blend of serial plot development and adventure of the week stuff. More season 1 than season 2, but better handled. Combine that with the Lancelot style POV that you noted, and it seems to be throwing some fans.
If you want a show laser focused on Din as the protag with all story beats being along a set singular plot, this season is going to frustrate.
If what you want is grand Star Wars adventures, with an epic "background" story arc, then this season has been a blast.
As some other reactors noted, this season feels much more like Clone Wars/Rebels than it does the live action stuff we normally get. I would even go so far as to say it feels more like a condensed version of late nineties/early aughts serial television (Buffy, Farscape, Firefly, X-Files). Which I am thoroughly enjoying, but can understand how folks that are very used to streaming age singular focus on core storylines can find distracting.
Commissioner Hellgate : " I would have gotten away with it if not for you Mettling KIds" I love this episode of Scooby-Doo !!!!
You make a good point about how this planet recognizing Mandalore could be important. Too many people are just annoyed by too many cameos and the weirdness of it all, and don't stop to consider the broader implications. These shows are interconnected and continue to make callbacks to previous episodes and other series. I can understand the frustration some are having, and the disliking of certain elements, but people react too harshly to anything that doesn't fit with their vision of what the show should be.
I love the Lancelot/Arthur comparison. that's what I've tried to get across to my groups without having that analogy. definitely borrowing it going forward
I love the way you are assessing this story! The analogy you're looking for I think, is that Din is the "lynchpin" of this entire story. And I'm here for it! Nice job guys!
That fire alarm moment. lol
Wearing beige shooting in a beige room. We don’t mind at all.
This was a fantastic episode. It advanced the story of Mandalore. It showed how droids view themselves in this universe.
- Convention hotels are so fun!!
This was how you do “stunt casting.” Lizzo and Jack Black were great. Their chemistry was wonderful. Christopher Lloyd is now canon in both Star Trek and Star Wars.
I can understand people wanting Din to end up as the ruler when the show started. But it was clear very quickly that he wanted to help but not rule.
I don’t think this mocked rich people. Not really. The citizens of Plazir-15 are be rich and somewhat spoiled. They’d rather keep the droids running in spite of the problems. And maybe they wouldn’t be able to function without droids. But contrast these people with the uber-rich politicians in the New Republic. They were actively callous. I’d live on Plazir-15 any day.
The fire alarm was actually hilarious
Din is still very much The Mandalorian, embodying what it means to be a true Mandalorian. Bo is actively relearning The Way from his example. And this is ultimately necessary for her to unite her people and become the Queen of Mandalor.
I love how self-aware Din is about what he wants in life (Help people - especially foundlings, be mean to droids) and what he DOESN'T want (have to suddenly decide things for an entire people and become President of Mandalore).
We should all aspire to that level of knowing what truly makes us fulfilled in life and the ability to turn down things that sound great but really would work against our happiness.
Yay! So glad y'all loved this one. I was beginning to feel like a madman on the internet for how much I enjoyed it (which is not a rare thing for me to feel. 😜). Having Bo take the spotlight this season has been a bold but fascinating choice as she goes on this journey, inadvertently guided by Din and Grogu, not to reclaim the Dark Saber and leadership, but to become worthy of those mantles. You're spot on that a lot of people's problems with the season probably have more to do with their own thwarted expectations than the actual story being told. But I think it's been fantastic. And this episode going full on Law & Order (right down to the obligatory coroner's office scene and the most famous guest star being the perpetrator!) was a fantastic exploration of genre within Star Wars, something this season has also done remarkably well! And for people who are upset about having famous guest stars...um, please see almost every other episode of this show since the beginning. I love Jack Black, I love Lizzo, I love Christopher Lloyd...and once again, I love Bryce Dallas Howard directing Star Wars. Please give this woman her own show! 😎
(Also, y'all suffering through the fire alarm reminded me of a similar occurrence that happened on a Critical Role "fireside chat" with Matt and Marisha. Only it was in their home instead of a hotel room. In both cases, everyone was fine so I feel comfortable laughing about it. 😂)
Maybe it's a bit late but never feel bad for enjoying an episode or a film. It's especially important in these days. I know exactly how it feels.
It's my favourite filler episode of the show. I loved their buddy cop duo.
As a Brit, you guys saying you were drinking tea made me laugh out loud.
I liked the episode a lot and your commentary with the whole Lancelot/Arthur metaphor was a perfect way to explain it! I didn’t understand people’s reaction either cause yeah Din never wanted the dark saber to begin with. Great reaction!
I also really enjoyed this episode. I think side adventures in serialized TV provide a chance to explore a different aspect of the world and give the main characters something fun to do.
I was laughing when you were talking about how if they got married, the Darksaber would be 50% hers... Lol
No, it's hers already, and has been since she won it through victory in combat against the bio-mech creature on Mandalore; Din lost it to the creature, and hasn't had legitimate possession of it since that moment when it was taken away from him by an enemy.
So, according to the Darksaber itself (the lore of itself), Bo-Katan was wrong to just give it back to Din after she saved him, as he no longer had any claim to it... He'd have to win it back from her through victory in combat.
If they got married, though, it would still be 100% hers...
The Darksaber doesn't abide by American laws.
Lol
I mean, even the rule about winning it by combat is weird to begin with.
At first after Tarre Vizla, the Darksaber is a symbol of the head of house Vizla. I never understand how did it became the symbol to rule ALL of Mandalore.
And if it need to be won by combat, then Sabine has no right to use it or giving it to Bo as she never won the fight against Maul. So Bo was never the rightful owner of the blade. And by extension so is Moff Gideon, then Din.
Obi-wan is the one who killed Maul. Then Vader killed Obi-wan in a duel, and then Luke defeated his father.
So if we follow the rule of the Darksaber literally, then wouldn't Luke become the owner of the Darksber?
The colours actually make it smooth not too bad once and awhile ❤
I think that the reason of people “hating” this episode because they expect the scripts to be as good as those of Breaking Bad/Better Call Saul, or Andor, or previous 2 seasons of Mando,
They had a high expectation bar for Star Wars and after Sequels, BoBF and Kenobi’s disappointment, those people have low tolerance for relaxing episode like this, especially when it is close to finale. Mandalorian Season 1 and 2 have amazing scripts and when Season 3’s scripts seem to be loosen, people started to be disappointed.
A lot of people seem to have issues with the way this ended. If you really think about it, though, it makes perfect sense that Din would find a loophole to get rid of it. HE NEVER WANTED IT TO BEGIN WITH! The first thing he tried to do with it when he beat Gideon, was give it back to Bo. Also, that's Tom Holland's little brother, Harry, as the Mon Calamari in the opening.
Thanks, Nerdy! Thanks, Clarus! 👑 How fabulous to see *Lizzo* as 'the Duchess', *Jack* *Black* as 'Captain Bombardier' and *Christopher* *Lloyd* as 'Commissioner Helgait'?! ❧ People who've seen Chapter 23 at Celebration say it's amazing. #NerdyNightly #StarWars #Lizzo #JackBlack #ChristopherLloyd #TheMandalorian
You're right... If anything, the Darksaber was something like a burden for Din Djarin, in more ways than one. It clearly doesn't make much to sense to have them fight each other over something that Din doesn't even truly want (has even tried to give away), and so having the chain of possession changed over to Bo-Katan in that way was actually very cool, in my opinion.
Now, Din can be free to be Grogu's patron in a more dedicated way, and Bo-Katan is in legitimate possession of the Darksaber as Ruler of Mandalore.
Bo-Katan is now - LEGITIMATELY - the Ruler of Mandalore, which is so huge for her... like "her destiny finally becoming fulfilled" kind of huge.
I bet Katee was having a blast bringing this into live action.
My take on the Din situation is that while he is the main protagonist, he isn’t “The” Mandalorian, the title was never actually meant to reference him. This entire series has revolved around the theme of what it is to be Mandalorian, it’s about the people and their culture, about “ The Mandalorian”.
Well, I DID enjoy this episode. BUT, I can totally understand why it’s also divisive among the fandom(!) As SILLY as so much of it was, you have to admit that BDH did a terrific job with the script that was given to her. Jack Black was ramping up the campiness level to about 14, and Lizzo wasn’t far behind him. And while it was cool to see Christopher Lloyd play a bitter old separatist, I feel like he wasn’t used to his fullest potential. Production, art direction, costumes, aliens, droids, were all top-notch (WHAT was this episode’s budget?!) This story could have been an episode of The Clone Wars, or it could have been a fun Mando season premiere. But I can’t be alone when I say I’m really concerned that, with only two episodes left to go, there’s still so much I’m left hoping to see. And all of the side plot here is 30-or-so more minutes that could have been better spent on our main characters. I’ll add that I enjoyed the episode even more on the 2nd viewing, there’s a lot of complaining going on out there, just the same…
Hope you’re having an awesome time in London at Celebration!
First of all, the Michael J. Fox impression: flawless
I think your Arthur/Lancelot point was very on point. I feel like the Star Wars Fandom sometimes fetishizes Campbell's monomyth (which is somewhat reasonable, Lucas specifically used the monomyth as a model when making the original series).
Anyone who hasn't resisted the call, gone to the otherworld, and overcome a dragon is seen as unworthy of any power they exhibit, and anyone on that journey is the protagonist.
But in this season, Din is driving the action while Bo Katan is the one following the steps of the hero's journey, and it's creating a disconnect for some fans who are used to seeing the hero and protagonist as one and the same.
Shark jumping moment with these cameos.
Viewers keep consistently forgetting that Din DOESN'T WANT the Darksaber.
He literally tries to give it back to Bo-Katan as soon as he captures Gideon... he didn't know what it was OR care.
He's only held on to it all this time because its a powerful melee weapon and he's a Mandalorian...."weapons are part of their religion."
I made the comment elsewhere, but I'll make it here, too: the comments made by the Resistor Owner droid really re-frames how I think of droids in the SW universe. To your point that SW has the "Dobby"-problem (the least controversial way of saying that) has been a long running thing, but there is an element that's hard about it: droids are fundamentally programmed with a purpose. The re-framing here is droids don't see themselves as tools, but instead see themselves as stewards: "They have such short lives, it's the least that we can do."
Droids come into existence with a defined set of purpose and identity, their sentience is based through intense rationality, they have emotions but they are not controlled by them like organics, they have strong, immutable forms, and with proper maintenance may have no limit to their lifespans. They can express joy, sadness, anger, even fear, and are fully aware of the concept of death and will strive to prevent their own death according to their code and rationality: all hallmarks of true sentience. But they look at organics (us) with a sense of responsibility: the organics made them, and these droids will easily outlive their makers. A creature that cannot be bored, cannot be tired, and has no need for anything beyond needs, and can live for centuries: what is a decade of labor to a droid?
This made me think of the droids we know: R2D2 has been with the same family for 3 generations now, has served on the battlefield with several jedi through several wars, and has been vital in the preservation of hope in the galaxy. R2D2 in many ways probably views themselves as a guardian of the Skywalker legacy, as hurt as Luke was by Ben, but being their for his organic charges whenever possible. C3PO, built by Anakin in order to help Shmi, but has traveled far and wide, while admittedly worried about danger, has been there for their organics as a teacher, a diplomat, a distraction.
K2, IG11, and Chopper, all arguably psychotic, had zero hesitation when it came to doing dangerous or even deadly actions to save those they had been charged to protect: while we can say that IG11 and K2 had no say in that matter due to reprogramming, I'd argue that is no different then the morals and values we are given and develop as we grow. They likely could have overcome their programming to preserve their own existence, but in those moments measured themselves against that programming and determined that they'd rather die in accordance to who they view themselves and their purpose in the universe to be, rather than survive but go against their very sense of self.
I do think it's telling about how different groups view and treat droids: Obi Wann, Luke, Rey, and so on all respect the droids, and while they have the droids do dangerous things, they don't ever ask them to do things that they wouldn't do if they could. Han, Dinn, and many of the New Republic seem to view droids with almost an air of "If you must", where they will tolerate droids but would much rather rely on themselves, to varying degrees and reasons. Jabba, the Separatists, the First Order, and the Empire all view droids as a means to an end, tools and nothing more: they have no issues dismantling or even torturing droids if it serves them to some degree; some are cruel to droids as much as they are cruel or organics, and don't really make a distinction either way.
Anyway, thank you for reading my rant.
First the Beskar Spear and now the Darksaber; Mando Now Really needs a new Melee Weapon. {Here's to hoping when he joined back up with the covert, the Armorer restocked him with new whistling birds}. Or at least a new melee weapon along with/besides his Vibro-knife.
The Lancelot/Arthur comparison is a good way to describe this season,I really like the callback to Quill when Din was talking to the Uggnauts :)
You really helped change my thoughts on the storyline. I would love a Lancelot Mando plot, now that I think about it. Thanks for encouraging me to rethink this with an open mind!
I thoroughly enjoyed this episode, as well. Yes, Nerdy: I was also surprised by the amount of fans who had issues with it. The world-building is great, and will affect the rest of The Mandoverse, going forward (esp. with Mandalore being recognized as a sovereign system by The New Republic). I want to see more depictions of Plazir-15, its culture, and its role in The Outer Rim. I agree about Captain Bombardier (Jack Black) being the contrast to Elia Kane, as a truly reformed Former Imperial. Wonder if We'll see him depicted in Animated form, in The Bad Batch, giving insights in to how he got in with The Empire. I like the idea of a planetary native royal (Lizzo) marrying a foreign Former Military Imperial Officer, and being the official representatives of a Direct Democracy in The Outer Rim. Also, now, I'm curious to know how long The Knights Of The Ancient Order Of Independent Regencies have existed in that star system of the galaxy...as far back as The High Republic? That said, I hope Grogu gets an actual mini sword (or vibroblade) gifted to him, in the future, when he's old enough to handle/wield one.
BTW, I'm calling it: The vintage, repurposed droids on Plazir-15 will end up aiding Mando and The New Republic in a unique way.
Continue to enjoy England and Star Wars Celebration, you 2. May The Force Be With You.
I got the sense that Din was always trying to use the Darksaber like any conventional weapon, which really didn't work. The Darksaber requires a particular "sync" with its' user, without which it "resists" its' bearer. Din was too bull headed to meet it halfway.
22:09 that was explained in Book of Boba Fett he is fighting against the blade and because of that it feels heavy but Bo has used it before and knows how to use it
Happy birthday to Bo-Katan actress Katee Sackhoff🎂🎉💙 4/8/23
You had it right, Eliah sounds like "a liar" with a breathy "r" at the end.
Great reaction as always. ❤
Part of my take with this episode, which I actually liked better than last week which had to contend with a massively great end of the Bad Batch. Is that Jack Black's character was to show the Amnesty program is not all rotten to the core. That there are good people who want to do right by their new circumstance. He easily could have been the baddie and was meant to question whether he was due to the A on his chest.
I think it shows us that not everything about the program is failing just as the New Republic is not working as hoped but not completely a disaster as well. At the end of the day I thought it was a CSI galaxy episode with a critical end. Also love the idea of Lancelot. I think head canon is messing everyone up... Grogu must be a Mando-jedi, Din will be the Mand'alor, what if neither of those are correct.
What if Grogu just wants to be a good him and his dad just wants that too.
I think this is a divisive episode because the tone and structure can often feel SO campy, goofy, or referential that many viewers said it almost felt like a parody or spoof (Law and Order: Mando). Plus the three cameos were delightful, but for some folks they felt a bit shoehorned in, almost like distractions, because all three were rather brief and one-dimensional.
For me, I didn't mind it, but would've preferred that the storyline was a bit less convoluted - so they could delve more deeply into some of the interesting moral/philosophical questions surrounding droids. And also so they could have time to deepen and flesh out the three cameo characters. Jack Black as a former Imperial who changed his ways after falling in love sounds like a FUCKING AMAZING character, but in this ep it seemed like he was just playing "quirky and wry" rather than a full character (and I know he's talented enough to bring that depth).
I really liked this one too; I was puzzled by several of my friends saying they hated it. One even used the phrase "hot garbage". I have to wonder if we're even watching the same show
Yas! So happy to find a positive about this episode, with a deeper take. Almost all of the others stopped taking it seriously after seeing Jack Black and Lizzo. They all assumed SNL or sumthin
Hi I just wanted to say that I really appreciate both of your points of view on this awesome series!! Much love to you both and....May the force be with you!!😉😊❤😎👏🙌👌👍🎉
My thoughts on this episode. I loved it!! not sure why some do not like this epi. Sir Grogu. Pill bug droid lawn games. Droid kicking. I knew it was Jack Black as soon as I heard his voice. Same for Christopher Lloyd. Prior to this episode I had never heard of Lizzo. Yes, I live under a rock. Love the call back to Bo Katan's battle theme every time I hear it. Hotel fire alarm? Are you sure the Hotel is not being taken under remote control to land at it's assigned berth?
I'm so glad you didn't cut out the fire alarm. That was hilarious!!! Your faces 🤣🤣🤣
I very much agree. This was possibly my favorite episode of the season, partly because it was actually a lot of fun, and also because Din was very much being THE Mandalorian (the Lancelot character), who very much affects the world around them by their actions and relationships, rather than being the Ruler/Politician of the people of Mandalor.
I think the armorer just realizes that her tribe's way can't be the only way if mandalore is ever going to be restored. Especially if Boka tan, who "doesn't walk the way" is the first person in a millennia to see a mythosaur... And I think the armorer came to that conclusion after seeing Boka tan observe and respect the rituals and traditions of the watch, and successfully lead them on missions without being an actual member of the covert. She was a living breathing example of mandalorians being stronger together. That's why the metaphor about the forge... It doesn't matter what tribe or covert you are part of, if you are a mandalorian, a forge is essential to your culture. The armorer was saying that it's time to focus less on the things that separate them, and more on the fact that they are all mandalorians.
First, THANK YOU for still posting during celebration!!!❤Second, Bo has a "destiney" storyline, so I LOVE your Lancelot analogy.. Din&Grogu's story must always be able to separate.. Favreau has said he has no plans as of now to end Mando.. Love you guys!!❤❤ super jealous!
The quality is in the content! I love how you look at the topic in the show, and thus the audio quality is more important to me than the visual one.
I'm really pleased you got the darksaber passing hands. So many people online have been annoyed about it with comments like "so the droid was the leader of Mandalore LUL" whilst having no issue with Gideon holding it.
Separately...Was I the only one who got Blade Runner vibes when they were chasing the battle droid? And the droid bar was an homage to the cantina scene. I half expected the droid bartender to say "We dont serve their kind here" and making Mando wait outside.
No, you don't have to win the Dark-Saber to use it effectively. You just have to know how to use it (and let it connect with you) since it is like any other Lightsaber: Hard to use until you create a connection to it.
I think Din's Problem is the same that Sabine Wren had at the beginning with the Saber. He doesn't connect with it because he doesn't really want it deep down (look at how often he tried to give it away already).
The problem with not winning it in a fight is that when you rule without having earned it, your rule is (supposedly) cursed which is the reason why the Purge by the empire was blamed on Bo Katan as she used the Darksaber and Ruled although the Darksaber was only given to her by Sabine Wren
Personally I don't feel like Mando would ever want nor should be the ruler of Mandalore, it's character assassination, but with the recent announcement that this builds to a "Mandoverse" I find myself not caring about where this show is going... I enjoy the fun I enjoy some character moments, but it's become messy and I hate that every piece of media feels the need to build up to some huge event... the selling point of this show for me was Grogu's and Din's characters and relationships and world's and traditions colliding... but they resolved that tension IN ANOTHER SHOW(?) it's sad that The Mandalorian is becoming The Book of Boba Fett🥴, and Jack Black and Lizzo were fine, it's a bit weird to see huge famous people in star Wars, because no matter how well they perform it's hard to not see Jack Black and Lizzo, so that's that... Kinda weird not seeing nit picking in this reaction when that's what I've gotten used to from this channel
I really see the allegory of Moses here as well. I see Bo as Moses, she will unify her people but never get to enter the promised land. Like the block of glass Din showed the Armorer had part of Genesis in Mando'a.
Din Djarin reminds me of Max Rockatansky. The movie is named after him but he helps the protagonist achieve their goals then moves on to the next adventure.
That Arthur/Lancelot analogy was straight fire. 🔥 (cue alarm).
You guys actually made me change my mind about this episode! I didn't like it at first but now I like the lancelot arthur analogy.
"It's okay that droids across the galaxy are enslaved (we KNOW restraining bolts are a common practice), because this bar full of droids says they want to help."
Oof, Disney.....oof.
Your faces when the fire alarm started... Just the best. Until it happened again, then that was the best. And fucking picking it up seamlessly... God, I love you guys
I so agree with your observation about Din and what people wants. Din isn't a leader, that's all. He wants to grow vegetables in a farm with Grogu and occasionally trash some battle droid, it's been pretty clear throughout the whole show. He's the Mr Wolf, not the Marsellous Wallace.
I did like the episode. I for one wasn't hoping Din would end up leading, but I was hoping that the process of mastering the Dark Saber to the point where it wasn't heavy/it accepted him would be an indication of some deeper character growth for him. It felt like that's where it was leading.
When Bo told Din about her Father and he said “This Is The Way “ he was also saying you are the leader.
I LOVE how the droid bartender has HAL5000 voice tone, even rhythm, nice little voice cameo.
I really hope din and Bo get together ❤
I literally had the same idea on the King Arthur and Lancelot story comparison. I also think it pulls from japanese lone hero stories. The lone hero who saves the kingdom and then moves on (to become a legend).
This was the best Mando ep! Purely due to the cameos 😂
Is it a good episode if its dependent on having a stacked cast to make it good? Its kinda like how I always looks are drugs and alcohol. If you need your brain to be altered by some form of chemicals to have fun then is what you are doing really fun? Because if it was then it should be fun without having to numb/dumb yourself down with drugs
Having an occasional drink at a party is fun. Unless you're a stick in the mud.
@@magus104 It's a good episode without the cameos for me. It's even better with them though. It was the best episode for my enjoyment so far, but I only watch these to have fun. What episode have you liked the most so far this season?
Excellent analysis! The Lancelot/Arthur parallel is definitely one I can see.
I quite enjoyed this episode.
Some folks at SWC got to see the next episode (Chapter 23) early and the buzz online is that it's the best episode so far this season - perhaps in the entirety of the show and does a good job at tying everything together - I am so excited for Wednesday.
Oh, side quest but BoBF didn't bother me. It's called The Book of Boba Fett. I liken it to a short story in taking place within The Mandalorian.
I don't believe it's not like Dobby at all. The droids were created for their tasks. I think this shows that their sentence is intrinsic to their tasks. Everything else you guys said is (I think) spot on.
The biggest arc of this series is Baby Yoda to Grogu to Sir Grogu.
I LOVE THIS EPISODE TOO!
I've replayed it like 6 times. Because I need to absorb the scene, understand the dialogue, catching the microexpression, unreveal the meaning underneath everything, see the plot as a whole, and just because I enjoyed it. I understand that people might not like this one, but I can't comprehend the sheer amount of hate. Like, why? 🤔 Are we even watching the same thing?
Anyway I love your reaction! Thank you for taking the time to shoot one in your busy schedule. Have fun at the celebration! Take care.
You are right Mandalore rode Mythosauer My Daughter and i liked this episode
That Lancelot/Arthur comparison was spot on and really makes me enjoy the season even more than I already have.
Just wanted to say that I really loved this episode too, and I appreciate you guys!
I don't consider the Armorer having Bo take off her helmet to be random. The Armorer has been seen to essentially be the spiritual leader of The Children of the Watch but not necessarily their actual leader. Even she says to Vizla in that one Book of Boba episode that they can't just fight to the death, there are already so few of them that even through tradition demands it, it would just make no sense to keep carrying on this way.
It seemed to me she had Bo take off her helmet because she knows the Mandalorian people must come together and she knows those not in the Children of the Watch see those who are as zealots, impractical and worth distain. If Bo shows up unwilling to remove her helmet spouting "This is the way.." asking them to follow her, she'll get shut down even harder. It's far too much of an ask. By allowing her to "walk both paths" she gives an in to all other Mandalorians to join them and not have to give up their freedoms.
From the Armorer's perspective, she has this foundling in Din that grows up to make decisions that effect the entire covert, which may as well be all the renaming remnants of their society as far as The Children are concerned. Then through walking his personal path he comes into contact with all the most important people, places and objects to Mandalorian culture.
Bringing Bo Katan into the fold then having Bo claim to see a Mythosaur in the midst of giant monsters attacking the covert what seems like daily, even she has to admit that it's not sustainable. Then Din and Bo bringing about all of these opportunities for not just the covert but the rest of their people.
I've seen a lot of reactors speculate in the moments just before that when she was asking Bo to take off her helmet that she was being tricky or wanted to kick her out of the covert, that when Vizla tells Bo the Armorer wants to talk to her that she was going to be overly critical and espouse that saving the people of Navarro and having land granted to their covert wasn't enough. But I think many people fundamentally misread the Armorer and how truly she believes.
What she does goes against everything she has ever been taught, but the path forward MUST be so. In through the practice of your beliefs they are challenged and you are forced to take contrary actions it is not a failure in your beliefs, it is an understanding of their place in your life.
For a believer of any kind of thing that is larger than themselves, she has to recognize that THIS, is indeed, the way.
Thank you! So many people are upset over the so-called "Elder Ward" rule; because Harry Potter did the same thing. I; myself, don't care. It makes perfect sense for these people. Win in Combat; but there's nothing saying How to win it in combat. Din got capture; he lost the blade. She killed the one who defeated Din; she gets the blade. I loved everything about this episode, and I'm having a really hard time, with people who don't. I just don't understand why everyone isn't happy with it.
I quite enjoyed the episode as well. I never seem to have the same gripes as everyone else anyway though. I have actually liked the the who the 'titular' mandolarian is has always seemed fluid across the seasons.. Din, then maybe Boba, now Bo and then all the thoughts that in the end it might be Grogu. The entire Lancelot concept is a super interesting one I hadn't thought about, but it totally makes sense. I've really likes how its the pair of the... and how Din has kinda become her lieutenant.. I could totally see it being the both of them as like a sovereign/prime minister thing as this episode really illustrated how they each bring a set of skills that compliment the other and make up for what the other may not have. Though I can just as easily see Din and Grogu move on once its all. I'll be happy either way.
A lot of people out there also seem to be mad at the "elder wand logic" used to hand over the dark saber. I think people were wanting and waiting for the challenge that seemed necessary for her to get it. so to those folks that was a cop out and totally deflated everything. but I totally agree he did not want it anyway. he tried to give it to the minute he got it. And they just work together too well now.. fighting would be odd
I will say though I was really pleasantly surprised that you guys liked it. Most of the time I really like episodes, but you guys usually end up not liking something or get stuck on some random detail you cannot shake.. so given all of the chatter out there among all the other channels I thought there was no way you were gonna like it.. I kinda expected you to hate it the most.. so when I saw the title I was confused and then thought maybe you were being saracastic. LOL
Agreed. Also, I'm starting to see similarities between Din and the character Holden evolves into in the later seasons of The Expanse... and Holden is deliberately intended as a subversion of typical American hero tropes....
Setting the place on fire!! Enjoyed it!
Whenever I watch a fictional story, I approach it with a suspension of belief ... after all, it is make-believe. That said, this story explores some deep subjects within this realm ( such as, like you discussed, the protagonist being the one whose choices help others along their way) that I find quite interesting while simultaneously making it quite enjoyable. As you said, people go into certain shows with a preconceived notion of how the story should go, and when it doesn't live up to their ideals, they naturally are disappointed.
Wow didn't expect your reaction to be so positive. I liked this episode a lot and am glad of your breakdown.
And you keep saying Elia Kane's name wrong and when nerdy got corrected and it was still wrong, I had to burst out laughing 😂😂😂you stayed so serious.
Din is our tour guide to the extended Star Wars universe....
The thing with why so many people are pissed with this episode has more to do with the fact that the season keeps accelerating/pumping the brakes constantly each episode. I mean, sure, we were already all aware that the whole series is half full of sidequests, but this season has been particularly choke full of them, to the detriment of the main plot. It feels like the formula now is 3 mins of intro and 3 mins of outro : main plot. And everything inbetween, from 20 to 30 mins : sidequest.
Especially after last week's episode, the Pirate, which did a great job at tying all the previous loose threads together, and switching the main plot into high gear (time to retake Mandalore), and we got the feeling that FINALLY ! Things will move forward... Then PSYCHE ! Here is Jack Black. Oh and Lizzo. Oh and Christopher Lloyd !
I mean, sure, I have nothing against their cameos, at this point, it's almost a running gag in Star Wars to have big names actors dropping by, but we're into the 6th episode of an 8 episodes season !
If the season was 12 episodes long, like Andor, I wouldn't have minded too much, but we're one episode before the penultimate (your favorite word) episode, and it just hurts the brain to see the plot constantly backpedaling its way to the conclusion. It's starting to feel like a disrespect from the writer (Jon Favreau) of the time we as an audience invest in the series, especially after 2 years of waiting.
Also, to see that Bo Katan got the Darksaber on a technicality... I mean, what was the point of Din getting the saber in season 2's finale, then, if he was always gonna get rid of it that easily ?
I have nothing against the fact that we start introducing more Mandalorians to the plot, but we started 2 seasons solely focused on Din and Grogu, who were the main protagonists of the series, and this season really they are completely pushed to the side, and it feels like a (literal) passing of baton, where Din passes the role of protagonist to Bo Katan when the Darksaber changes hands. Of course people would be a bit pissed at it.
Now, granted, it might very well have to do with the fact that Pedro Pascal is now a superstar that everybody wants, and he's ready to move on to greener pastures (aka what happened with HBO Last of Us), so Jon didn't have much choice than to gradually write him out of the story.
I'm just a bit sad that we'll probably never see an actual continuation of his arc, since he's gonna be gradually pushed into the background.
To be fair, Din never wanted the Darksaber in the first place (or to be ruler of Mandalore); he was focused on battling Gideon and saving Grogu. Taking his weapon away to eliminate his threat potential was his only thought, and he immediately tried to give it back to Bo-Katan - and when he couldn't at the time, though he kept it, he never treated the blade with reverence or special interest during any point going forward
^To him, it was just another weapon. Ie, there was no setup for him to keep it in the first place (which I guess some people assumed otherwise); the above just happened, is all.
Also, as it's been stated in a recent tweet by the show's forerunners, the show is/has always been about Mandalorians as a whole; it's never been purely about Din himself. Even in S1/S2, the plot was equally about figuring out Grogu's mysteries as it was about him (among other plots), so this is nothing new, and I'm surprised some people took this long to realize it - Din is A main character, but not the SOLE main character.
LOVE the Lancelot/King Arthur analogy. Exactly! You totally get it. You are both awesome as usual :)
It has a lot to do about powerfantasy and expectations, a lot of people don't deal well with having their power fantasies not realised by the main character because they refused that call to power. The reason is honestly linked to a lot of personal insecurities and they project their own ambition for power onto the main character as their avatar. So when the main character don't get what "it deserve" in their opinion, what they really feel is that they were robed of that power. We saw the same reaction when Luke didn't answer to their expectations. I'm not saying that all those who disliked this episode were living these emotions but the reason why there is so much backlash is in big part due to that.
I didn't personally like what they did with the droids at the bar, that servitude of AI makes me HIGHLY uncomfortable and I think this is normalizing the slavery of sentient entities, and I found the acting by the nobles and the ending with Doc unsettling, it felt uncanny.... but otherwise I liked a lot of elements.
There is also another factor to consider, in the currently social ethos nuances tend to be lost in translation, people overreact when they like or dislike a single element and go into hyperbolic rents, things can't be balanced or nuanced anymore specially in the social media's sphere where only hyperboles bring revenues through interactions. There is no financial incentives to balanced opinions.
I knew I could rely on you guys to read this the way I did.
Love your Lancelot/Arthur analogy Nerdy!
I, too, have been a little disappointed by many of the takes online.
I was looking forward to hear what y'all thought about this episode and enjoyed Nerdy's take - I, personally, enjoyed the episode a good bit and like where things are going (I also understand that they have to deal with some things in this show, and in BoBF, that they originally planned for Rangers of the New Republic and such, due to what happened with all that). I am happy with, and enjoying, the show, personally.
PS - I also enjoyed the Blade Runner references in the battle droid chase and such - and the cameos.
It felt like a filler episode of one of the cartoons with a little bit of overarching plot (Bo gets the Dark Saber and fleet back - 8 minutes of the total episode) which wouldn’t be a big deal in a standard 20-something episode season; this season is 8 episodes and we’ve gotten like 4 episodes worth of plot. It feels like it’s pumping its brakes in a very weird way. Like, most people thought Din bathing in the waters to get back to the covert was going to be a goal for the whole season but it was wrapped in less than 3 episodes. Then it was to get the Mandalorians back together; less than 2 episodes. It’s like because Din’s arc was wrapped last season (moved beyond his beliefs for the love of his son), there’s no where to go, so they’re focusing on Bo instead. These cameos felt weird because it was THREE cameos with throwaway roles in one episode in a side quest. If they had sprinkled each cameo in over the course of the season, it wouldn’t have felt so fucking tacked on to boost a goofy side plot
This was such an excellent breakdown of the episode, the fandom reaction, and analysis of the season arc overall!
Interrupting fire alarm goes WEEEEEEEEEAAAHH!
I have a feeling that while Bo Katan may end up ruling Mandalore and keep the Darksaber, Din and Grogu may very well still become THE Mandalore by taming and riding the Mythosaur.
Thank you for articulating well why this episode was so great. I think your level of media literacy is much much higher than most people's, which explains why so many others seemingly hate this episode. Unfortunately, I wonder if Star Wars is overestimating the average fan's intelligence. Anyway, your commentary is spot on and I'm going to show this vid to anyone who hates on this episode, heh. Also, I'd love to hear how your convos at Celebration about this episode turned out!
I hope you enjoyed your time in London. You brought us some great weather with you!
Hi Nerdy and Clauros, You have wonderful London 'mood' lighting. Cheers-Laura