Parents' Guide to The Mandalorian

Existing in a recognizable Star Wars universe yet telling a unique story of its own, this small-screen extension of the film franchise is, in a word, cool. Unlike other recent Star Wars narratives that circle rather obsessively around the Han-Luke-Leia story, The Mandalorian branches out with a character who's built on something of an Easter egg from 1977's A New Hope. Boba Fett was the most minor of characters who inspired major mystique; choosing a Boba Fett-like character to center this series around is an inspired choice. The series looks amazing too: Plenty of money was spent making a fantastically immersive world with creatures fans will recognize (Jawas and Kubaz and Kowakians, last seen giggling from Jabba the Hut's throne), and fascinating new characters to meet.

The Mandalorian himself is something of a lone gunslinger, making his way in a world beset with dangers. He's also a tragic figure -- we get some backstory on his terrible past, which will no doubt be brought to bear at some point -- and Pedro Pascal does an excellent job of making him sympathetic despite the handicap of a full-face mask. Like other Star Wars entries, The Mandalorian gets into some fan service: Franchise nerds will flinch happily when Ewok holiday "Life Day" pops up, and it's clear that the Empire is going to play some part in the story. But unlike other entries that felt like they were circling the drain of an increasingly overly fleshed-out story, The Mandalorian feels fresh and newly enchanting, just the thing for fans awaiting the next movie.