178: Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu (2026)

Mandalorian & Grogu: Let Star Wars Be a Kids' Adventure (Plus Marvel Parenting Moments) On the Transatlantic Rebels podcast, hosts Jesal and Rochard debate the new film "Star Wars: Grogu," a Mandalorian TV-to-film adventure. Rochard argues the movie delivers exactly what it promises—Mando and Grogu taking odd jobs across the galaxy—and says it recaptures the feeling of childhood Star Wars, praising Grogu's extended range as a practical puppet and highlighting a standout Grogu-solo sequence with a "Dark Crystal" vibe. They note flaws, including uneven CGI (especially Jabba's son Rotta) and Sigourney Weaver "phoning it in," but also praise brutal big-screen action, Pedro Pascal and the other Mando performers being credited, and comedic beats like "I try to avoid violence." The conversation broadens into how fans and "critics" over-police franchise stories, why different Star Wars tones should coexist (Andor, The Mandalorian, Skeleton Crew, The Last Jedi), and a side update on introducing their kids to Marvel, including reactions to Infinity War, WandaVision, and Falcon and Winter Soldier. 00:00 Podcast intro and premise 00:22 Kids movie defense 01:46 Star Wars is always dying 02:07 Adventure promise delivered 02:53 Grogu solo highlight 04:32 Puppet charm and callbacks 05:44 Rotta and effects nitpicks 06:12 Suspending disbelief 11:17 Auteur intent and fandom 13:19 Room for Star Wars variety 15:48 Mando Action Showcase 16:21 Credits and Stunt Performers 16:57 Anzelans and Best Lines 17:21 Grogu Edge and Force 18:22 Should Mando Die 20:12 Kids React to Infinity War 21:46 Childhood Movie Trauma 24:48 Marvel TV Catch Up 25:23 Let Franchises Evolve 26:53 Final Star Wars Wrap 28:36 Sign Off