Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, the first theatrical Star Wars film in seven years, premiered in theaters worldwide May 21-22, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The film stars Pedro Pascal as bounty hunter Din Djarin and features Grogu (Baby Yoda) in a central role [1, 2, 4]. It runs 132 minutes and is rated PG-13 [1].

The story follows a rescue mission to save Rotta the Hutt, son of the late Jabba the Hutt, from rival gangs. The New Republic and Imperial remnants play roles in the conflict [1, 2, 5]. Sigourney Weaver plays Colonel Ward, an ally overseeing the operation [1, 4]. Jeremy Allen White provides the voice for Rotta, though some critics saw the performance as unconvincing [1, 2].

Jon Favreau directed and co-wrote the film with Dave Filoni and Noah Kloor [1, 4]. He said, "I want to make the next generation feel the way about Star Wars that I did when I saw it for the first time" [6]. The film incorporates western and kung fu film elements, continuing Star Wars' genre blending [1, 5].

Critics gave the film mixed to mediocre reviews. Early Rotten Tomatoes critic scores ranged from 65% to 66%, among the lowest for Disney-era Star Wars films [4, 7, 8]. Reviews cited heavy reliance on nostalgia, a simple plot, pacing issues, and shallow character development [1, 2, 4, 9]. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian said it "barrels along capably enough" but lacks "the humanity, humor and extravagant space melodrama which has made and continues to make Star Wars lovable" [4]. Liz Shannon Miller noted the franchise feels "like it’s spinning its wheels" [4]. Grogu remains a major audience draw but some felt his role lacked growth [2, 6, 8].

Box office projections for the U.S. opening weekend over Memorial Day estimate $75 million to $100 million, placing it among the weaker openings for recent Star Wars films [6, 7, 8]. Some analysts said the film could surpass the underperformance of Solo but likely will not match hits like Rogue One [7, 8]. Eric Handler of Roth Capital Partners noted Star Wars is "not resonating with younger moviegoers like it did for [older] generations" [6].

The film’s production budget was estimated at $165 million, lower than previous standalone Star Wars movies [6, 8]. Lucasfilm and Disney hope the film will revive franchise interest after several years of declining audience engagement, especially among younger viewers [6, 9].

The next Star Wars film, Starfighter starring Ryan Gosling, is scheduled for release in 2027 [6, 8].