The Mandaloriandirector Bryce Dallas Howard has responded to season 2’s biggest criticism. The Disney+ series just wrapped up its second season, which providedStar Warsfans with a wealth of franchise cameos, Easter Eggs, and obscure references. However, with the return of many familiar characters, there are more than a few critics criticizing season 2 for having too muchStar Warsnostalgia attached to it.
The Mandalorianseason 1 was able to tell a brand-newStar Warsstory in an innovative way. Fans were skeptical when it was revealed that the show was going to be about a new set of characters who had never been introduced before. However, once the show debuted, fans were hooked and were left wanting more. Season 2 is now finished and some believe that Dave Filoni and Jon Favreau went against the grain of what season 1 set up, especially in terms of leaning on the past too much. Bryce Dallas Howard had this to say when asked if there was too much nostalgia in season 2.
“I think it’s a really fine balance, of course. As an actor, I’m familiar with those kind of questions, because, for example, with working in theJurassicfranchise, it’s like, ‘OK, we can have fun with some deep cuts for the fans, but, at the end of the day, it’s about a good story, well told. I would liken that as well toThe Mandalorianin that there are these stories of characters that exist, but even though they might not be playing a central role… Constantly in stories, there are new characters. But in this one, what’s cool is, (if you are a super-fan), you will actually be caught up, and will have an understanding of the various layers of the scene.”
Dave Filoni worked extensively with George Lucas over the years and is able to understand what theStar Warscreator looks for when he was setting up stories. His involvement inThe Mandalorianhas shaped the show and, along with Jon Favreau, given it an authentic feel that feels like Lucas created it. ForBryce Dallas Howard, working with Filoni also brings forward a new set of opportunities. She explains.
“I think to not connectThe Mandalorianin any shape or form, especially withDave Filoni’s collaboration, it would personally feel like a missed opportunity. As a fan, when I see Dave’s name on something, I want the storytelling to be that much richer. I want to feel the specificity of theStar Warsuniverse be brought to life, especially when it’s live-action. It’s definitely a fine line. But that’s part of the joy.”
For the most part,Star Warsfans are more than satisfied withThe Mandalorianseason 2 and all of its surprises. Even Jon Favreau is amazed that they were able to pull off a second season with nearly all of its big reveals kept under wraps. The element of surprise is something that Favreau and Dave Filoni have been able to perfect, and it’s something that fans have come to expect.
Thanks to the success ofThe Mandalorian,Disney+is about to get a wealth of newStar Warscontent that will blaze new trails and some that will go over familiar territory. Alone, Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni have theAhsokaseries on the way,Rangers of the New Republic, andThe Book of Boba Fett, which arrives on the streaming service next December. Filoni is working onAhsokaright now, andThe Book of Boba Fettis currently filming. The interview with Bryce Dallas Howard was originally conducted byDigital Spy.
