Spoilers ahead!
Following two slower paced, establishing episodes, the action packed “The Sin” is the longest and best Mandalorian episode to date, with the flagship Disney+ series feeling the most authentically Star Wars yet.
Directed by Deborah Chow and written by Jon Favreau, episode three sees Mando (Pedro Pascal) delivering his adorable cargo to Werner Herzog’s mysterious Imperial-connected “The Client” (how could you?!). After wrestling with his conscious, Mando invests in some sweet upgraded Beskar armour and gadgets and sets out on a rescue mission.
Yes the episode plays out exactly how you expect it too, with Favreau and co sticking to a relatively safe narrative, but the added additions of a fantastic nonstop shootout, further character development and more of The Child definitely makes up for the slightly predictable nature!
One thing that really stands out is how much the series has benefited from the episodic storytelling. We’ve spent a good couple of hours solely with Mando and The Child, really helping us to invest in their journey while upping the emotional stakes. This week’s flashback to Mando’s tragic past during the Clone Wars also helps to deepen the complicated motives of the Bounty Hunter, resulting in a much more compelling and intriguing character. Even though we’ve never seen his face, I feel much more invested in Mando than any of the new main series characters such as Poe and Rey.
The introduction of the hidden Mandalorian conclave and intriguing mystery with Dr. Pershing (Omid Abtahi) and his motives surrounding The Child also adds an added depth to the once morally murky underbelly of this unnamed planet. It’s interesting to see a glimmer of hope with Mando’s act of rebellion against the Bounty Hunter guild and the many Imperial stormtroopers.
This episode also continues to explore the rich, distinctive grimy aesthetic similar to Rogue One and Solo, feeling much like a bigger budget film than a streaming series. The first shootout as Mando set out to rescue The Child was wonderfully atmospheric and tense, featuring excellent action and choreography. The even bigger closing shootout was definitely worth watching for this alone, with a heavy Western influence. The episode also further explores the SW mythos which many fans will have been waiting for. Super battle droids and a Separatist starfighter make a welcome appearance, along with the Jango Fett inspired armour and a nice wink to the originals with the “I’m your only hope” line!
Verdict
Great pacing, tense shootouts and an intriguing set up for the midseason arc makes “The Sin” a definite highlight in the big budget Star Wars series so far. With stars Giancarlo Esposito’s Moff Gideon and Gina Carano’s Cara Dune yet to debut, there’s definitely a lot to look forward to!
Rating
