The Mandalorian ushered in a new era of Star Wars, not only with its characters but also its unique timeline. This inspired other spin-off shows exploring the rise of the New Republic and the emergence of the First Order and more. The success of this concept has been strong overall, with Ahsoka claiming enormous popularity and interest.
The most recent show that was announced to explore this timeline was Skeleton Crew. Pitched as Goonies meets Star Wars, the show would follow a group of kids who go off on an adventure filled with bounty hunters, dangerous missions, and space mischief that would be a joy for all ages.
The idea of having children be the series’ main protagonists is a first for the live-action Star Wars universe. However, this was something that George Lucas initially thought of in The Phantom Menace, where he could have a more direct line to the intended audience with the young version of Anakin Skywalker. Making your series protagonists children has to be a deliberate choice that must be fully embraced for the project to work. The show must live off the charm of the colorful cast of kids and know what its audience wants. Skeleton Crew is boldly embarking on this, and thankfully, in the first few episodes, they are accomplishing just that.
The series follows Wim (Ravi Cabout-Conyers) and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith), two young students living on a mundane planet whose sole focus seems to be raising the next generation of scientists, mathematicians, and tech experts. Wim and Neel are joined by two fellow young students, KB (Kyriana Kratter) and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), when they discover a space cruiser buried in their planet’s desolate, heavily prohibited woods. They’re accidentally sent off in the middle of space, where they must now try and find a way home.
This is where Jude Law’s mysterious Jod Na Nawood comes in as a helping hand that can help guide the kids home safely. The story finds all its meat in the “fish out of water” adventure for the young crew. The joy is found in the chemistry among the kids as they are overwhelmingly confronted with killer droids, space pirates, and nasty spaceports. All of which is brand new to them as their planet was incredibly recluse and suspiciously separated from the rest of the galaxy.
Here, directors Jon Watts and David Lowery flex their expertise in working with young actors while capitalizing on massive sets and locations. They can brilliantly make each kid unique in their own right and establish a distinct Star Wars world that is more akin to Guardians of the Galaxy, with menacing alien pirates and frightening missions. The world is notably different from any previous Star Wars project, which may scare hardcore fans away.
However, embracing the massive divergence from the usual tone and feel becomes more accessible with each episode. In fact, cherishing this new take on the universe becomes a part of the fun. It’s a refreshing departure from previous Star Wars projects that is made all the more unique with its young leads.
Wim, Neel, Fern, and KB all have a special bond that feels real. They all bring noteworthy personalities that make them stand out from each other and make their interactions especially delightful. Fern is the strong leader, Wim is the bright-eyed and adventurous one, Neel is the jittery comic relief, and KB is the quiet and smart one who is an integral part of the team. Each young actor fills in a specific archetype that is a staple for these kinds of shows. These archetypes fulfill a tried and true formula that simply works.
The story can quickly fill out the background while the characters drive the emotion, humour, and investment from audiences. Once this is established, anything the crew confronts becomes more important for their relationships and individual goals. The comical absurdity the young crew faces is a blast. Each escalating moment only makes for more humorous bits that work to bring the kids together. Humor, naturally, becomes the driving force with a show about kids running away from alien space pirates. It’s a revitalizing head-first dive into the sillier side of Star Wars that is often disregarded or chastised.
Having a young group of actors to carry a Star Wars show is a difficult challenge, yet all four of our “Skeleton crew” deliver! Wim, Neel, KB, and Fern all bring undeniable unique charm. The story creates an open canvas for hilarious adventures and fun shenanigans our crew can enter. The show works because the kids bring that magic with their comedic timing, chemistry, and genuine heart that is felt across the screen.
Skeleton Crew is intended to engage young audiences, and so far, the show is doing just that with a relatable cast of characters that will make younger fans feel a part of the journey. So much of the success is found in the direction, with David Lowry’s episodes especially escalating the quirky playfulness of the series. Skeleton Crew may seem like it is for younger audiences, but it’s a good time for all ages. Every generation of Star Wars fans can enjoy the charming adventures of Skeleton Crew.
Rating: 9/10