Pedro Pascal and Sigourney Weaver Discuss the Magic of 'The Mandalorian and Grogu'

After three successful seasons of the 'Star Wars' series 'The Mandalorian', the adventure continues on the big screen. 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' hits theaters on May 20, 2026, marking the first 'Star Wars' theatrical release since 'The Rise of Skywalker' in 2019. The film follows Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal, 51) and his adorable charge Grogu as they face remnants of the fallen Empire, tasked by former Rebel pilot Ward (Sigourney Weaver, 76) to protect the fragile New Republic.

In an exclusive interview, Pascal and Weaver share insights into their experiences on set, the unique challenges of performing with a puppet, and the enduring appeal of the Mandalorian's helmet. Pascal, known for his roles in 'Game of Thrones' and 'The Last of Us', dives deep into what makes Din Djarin such a compelling character. Weaver, a legend of sci-fi cinema thanks to 'Alien' and 'Avatar', brings her own gravitas to the Star Wars universe.

First Impressions on Set

Weaver recalls her first moment of truly feeling like part of 'Star Wars': 'It was the first set. A café bar. Everywhere pilots, aliens, Lucasfilm people. People who have been with 'Star Wars' from the beginning. Then a producer asked me, 'What can we send you?' I didn't understand at first. He meant fan merchandise. I said, 'Oh, I don't want anything.' At home I thought, how stupid was that? Later I did get some fan items that made my nieces and nephews very happy. They make me little Gouda Grogus and other silly things. 'Star Wars' connects. Especially Grogu.'

Pascal notes a significant increase in practical sets compared to the streaming series: 'Yes, noticeably more. Many viewers would be amazed how much was actually built. 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' is made for the big screen. The sets were detailed. The set where I shot most is among the most impressive of my life. I've stood on big sets before. The series had strong moments too, but this was another league. Director Jon Favreau aimed for IMAX, for scale, for cinema. It felt like the 'Star Wars' films of our childhood.'

The Puppet That Steals the Show

Weaver discusses working with Grogu, who is primarily a puppet operated by several puppeteers: 'I've worked with alien heads before, but Grogu is different. The puppeteers stood right next to me. I barely noticed them. He drew the eye so much. Even between takes he stayed in motion. That made him believable. I also tried to hide from Jon Favreau how much I wanted to play with Grogu. Not that I didn't want to play with Mr. Pascal. So I played double: my character and I pretended to be cool. That little one is irresistible.'

Pascal adds: 'A very disarming being.' Weaver agrees: 'Exactly the right word for him.'

What Grogu Made of the Mandalorian

When asked what Grogu has made of Din Djarin, Pascal is emphatic: 'A father. He adopted Grogu. There is no room for interpretation. They are father and son. His most important task now is to protect him. Grogu must be safe. He must learn to take care of himself — and yet stay close to Din. But nothing can really be controlled. Least of all Grogu. He possesses the Force, and it grows stronger in him.'

The conversation turns playful: If Grogu one day becomes a true Mandalorian warrior, will he wear a helmet? Pascal laughs: 'That face can't be hidden. That's no face for a helmet.' Weaver chimes in: 'Maybe he'll get his own helmet. More like a cap. But made of metal.'

Acting Beneath the Helmet

Weaver reflects on acting opposite Pascal when his face is hidden: 'It's interesting. Pedro brings so much warmth to his work. So much humanity. It comes through the armor. Anyone who knows the series knows you always feel a connection to him. It's strange. A face under a helmet can trigger a lot. And when he finally takes the helmet off, you almost wait for him to put it back on. That's not meant unkindly, but you know this character must wear the helmet.'

Pascal explains his perspective: 'From inside the helmet, I only see a tinted "T". Nothing more. I'm essentially staring at my own reflection. Eventually the visor fogs up. Maybe the other person mostly sees themselves too. But the helmet frees you. You immerse yourself completely in the fantasy. That silhouette says everything: a body in armor from head to toe. Then it doesn't matter what facial expression you make.'

The Icons of the Mandalorian

On what makes the Mandalorian iconic, Pascal credits George Lucas, Jon Favreau, and Dave Filoni: ''Star Wars' shows a very simple, very understandable conflict: good versus evil. Plus fantastic creatures, planets, and locations. The Mandalorians themselves have lost their planet.' Weaver adds: 'They are homeless.' Pascal concludes: 'And that's exactly what makes them moving.'

When asked about Jeremy Allen White ('The Bear'), who voices an alien in the film, Pascal says: 'A few scenes we were able to record together. But much is created in post-production. Then you work with whoever is available at the time.'

Background and Legacy

'The Mandalorian' series debuted in 2019 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. It introduced Grogu (affectionately known as 'Baby Yoda') to the world, sparking a wave of merchandise and memes. Pedro Pascal's performance as Din Djarin, despite being hidden behind a helmet for most of the screen time, earned him critical acclaim. The actor, who also starred in 'Narcos' and 'Wonder Woman 1984', has said that the role required him to convey emotion through body language and voice alone.

Sigourney Weaver, a four-time Academy Award nominee, brings decades of sci-fi experience. Her roles as Ellen Ripley in 'Alien' and as Dr. Grace Augustine in 'Avatar' have made her a beloved figure in genre cinema. Her character Ward is a former Rebel pilot, adding another layer to the rich tapestry of the Star Wars galaxy.

The film's director, Jon Favreau, also created the original series and has been instrumental in expanding the Star Wars universe on streaming. With 'The Mandalorian and Grogu', he brings his vision to the big screen, utilizing cutting-edge technology like the Volume (a massive LED wall) alongside practical effects. The result is a film that honors the original trilogy while pushing boundaries.

Fans can expect cameos from other characters from the series, including Greef Karga (Carl Weathers) and Migs Mayfeld (Bill Burr). The story delves deeper into Mandalorian culture and the political landscape of the New Republic. Weaver's character serves as a link to the Rebellion era, providing context for the challenges facing the galaxy.

In an age of digital effects, the decision to use practical puppetry for Grogu and many alien creatures has been praised. Pascal notes: 'The puppeteers are artists. They bring Grogu to life in a way that CGI sometimes can't. There's a realness that actors respond to.' Weaver agrees, adding that the tactile nature of the sets aided immersion.

As 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' prepares to open worldwide, anticipation is high. The film promises to be both a satisfying continuation for longtime fans and a accessible entry point for newcomers. With Pascal and Weaver at the helm, along with a dedicated crew, the Force is strong with this one.

Source: stuttgarter-nachrichten.de News