Sci-fi show has old-school charm Western vibe to gun-slinging fun

directors – which includes Jojo Rabbit’s Taika Waititi – create a western-inspired world befitting the lead gunslinger.

Similar to Karl Urban in Dredd, bar one brief moment, Pascal’s face is covered by a helmet the whole time but he still manages to express his feelings as his tough exterior is often betrayed by his caring soul.

Carl Weathers (Greef Karga) is terrific, Nick Nolte (Kuiil) and Werner Herzog (The Client) try to out-growl each other, Gina Carano (Cara) is the most bearable she’s ever been and Giancarlo Esposito ( Moff Gideon) gives a tantalising glimpse into a potentially classic Star Wars baddie.

However, truth be told, as the hype suggested, Baby Yoda – or The Child as he’s actually known – does steal the show; it’s not often an instant meme is born but you can see why in this instance.

While very different from John William’s iconic Star Wars score, Ludwig Göransson’s flute-heavy soundtrack is perfect for these smaller scale, lived-in surroundings.

While one or two episodes are unnecessary to the overriding story arc, they still keep you entertained and never outstay their welcome.

We find out a decent amount about our antihero and his world but there are also plenty of unanswered questions and enticing teases for the inevitable second season.

It’s true to say Star Wars fans may get the biggest kick out of The Mandalorian but it works just as well as quick-fire, harmless family entertainment.

● What are your thoughts? Is The

Mandalorian a return to form for Star Wars or does it belong on the Dark Side of the Force? Do you have any shows or movies you’d like to recommend people watch?

Pop me an email at ian.bunting@ reachplc.com and I will pass on your comments and recommendations to your fellow readers.