The Mandalorian has set a new precedent by challenging a long-standing rule within the Star Wars franchise. Widely regarded as one of the most acclaimed series in the Star Wars universe, The Mandalorian’s success can be attributed to its fresh perspective. Unlike previous narratives that centered around the Skywalker lineage or the overarching themes of the Jedi and the Force—despite some notable cameos—the show delves deeply into the lives of Mandalorians. At its heart, however, is the poignant father-son relationship between Din Djarin and Grogu.
This unique approach was already indicative of The Mandalorian’s innovative spirit. Recently, during an interview with Empire Magazine, Tony Gilroy, the showrunner of Andor, revealed an unexpected way in which The Mandalorian has pushed the boundaries of Star Wars tradition. He remarked:
“When we started on Rogue, there were things that we couldn’t do at all. You couldn’t have a bathroom! Then they had a bathroom on Mandalorian.”
This revelation sheds light on the franchise’s previously unspoken design restrictions, particularly the fact that the inclusion of a bathroom in The Mandalorian marked a significant departure from the norms established in earlier films and series.
Breaking the Rules of Star Wars
George Lucas’ Intent vs. Practicality
While we can appreciate and respect that George Lucas established rules for the Star Wars universe to maintain its foundational integrity, some regulations have strayed into the realm of absurdity. For instance, declaring bathrooms off-limits is an impractical guideline, especially in a galaxy that remains active and vibrant, regardless of its lore. This is not the only peculiar restriction that has been lifted in recent Star Wars productions.
In a similar vein, the latest series, Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, also defied conventions by introducing a paper scroll discovered in a pirate hideout. While Lucas aimed for futuristic elements like digital data pads, did it really warrant an outright ban on paper?
Analyzing Star Wars Regulations
The Evolution of Rules
The recent trends in productions like The Mandalorian and Skeleton Crew demonstrate that Star Wars is moving beyond the rigid constraints of its earlier days. During the inception of the original trilogy, Lucas had valid reasons for instituting strict guidelines—he was navigating uncharted territory in the cinematic landscape, and a meticulous approach to world-building was essential.
Ultimately, it is hard to criticize his stringent methods; after all, no one could have predicted the monumental success that Star Wars would achieve. However, with the franchise now firmly established and thriving, creators can afford to relax these antiquated regulations. The inclusion of bathroom facilities in The Mandalorian may seem trivial, but it is actually a reflection of how far Star Wars has progressed over its nearly five-decade history.
Source: Empire Magazine