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#mandalorian analysis
you-fuckin-judas · 1 year
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Chapter 18 : The Mines of Mandalore
a discussion of Din walking into the living waters, and what that means for him
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Din has devoted himself and his life to the Creed, without question he is unwavering to it.
However, he's been labeled as an apostate for removing his helmet to reveal himself to Grogu. He knows he has to bathe in the Living Waters to be forgiven, to almost be reborn and given another chance.
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We will also add that he really needs to be forgiven, because he is also the holder of the dark saber.
That meaning he's officially the RULER of Mandalore, so he needs to be redeemed to decide his future parts in history as a Mandalorian.
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There's also a moment when he gets saved from almost drowning in the living waters, where we look the Mythosaur literally in the eyes.
The Mythosaur is THE symbol for the Mandalorian lore, it's almost like it pulled Din down into the water and anointed him. Which IF that's true that is HUGE.
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This moment was so beautiful to watch and genuinely knocked the wind out of me because we all know how important of a task for him this was.
It's easily one of my favorite moments from the series so far, and I hope that we get to see things turn up for Din!
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qulrikkek · 8 months
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I think we don't talk about this scene enough, so let's dive in:
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Earlier episode 5 establishes that Din and Bo had grown closer to each other, while staying at the Covert:
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There's plenty of space so there's no need to sit so close to each other unless they've grown closer.
Now back to this scene where the Armorer asks Bo to remove her helmet.
She was hesitant, and we rarely see Bo being hesitant about anything.
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Now ask yourself why? Why was she so hesitant here?
Why wouldn't she want to get rid of her helmet? Not so long ago, she called Din's tribe a cult because of keeping their helmets on.
So what changed?
She lost her home. Din offered shelter. Then she *accidentally* joined his cult.
It's not indicated anywhere how much time passes between episode 3 and 5, but I would say at least a few weeks, if not a couple of months.
So why wouldn't she be relieved to receive the chance of removing her helmet?
You could say, well because she would become an apostate in the other's eyes, and therefore would be thrown out of the Tribe.
But, the Armorer refutes that by explaining "Bo Katan is walking both worlds."
But she is not concerned with the others, at least not at first. Her whole attention is hanging on Din's reaction.
She's afraid of losing his respect, and his friendship they had forged during their time together in the Covert up until this point.
She seems to want to say something in her own defence, but can't, because there's nothing. Instead, she's pleading with her eyes. (Katee's acting here is phenomenal)
This moment is about whether or not Din will reject her for taking off the helmet, like her Nite Owls rejected her for not getting the Dark saber.
And we know, that he not only doesn't reject her, (like he did in the past at their first meeting), but he joins to help her seek out her fleet.
From this point on, Bo is looking for his approval, and support.
Continuously!
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It's so intriguing to watch how much she comes to rely on Din.
Then the pledge scene:
She's completely taken off guard.
She didn't expect him to support her after revealing how she surrendered, which inevitably led to the Night of a Thousand Tears.
This time Din goes beyond the simple nod of support by pledging his undying loyalty.
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This marks another turning point in their relationship.
*Don't even try to tell me this isn't romantic as hell!!!*
It's clear where their relationship is heading.
She even says it:
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Gif credit to: @enidsinclair
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ladyzirkonia · 1 year
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Until your song is written.
I must shamelessly take this opportunity to thank you all. Yesterday I reached 100 followers and I can't believe that there are so many people who enjoy reading my stuff. I would like to take this opportunity to open my question and request box. Don't be shy to send me questions or ideas you want to discuss, whether it is Dinbo stuff or something about Mandalorian culture.
This is the way.
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The scene starts with a completely shattered Bo-Katan. You can tell that she has to pull herself together not to burst into tears. Her confession about the night of a thousand tears and the memory of it seem to torment her. She hears Din approaching and tries to compose herself by briefly closing her eyes.
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I think Din apologizing to Bo is one of the most beautiful things in this scene. He admits once again in this season that he was wrong. Din Djarin knows no false pride and has no problem admitting mistakes. And he admits what's been said about her being selfish and uncaring isn't true. It seems to have touched him that Bo-Katan gave up the darksaber for her people, gave up the claim to the regency.
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Din steps up to her after she repeatedly blames herself for everything. He tries to build her up, not downplay what she did or what happened, just making sure that he wants to help her. He says: ''WE will rebuild it.'' A foreshadowing that you both should bring the future for Mandalore?
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She doubts herself, still. She has made so many mistakes, mistakes that are unforgivable, that she cannot undo. How is she supposed to be the one to hold her people together in all the animosity?
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Din repeatedly makes it clear that this weapon means nothing to him and his people. I think it's really ironic that so many have a problem with Din giving up the darksaber. He just doesn't care. It's just a story, a legend that doesn't matter until people believe it. And he also makes it clear what really matters to him, he basically tells us what it means to him to be a good Mandalorian.
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When Din mentions the term honor, she seems to sigh slightly and raises her head. She's heard those words from him too many times. For a short break it seems that his words are bothering Bo-Katan. Honor... This is the way. It seems to be a constantly repeating mantra.
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Din appreciates Bo-Katan's loyalty and character. These things that have been most important to him since we saw him first time in season 1. And Bo seems to appreciate his words as you can see a very faint smile on her lips. It's good to hear such words after years of being reminded of her failure by others.
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That's why I serve you Lady Kryce. After this words I really think Din Djarin's love language is act's of service as he showed many times to different people who he cared for. He is not a man of many or fancy words, but of deeds. So what's a better way to show his affection than to offer his services to her. She doesn't have to go through this alone, he wants to stand by her side.
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Bo-Katan turns her head to him after his words. It's obvious that she wanted to hide her feelings before and remained with her back to him. Now she shows him her face for the first time in this conversation. Din Djarin has managed to amaze her time and time again, and her expression softens because of his words to her.
Din gives her hope. Your story is not over yet. Her song is not yet written. The Mandalorian's main musical theme sounds in the backround. He begins to weave his fate irreversibly into hers.
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I know some people have wrote, more or less jokingly, that this could be Din Djarins wedding vow. But it's not that exaggerated and ridiculous. We must not forget that the Mandalorians are based on a clan system of warriors. If Mandalorians are one thing, it's very pragmatic. Marriage is consummated between the two partners alone and in any place. Just before or after a fight, the couple doesn't even have to be in the same place. The marriage can even be consummated via voice or text messages. (if you are interested in this kind of topic, please tell me!!)
Honor and loyalty means everything to Din. He would not lightly pledge his life to someone. It means exactly what you suspected, he stands by her side until death.
Screenshots are mine. Gifs made by the wondeful @itberice. Please go and leave a follow and some love there!
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Analysis: Dinbo Parallels between “The Heiress” and “Guns For Hire” also featuring "The Sanctuary"
This analysis marks my initial contribution to the Dinbo fandom, as I simply couldn’t contain my brainrots any longer. Below, I’ve outlined the intriguing parallels I’ve observed between these two episodes, both directed by Bryce Dallas Howard.
(I hope you like reading cause this is a long one but I hope my fellow Dinbo shippers would enjoy this brainrot)
Frog Lady and the Couple from Plazir
In a captivating discussion by @noorhal on this youtube video focusing on Dinbo, parallels between Bo-Katan and the Frog Lady were explored. Both characters share a similarity: they are the last of their family lineages. Bo-Katan herself highlights this fact during her introduction to Din.
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In Trask, significant meetings unfold for both the Frog Lady and Bo-Katan. Just as the Frog Lady encounters her husband, laying the foundation for her family’s continuation, Bo-Katan crosses paths with Din. It’s not just the Frog Lady who found her significant other on that fateful day at Trask.
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Howard employs another couple in “Guns For Hire” to echo the dynamic between Din and Bo: The Duchess and Captain Bombardier. This married pair rules over a domed city akin to Mandalore, with the Duchess representing royalty while her husband does not share her status. Exactly like Din and Bo; she’s Mandalorian Royalty while he is a Foundling.
And what’s interesting is that, both of these couples-the Frog Lady and Her Husband and the Duchess and her Husband, both looked after Grogu as both Din and Bo went on a mission together. Coincidence? I think not.
The Quarren and Mon Calamari
Another compelling parallel between “The Heiress” and “Guns For Hire” lies in the presence of Quarren and Mon Calamari characters in both episodes. Interestingly, these characters also reflect the evolving dynamic between Din and Bo.
In “The Heiress,” these two species are depicted as siblings. When Bo comes to Din’s rescue aboard the ship and Din pleads for Grogu’s safety, Bo’s reassurance—“Don’t worry, brother, we’ve got this”—underscores their Mandalorian kinship. Their relationship is rooted in camaraderie and mutual respect, devoid of romantic undertones.
However, in “Guns For Hire,” the Quarren and Mon Calamari are portrayed differently; they are not siblings but lovers facing an impending separation. This shift suggests that their relationship has evolved since their initial appearance in “The Heiress.” From the Mandalorian brotherhood dynamic, their bond has transformed into a romantic connection, albeit one that will be constrained by external circumstances.
The Darksaber
The closing moments of the “Guns for Hire” episode resonate with a subtle yet significant exchange between Din and Bo-Katan involving the Darksaber. As Din offers her the legendary weapon, there’s a palpable tension in the air, underscored by the deliberate slowness of their movements. Bo’s slow acceptance of the Darksaber from Din’s outstretched hands, coupled with his nod of acknowledgment, speaks volumes about the unspoken understanding and chemistry between them.
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It’s noteworthy how Din, despite his reluctance to possess the Darksaber, diligently safeguards it, like the shifter ball cherished by Grogu, hoping one day to return both of them to their respective owners. He understands the significance of the saber to Bo-Katan. When Paz attempted to claim the Darksaber, Din fiercely defended it.
In “The Heiress,” Din initially shows little interest in Bo-Katan’s quest to reclaim the Darksaber from Moff Gideon. Despite her plea for his assistance, Din remains focused on his own priorities. However, in the closing moments of “Guns for Hire,” Din returns the Darksaber to Bo, fulfilling her long-standing desire and Din playing a huge part in achieving it.
Banter and Eyes
In “The Heiress,” Bo-Katan’s gaze holds a certain intensity when she looks at Din, hinting at intrigue or perhaps even attraction. Despite Din’s affiliation with a sect that she despises, Bo persists in urging him to join their mission to reclaim Mandalore. Her unwavering desire for his involvement suggests a level of fondness or admiration, even before witnessing his combat prowess firsthand.
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The banter between Din and Bo-Katan in “The Heiress” crackles with tension, particularly when Bo changes the terms of their agreement. Her mocking delivery of “This is the way” leaves Din momentarily speechless.
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In “Guns for Hire,” Bo’s demeanor towards Din retains a hint of the attraction evident in “The Heiress,” albeit with a softer, more tender undertone. Their banter remains, but it’s devoid of the sly mockery present in their earlier encounter.
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Regrettably, the episode doesn’t afford us a glimpse into Din’s point of view, leaving us to wonder about his feelings towards Bo. However, the subtle shifts in their dynamic—from playful banter to a more sincere exchanges—suggest a growing connection that transcends mere partnership.
Flashbacks to Being Saved as a Kid
In “The Heiress,” a visual parallel unfolds as Bo rescues Din, their hands interlocking in a gesture reminiscent of a pivotal moment from Din’s childhood. This evocative imagery reinforces the idea of Bo as a savior figure in Din’s life, echoing the past trauma he endured and the subsequent salvation he found in Mandalorian culture.
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Similarly, in “Guns for Hire,” another callback to Din’s childhood trauma is subtly woven into the narrative. Bo’s method of dispatching the battle droid mirrors the manner in which a similar droid was neutralized during Din’s rescue as a child.
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The scene where Bo assists Din, helping him to his feet, further reinforces their connection. As their hands interlock once more, the camera lingers on the gesture.
The Sanctuary
Now let’s weave the themes of these two episodes to another episode directed by Howard in Season 1-Episode 4, “The Sanctuary”
In that episode, we encounter Omera, a potential love interest for Din. Interestingly, parallels emerge between this episode and “The Heiress.” In both instances, Din is presented with an invitation to stay or join a community, but his responses reveal nuanced differences in his character development.
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With Omera, Din’s refusal to stay is resolute, rooted in his belief that he doesn’t belong. However, the episode hints at his underlying desire for connection and love, albeit conflicted by his adherence to the Mandalorian Creed and the dangers of his chosen profession or way of living.
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In contrast, Bo’s offer in “The Heiress” carries a different weight. While Din doesn’t immediately accept, his response isn’t a flat rejection either. He acknowledges his current obligations with the Child but leaves the door open for the possibility of joining Bo in her cause in the future. Bo’s willingness to wait for him underscores her respect for his choices and her understanding of his priorities.
This theme of commitment and prioritization continues in subsequent episodes in Season 3. In “The Mines of Mandalore,” Din reiterates his need to fulfill his obligations before going with Bo. “I cannot go with you until I fulfill my obligation.” I don’t think that’s just a reply to Bo’s offer to take him back to his ship in Kalevala. It’s hinting at something more.
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By the time “Guns for Hire” rolls around, Din’s presence alongside Bo on their mission to find her fleet speaks volumes. Without explicit confirmation, it’s evident that he has accepted her offer, joining her in her plans to reclaim Mandalore.
The Evolution of Din Djarin’s Priorities and Commitments
Throughout “The Sanctuary,” “The Heiress,” and “Guns for Hire,” Bryce Dallas Howard skillfully illustrates a theme: the evolution of Din Djarin’s priorities and commitments. In Season 1’s “The Sanctuary,” Din’s paramount concern is ensuring the safety of the Child while remaining true to his creed and his job as a bounty hunter. Despite hints of his yearning for love and family, these desires remain secondary to his duties.
As the narrative progresses into “The Heiress” in Season 2, Din’s focus shifts towards reuniting the Child with its own kind, while maintaining his dedication to his creed and his newfound duty as the Child’s guardian. Though the bond between them deepens, Din remains hesitant to fully embrace the idea of the Child becoming his family.
However, “Guns for Hire” marks a significant turning point. Despite the absence of a clear transition scene between The Pirate and this episode, Din’s unwavering support for Bo-Katan’s mission to find her fleet speaks volumes about his evolving priorities. While he was not explicitly tasked with this mission, his decision to accompany Bo demonstrates that her cause has become his own, and his commitment to her is unwavering.
Whether Bo asked for his assistance or he offered it willingly, the underlying truth remains unchanged: Din’s loyalty lies with Bo, and her priorities have become his own. This subtle yet profound shift in allegiance underscores the depth of their bond and Din’s willingness to prioritize their shared goals above all else.
In “Guns for Hire,” subtle yet significant cues suggest a potential shift in Din Djarin’s openness to romance. Through his ongoing training of Grogu and his growing acceptance of the concept of family, Din demonstrates a newfound willingness to embrace deeper connections. The thematic elements of love are reinforced by the planet’s name, “Pleasure,” and the presence of two couples intertwined with the narrative. Additionally, the reminder from the droid that “life is short” displays the fleeting nature of time and the importance of seizing opportunities for connection and companionship. These subtle hints, woven seamlessly into the episode’s fabric, suggest that Din may now be more receptive to exploring romantic possibilities in his life. Beyond mere fan speculation, this narrative development reflects the skillful storytelling of Bryce Dallas Howard and the talented writers behind these three episodes, they are geniuses.
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lux-ishii · 1 year
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We and the Mandalorians were wrong about the Darksaber.
The legends of this sword talk about how it's meant to unite all Mandalorians. For some, it's just a lightsaber, heirloom, fancy tool, or symbol of power. But in reality, it's something created with the use of the Force. Force is important here. If you watch Star Wars you know it exists no matter how much some characters will say they don't believe it is.
The Darksaber was never meant to be the symbol of power. It belonged to the first Mandalorian Jedi. Someone who unites two worlds that fought each other for centuries. It was the ancient Mandalorians who gave this saber a different meaning, but it was its creator and the Force that gave the Darksaber purpose.
All the bad/hating comments you can see about the Darksaber plot being useless, or wasted potential are blind to those facts. I will say it just in case, I'm not a fan of how the Darksaber ownership was carried, BUT I do see the bigger picture here.
Favroni didn't want the Darksaber to carry the brutal legacy of ruthless Mandalorians, they wanted to show the true purpose of the Darksaber, the peaceful, uniting one. And the truth is, if not for the Darksaber, all of season 3 wouldn't take place.
Let's say, Bo fights Gideon, and she gets the Darksaber. Din and her telling each other goodbye, he goes to Boba, etc, and wants to be redeemed. What now? Hypothetically:
He drowned in the Living Waters or died because of that Borg creature.
There was a war between Gideon and Bo's forces that weren't that successful because she herself never reached the full potential in that scenario.
Several members of the covert get eaten daily.
Nevarro is occupied by pirates.
Ang so on…
The Darksaber was in Din's hands for a reason, but it wasn't the reason to make him the next Mand'alor, because that is what was adopted over the years when Mandalorians tried to define their own rules of what it means to be a Mandalorian. Din got it for its real reason to unite himself and the others. To put him on a path with his fellow, lost Mandalorian Princess.
Bo and Din lived different lives. Yet, they both are Mandalorians. It is often mentioned how the two groups hate each other. We can even see the hostility on screen. There are constantly reminding us how Mandalore fell because of their own divisions. New Mandalorians, Death Watch, Maulorians, Resistance Warriors, Children of The Watch… Shattered like stars in the galaxy.
Bo-Katan was the first one to break the circle of the constant battle over the power of the Darksaber. We now know she didn't want to challenge Din Djarin for the saber, even if she knew at the stake was everything she worked for. Bo saw beyond the brutal nature of the Darksaber's legacy, beyond the tool that in its signature brought death and power. She saw a human behind it.
With that, the Darksaber lost value for her. She said herself, that she was not sure if that blade will be enough to unite them all. Bo lost all the glorification she had for that weapon. Back in season 2, she was confident that with the Darksaber she will restore Mandalore to its former glory, but now she knows the Darksaber is not special when it comes to power. Because it's people that matter.
Her refusal to take the blade, or challenge Din was a catalyst for restoring the actual way of Mandalorians. The way of unification. From now on, her and Din's life was bound by the Darksaber. Just like the first owner Tarre Vizsla was bound with Mandalorians and Jedi.
The Force will find its way, always. Even if they don't believe in it. But the blade itself rejected Din, on purpose. He never wanted it and it was not his destiny. However, because he got the blade, it triggered a chain of events that resulted in his and Bo's lives crossing together, this time for good.
At the point when it didn't matter to both Din and Bo, the Darksaber was nothing, yet it was everything. As time passed Din and Bo grew to know each other, respect, and understand. They, Mandalorians of two opposite ends, working together, spending time together, being a great team, being stronger together.
They both learn from each other what it truly means to be Mandalorian. And it's not bloody fights every night, it's not killing your own people over differences. It's the care for family, for their tradition, their legacy. It has always been the care about Mandalore and its people.
The blade united Bo and Din, which brings us to a bigger picture here.
The blade won't unite all Mandalorians. But it united Din and Bo, who now are examples for everyone else to see that despite their differences they can work together. It is the relationship that they both developed with each other that is an example for others. Their actions, and what they represent. Both of them see beyond the Darksaber, they see the value of the people behind them. They ditched the fighting nature the old way and restored the blade's true purpose, making Din and Bo the contrast of reason against years of wars that led them to this point.
TLDR; The Darksaber is now uniting Mandalorians not through power, but through real noble values that should be the core of the new age for the Mandalorians. Its (Darksaber's) conflict united two opposite souls that are now the fundament for the future of Mandalore. The weapon was never about power or death, and Bo and Din restored its former purpose even if they aren't aware of it.
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strawberryvulture · 7 months
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give me a satine kryze who hates her father. give me a satine who was her father’s greatest failure. give me a satine who was an embarrassment to him. give me a satine who has not forgiven him. give me a satine who is not entirely sad that he’s dead. give me a satine who was just a child. give me a satine who is angry. give me a satine who survived.
give me a satine who understands that her father embraced pacifism toward the end and doesn’t care. give me a satine who cannot forget his war-mongering. give me a satine who inherited a tainted name. give me a satine who spits on her father’s grave.
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garden-bug · 4 months
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Luke's inner conflict surrounding attachment and the Jedi code from my Dinluke fic
“Love and compassion are the Jedi way.” “But not family.” Luke is again stabbed by that brief, painful conversation. Sometimes moments of it will play out in his head and it’s as if he’s there again, except in his mind he stays and doesn’t leave, and he has an answer for Din when he says that the Jedi way is incompatible with the Mandalorian values of family.  “Luke. It's normal to be afraid for the people you care about, but that doesn't make it okay to push human connection away. Yes, it might be hard to figure this out as a Jedi, but what you're doing right now is avoiding your fear, which isn't going to make you any less afraid or the reality that bad things do happen any less painful.” Leia has always been wiser than him. “I believe the Jedi lost their way. Instead of dealing with how we felt in a healthy way, we were encouraged to push our fear and anger away, and many of us, Anakin included, bottled it up. He was… scared of something, and nobody helped him, or reassured him, because it was about your mother and he’d broken the Jedi code to be with her.” Ahsoka became completely disenchanted with the Jedi. And Luke doesn’t blame her — not after what she went through. It’s no wonder she struggles to associate herself with the name. In her view, the Jedi failed his father, she failed his father — even though there was nothing anyone could have done to prevent him from turning to the dark side.  He… he would never have made the choice his father did. If it came down to it, if it was Din in his mother’s place — “I can’t choose you, I can never choose you. Can you really tell me you understand that?” Din brought a hand up to his helmet. “I don’t know.”  What did Din mean then? He didn’t know if he could understand putting someone above everyone and everything, including what you believe in?  “Had she said the word, I would have left the Jedi Order to be by her side.” And even Ben. Why would he have had to leave the Order?  The point is — It all comes back to — Leia.  “…what you're doing right now is avoiding your fear, which isn't going to make you any less afraid or the reality that bad things do happen any less painful.” He wants to make Din understand, maybe by pushing him down and kissing him, because why the Force shouldn’t he love someone like that? Yes, it’s terrifying, but he’d sure rather love Din and have that than end up like Ben (sorry, Ben) who for some reason had the idea that loving someone equalled selfishness and destroyed your ability to put anything or anyone above the person you love and therefore was the antithesis of the Jedi code. “Attachments lead to pain, pain leads to suffering. The path to the dark side, it is.” But Yoda didn’t mention that pain is caused by fear of loss. Fear of loss is a result of one’s inability to accept that loss is part of life. Attachment does not mean love. Attachment means… a desire for control over things in life that cannot be controlled. Being tied to them. And as much as Luke loves Din he would never want to be tied to him in that way. As a Jedi, Luke must love with acceptance that everything he loves he may one day lose. Otherwise, he risks following in the footsteps of his father. Can he do it?
Further:
Context for the story: Luke is trying to rebuild the Jedi Order, falls in love with Din (who decides to embrace being the Mand'alor after being inspired by Luke), has a terrifying vision that his attachment to Din will lead to pain, and pretty much runs away to Leia on Coruscant where he tries to figure the whole thing out.
Ahsoka has gone anti-Jedi because she had a traumatic experience and still blames herself and everyone for what happened to Anakin. This is a character flaw she may or may not overcome in this story.
When Din says "but not family" implying that he believes family goes against the Jedi code, he is in the wrong and later feels immensely guilty because 1) it's mean (he was upset) and 2) his idea of family is mightily messed up, having been raised by a cult. The extremity of the guilt he feels is, though, irrational, because he has a lot of issues and he was having a panic attack in the scene where he reflects on what he said which messes up your judgement (source: personal experience).
I will revise this section because I don't think it represents Obi-Wan's feelings for Satine (I'll need to think about this more):
he’d sure rather love Din and have that than end up like Ben (sorry, Ben) who for some reason had the idea that loving someone equalled selfishness and destroyed your ability to put anything or anyone above the person you love and therefore was the antithesis of the Jedi code.
Luke fully recognises here that Anakin's own choices led him to becoming Vader. (Something Ahsoka still struggles to accept.) If this is not something you agree with please DNI with this post or with me, because I will not change my opinion.
Save for that, I would absolutely appreciate any comments or insight (I may not take them into account, but I'd be interested to hear them anyway because I want to offer as rich an insight as I can into this issue and discussion is super great for that). Also I think I might have clarity issues in this passage so if anything is unclear feel free to let me know (kindly - I am human).
Also important: I am NOT writing a Luke who 'gives up' being a Jedi because omg Din Djarin! They are both incredibly interesting characters in their own right with their own beliefs that are integral to who they are and I intend to do them as much justice as I can.
If you read the story (which I will link below) please be aware that it is a first draft and therefore I don't feel that it perfectly expresses all of the messages I want to get across. Still, huge thanks if you give it a try!
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corellianhounds · 3 months
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Analyzing The Mandalorian’s Motivations — “The Heiress” Criticism
Part I / Part II
Word Count: 2k
I have several issues with how Mando is characterized in Season 2 of the show, and some of the most concise examples come from actions in “The Heiress” and “The Rescue,” which have parallels in their ending fights and character takeaways. In Season 2 it often felt like the end result the writers wanted dictated how certain plot points had to be accomplished without taking into consideration what the characters logically should have done in the situations that came up based on their prior scenes and established characterization. It didn’t feel like Mando’s reasoning, choices, or personal motivations were explored or exemplified, so his agency as a character was put to the side in favor of meeting certain plot beats (though he wasn’t the only one).
The biggest conflict of this show is the fact that being a Mandalorian makes Din susceptible to danger at every turn, which he feels is no life for a kid to be a part of, and the longer the things he holds dear are in proximity to each other (him being a devout Mandalorian vs. keeping a mostly helpless Force-sensitive child), the more he’s in danger of losing one for the sake of the other. Both are at the core of Mando’s internal conflict, which sets up the biggest question of the series: “If forced to choose, which will be more important to the Mandalorian in the end?”
That gives us an overall objective of Mando needing to give the child to somebody else so the kid will be safe and he can continue to be the kind of Mandalorian he aspires to, even if it means he and the kid will be separated as a result. That internal struggle should dictate each of his smaller choices within the individual episodes because at this point in their story he doesn’t see any other way for him to have both.
For some reason, Season 2 felt like the writers missed the obvious reason Grogu needs a Jedi teacher. Mando needs to find a Jedi to train the boy so that not only will Grogu be safe (and presumably happy) with a person who better understands him as a Force-sensitive child, but so Grogu will be able to defend himself when he is alone. It’s important to remember that the Jedi code wasn’t just a belief system and way of life, it was also a martial art.
Even if Din were to keep the child and protect him to the best of his ability, he knows his own past as a hunter and his reputation as a Mandalorian make the child a target by association (to say nothing of the Empire and whoever they send after them, though he won’t know those are still a threat until later). The child does not age at the same rate humans do, and Mando knows there’s no guarantee he’ll always be around to save him. Even if he survives to old age with the child by his side, he doesn’t know if the child will be mature or capable enough of even caring for himself, especially if he doesn’t grow to be much bigger than he is now. Grogu needs to learn self defense and strengthen his skills if he is to ever have a chance at surviving those he outlives. Din has to reckon with the fact being the best Mandalorian he could be isn’t enough to keep the child safe on his own (which is another inner conflict we don’t get to hear about from him).
We never hear Din’s perspective on his quest outside of “This is what I was told to do,” which makes him a character the story is happening to instead of him driving his own narrative. The external goal is good because it means we get to see him struggling to keep the child at arm’s length, knowing he’ll have to give him up and not wanting either of them to be hurt by that separation, but Mando needed to have that internal motivation because it ties directly back to his main objective. Yes, the Armorer tasked him with returning the child to his own kind, but it was not only because she understood the importance of him being raised with his own culture, it was because the child is virtually helpless if his strength and control over the Force is inconsistent like Din has seen.
Without that internal motivation, Mando ends up not having much choice in where the story goes, making his character in the second season weaker as a result.
So now we’ve clarified his overarching goal and given him a more driven role and perspective in the story. Everything that follows should be a result of his active ambition in achieving it, which brings me back to his choices in “The Heiress.”
This episode introduces the idea of different Mandalorians having different customs/placing importance on different aspects of the code, but has Din choose to set those thoughts regarding ritual aside in order for him to receive information now that he realizes he’s so close to getting it (showing us him prioritizing the child over himself). What we didn’t get and what we should have gotten to see was Mando more visually desperate to achieve the episode’s tasks in exchange for the connection Bo-Katan has directly to a Jedi. The internal conflict of the episode now comes down to “What is Mando willing to compromise on to achieve his goals, and how far is he willing to deviate from his own code to get it?”
The main external conflict the writers/show-runners initiate but don’t resolve is Mando’s problem with Bo-Katan not sticking to the terms of their contract. Bo-Katan changes the terms of the deal midway through the heist, having kept her real motive from him the whole time. His character has no reason in these circumstances to honor the deal that she broke first, and I think his willingness to continue with the heist in order to get the information deviates too far from another seldom-explored, nuanced character trait of Mando’s: while he does give everybody at least one chance, if they prove to be a continued threat or refuse to back down, he reacts with swift, decisive justice.
This should have been the point in the episode where her actions were the last straw; she put him in a much more dangerous position and proved by her deception that she was using him. This should have been the point he said “No.”
I made a post before talking about Gor Koresh that puts Mando’s actions into perspective, but there are plenty of examples in every episode to back up the fact Mando has a tipping point. That’s a good thing. Yes, it’s admirable how much Mando shows restraint, but there has to come a point where your characters refuse to do something because otherwise they’re just a pushover and a doormat. Characters shouldn’t have to say yes to everything, and they should be able to make decisions that result in the story becoming more difficult for them. His choice here, outside of saving his own skin so he can guarantee being able to get back to the kid he is responsible for, should be to let Bo-Katan experience the consequences of her actions. He should have refused to let her be rewarded for her deception. He doesn’t have to shoot her to prove a point, but he certainly doesn’t have to help her.
If he’s willing to let their dishonorable actions slide, what else would he be willing to let others do at the expense of himself without holding them accountable or without them receiving the consequences they deserve? What aspects of himself will he compromise? I’m not even talking about compromise in the choice to take the helmet off in “The Believer,” I’m talking about who he is as a person.
Bo-Katan changing the terms of the deal reveals to the audience that she knew he wouldn’t have agreed to do the job in the first place because otherwise she would have told him at the beginning. Hijacking the entire Empire ship is intensely riskier and poses a danger to himself and by extension the kid if he doesn’t make it back. She gets him onto the ship and only reveals her intentions midway through, thinking she’ll be able to coerce him because they’re both Mandalorians.
That should have been the moment Mando decided the cost of this job outweighed the reward because if she was willing to deceive him about this, what reason does he have to trust her at all? She could have simply lied about having any information about a Jedi to begin with, or could withhold the information once the job’s done. Season 2 has several episodes with the theme of honoring one’s word being what marks somebody as a good Mandalorian, or at least as an ally Din can trust. Cobb Vanth, the Tuskens, the Frog Lady, later Boba and Fennec all have story elements that relate to the idea of honoring one’s word.
What Mando should have logically done based on what we’ve seen of him up to this point was tell Bo-Katan “No deal. I’m done. I’ll find the information I need elsewhere.” And then we see him jump off ship.
This has two major consequences to the show’s story moving forward.
• One: Mando doesn’t receive information about the Jedi and will have to find it somewhere else, a cost he is willing to take because staying with Bo-Katan would have meant putting himself at undue risk, with the possibility of her having lied about ever having the information at all. As it stands in canon, he’s forced to allow somebody he thinks SHOULD be honorable to reap the benefits of their dishonor, and what does that say about his character’s sense of justice in the end?
• And two: Bo-Katan’s heist fails, losing her the shipment (and potentially, in her eyes, the information about Moff Gideon she could have gotten if Mando had continued to the cockpit with them to interrogate the Imperials), meaning Bo-Katan’s already established antagonism would have pushed her into open animosity, pitting her against Mando as an enemy. That makes for a much more interesting and compelling narrative conflict Mando has to overcome in the finale when he has to convince her to join him, which would heighten interpersonal tensions and have the audience truly not know whether or not Mando is going to succeed in the end.
It also sets up a stronger villain for Mando after Moff Gideon is defeated. The show already presented Bo-Katan as an antagonist, and it would have made more sense to lean into that especially with the conflict over the Darksaber coming up at the end.
When Mando goes to her in the finale to recruit her for the ambush, Bo-Katan initially refuses anyway. I don’t have reason to think she entirely cares about Mando’s kid because her actions in the heist put him at risk. He is the sole caretaker and provider for the kid, and being willing to risk his life as collateral shows she only cares about Mando insofar as he’s willing to do what she says. With that change to “The Heiress,” each of them becomes a more strongly written character and he now has to make a more compelling argument to get her in the finale. It’s still the fact he knows exactly where Moff Gideon is that wins her over.
Their interpersonal conflict comes to its Act III at the end of the finale when it’s revealed Mando won the Darksaber in combat, and to add insult to injury Mando offers it up in forfeit in front of witnesses, so now she can’t even challenge him to a duel; people will know he never wanted it in the first place, meaning they’ll assume he’d throw any fight the two of them have. It’s the perfect setup for Mando’s next primary antagonist.
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sol-insidious · 6 months
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“Din Djarin’s identity as a Mandalorian will always be central to his character, and his devotion to his orthodox religion, warrior’s creed, and its chivalrous code of honor is a truly noble one.”
and
“Din Djarin’s devotion to his creed has fundamentally isolated him from love, his role as The Tribe’s breadwinner was as unsustainable as it gave him purpose, and the fierceness of his faith stems from unprocessed trauma and the guilt he feels as an orphan and a foundling. His views on what it means to be a Mandalorian were narrow until he met others who didn’t conform to his own creed, and in this, his status as an voluntary oathbreaker is equally as integral to his character.”
…are both takes that co-exist in my mind.
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awholelottayeehaw · 1 year
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Din vs Bo as a Leader
I've seen people say that Bo is the rightful ruler of Mandalore and owner of the darksaber and deserves to lead and I'm genuinely curious to hear from others as to why that is because I'm having a very hard time seeing that point of view. Semi-spoilerish for people who aren't up to date but I kept it vague enough to not be a problem I don't think.
Since CW and Rebels, Bo has continually made choices that negatively impact the people around her. She's a morally gray character who has a list of war crimes on her rep sheet that honestly makes some real life bad guys look green and it baffles me that people want her redemption to be easy. I'm not saying she should never be redeemed, I genuinely believe people should have the chance to turn over a new leaf cause being human is hard, but how she's acting and being treated in Mando feels like a middle finger to those her actions caused harm to. Like she can be sad about her sister all she wants but she willingly joined a terrorist group who spelt it out for her that they planned on publicly executing Satine and followed the orders of two Sith lords, and she didn't see that as a deal breaker. Being sad over that is like being upset that you got shot in the foot when you fired the gun yourself when you continue to make choices that negatively impact others. And this season alone Bo hasn't tried to be a leader to her people, she cared more about the title and the weapon it comes with than actual democracy. She wields it well, yes, but so did Sabine who taught her how and gave her the weapon despite not knowing how badly Bo has fucked up with it in the past. The moment the darksaber was in Din's hands and she lost her crew, she didn't try to scout Mandalore and find other Mandalorians to help her with her decades long failed plan. She didn't try to put any plans together with outside help to achieve her goal or even try to establish a new territory for her people to be safe on until they can find a way to make Mandalore a livable again. She was never an active leader, just someone who craved leadership and believed was owed it because of her birth right and that reflects in the selfish choices she's made while in a leadership position, which include harming Din and Paz. She didn't lead her people into the siege and trap that awaited them, Din did. He shouldered and strong armed his way through and was willingly going to sacrifice himself if it meant a safe planet for his people and foundling. And she wasn't the last out, Paz was, and for that his clan suffered major losses. She had focused more on weapons and supplies for her fleet and siege than the actual people who would help her achieve her goal, and not once has she discussed what she planned on doing once Mandalore was safe for all Mandalorians again. Reuniting and rebuilding isn't the same as establishing a political system that benefits the well being of her people with the promise of a stable economy, fair societal roles, establishing an intergalactic democracy to avoid what Nevarro went through, and combining the differing traditions/beliefs the remaining Mandalorians have to not favor one over the other and unintentionally cause a civil war. Each time she's gained leadership it's always met with mixed support, often not universally, and has led to her downfall three times now for a reason.
Just the same, I've seen people argue that Din doesn't want to lead/rule and isn't the kind of man who'd be a good leader and I strongly disagree. Since the first episode, Din established himself as a selfless character even if it irritated him to be accommodating. He still tried to compromise with the Jawas, didn't turn his back to Frog Lady needing a ride, was willingly going to sacrifice himself to a Krayt Dragon for people he had just met and entrusted with Grogu, went head first into every battle even for people who didn't deserve it (Ran's Crew), was everyone's Ride or Die at least once, became multilingual which was used more to keep the peace than to gain information on his quarries, and has united and mediated more unlikely foes to friends than anyone else in the SW universe. Even if his actions originated with a selfish need (gaining Boba's armor back for Mandalorians, exchanging his services for info on where Mandalorians/Jedi are for Grogu, etc) he still went above and beyond because it's the honorable and right thing to do and his compassion has earned him friendships across the galaxy and allyship on every planet he's visited whereas Bo can't get even her own people behind her without a legendary sword in her hand. You can't tell me all the people Din met on his journey WOULDN'T lay down their lives for him if he asked?? Paz already did despite Din's choice to rescue Grogu despite unintentionally causing a massacre because Paz recognized the selflessness behind Din's choice that carried over to Paz's own foundling and that is what gained his respect and allyship. Din hadn't asked for anything in return, and his own motive for moving the covert was so that their children could play in the sun and the future generations can flourish. I'm fairly certain even Sorgon would join forces whether it's to take care of Din if he had a bad head cold or taking back a whole planet for him. Same with Peli and her droids, Tusken Raider survivors, Freetown, Boba and his syndicates, Frog Lady and her hoard of warrior toddlers, Karga and the grateful people of Nevarro, Ahsoka, and Miggs Mayfield. We've made jokes about Din accidentally making friends all over the galaxy for a reason. He's so selfless that he never saw himself worthy of his Creed, of being Grogu's father, of being a leader when everyone else has told him otherwise. Din's view on leadership reflects his own self esteem wrecked by his cult and it would take everyone he's ever helped to make him see that he is the leader that the galaxy needs to reunite not just The Mandalorians, but all the people and their planets I mentioned. Leadership comes with a burden for Bo, but for Din, it comes with the strength and camaraderie Bo has only ever dreamed of having and that The Armorer overlooked because of her narrow, traditional views. And this is a side comment, but Din mastered riding the stubborn Blurgg after Kuill made fun of him for not being able to conquer it when Mandalorians rode Mythosaurs into battle. Din riding a Mythosaur would be a great call back to that and would gain more respect as a leader than just having the darksaber. In my opinion.
I genuinely hope Bo comes to these conclusions herself and recognizes that Din is more deserving of the role than anyone else and passes the darksaber back to him and helps him see his potential than just saving the day yet again from the very gun she shot everyone with. Redemption for her starts with letting go of the very thing that's plagued her her whole life and leadership is recognizing when you need more time before you can be the example people need to be the best versions of themselves. This isn't a Bo hate post or any stan post, this is a fan post who wants a fair redemption arc for Bo and a chance for Din to rise up to the best version of himself he's capable of being. So yes, I want to hear everyone's thoughts whether you agree or disagree that doesn't involve Bo being the rightful heir or wanting her redemption cause you like her as a character. I want to hear deeper reasons than surface level motives, cause as I said, your favorite hurting over the consequences of her decades long actions she never learns from isn't a good enough reason for her to lead or have the darksaber but I'm down for any other explanations people have regardless if you're a casual fan of the show or lifelong SW fans like myself.
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The Evolution of Din as a Father
One of the things I love about The Mandalorian is how you get to see the relationship between Din and Grogu grow.
I know we talk about how much of a dad Din is in some of the earlier episodes (particularly Eps 1-3) but actually I think that there is a change in Din's attitude towards Grogu: from a natural instinct to protect him to actually viewing him as his own child.
I've spoken before about how Din has always had a soft spot for kids and that he naturally feels quite protective of them. In some ways this is just a natural response of people to look after those who are vulnerable, but I do believe that a lot of it also comes from his background and Mandalorian culture.
Din is initially protective of Grogu because he is young and vulnerable. He knows that someone is going to have to look after the little guy and he takes on that role. I don't believe the reason he went back for Grogu is because he instantly thought "this thing is my son now" but because he couldn't leave an innocent child in the hands of those people. It would be against his moral code to do so.
And it stays this way for a few episodes. Din agrees to help Grogu because he wants the child to be protected, to return to his family/home. He didn't necessarily go into this with the attitude of a father but the attitude of a protector. He didn't just decide to become a dad on the spot.
But over time, he begins to view Grogu as his own. Those natural protective instincts begin to grow into more fatherly ones. The way he views his relationship with Grogu shifts.
For me I believe this begins to happen during the time skip in Chapter 4. Before then I think that Din was making sure that an innocent child didn't get hurt, doing what he was given the job to do. But spending time on a quiet backwater planet with the child allowed his attitude towards him shift. And from then on I think that's where the real father-son dynamic begins to develop.
It becomes even more prominent in season 2. There is a very clear change as Din starts viewing Grogu as his own child. The sacrifices he makes for him become greater, his attitudes towards protecting him become much more personal.
I actually love that we get to see this relationship grow. And yes, as I mentioned earlier, we definitely talk about Din being such a dad in the first couple of episodes, but actually watching the show I love how Din becoming an actual father to Grogu doesn't feel so unnaturally sudden. It isn't a case of looking at Grogu and thinking "he's mine now" (as much as we love to joke about this). It's the changing feelings that are so beautiful.
The flow from "I will protect this child because it's the right thing to do" to "you know what, having him around actually brings me comfort" to "I don't want to think about a life without him in it".
It's such a good narrative because it actually grows. We see the progression across the series and I love how natural the progression of Din and Grogu's relationship feels.
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mydearestblue · 11 months
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I’m just so in love with Bo-Katan
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ladyzirkonia · 1 year
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Bo-Katan showing the way she would be as a queen.
I don't want, but I can't stop because of these beautiful GIFs we're getting.
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Princess Bo-Katan Kryce defending the foundling Din Djarin in front of the other Mandalorians is just so wonderful.
The Bo-Katan who used to make fun about his cult and way of life, this woman defends him, honors his way of life. He belongs to them, he belongs to her, he is no more or less Mandalorian than any of them. She unites people, she tries to create mutual respect.
And the way she smiles at him after that, the way her eyes get soft when she turns her head to him and the way her eyes opens up is just heartwarming.
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And Din... sobbing under his helmet (I really would like to know what he's doing under his helmet at this moment). Because no one in his life has ever stand up for him and his honor like that.
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bellejolras · 1 year
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well uhh… im glad we’re all on the same page? 🫠
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wisefoxluminary · 7 months
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So I've been having a think about where they could take Ragnarr Vizsla in future seasons. Now that Paz is dead, I think we are set up for an interesting arc for Ragnarr for season 4 of the Mandalorian that I don't think anyone is talking about. The last time we saw Ragnarr, he was standing side by side with Axe celebrating the liberation of Mandalorian and it very well implies that he'll take in Ragnarr as his foundling as a way of honouring his father and his sacrifice. He'll become a honorary Nite Owl which means he will earn the right to walk both ways. He will embrace two sets of Mandalorian ideals and cultures and that'll help him overcome his grief for Paz and take on more of a leadership role within his Mandalorian sect. I think this has been established a lot with the way Ragnarr takes the other children inside when the nite owls first arrive in Nevarro, just like Paz when he led the other Mandalorians greeting Din and Bo. The foundlings trust him and follow his lead. Paz was a fearless warrior and I think wee little Ragnarr has what it takes to surpass him and possibly become a great leader and fighter himself. Remember the big rousing speech Paz gave in the caves, I think Ragnarr has what it takes to follow that legacy. I'm sure he would have learned a lot from Paz when he raised him and he probably became a role model for Ragnarr, someone to look up to as a leader and somewhat inspire to become later in life. With Axe's training, I'm sure Ragnarr will grow in strength and be able to defend himself if another monster tries to capture him. I think this training will shape Ragnarr into becoming a capable fighter in his clan and that will drive him into making impulsive decisions. When Bo or the other Mandalorians work together on a mission, he'll want to tag along but others will opt for him to stay out of danger because they think he'll suffer just like his dad. It's not until Din and Grogu come back that he starts to sneak onto their ship and take part in their great escapees and missions. Din doesn't scold Ragnarr, he doesn't tell him to go home, no, he sees the potential in Ragnarr and how he reminds him so much of his fallen brother. So my theory is that throughout season 4 and beyond, Ragnarr will grow into a more respectable and selfless leader like Paz who uses anger as a tool against his sworn enemies and he'll grow more confident and stronger as a result. There is so much potential for this character that can't be passed up as he has a long legacy to live up to and I want to see that explored in depth in future seasons.
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superectojazzmage · 1 year
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As a final note tonight, I’d to note what a wonderfully bizarre yet nightmarish and perfect addition that weird biomechanical Thing in the latest Mando episode was. Not just from a design perspective in how it manages to be so fucked up and perversely WRONG while still looking recognizably like something from Star Wars and hauntingly realistic despite its strange-as-hell design, but also how it’s just… not explained. What was that fucking thing, why was it on Mandalore, why was it trying to drain Din’s blood like that? They just don’t say. No hints or anything. It’s this thing that just… exists.
And that helps make it scary, because Mandalorian has been pretty low on that kind of completely inexplicable, almost-Lovecraftian, “you cannot understand don’t even try for your own sake” horror. Nearly everything in Mando so far has been identifiable as a pre-established thing in the Star Wars universe and its decades-worth of worldbuilding and lore that I love so much. And then out of nowhere they just throw in this baffling monster like nothing you’ve ever seen, like something out of your nightmares. And they say nothing about it, just present it and move on. Maybe someday in the future, a later SW story will mention it and give it a backstory or something (one that makes it even more horrifically fucked up probably) but for now, it’s just… there.
I love it.
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