Skeleton Crew: The ‘Star Wars Goonies’ Show You’ll Love or Hate [Review]

Warning: The review ahead carries with it the gentlest of spoilers for the first two episodes of "Star Wars: Skeleton Crew."

Ah, the new Disney+ series "Skeleton Crew" emerges onto the scene, a curious addition to the ever-evolving tapestry of the "Star Wars" universe. In a time where the force wavers, with victories won and lost amongst the faithful, this latest offering treads a unique path, steering clear of ingrained expectations.

In the wake of "The Mandalorian’s" triumph, a series of live-action shows stirred diverse sentiments within the fandom. While "Rogue One" spinoff "Andor" found favor, others like "The Book of Boba Fett," "Obi-Wan Kenobi," and "Ahsoka" encountered discordant voices. Even "The Mandalorian’s" third season earned tepid praise, while "The Acolyte" spawned fervent debates.

Against this tumultuous backdrop emerges "Skeleton Crew," a whimsical tale tinged with nostalgia, led by a youthful cast under the banner of Amblin Entertainment. Yet, this venture is not the panacea sought by the fractured "Star Wars" community. Rather, it upholds a spirit contrary to the desires of a vocal faction, encapsulating a "The Goonies" meets "Star Wars" essence.

Following a spirited prelude culminating in a cosmic mutiny, "Skeleton Crew" transitions into the realm of 80s coming-of-age cinema. We are introduced to aspiring Jedi Wim, his extraterrestrial companion Neel, rebellious storyteller Fern, and tech-savvy KB. Patiently, akin to the crafted intricacies of "Stranger Things," the series fleshes out its protagonists prior to propelling them into a transformative odyssey.

Encountering a buried starship that catapults them across the galaxies, this pint-sized quartet embarks on an adventure of self-discovery. Armed only with a malfunctioning droid and enigmatic guide, they must navigate the unknown to find their way home.

Having been granted a glimpse of only the initial two episodes, such a vantage leaves me with a precarious stance in rendering judgment. Yet, based on this limited exposure, "Skeleton Crew" emerges as a serviceable addition to the medium of television. Surpassing expectations, the narrative captivates, the ambiance delights, while the cinematic quality shines through, a testament to the creators’ lineage with Marvel Studios’ “Spider-Man” trilogy. Embraced by the younger audience and possibly by select adults, it is a journey despised by those critical of the current "Star Wars" trajectory.

However, the execution of "Skeleton Crew" is not without its flaws. The melding of Amblin’s essence with the tapestry of "Star Wars" lacks finesse, at times veering too closely to Spielbergian aesthetics within the cosmic suburbs. Yet amidst this aesthetic discord, the audio-visual elements hold steadfast, with CGI and practical effects sustaining the narrative allure.

Unquestionably, the performance of the youthful ensemble could be improved upon, with occasional lines overshadowing character portrayal. An exception lies in Smith’s portrayal of Neel, a role exuding a naturalistic charm that punctuates the show with humor. In contrast, the burden of the narrative gravitates towards Law, Frost, and Condon, who expertly shoulder the dramatic mantle.

While the adult figures command attention, the crux of the tale rests upon the transformative journey from childhood to maturity, a path navigated deftly by Wim, Neel, Fern, and KB. Evoking elemental motifs of self-definition amidst familial expectations, the series resonates with timeless themes of individual agency.

In conclusion, "Skeleton Crew" stands as a deliberate homage to the classic 80s era of family cinema. Yet, set against a backdrop of fervent discord within the "Star Wars" universe, its arrival is unlikely to bridge the chasm that divides the devotees. Some shall reject it outright, driven by principle rather than merit. Such is the nature of grown-ups, their discernment often clouded by preconceived notions.

As "Star Wars: Skeleton Crew" streams on Disney+, unveiling new episodes weekly, the tale unfurls, a testament to the enduring saga that continues to captivate and divide in equal measure.