Skeleton Crew Review: A Promising Start to a Star Wars Family Adventure (Episodes 1 and 2)

Disney+ has delivered a variety of Star Wars shows over the years, sadly with mixed reviews. With the anticipation for Skeleton Crew somewhat dampened by past experiences, expectations weren’t soaring. That being said, the first two episodes of Skeleton Crew have brought a refreshing and enjoyable tone to the Star Wars universe, blending adventure, humour, and heart into a captivating series that stands out from the rest!

All images courtesy of Disney

The Epitome of Family Fun

While Skeleton Crew is clearly targeted at a family audience, it avoids falling into the trap of being overly childish. The young characters are relatable, their humor feels natural, and the story resonates with both younger viewers and adults. The show has been aptly compared to classics like The Goonies and E.T., with an added Doctor Who-esque sense of galactic adventure that broadens its appeal.

One of the standout aspects of Skeleton Crew is its accessibility. Unlike many Star Wars shows, viewers don’t need prior knowledge of the Star Wars universe to fully enjoy the story. This makes it an excellent entry point for younger fans while also reminding longtime followers of the limitless potential for new stories in this expansive galaxy.

A Fresh Spin on a Galaxy Far Far Away

The plot revolves around two pairs of childhood best friends who stumble upon a hidden spaceship. The four kids inadvertently launch themselves into hyperspace, becoming lost in the galaxy. Surprisingly, no one—neither human nor alien—seems to recognize their home planet. After landing in trouble and ending up in jail, the group encounters a mysterious figure, Jude Law’s Jod Na Nawood, who offers to help them return home. But can he be trusted? And what will his help cost them?

New Characters Shine, A Future Fan Favorite Emerges

Although Jude Law’s star power has drawn attention to the show, his character takes a backseat in the first two episodes, leaving the young cast to carry the narrative. They do so impressively, bringing life and depth to their roles while effortlessly engaging the audience.

Among the standout performances, Neel shines as the heart of the group. His impeccable comedic timing and endearing innocence make him a likely fan favourite — not just in this series but potentially across the Star Wars universe.

Another highlight is Nick Frost’s portrayal of the droid SM-33. His unique voice and deadpan delivery inject additional humor into the episodes, making his character another memorable addition to the Star Wars droid lineup.

While we don’t learn much about Jod Na Nawood in these episodes, Jude Law’s enigmatic presence sets the stage for intriguing developments in future installments.

Top-Tier Direction and Production

If the captivating first two episodes aren’t enough to pique your interest, the star-studded lineup of directors for this season might seal the deal. With Bryce Dallas Howard—renowned for helming some of the best episodes in Star Wars TV—and Jon Watts (Spider-Man: No Way Home) directing the pilot, Skeleton Crew promises high-quality storytelling and production throughout its run.

Final Thoughts

Skeleton Crew delivers a strong, fun, and engaging start to its journey through the galaxy. The mix of humor, adventure, and mystery, combined with an impressive young cast and a family-friendly approach, makes it a must-watch. Whether you’re a longtime Star Wars fan or completely new to the franchise, this show offers a fresh perspective that is worth exploring.

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew is now airing weekly on Disney+