Jon Favreau Discusses the Distinctions Between Crafting Star Wars for Television and Film

The Mandalorian took the world by storm when it debuted in 2019, captivating audiences with its perfect blend of sci-fi and western elements, not to mention the adorable animatronic character that fans affectionately dubbed Baby Yoda. Fast forward seven years and three seasons, and Mando (portrayed by Pedro Pascal alongside a skilled team of stunt performers) and Grogu (the creature’s true name revealed in season 2) are set to make their cinematic debut. Jon Favreau, the series creator who will also direct the upcoming film The Mandalorian & Grogu, has faced numerous challenges in adapting the story for the big screen.

At a recent Disney event, where new toys and merchandise for The Mandalorian & Grogu were unveiled, Favreau shared insights into the heightened expectations that come with directing a movie.

“With Star Wars, we have to execute at that tech level,” Favreau explained. “The challenge is clear: we’ve delivered a cinematic experience on the small screen, and now we need to elevate everything for the theater. This means utilizing taller aspect ratios for IMAX, constructing sets that maximize that space, and enhancing the visual effects to meet the higher standards. The storytelling also needs to evolve.”

The most significant hurdle, however, is crafting a Star Wars narrative that can hold the audience’s attention for around two hours (or however long The Mandalorian & Grogu ultimately runs).

“The adventure has to fill the screen and be compelling enough that, in a time when so much is vying for your attention, you’ll choose to go to a theater, sit down, and immerse yourself without the option to pause or grab a snack from the fridge,” Favreau noted. “It has to be such a great experience that you think, ‘This is worth my time. I want to see it again and bring others along.'”

When asked about the movie’s plot, Favreau teased a few details and promised more information would be coming soon:

“There are hints out there. He’s back in a Razor Crest, the ship he originally had, and Grogu has leveled up a bit. We saw him train with Luke, and time has passed, so he’s got some Jedi influence. Plus, he’s now an apprentice Mandalorian. It’s time for dad to take him on adventures, and soon there will be more clues out in the world.”

As for what’s next for Favreau in the Star Wars universe, he hasn’t made any announcements yet. However, with his friend Dave Filoni leading Lucasfilm, the possibilities are wide open. Favreau’s comments at the event suggest he might be ready to explore new horizons.

“I’ve been working on Star Wars for seven years now,” Favreau said, “and stepping up to do it as a film feels like a culmination of my efforts.”

The Mandalorian & Grogu is set to hit theaters on May 22, 2026.