After a theatrical run that fell short of expectations, “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” is now available for digital rental or purchase. This move comes roughly two months after its release in theaters on May 22nd, marking a significant shift for the film’s availability.
A Box Office Blunder?
While “The Mandalorian and Grogu” managed to gross just over $344 million against a reported budget of around $165 million, breaking even is hardly cause for celebration. Expectations were high for this first Star Wars theatrical release since 2019’s “The Rise of Skywalker.” Unfortunately, the digital release solidifies its position as the lowest-grossing live-action Star Wars movie to date.
For those eager to experience the adventure with Din Djarin and Grogu from the comfort of their homes, the film is available for rent for $24.99 or purchase digitally for $29.99. Both options include access to a range of digital extras, including behind-the-scenes featurettes and audio commentary.
The story follows Din Djarin and his young apprentice Grogu as they navigate a galaxy where the Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered. The fledgling New Republic seeks their help to protect everything the Rebellion fought for.
What’s Next for the Franchise?
One of the featurettes included with the digital release hints that “The Mandalorian,” as its own series, concluded in 2023, raising questions about the future of the franchise. The movie effectively replaced a fourth season of the beloved Disney+ show, which we were consistently fans of. It remains to be seen where Pedro Pascal and baby Grogu’s journey will continue.
The film’s box office struggles began in its second weekend, with an over 60% decline in theater attendance. Critics haven’t been much kinder, with the movie currently holding a 60% Critics Score on Rotten Tomatoes, narrowly earning a ‘Certified Fresh’ status. IGN’s own 5/10 review argues that the film doesn’t add anything substantial to the Star Wars universe, with Tom Jorgenson simply writing, “This is not the way.”
Despite the mixed reception, the film is receiving a full DVD release, including a standard Blu-ray and a 4K steelbook, alongside a fancy collector’s edition for $220. These are up for preorder and set to hit shelves on August 7.
The Broader Star Wars Universe
In the meantime, there’s no shortage of upcoming Star Wars projects under the Disney banner. The animated series “Star Wars Visions” is getting its first spin-off, “The Ninth Jedi,” on Disney+ next month. And fans won’t have to wait long for another live-action Star Wars movie in theaters: “Star Wars: Starfighter,” starring none other than Ryan Gosling, is slated for a theatrical release next May.
When Will It Hit Disney+?
Eventually, “The Mandalorian and Grogu” will join the rest of the Star Wars universe on Disney+. While a Star Wars movie hasn’t been released in theaters since Disney+ launched in late 2019 (a bit of timeline gymnastics!), Marvel movies typically take about 90 days to arrive on the service. Assuming Lucasfilm follows a similar timeline, Disney+ subscribers can likely expect “The Mandalorian and Grogu” to land on streaming by early September.
Blythe (she/her) is an Audience Development Coordinator at IGN who, when she isn’t following streaming news, spends way too much time in character customization screens and tracking down collectibles.
Source: IGN Gaming
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