Star Wars Movie The Mandalorian & Grogu Draws Little Buzz Ahead of Release

One week remains until a new Star Wars movie arrives in theaters. The Mandalorian & Grogu marks the first Star Wars film in seven years to play at local theaters, assuming they remain open.

Nobody appears to care. The writer recalls growing up when fans lined up days early for new installments. Taco Bell ran promotions for months, including special Qui-Gon Jinn cups. People talked about little else for weeks.

Now, in 2026 and seven years after the last Star Wars movie, interest remains low. Fans excited for The Mandalorian & Grogu's worldwide release next week do not inspire confidence.

Early reviews have arrived, and many suggest Star Wars fans skip it. A headline calls Disney's first Star Wars movie in seven years another massive disappointment. It questions if fans care at this point.

Negative feedback outweighs positives, though some good reviews exist. The film faces heavy pressure, much of it unfair. Disney has largely mishandled Star Wars since taking over. The sequel trilogy proved a disaster. Most miniseries beyond a few have failed.

Nielsen data released last week shows viewers still tune into the original and prequel films. Disney succeeded with Andor, but little else.

The movie centers on the baby Yoda creature known as Grogu. Success could give Disney momentum. Failure would further distance fans.

Signs point to a flop. Even the criticized sequels generated more excitement.

The Andor showrunner has denied claims that the hit series is a left-wing political story.

Few discuss The Mandalorian & Grogu, the first Star Wars movie in seven years. This poses a major issue for Disney. Executives should worry.

Positive early screening reviews offer some balance. Fans may differ from critics once they see it, as often happens.

Still, low turnout from fans seems likely. That would be a shame.