Season 3 of The Mandalorian is starting to hit its stride with the fourth episode, directed by Carl Weathers, delivering some great moments for Star Wars fans. Chapter 20: “The Convert” was mostly centered on the next generation of Mandalorian warriors and the challenges they must face at a young age.
After a bit of a break from Din Djarin and Grogu’s journey with the extended Coruscant arc in Chapter 19, it was nice to delve deeper into how Din, Bo-Katan, and Grogu interact with other Children of the Watch, without a major, pressing mission for all of them to attend to.
As per the title, this week’s episode was centered on the foundlings Grogu and Ragnar overcoming unique struggles. We now know that Ragnar is the son of Paz Vizsla but, this episode did a great job of setting up what could be an interesting ally/training partner for Grogu to learn alongside.
Grogu’s Order 66 rescue
The episode started with Din Djarin forcing Grogu to test himself against the young Vizsla. Ragnar got the better of him initially, but, when encouraged, Grogu showed his superior reflexes, turning the tide and causing his opponent to storm off in defeat. Unfortunately, Ragnar walked right into the claws of a winged pterosaur, prompting nearby warriors to tail the creature back to its lair.
While Grogu was “too young” to accompany the Mandalorian rescue party, the Armorer took this time to help the small Jedi overcome his trauma by spending time around the forge. As she began crafting new armor for him, Grogu took this time to reflect on his escape from the Jedi Temple and we got to see how it all unfolded.
Grogu was escorted to an elevator by multiple Jedi who all gave their lives in protecting him. Undoubtedly, the biggest moment of the episode was the reveal of who was waiting for him on the other side. Ahmed Best. The former Jar Jar Binks actor made his return to the Star Wars franchise, but this time as a bad-ass Jedi named Kelleran Beq who really got to shine on-screen.
Wielding dual lightsabers, the Jedi showed great proficiency and instincts to deflect blaster fire back at the clones, buying them the time they desperately needed. Kelleran Beq and Grogu then weaved through coruscant on a speeder, which was reminiscent of Obi-Wan and Anakin’s high-speed chase. Ultimately they reached a squad of guards, who gave them the time, and ship, needed to jump to hyperspace.
While it is still unclear what caused him to separate from the youngling, Grogu’s escape from the Jedi temple was a question that everyone needed an answer to.
The Creed’s highest honor
Bo-Katan Kryze is continuing to become more and more impressive in this New Republic era. While her capability in combat was already well established, her biggest criticism from other Mandalorians was her leadership skills, as many blamed her for the Great Purge.
But, in this episode, she showed that she may yet have what it takes to reunite her people. Demonstrating excellent adaptability and initiative in tracking down Vizsla’s son and acting quickly to form a solid rescue plan. Bo-Katan demonstrated a natural command, when given the responsibility, and also got plenty of respect for being a new recruit.
During their efforts to scale the mountain, Bo-Katan was shown to be more and more curious about the ways of the Children of the Watch, asking questions about their customs and sticking with them, better understanding what it means to live among them.
Upon reaching the nest, Paz Vizsla’s hastiness forced the Mandalorians into an aerial battle with the pterosaur, where they managed to free the foundling. The creature put up a good fight but, “a bigger fish” came along and snatched the winged beast into the depths of the lake. We saw a more vulnerable side to Paz Vizsla after the fight, who thanked Din for helping his son and the pair finally put their beef to rest.
The Armorer informed Bo-Katan that her efforts in helping the group are greatly appreciated, bestowing her the Clan’s highest honor for her leadership in rescuing the foundling, Ragnar Vizsla.
The Mandalorian Chapter 20 verdict
Episode Rating: 8.5/10
This episode had the shortest runtime of the season so far, but the quality did not drop. We finally got the answer to Grogu’s past we have been waiting years for. With his connection to the force and his past now intact, we could see the youngling reach new heights with his powers. Also, the return of Ahmed Best in Jedi robes was a welcome one, with many viewers hoping to see more of the actor in the future.
With all that to look forward to, Bo-Katan also seems to be coming away from the episode with renewed confidence. Successfully leading the rescue of Ragnar Vizsla and receiving praise from the entire clan. The Mandalorian royal now seems more intent than ever on becoming a leader. Choosing the Mythosaur’s sigil for her pauldron and revealing that her thoughts still dwell on her encounter with it.
Once again, we must patiently wait for the next installment to find out if Bo-Katan will return to Mandalore. We saw great character development all around in this new chapter and hope for more of the same in the next episode, directed by Peter Ramsey.