For years, fans have argued over the perfect way to introduce someone to the Star Wars saga: chronological order, release order, or something in between? Now, Lucasfilm President Dave Filoni and The Mandalorian co-creator Jon Favreau have finally settled the debate—and their answer might surprise you.
In an exclusive interview with Collider's Steve Weintraub, the duo behind the upcoming Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu shared their thoughts on the best viewing order for new fans. Filoni, who has been deeply involved in the franchise since The Clone Wars, emphasized that there's no single correct path. "There's no wrong way," he said, though he added with a smile, "I wouldn't second-guess the maker."
Favreau and Filoni's approach is refreshingly simple: start with A New Hope (Episode IV) and let curiosity guide you. "When I saw A New Hope, I was like, 'Dad, it's Episode IV. How did we miss three of these?'" Filoni recalled. "Well now, literally, you can start in Episode IV and say, 'Oh, would you like to start with one? Here it is,' which kind of blows my mind."
The conversation also delved into The Mandalorian & Grogu, which was originally conceived as Season 4 of the hit Disney+ series. Favreau revealed that the project shifted after the work stoppage, leading to a new script designed as a standalone theatrical experience. "We wanted this to be an understandable enough standalone experience, so that if a fan wants to bring somebody who may not be as familiar, they'll still have a good time," he explained.
Filoni, now at the helm of Lucasfilm's creative direction, sees the film as an entry point for a new generation. "It's an entry point, right? Because we don't want you to feel, like Jon said, you had to catch up on all these other series and shows," he said. The movie will feature familiar faces like Zeb from Star Wars Rebels and Rotta the Hutt from The Clone Wars, but Filoni insists these aren't mere Easter eggs—they're organic parts of the galaxy. "I don't think of seeing Tusken Raiders on Tatooine as Easter eggs; that's just where they live," he noted.
The film stars Pedro Pascal as Din Djarin, with Sigourney Weaver joining as Colonel Ward and Jeremy Allen White as Rotta the Hutt. Set after the fall of the Empire, the story follows the New Republic recruiting the legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter and his apprentice, Grogu, to help rebuild the galaxy.
Favreau and Filoni also touched on the future of Star Wars across film and television. With Filoni's promotion, fans can expect a more cohesive narrative that ties together series like Ahsoka and The Mandalorian. "All of it is informed by the larger story," Favreau said, hinting at interconnected threads that reward longtime viewers without alienating newcomers.
For those looking to dive deeper into the franchise, 10 Flawless 2010s Movies That Hit Every Beat from Opening to End Credits offers a masterclass in storytelling, while Why These 8 Action Movies Get Even Better With a Rewatch highlights films that reward repeat viewings—much like Star Wars itself.
Ultimately, Filoni and Favreau's message is one of inclusivity: whether you're a lifelong fan or a first-time viewer, the galaxy far, far away has room for everyone. As Filoni put it, "If you enjoy this movie, the world just opens up to you."
