Directed by Jake Schreier and written by Myung Joh Wesner, Star Wars: Skeleton Crew episode 5 continues its captivating adventure in Episode 5, where the crew sets their sights on the luxurious resort planet of Lanupa in search of legendary pirate captain Tak Rennod’s treasure. Once again, John Watts demonstrates his knack for blending ’80s sensibilities with a Goonies-inspired tone, bringing a refreshing sense of fun and adventure to the Star Wars universe.

At the heart of this episode is the theme of trust—who to trust, who not to, and the complicated dynamics in the Star Wars pirate world. With the support of the force-sensitive pirate Jod (played by Jude Law), the kids bribe their way into a planet famed for its top-tier spas and luxuries. A  favorite aspect of the show is how it makes the Star Wars universe feel more tangible and grounded. The characters seem less Shakespearean and dramatic, as seen in the prequels, and more relatable—almost like real people you could meet, with a sense of humor that brings the galaxy closer to our own.

Skeleton Crew continues to impress with its exploration of emotional depth, both in the broader Star Wars universe and among the characters. The episode opens with a poignant scene showing the kids’ parents trying to find ways to contact them, establishing the emotional stakes of their journey. From there, we follow the titular crew as they arrive at Lanupa. The crew’s search for Rennod’s treasure is marred by the growing tension between them and Jod. This tension is especially evident in a scene between Wim and Jod, where the latter tries to console the troubled boy. Through their interaction, we get a glimpse of Jod’s hardened nature and his “trust no one” mentality, while also revealing a more benevolent side of his character. Wim, still dealing with homesickness and uncertainty, opens up to Jod, who shares wisdom that echoes the Jedi Code: “No attachments.” This exchange deepens our understanding of Jod’s character and piques our curiosity about his past.

As the crew delves further into the planet’s treacherous caverns, seeking Rennod’s treasure, the strain between Jod and the crew becomes more apparent. The emotional stakes rise as the crew’s bond is tested, reminding us that while external threats loom large, their internal conflicts could be just as dangerous. This moment of introspection amidst the action provides a refreshing emotional pause, adding depth to an episode otherwise packed with high-stakes adventure. 

We learn more about Jod’s backstory when a new character, Pokkit (played by Kelly MacDonald), enters the scene. Pokkit, a bounty hunter and former lover of Jod’s, reveals to the audience that Jod is not just a fugitive but also someone with a morally ambiguous past. This revelation builds more distrust between Jod and the kids, especially as Pokkit reports Jod’s presence to the New Republic. Her arrival complicates Jod’s relationships with the crew, particularly with the younger members, who begin to question his true intentions. As Jod’s past catches up with him, we see him grappling with his former life and trying to maintain control over the crew, all while being hunted by both pirates and the New Republic. 

One of the episode’s highlights is the introduction of Cthallops, a green alien with a heightened sense of smell, who helps the crew escape from Captain Brutus’ pirate gang. This character brings much-needed comic relief and lightness to the episode, offering a fun counterbalance to the darker moments. Cthallops’ inclusion adds a sense of brevity that isn’t often seen in Star Wars, making him a refreshing addition to the series.

The crew’s journey takes a dramatic turn when they unlock a trap door, revealing the long-lost treasure of Tak Rennod—though not without danger. The trap door is covered in acid, adding a layer of suspense to their discovery. But just as things seem to be going well, Jod betrays the crew. Using the pirate code, he turns SM-33 against the kids, taking control of the crew and leaving them in a precarious situation. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, with the kids on the run, an enraged Jod wielding a lightsaber, and a group of pirates hunting them both. Meanwhile, SM-33’s erratic behavior raises concerns, leaving the crew’s fate uncertain. 

One of the most intriguing aspects of the episode is the ongoing mystery surrounding Jod’s character. The multiple names, shifting allegiances, and the complexity of his past create a

sense of uncertainty about his true motivations. Unlike some recent Star Wars projects, Skeleton Crew doesn’t tease out Jod’s backstory in a way that feels drawn out or contrived. Instead, the creators seem to have a clear vision for the character, allowing the mystery to unfold naturally. This sense of intrigue adds layers to the show, giving it a depth that feels more intentional than mere fan service. 

Overall, Skeleton Crew continues to impress with its blend of ’80s nostalgia and classic Star Wars adventure. The episode channels the action and spirit of ’80s classics like Indiana Jones and The Goonies, offering a thrilling, lighthearted adventure that feels distinct from other recent Star Wars projects. The only complaint is the occasional lackluster sets and CGI, which is a common issue in many modern Disney projects. However, this is still far more engaging than the recent Star Wars series, and it’s clear that Disney has taken cues from The Mandalorian in making the show feel unique. Where The Mandalorian blended Westerns with Star Wars, Skeleton Crew feels like a John Hughes comedy meets Star Wars—a welcome surprise that brings fresh energy to the franchise. 

Rating: 8.5/10