Disney/Lucasfilm
The Star Wars celebration Japan officially kicked off with a crowd-pleasing fuss as Lucasfilm unveiled the first footage from the Mandalorian and Grog, the much-anticipated next chapter of the faraway Galaxy. The presentation held the main stage of the convention with Pedro Pascal, a major presentation and some serious crowd energy.
The event marked the first realistic look of the film directed by Jon Favreau, which was a hit in cinemas on May 22, 2026 and marked the first Star Wars theatrical release since 2019 The Rise of Skywalker.
A completely new adventure begins
Appearing on stage with Lucasfilm’s President Kathleen Kennedy and Star Wars creative lead Dave Filoni, Favreau, gave fans the film’s first official bullying, including action-packed footage and some surprises. “We’re trying to bring about a pleasant feeling. It’s the most enjoyable job you’ve ever had,” Favreau said, highlighting the tone they aimed for throughout the project.
In the first clip shown, Din Djarin invades the AT-AT with consecutive shots, taking out Snowtroopers with blasters, Flamethrowers and his full weapon. Filoni was also shown in the set photos behind the AT-AT controls. “Look at Dave and see what he’s doing at work,” Favreau joked. “By the way, he’ll get paid for it,” Fironi replied, “I do it!”
The subsequent montages teased more sights. Rolling off a snowy cliff, using the water to Grog, and a mysterious arena shot that reveals Jeremy Allen White’s character as Lotta in Hat wins the battle. Of course, Grogu is eating a galaxy-friendly version of Popcorn in the crowd.
Sigourney Weaver joins a distant Galaxy
Among the biggest releases is Sigourney Weaver, confirmed as a major new addition to the Star Wars universe. The Weaver character dressed up the X-Wing pilot is reportedly bringing an authority figure that clashes with the independent nature of Din Djarin. “When I saw (The Mandalorian), I fell in love with all the characters, especially this guy,” she said on stage, moving on to Pedro Pascal. “And of course, Grog stole my heart.”
Weaver spoke of his entry into the franchise, saying it started with a Zoom call from Favreau and Filoni. “There’s someone I fell in love with. Of course, I can say that Grog stole my heart. And I just saw him in the green room. He looks a little nervous, but he wants to come here.” After a while, a life-like animatronic Grog appeared with applause of joy, giving the audience a wave of shyness.
Pascal re-evaluates his role as Dingjarin in his participation in the franchise from the start. “I will never forget my first day sitting with John and Dave in the writer’s room, and I remember seeing the best visual storyboards I’ve ever seen.
Weaver repeated the emotional energy of the room. “What a thrill to meet you all here. It’s so exciting. Why are you doing it and that’s for everything you do.”
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“Homecoming” in Star Wars
Favreau also noted the importance of hosting a presentation in Japan, citing the country’s deep impact on George Lucas and the Star Wars Saga. “When I think about Star Wars and what influenced Star Wars, it’s closely tied to Japanese film, Japanese culture and traditions,” he said. “When I come back here, it feels like I’m homecoming.”
The Mandalorian and Grog were the first Star Wars film to hit theaters in seven years, representing a unique twist in the evolution of the franchise. Move one of the most successful Disney+ series into a full-fledged theatrical experience. The film is expected to include characters such as Ahsoka, Star Wars: The Rebels, and was born in the planned fourth season of The Mandalorian.
As Favreau explained last year, “To go back together, have the scale and scope of a big screen, tell the characters and stories people already know in new adventures… this is an opportunity to reach out to a whole new audience.”
Expect the first trailer for The Mandalorian and Grog to fall anytime.
