The LEGO Star Wars saga has long excelled in crafting parody with purpose, and the new four-part sequel, *Pieces of the Past*, masterfully continues this beloved tradition with a delightful blend of humor and heartfelt moments. Directed by Chris Buckley and penned by the inventive duo Dan Hernandez and Benji Samit, the series skillfully delves into the franchise’s fascination with history and legacy, while reminding us that everything in this galaxy can be reconstructed—piece by piece.
Gaten Matarazzo makes a triumphant return as Sig Greebling, radiating infectious enthusiasm that captures the spirit of adventure. Meanwhile, Tony Revolori’s portrayal of Darth Dev and Bobby Moynihan’s Jedi Bob create an engaging comedic dynamic, balancing shades of ominous menace and delightful buffoonery. The witty exchanges between Marsai Martin’s sassy Yesi Scala and Michael Cusack’s clever Servo add a sharp edge to the humor. However, it is Ahmed Best as Darth Jar Jar who truly steals the show, wholeheartedly embracing the absurdity of his character with unabashed glee.
The newcomers to the franchise shine brightly in their roles as well. Dan Stevens infuses his character, Solitus, with operatic gravitas, while Ashley Eckstein playfully deconstructs her own legacy as LEGO BrickHeadz™ Ahsoka. Ben Schwartz’s exuberant portrayal of Jaxxon brings pure comic chaos to the forefront. Additionally, Mark Hamill’s cameo as Luke Skywalker elevates the narrative with a sly charisma and a knowing charm that only he can deliver.
While not every joke hits its mark, the series successfully strikes a delightful balance of nostalgia, parody, and imaginative reinvention, making *Pieces of the Past* a brisk, engaging, and enriching viewing experience. Though constructed from plastic, the joy it imparts is undeniably genuine—solid as ever, and brimming with creativity.
Final Grade: B
“LEGO® STAR WARS: REBUILD THE GALAXY – PIECES OF THE PAST” is available to stream on Disney+ now.
Earlier this week, fans were excited when the trailer for Netflix’s upcoming sequel series, “A Different World”, was released. In response, I thought it would be fitting to pay tribute to Jasmine Guy’s self-titled album from 1990 for this week’s Second Listen Sunday.
Some jobs in music are difficult, but being asked to replace Smokey Robinson is another. When Robinson stepped away from The Miracles in the early seventies, Billy Griffin inherited a microphone attached to one of Motown’s most recognizable voices.
When I reflect on the summer of 1998, I was preparing for my junior year, while R&B seemed to be at a crossroads. Brandy and Monica were dominating the youth market with their blockbuster sophomore albums, while established male singers like Luther Vandross and Gerald Levert were comfortably settling into Urban AC.