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.
My introduction to Nate Dogg goes back to Dr. Dre’s 1992 debut, The Chronic, and the song “Deeez Nuuuts.” Even then, something about Nate’s voice set him apart from everybody else. He wasn’t just singing on rap records. He was bringing soul, gospel, street knowledge, and West Coast cool into the same space. He set the standard for hook singers in hip-hop, and dare I say, he’s still vastly underrated.
For this week’s Slow Jam Saturday, I wanted to give Stevie Wonder his due as he prepares to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his masterpiece, “Songs in the Key of Life,” on tour. While the easy choice could have been “Knocks Me Off My Feet”—a classic that still resonates fifty years later—I chose “From the Bottom of My Heart,” the second single from his twenty-third studio album, “A Time to Love,” released in 2005.
It’s hard to believe that an iconic singing competition like American Idol has produced only two Black male winners in its more than two-and-a-half-decade history. Jamal Roberts made history last year when he won the show, following Ruben Studdard’s well-deserved victory in Season Two.