“Lego Star Wars Holiday Special” Review
Lego and “Star Wars” have been tied together for a little over two decades, and it doesn’t look like they are slowing down with their latest animation “Lego Star Wars Holiday Special.”
Taking place right after “The Rise of Skywalker,” the special features Rey as she begins to lose confidence in her ability to train Finn to be a Jedi. Setting off on her quest to find answers, the rest of the sequel trilogy crew comes together to set up a party for Life Day, the “Star Wars” equivalent to Christmas and Thanksgiving.
The about-50-minute-long show is filled to the brim with nods to all aspects of the fictional universe from the prequels, originals, sequels and even “The Mandalorian.”
The sheer chaos of it is not to be underestimated. Lego has a way of making ridiculous things happen in their parodies, which take a universe that has normally fairly serious tones into the comedic light. That doesn’t change for this mini movie.
It has a lot of funny moments and is definitely something for an audience of audience to watch with glee. Keeping the trend of Lego’s simple comedy, this holiday special is filled with little ridiculous moments that can put a smile on any viewer's face.
The story is interesting, as it depicts Rey looking to the past to figure out the Master and Apprentice dynamic that had worked for so many Jedi before her. Once she has learned that secret, she feels more confident in training Finn and seeing his rise as a Jedi.
Unfortunately, it should be noted that, like all Lego offshoots, the events of this have nothing to do with the actual “Star Wars” continuity. In a way, it would’ve been kind of cool to see some of this in live action and unfold on a cinema screen, but the comedic winter special will have to do.
The animation has certainly improved for Lego, considering what it all actually is. The minifigure characters are surprisingly textured and well done.
The voice acting is as nice as a Lego movie can get, and it is great to see so many past “Star Wars” actors, such as Billy Dee Williams as a minifigure Lando Calrissian, come back to voice their characters in Lego form.
It is also chock-full of easter eggs, such as Rey using Luke Skywalker’s old X-wing and pilot helmet to fly around, along with many more. Speaking of Rey, she uses her brand new yellow lightsaber in the mini movie, which is a nice addition since it occurs after “The Rise of Skywalker,” and the audience has seen only a few seconds of her with it.
Overall, the “Lego Star Wars Holiday Special” is a fun watch for all who are seeking to give it attention. It is filled with pockets of action, hilarity and some serious moments to level it all out. Any fan of Lego and “Star Wars” will find enjoyment in this holiday special in a galaxy far, far away.
Rating: 4/5
Colton Pleslusky is a junior telecommunications major. To contact him, email csp5289@psu.edu.
