If you were a kid who loved Star Wars and the adventurous vibe of movies like The Goonies or E.T., then Disney+’s new series Star Wars: Skeleton Crew might just be your dream come true. Imagine a story that combines the excitement of space travel with the charm of a classic coming-of-age adventure. That’s exactly what creators Jon Watts and Christopher Ford have cooked up—a fresh tale set in the Star Wars universe but with a vibe that feels straight out of an ‘80s Amblin movie.
The show kicks off on the planet At Attin, a place that feels like a suburban slice of Earth from decades past. Wim, played by Ravi Cabot-Conyers, is your typical imaginative kid living in a cookie-cutter neighborhood with his dad, who’s always too busy to notice much. Wim’s best friend Neel, a blue-skinned, elephant-like alien, prefers to play it safe and stick to his backyard. But Wim? He’s dreaming of adventures and heroics, even if he doesn’t quite know what being a hero looks like yet.
Their ordinary lives take a wild turn when Wim discovers a mysterious spaceship buried in the woods. One accidental launch later, Wim, Neel, and two other kids—Fern, a feisty and rebellious teen (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and KB, her tech-savvy best friend (Kyriana Kratter)—find themselves hurtling through space. What follows is a whirlwind journey of discovery, danger, and friendship as they navigate uncharted parts of the galaxy, far from the watchful eyes of their parents.
The kids’ chemistry is a highlight, giving off the same playful energy you’d find in a group of friends tackling the unknown in classic adventure stories. You don’t really worry for their safety—this is Disney, after all—but their interactions are packed with enough humor and heart to keep you invested.
Of course, every good adventure needs a wildcard, and that’s where Jude Law’s character, Jod Na Nawood, comes in. He’s the rogue who reluctantly becomes the kids’ guide through the stars. Law nails the role, bringing charm, a dash of mischief, and just enough mystery to make you wonder if he’s really the hero they need—or just another obstacle in their way.
The series doesn’t aim for the depth or complexity of something like Andor. Instead, it’s lighter and more accessible, leaning into the joy of discovery and the thrill of the unknown. The settings are diverse and fresh, steering clear of the overly familiar Star Wars tropes like desert planets or swamps. Instead, we get imaginative locations, from an intergalactic truck stop to eerie, forgotten corners of the galaxy.
The creators also keep things fun with quirky aliens, imaginative tech, and Mick Giacchino’s adventurous score, which feels like a nod to John Williams while still standing on its own. It’s the kind of music that makes even small moments feel grand.
Ultimately, Skeleton Crew is a love letter to the adventurous spirit of childhood. It’s about kids stepping out of their comfort zones, facing their fears, and learning who they are along the way. Whether you’re a Star Wars fan, a lover of nostalgic adventure stories, or just someone looking for something fun and heartfelt, this series offers plenty to enjoy. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best journeys aren’t about saving the galaxy—they’re about finding yourself.
