Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Episode 5 Subtly Honors an ’80s Classic
Star Wars: Skeleton Crew episode 5, titled “You Have a Lot to Learn About Pirates,” has proven to be a treasure trove of nostalgia for fans of ’80s cinema. The series, crafted by Jon Watts and Christopher Ford, has been a heartfelt homage to Amblin productions and classic adventure narratives. In this episode, the connection to beloved adventure films becomes particularly apparent as it mirrors the escapades of young friends embarking on a quest for concealed treasure—much like what we saw in cult favorites from that era.
In episode 5, Jod Na Nawood, portrayed by Jude Law, along with SM-33 voiced by Nick Frost and their youthful companions, continues their expedition across the “Star Wars” galaxy in pursuit of the enigmatic At Attin planet. Their journey leads them to a crucial stop on Lanupa, where they uncover details about the notorious pirate Captain Rennod’s hidden cache of treasure, which holds the potential coordinates to unite the children with their long-lost home world—a development fraught with complications.
Fans of ’80s adventure films are likely to experience a flashback to The Goonies when watching this episode. The parallels between the two narratives are striking, especially as the pirate’s name, “Donner,” is a clever play on words, being Richard Donner’s surname spelled backward. Donner, who directed The Goonies, had a significant influence on the creators of Skeleton Crew, imparting wisdom that shaped their storytelling approach.
The relationship between Donner’s guidance and the project is underscored by Jon Watts, who recounted how he received valuable casting advice from the legendary director shortly before his passing. Donner emphasized not just selecting kids for a role, but valuing who they are as individuals—a lesson that resonated deeply with Watts and Ford as they assembled their young ensemble cast. The talents of Wim, Fern, KB, and Neel shine throughout the series, echoing the spirit of camaraderie and adventure seen in iconic films like The Goonies.
Ultimately, Skeleton Crew manages to weave together elements of nostalgia and fresh storytelling, presenting engaging performances from its youthful actors who easily remind viewers of the adventurous kids from the beloved classic.
