Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Episode 7 Mirrors Anakin Skywalker’s Darkest Hour
By Rick Stevenson Jan. 8, 2025 3:00 pm EST
Warning: Spoilers ahead for “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew” episode 7, titled “We’re Gonna Be In So Much Trouble.”
The “Star Wars” franchise encompasses a broad spectrum of storytelling, from the lighthearted adventures of animated series like “Rebels” to the more mature themes explored in “Andor.” Each project, including “Skeleton Crew,” navigates its own range of tones. While “Rebels” may indulge in comedic escapades and lighthearted banter, it is also capable of delivering some truly dramatic moments.
For the majority of its run, “Skeleton Crew” has leaned toward a youthful vibe, showcasing a group of pre-teen protagonists embarking on adventures that echo the spirit of Amblin films—dangerous yet not overly dark. However, episode 7, “We’re Gonna Be In So Much Trouble,” presents a brief but striking scene that evokes one of the most harrowing moments in the “Star Wars” saga.
Throughout the season, characters have warned the kids against trusting Jod Na Nawood, played by Jude Law. In a shocking turn, Jod succumbs to his old pirate instincts, rejoining his former crew. In a tense scene aboard the Onyx Cinder, he reveals his true colors, berating the children as weak and bothersome, all while wielding a stolen lightsaber—a relic from the fabled pirate captain Tak Rennod.
While Jod’s menacing demeanor suggests that he genuinely cares for the kids, it’s troubling to witness him threaten them with a blue lightsaber, reminiscent of Anakin Skywalker’s tragic slaughter of younglings during Order 66. The connection is hard to ignore, especially since Jod could very well have survived that day.
Lightsabers can evoke awe, but their capability for destruction is magnified, particularly when wielded by those with ill intentions. In this pivotal moment, as Jod ignites his blue blade, the fear is palpable among the children, mirroring the fright felt by the younglings hiding from Anakin in “Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith.”
Interestingly, there’s a plausible backstory to Jod; he appears to be in his 40s, making it likely that he could have been at the Jedi Temple during the Clone Wars. With knowledge of Jedi teachings—such as the line he shares with Wim, “Your focus determines your reality,” echoing words from Qui-Gon Jinn in “Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace”—his past suggests he might have received formal Jedi training. If he wasn’t present at the temple during Order 66, he could have been occupied elsewhere during the conflict, but his age indicates he might have a deeper connection to the tragic events of that era.
Much remains unclear about Jod Na Nawood. His proficiency with the lightsaber is questionable, as he has primarily utilized it for intimidation rather than combat. His character arc echoes elements of Long John Silver from “Treasure Island,” as he encounters children who offer him a chance at wealth, only to be torn between his growing fondness for them and his greedy instincts.
The direction of Jod’s story seems poised for redemption in the upcoming episode 8, where he may come to regret his previous actions. However, viewers are left with significant questions regarding his history as the season progresses toward its conclusion. His Force abilities appear weaker compared to other characters in the “Star Wars” tapestry, but they could still prove valuable, especially if rumors about crossovers with characters from Dave Filoni’s anticipated “Star Wars” film hold true. That movie is set to culminate in the “Mandalorian” era, allowing for intriguing interactions with characters such as Ahsoka Tano, Ezra Bridger, and Grogu—who, like Jod, shares the experience of surviving Anakin’s horrific assault on the Jedi Temple.
Don’t miss the finale of “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew” season 1, dropping on January 14, 2025, at 6 pm PST on Disney+.
