If you've ever wondered what would happen if you found yourself launched unexpectedly into the Star Wars universe, Skeleton Crew has an answer for you. Just like many of us, protagonist Wim has spent his life admiring the Jedi and eagerly following along with their many escapades. When he and three other children discover a spaceship, they find themselves on the adventure of a lifetime. With each twist and turn of the series, the four children grow and learn, eventually using these lessons to save their planet from pirates. This fun and energetic series featured tons of great moments.
Here are the best scenes from each episode of Skeleton Crew.
1. Episode 1: "Un-Claimsies"
The premiere of Skeleton Crew, "This Could Be A Real Adventure," stands out from typical Star Wars stories with its grounded suburban setting and focus on the hijinks of four children. Before they jet off into unfamiliar space, we see the characters in a hilarious disagreement over who is allowed to play on the buried ship Wim discovered. Their argument over who can call "clamsies" filled me with nostalgia and was supported by the excellent line delivery from the actors. This scene shows the ways that some of the best Star Wars moments can rest not on epic lightsaber fights but on quieter, character-driven exchanges.
2. Episode 2: "The distance between us and the key is an illusion."
After the action-packed chase during "Way, Way Out Past the Barrier," the children find themselves trapped by pirates. However, they aren't the only ones in their cell. A mysterious stranger promises to help them escape if they let him join them. The surprise reveal is that their new ally, Jod Na Nawood, can use the Force. Wim, who is obsessed with the Jedi from his books, is astounded to see his fantasies coming to life. This magical moment, filled with a swelling orchestral flourishes, was the perfect way to end the episode.
3. Episode 3: Escaping the X-Wings
In "Very Interesting, As an Astrogation Problem," Jod turns to an old associate, Kh'ymm, to get information on the location of At Attin. Things take an unexpected turn when his supposed ally calls some Republic X-Wing fighters to save the children from Jod's custody. In order to escape, the children must take on the threat themselves. Neel bravely flies the ship. Wim has a moment many fans dream of when he takes a gunner position to defend their ship. Although it isn't a seamless arrangement, there is so much joy in watching the team come together.
4. Episode 4: Neel and Hayna
"Can't Say I Remember No At Attin" was an intense episode focused on a planet at war. As shocking as it was for the children, whose own planet has always been at peace, there was one character who did not let the harsh environment diminish his kindness: Neel. During their stay, Neel connects with Hayna and the two discuss the realities of war. Their conversation is not only one of the best moments of the episode but the entire series. Both Neel and Hayna come to understand each other's perspectives and are inspired to use this new knowledge to become better people.
5. Episode 5: The lightsaber
For Wim, episode 5, "You Have a Lot to Learn About Pirates," might be more accurate if titled "You Have a Lot to Learn about Lightsabers." His use of the weapon did not go as planned. In the moment he longed to be a hero and save his companions after they were betrayed, he fails... and almost cuts his foot off. The mythical tool he thought would be their salvation falls into the hands of their new enemy, Jod, and becomes an instrument of fear. After the lighthearted antics of this episode, the loss of the lightsaber, as well as their trust in Jod, cuts deep (not literally, thankfully). This moment marks a turning point in the series where nothing will be the same again.
6. Episode 6: KB's medical emergency
KB and Wim find themselves in trouble when KB's cybernetics start to shut down due to corrosion. Wim races to find replacement parts and help her perform the necessary repairs. While they work, KB explains why she struggled to tell Fern about her limitations, fearing rejection and the loss of that treasured friendship. "Zero Friends Again" surprised me with its heartfelt examination of equity, the strength of friendship, and the realities of living with a disability. This scene was the crowning achievement of that goal. As someone with chronic pain, KB's speech meant the world, and I know I'm not alone. To top it all off, Wim finally has the hero moment he has been dreaming of when he realizes he saved KB's life.
7. Episode 7: Launching the transmitter
Although this scene occurs at the very beginning of "We're Gonna Be in So Much Trouble," it packs a punch felt through the rest of its runtime. Just as their children have come together as a team, the parents use each other's skills to construct a transmitter capable of passing their planet's barrier. Then, in a sequence so reminiscent of Rogue One's Vader scene, the parents pass along their device, each trying to get far enough away from the authorities to launch it into space before being apprehended. Their clear love for their missing children has emboldened them to disobey the laws set to protect their planet and send a message to their children outside of the Barrier. Because of their risky mission, the children are able to find their way back home, but it comes at a high cost, threatening the future of their planet.
8. Episode 8: Destroying the Barrier
The Skeleton Crew finale did not disappoint! "The Real Good Guys" was a heart-pounding and emotional journey from beginning to end. The scene where Jod tries to prevent children and their parents from gaining control rose above the rest of the episode for me. As each character tries to reach the controls that will destroy the protective barrier around At Attin, we see Jod's full Force abilities for the first time. What makes this scene great is that within all of the action, there is an emotional journey where Wim and Fern are better able to connect with their parents. Wendle has the courage to follow his son's lead and fight by his side, solidifying his support in a way Wim has never felt before. Fern and her mother form a bond of trust they have never had before, which encourages Fara to be the one to destroy the barrier for good.