Star Wars: Skeleton Crew – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

show2024

76%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

Kids navigate the Star Wars galaxy in this adventure series that's basically Goonies meets lightsabers—and critics are surprisingly into it.

92%

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Star Wars: Skeleton Crew

show

TV-PG, 2024

76%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

Kids navigate the Star Wars galaxy in this adventure series that's basically Goonies meets lightsabers—and critics are surprisingly into it.

92%

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92%

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Screenwise Verdict

Skeleton Crew is Disney's attempt to make Star Wars for the younger crowd, and based on the critical reception, they actually pulled it off. It's not groundbreaking television, but it's solid family entertainment that gives kids their own adventure story in a galaxy far, far away.

The 92% critic score is legitimately impressive for a Star Wars spinoff show—these usually get middling reviews at best. That suggests the writing, acting, and production quality are all there. The 79% audience score is more measured, which tracks: some fans will always complain it's not "real" Star Wars, and some kids might find it a bit slow compared to the rapid-fire pacing they're used to.

For families looking for something to watch together that's not brain rot, this fits the bill. It's got action, adventure, imagination, and positive messages about friendship and courage. Just make sure your kid can handle the typical Star Wars intensity—blasters, scary aliens, and kids in genuine peril.

Age Fit

Best for ages 9-14 who are ready for Star Wars-level action and peril. Younger kids who've handled other Star Wars content (Mandalorian, Clone Wars) might be fine at 8, but the adventure intensity and potential spooky elements make 9+ the sweet spot. Teens and adults who love Star Wars will likely enjoy it too.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

A Star Wars adventure series targeting younger audiences (Common Sense Media rates it 9+) with strong critical reception (92% RT critics, 79% audience). The show appears to focus on kids having an adventure in the Star Wars universe, which typically emphasizes teamwork and friendship. However, Star Wars properties do include action violence and peril, though usually handled in a fantasy context that's less intense than realistic drama.

Imaginative

Star Wars universe is inherently imaginative with alien worlds, space travel, and creative world-building. The premise of kids exploring the galaxy invites wonder and curiosity. The franchise consistently delivers visual creativity and expands on established lore in interesting ways. Strong critical scores (92% RT, 72 Metacritic) suggest the execution delivers on imaginative storytelling.

Safe

Disney+ kids mode available, which is a positive signal. Common Sense Media rates it for age 9, suggesting some action violence and peril typical of Star Wars (laser battles, chase sequences, alien threats) but nothing graphic or traumatic. Star Wars properties generally avoid gore, sexual content, and extreme violence, keeping things in the fantasy-action realm. The 'Skeleton' in the title might suggest some spooky elements but likely handled in an adventure-appropriate way.

Enriching

Star Wars stories typically explore themes of courage, friendship, good vs. evil, and standing up for what's right. A show centered on kids navigating challenges likely includes problem-solving and cooperation. However, it's primarily entertainment-focused rather than deeply educational. The adventure format can inspire interest in space, exploration, and storytelling, but this isn't a documentary or skill-building show.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Strong critical reception (92% on RT) suggests this isn't just another Disney+ cash-grab—the storytelling actually lands
Kid protagonists make it more relatable for younger Star Wars fans who are tired of watching adults save the galaxy
The adventure-quest format encourages themes of teamwork, problem-solving, and bravery in age-appropriate ways
Expands the Star Wars universe in a direction that's accessible to families without requiring encyclopedic franchise knowledge

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What to Watch For

Action sequences with laser battles, chases, and alien threats—typical Star Wars fare but might be intense for sensitive kids under 9
The 'Skeleton' title suggests some spooky or darker elements that could unsettle younger viewers
At 7.1 on IMDb and 79% audience score, it's not universally beloved—some kids (and parents) might find it doesn't quite capture classic Star Wars magic

Conversation Starters

"If you got lost in space like these kids, what would be the first thing you'd try to do to get home?"
"Which character do you relate to most and why?"
"What would you pack if you were going on a space adventure?"
"How do the kids in the show work together when they disagree? What could they do better?"

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