TL;DR
Werner Herzog convinced the creators of The Mandalorian to retain Grogu as a puppet rather than switch to CGI. This decision highlights the value of practical effects in the series, according to Herzog and the creators.
Werner Herzog convinced Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni to keep Grogu, aka Baby Yoda, as a puppet rather than replacing him with CGI in The Mandalorian, emphasizing the importance of practical effects for authenticity.
During the production of The Mandalorian, creators Favreau and Filoni considered shooting scenes with CGI instead of using a puppet for Grogu. They shot two versions of each scene—one with the puppet and one without—allowing flexibility in post-production. Herzog, who played The Client in the series, filmed a scene with the puppet and was reportedly so committed to its use that he called the decision to remove the puppet ‘cowardly.’ Filoni recounted that Herzog told them, ‘Leave it. Leave it,’ advocating for the puppet’s authenticity. Favreau noted Herzog’s strong stance, calling it ‘so awesome.’ The decision to keep Grogu as a puppet aligns with the series’ emphasis on practical effects, which many believe enhance emotional connection and realism.
Why It Matters
This development underscores the ongoing debate in filmmaking about the use of practical effects versus CGI. Herzog’s influence helped reinforce the value of physical puppets, which many fans and creators argue produce more genuine reactions and emotional depth. The decision also reflects a broader industry trend toward blending traditional techniques with modern technology to achieve the best results. For viewers, it highlights the importance of practical effects in creating believable characters, especially in a universe filled with fantastical creatures.
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Background
In the early stages of filming The Mandalorian, the production team debated whether to use CGI or puppets for Grogu. Favreau and Filoni initially shot scenes with both options, considering CGI as a fallback. Herzog’s appearance and comments during a 2019 event at El Capitan Theatre brought significant attention to the choice, with Herzog advocating strongly for the puppet. The series’ reliance on practical effects for Grogu has become a defining feature, contrasting with many modern CGI-heavy productions. This choice aligns with the legacy of Yoda’s puppet in the original Star Wars trilogy, which Herzog himself referenced indirectly through his advocacy.
“He [Herzog] says, ‘You are cowards. Leave it. Leave it.’ He was so committed.”
— Dave Filoni
“It was so awesome.”
— Jon Favreau
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What Remains Unclear
While Herzog’s influence is acknowledged, it remains unclear whether his advocacy was the sole or primary reason for the decision to keep Grogu as a puppet. The production team considered CGI options, and the final decision involved multiple factors, including technical feasibility and artistic preference. The extent of Herzog’s direct impact on the final choice has not been officially confirmed beyond anecdotal accounts.
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What’s Next
Future seasons of The Mandalorian are expected to continue using practical effects for Grogu, maintaining the series’ commitment to authentic character portrayal. Industry discussions about the balance between CGI and puppetry may be influenced by this example. Additionally, Herzog’s advocacy could inspire other productions to prioritize practical effects where feasible.
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Key Questions
Why was Grogu initially considered for CGI instead of puppetry?
Favreau and Filoni considered CGI as a flexible, modern option that could easily be replaced or enhanced in post-production. They shot scenes with both methods to compare results.
What did Werner Herzog say about the use of the puppet?
Herzog reportedly told the filmmakers to leave the puppet in the scene, calling their decision to remove it ‘cowardly’ and emphasizing the importance of practical effects for authenticity.
Did Herzog’s opinion directly influence the final decision?
While Herzog’s strong stance was influential and publicly noted, the final decision was likely a combination of artistic and technical considerations. Herzog’s advocacy is seen as a key factor.
Will future seasons continue to use puppets for Grogu?
Yes, the series is expected to maintain the use of practical effects for Grogu, honoring the decision influenced by Herzog’s advocacy and the series’ aesthetic values.
Source: reddit
