It was a practical and cost-effective way to create scope without building massive sets. The difference here is that Maul – Shadow Lord layers animated characters over those painted backgrounds instead of live-action performers, giving the show a striking hybrid look.
You can already see that technique on display in the first trailer and poster for the series, where the thick, visible brush strokes jump off the screen. The textures give Janix a gritty, stylized personality that feels intentionally handcrafted rather than overly polished.
Story-wise, the series is set after the events of Star Wars: The Clone Wars and centers on Maul at a dangerous crossroads.
According to the official synopsis, the Sith Lord is “plotting to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire. There, he crosses paths with a disillusioned young Jedi Padawan who may just be the apprentice he is seeking to aid him in his relentless pursuit for revenge.”
Sam Witwer is back once again to voice Maul, reprising the role he previously played in Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels. He is joined by Gideon Adlon as Devon Izara, Wagner Moura as Brander Lawson, and Richard Ayoade as Two-Boots.
Star Wars: Maul – The Shadow Lord premieres April 6 on Disney+ and will roll out weekly episodes leading up to Star Wars Day on May the 4th. I’m so excited to watch this!