The Prequel Star Was Never Knew It Needed

Rating: 9/10 (10 September 2017)

I'll be the first to admit my lack of faith in the success (critically more than commercially) of Rogue One. As a fan who, like many others, live and die by Star Wars, the initial idea of a live- action film spin-off seemed risky. How ever was my lack of faith disturbing. Rogue One not only delivers a highly compelling, exceptionally entertaining film of its own accord, it undoubtedly strengthens the story of A New Hope (Episode IV), and the entire Star Wars saga as well.
This was no easy task for director Gareth Edwards and his staff of writers; to be trusted to produce a worthy spin-off story in arguably the largest franchise in the world is a daunting undertaking. The conclusion was to tell the story of the rebel team who stole the original plans to the Death Star, a team we had heard about in Episode IV but never got to see. There simply could not have been a better choice for the plot of Star Wars' first spin-off, as Rogue One contains one of the best individual stories in Star Wars history.
There is a much grittier, boots-on-the-ground feeling to this film, but even with the more grounded atmosphere, it still very much feels like a Star Wars movie. We see a new approach to the storytelling; new worlds, new characters, new stakes, and we also see classic vehicles, characters and more. It's a shot of fresh air into the lungs of what fans have come to expect, yet maintains the heart of a Star Wars film. Seeing the touching sacrifices that each member of the Rogue One team makes is powerful and enticing, making character connections to the audience that strengthens the depth of the film. The pacing was excellent for the most part, with some minor hiccups here and there. Possibly the greatest narrative strength, however, belongs to Rogue One's ability to tie into A New Hope flawlessly. This is, after all, a prequel film to Episode IV, and with it the foundation of A New Hope shifts heavily in the best way possible. We get so much more insight on the events of Episode IV, including an explanation to arguably the biggest plot hole in the entire saga. All throughout, Rogue One secures a spot among the best stories ever told in the galaxy far far away.
As good as the story is, Rogue One's undisputed backbone is the phenomenal set of characters leading said story. The ragtag squad that is Rogue One is filled with wonderful characters, lead by Jyn Erso who is fantastic. The real stand out, however, is K-2SO, a new droid who constantly makes you smile, providing wonderful comedic relief. The new set of characters are rounded out by rebel Cassian Andor, solid new antagonist Director Krennic, Jyn's father, Galen Erso, and the awesome duo of Chirrut Imwe and Baze Malbus, who have great on-screen chemistry. These new characters are terrific in Rogue One and help further the roster of lovable Star Wars characters for fans to cherish.
Though Rogue One introduces new characters, it's some of the age-old classics are show stoppers. Aside from Darth Vader (who I'll get to shortly), the digital recreation of the late Peter Cushing's iconic Grand Moff Tarkin is a staple of the film, and is executed brilliantly. We also get to see Mon Monthma, Saw Gerrera, Bail Organa and even a brief shot of Princess Leia herself, who also was digitally redone for her short scene. Seeing the connection of new and old characters is splendid and to see them all bridge the story into Episode IV is even better.
The actors themselves bring each character to life beautifully. Felicity Jones is solid as Jyn, Alan Tudyk plays the voice and mo- cap of K-2SO perfectly, Ben Mendelsohn is aggressive and intimidating as Krennic but the gold star goes to Guy Henry, who, aided by CGI, recreates Tarkin so well that it's almost indistinguishable. Without going on too long, the cast was excellent from top to bottom.
Of course, Star Wars is known for its big-budget action scenes, stunning visuals and masterful audio, and Rogue One continues the legacy of what to expect from a Star Wars film. The action sequences are intense, exciting and intriguing, especially in the third act with the superb final battle between space and on land. The different locations give way for gorgeous set pieces and CGI, and while not composed by John Williams, the score fits the style of the film and keeps the Star Wars feeling intact.
It'd be a disservice if I didn't dedicate a section to the final scene of the film. Darth Vader, one of the most legendary names in all of fiction, makes his triumphant return to the saga in Rouge One, becoming the center of what is one of the greatest scenes in Star Wars history. Vader boards the rebel ship which holds the stolen Death Star plans, and in desperation to retrieve them, Vader mercilessly slaughters numerous terrified rebels in his path. The iconic glow of his red lightsaber, his overwhelming power of the Dark Side being showcased to a maximum, this is the Vader every fan has dreamed of seeing. The scene completely stole the film, and also lead directly into Episode IV, giving it legitimacy as well as being down right epic.
The Star Wars galaxy is large with many stories to be told. Rogue One might not traverse too far away from the original trilogy, but that doesn't for one second keep it from being an astoundingly entertaining piece of film and a more than worthy entry into the prestigious Star Wars saga.
9.5/10