Finale can't redeem underwhelming buildup

Rating: Null/10 (20 December 2016)

The creative team goes "Rogue" during 2 acts of Rogue One. If you think that pun was bad, wait until you see the film.
Those 2 acts move along with the bare minimum of character and story development which results in the audience wondering if there were re-shoots for the entire film, not just the finale. In particular, Forest Whitaker's appearance as Saw Gerrera feels completely unnecessary and underwritten, as do most of the characters. I found these 2 acts lacking in energy and momentum overall.
Felicity Jones puts in a fine effort as Jyn Erso, but is let down by the disjointed and cluttered screenplay which seems more interested in globetrotting than establishing a much needed rapport between the main crew.
The 3rd act is, admittedly, a rousing action piece that gives a jolt of life to the film. Unfortunately, it is not enough to erase the forgettable buildup that preceded it.
In the world of Star Wars, I wouldn't hesitate to place Rogue One at the bottom of the pack. The majority of the film is as jarring as it's computer-generated characters.