Rogue One Delivers

Rating: 10/10 (17 December 2016)

Rogue One delivers a gripping, timely scry into a world that is - and is not our own. World class plot organization, artful direction, and acting finesse come together to produce something original, entertaining, and raw. The powerful emotions of desperation, dread, loss, and hope are heightened - not muted - by the sense of finality and horror that accompanies knowledge of the story's role in a larger saga. This fast-paced, moving work of cinema is appropriate, educational, and relevant for ages 7- 107. There is sufficient tension for lovers of drama, ample battles of multiple styles for the action- focused, and plenty of twists and unknowns. This movie manages to steer clear of several annoying star wars tropes - and is refreshingly canon. A strong cast and solid screenplay makes for an experience free of eye rolls that can sometimes accompany beloved, but clunky performances of the star wars universe.