A Solid Addition to the Star Wars Universe

Rating: 8/10 (14 December 2016)

I am writing this review just after seeing Rogue One at a midnight premiere in Australia.
Gareth Edwards, the emerging director behind small indie film 'Monsters' and blockbuster 'Godzilla', has crafted something truly unique here. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, as its formal title, is a welcome addition and successful 'filler' movie which helps to connect the missing pieces between episodes three and four. It is not a perfect film, by any means, and perhaps only true Star Wars fans will appreciate it. But there is no doubt in my mind that, despite its flaws, Rogue One is a great piece of cinema.
What makes this Anthology movie so captivating is its gritty tone. From the opening scene, it becomes clear that Rogue One is indeed on its own here - a standalone installment. There is a unique feel to it, with due credit to Edwards' distinct visual style. The camera work is more close-up with characters, giving the film a more modern appeal, yet allowing room for fresh air - something different in what has previously been a 'traditional' Star Wars landscape. The cinematography is also stylistically divergent. Opting for more natural, hand-held (not shaky) camera movement, which is more reminiscent of a modern war film, especially in action sequences.
In terms of visual effects, Rogue One is spectacular. This feels like traditional Star Wars. The CGI-driven effects are bold and beautiful - superbly rendered and stunningly energetic. Use of more practical effects couldn't have hurt either, with the potential to pay an homage to the original trilogy. But for what we get and what we see - it truly is magnificent. The only personal gripe I had (pretty much inevitable) was the inclusion of CGI human characters. The CGI itself was not by any means terrible, but the slight animated feel with the facial expressions they conveyed stuck out as quite weird, once I realized which characters were digitally altered.
In opposition to that, the other technical aspects were pretty-much faultless. The sound effects were great, the makeup and costumes were stellar. The production design, more notably, was sublime. The sets felt big, real and inspired. Something which familiarized Rogue One with the aesthetics of authentic Star Wars. The locations were fresh and inspiring, the base camps were new and intriguing. The set design here was outstanding, further enriching the Star Wars universe we know and love. Not to mention Michael Giacchinos score, which was surprisingly vivid and lively, considering the short notice he was given to compose for the film. The music really feels inspired by the original Star Wars episodes, with sweeping orchestras driving the film forwards, detailing each scene with a brilliant sense of mood. Yet there is enough differentiation to make it its own. It sounds like Star Wars, but not quite the one we're familiar with.
Ultimately, Rogue One is in many ways a fitting piece in the continually-expanding Star Wars universe. It feels like both a prequel and original movie, which is what makes it so distinct, yet such a suitable addition to this fantastical saga. It bleeds perfectly into episode four, allowing an appreciation of the hard work and sacrifices the rebellion gave so that, in the near future, good can overcome evil.
But, as I reiterate, despite the many appealing aspects of Rogue One, it may not be for everyone. Die-hard Star Wars fans will love it, as will most likely those who are enlightened with moderate knowledge. But Rogue One is not a mindless action movie. It cannot be enjoyed that way. To appreciate it, you must be thinking while watching, listening to the dialogue so that motives in the film remain clear.
I recommend you go and watch Rogue One for your enjoyment and appreciation of Star Wars. Do not watch it, however, if you feel the need to switch off and chill. Rogue One is good, show it some respect.
8/10