An Excellent Treat

Rating: 8/10 (27 December 2016)

It is complete coincidence that on the day Carrie Fisher passes away I'm writing this review. I just saw the movie last night and, as planned, I am submitting a review today. She will be missed.
I have no qualms admitting that I'm a Star Wars fanatic. Slap Star Wars' or George Lucas's name on anything and I'm there (I think I've just solved my vegetables problem. Star Wars brand peas and carrots!!).
So, I have disclosed my unabashed bias. Even still, that bias wasn't enough to overcome the stink that was episodes 1 thru 3--meaning, it can't be pure drivel just because it's Star Wars.
Rogue One was anything but drivel. To start there was some confusion on my part at worst and at best it was a little hard to follow. There were new names, new faces and several locations mentioned all within the first 15 minutes or so. But once that necessary staging was set and exposition completed things began to come into focus.
For anyone who Rogue One is their first Star Wars escapade then there will be a bit more confusion. As for Star Wars regulars, particularly to the original trilogy, then they will be able to follow the story well and with a keen interest.
The story was very simple for the most part. There weren't too many characters to follow nor too many factions. Essentially, there was the Empire and the Rebels and some important characters from both groups. The acting was solid and of course the special effects were on point. It was a perfect mid saga filler/tie-in that was well thought out and there was an excellent treat at the end.