Rogue One: A Star Wars Story Lives Up to the Hype

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is the first standalone to be done by Lucasfilms, but it is just as satisfying as the other films in the Star Wars franchise. The story takes place before Star Wars (Episode IV: A New Hope), and it answers quite a few questions.There are a number of surprises and “so that’s how it happened” moments in this movie, so be sure to be paying attention.

Rogue One follows Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones) a Rebellion solider and criminal, who teams up with Rebellion member Cassain Andor (Diego Luna), droid K-2SO (voiced by Alan Tudyk), defected Imperial pilot Bodhi Rook (Riz Ahmed), a blind warrior monk (Donnie Yen), and his partner (Jiang Wen) to steal the Death Star plans from the Empire.

The movie feels like a heist movie but with the added benefit of existing in the Star Wars universe. Each character is well cast and are strong in their roles. Felicity Jones and Diego Luna are a joy to watch together on screen, while Alan Tudyk’s K-2S0, Donnie Yen and Jiang Wen bring the laughs and steal a number of scenes. One of the biggest character highlights of the movie is the return of Darth Vader (voiced by James Earl Jones). Just seeing him again on screen will give you chills.

Like most Star Wars movies, this one does not disappoint. The thought and detail that went into this movie will leave you in awe during certain scenes and drop your jaw at others. The action scenes are great, the score is fantastic, and the CGI makes you feel, once again, like the Star Wars world truly does exist. Director Gareth Edwards keeps fans of the series and non-fans entertained from start to finish.

I would suggest for all those planning on seeing the movie, you might want to watch the first Star Wars movie again before heading to the theater. That way you have a better idea of what is going on. If not, this movie will definitely leave you wanting to re-watch the first film again.

Grade: B+