After watching all of the trailers and reading the previews, to say I was eager to see Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is an understatement. This is a non-spoiler review. If you’re seeking spoilers, then this is not the article for you. If you want an overview, then keep on reading. The pacing throughout the film was good, although there were a few scenes I could have fast-forward. The battle scenes were definitely reminiscent of Star Wars: A New Hope. It had the same feel. My fears that this movie would be a standalone was laid to rest after the first 30-minutes. The scenes with Galen Erso (Mads Mikkelsen) were heartfelt, endearing, and well-executed. The sacrifice he made to keep his daughter, Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones), safe was evident. This was a clearly a man tormented by his inner-demons. He had become both savior and destroyer of worlds. What a tragic line to walk.
I wish they would have kept Jyn’s original line – “This is a rebellion isn’t it? I rebel.” Contrary to what a few believe, I didn’t think the line was cheesy. I believe it would have driven home her reason for being resistant to joining the rebellion, and not looks so “daddy issue.” There was one character I struggled to accept – Saw Gerrera (Forest Whitaker). I’ve seen Forest in several high-profile gigs. He was excellent. His performance in Rogue One appeared stilted and forced. Perhaps, if they had limited the droid prosthetics, I would have different opinion. I’m certain the writers wanted to confirm this is a battle-worn person, who loses faith in the Rebel Alliance.
The Heartthrob Flutter Award goes to Captain Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), the Captain Han Solo of the new generation of, and some well-seasoned, Star Wars’ fans. What a waste of a good character! You’ll know what I mean when you see the movie. I can’t say more, for risk of spoilers! To sum it up, I give this a serious “must-see!” The movie is an awsome prelude to Star Wars: A New Story. With that in mind, enjoy the movie!
Box office update: ‘Rogue One’ Box Office: ‘Star Wars’ Tops $200M U.S., Will Pass $400M Worldwide Today ` ~ Forbes
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