this was amazing !! and the last scene wirh darth vader ♥_♡ was awesome
10/10 for me
Thoroughly enjoyed it, start to finish. They did an excellent job of mixing in visual elements from earlier Star Wars while maintaining cohesion with more modern effects. The final scene is amazing, must've had a team of artists to pull that off. Great story, perfectly complements the better films in the series.
Oups! I just realized that, for some reason, this movie had fallen between the cracks. It was quite some time since I watched it but I seem to have forgotten to write a post about it.
For me this was one of the best of the new (after the original trilogy) Star Wars movies. It was fun, entertaining with plenty of good, old-fashioned Star Wars action. I generally do not like prequels but this time I felt it was nice to get a bit of the background to the statement that “a number of spies died to get this information” in episode IV. We were even provided with a bit of an explanation as to why the Death Star had this silly weakness in the first place.
The actors were doing a decent enough job of it. The chatty android was fun without being totally silly. It was a nice roller coaster ride of action, improvisations, and gung ho ludicrous stunts inside and outside of various forms of transportation means.
As usual with Star Wars the science part of science fiction is somewhat lacking. What looks cool is what is put on the screen and screw science. When reading books I am more sensitive to such things but for a Star Wars movie it works well enough.
Some people seem to be dissecting the characters and dialogue, trying to put logic into it as well as wanting to have more emotions and “character development”. Come on! It is a Star Wars movie. It is supposed to be all action and visually stunning.
On that this movie delivers. Sure the plot is not really the most developed one and has plenty of faults. The movie is till a hugely fun Star Wars based science romp though.
By far, my favourite of the Star War movies. Great CGI. Epic soundtrack. Human stories. Great performances. Many wonderful cameos. Heroism at great cost. The power of hope. This was my second viewing of many more to come. I give this film a 10 (perfect) out of 10. [SciFi Action Adventure]
We all miss Han Solo
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is a fantastic addition to the Star Wars universe. The movie features stunning special effects and action sequences that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The story follows a group of rebels on a mission to steal the plans for the Death Star, leading up to the events of the original Star Wars film. The film's characters are compelling, and the performances from the cast are great. What sets Rogue One apart is its darker tone and its willingness to take risks with the story. The movie is the best Star Wars film outside of the main saga, and a great example of how the franchise can explore new territory while still remaining true to its roots.
An exceptional Star Wars movie. Well worth watching.
One of the best films of star wars. Good.
The closest Star Wars movie to an actual war. You can tell the influences from World War II.
Without question my favorite Star Wars film since The Empire Strikes Back. I liked all the characters tremendously, as well as the story, the visuals and set designs. I was hugely underwhelmed by The Force Awakens, but thankfully this movie exceeded expectations! I don't understand the Star Wars fans who don't appreciate it, but everyone has different tastes. I was eager to see a Star Wars film that didn't revolve around the Jedi and lightsabers. Fingers crossed for the Han Solo movie. 9/10 stars
SAVE THE REBELLION SAVE THE DREAM
An awesome movie. The best end sequence of any Star Wars movie.
This is an instant classic! So beautifully made!
Outside the original three the best of the series
I'm just too big of a StarWars fan to not find this movie amazing. I loved every second of it. The storytelling is amazing, the pictures, the music, the acting… just everything from this movie was perfect – how they completed all the plot holes from the old movie. It's amazing how well this story fits into the rest of the StarWars universe!
The only disappointing thing was how unreal Tarkin looked like – it was amazing that and how they let the actor come back to life (as well as young Leia), but especially compared to Leia I immediately spotted how he was computer animated… though still amazing work!
10/10
All Gold
"This Is Where
The Fun Begins"
This is definitely my
favourite Star Wars
movie of all time
and absolutely the
Best damn Star Wars
movie.
Wow this movie is
Super frickin awesome amazing and so
Bloody entertaining.
The pacing is fantastic
the performances are
Outstanding, the story
is superb and the way
it ties into episode 4
is off the charts.
this movie is so much
fun and is actually a
Perfect edition to
the SW universe.
this movie is so well
thought out and actually enhances everything that
comes after and doesn't
feel Shoehorned in
like Captain Marvel
before
Avengers EndGame.
I absolutely love this
movie 3000 everything just
works and is meaningful
and to anyone who's says
there is no
ROGUE ONE
"There Is Now"
(and it's Sensational).
Gotta say it, what an amazing movie this is… after all this years I admit that the one thing I didn’t like about this one was that it was a single movie, the characters where remarkable unlike the sequels…
[9.75 of 10] With a bit more character development, this could be a perfect film - though at the length it is now it is easy to watch over & over again. More films should be comfortable ending with a TPKO. Sometimes the death of all of the protagonists/protagonist-adjacent characters is the correct decision to make. Not only is this a phenomenal film, it's also my favorite Star Wars film.
Rogue One is a clear 10 out of 10 points for me. It‘s an amazing addition to the Star Wars Saga. The story, the characters, the locations and the look...it just fits right into the universe. Also the CGI is phenomenal here. Not only the CGI characters look amazing but also the locations like Jedha and Scarif are really breathtaking. And what really stunned me were the scenes with Vader. The one in his castle on Mustafar and the ending scenes were just jaw-dropping. In my opinion, Rogue One might be the best of the new Star Wars movies.
Rogue One is definitely one of my favorite Star Wars films. It's so well done with all its connections to A New Hope. Also I really like the characters they've introduced.
Really well done. I look forward to seeing the new one... wherever that is.
This is an instant classic! So beautifully made!
TITLE - Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
Year - 2016
PEOPLE SCORE - 10
Acting - 2
Characters - 2
Casting - 2
Importance - 2
Chemistry - 2
WRITING SCORE - 8
Dialogue - 2
Balanced - 1
Story - 2
Originality - 1
Interesting - 2
BTS SCORE - 9
Visuals - 2
Directing - 1
Editing - 2
Advertisement - 2
Music - 2
NARRATIVE ARC SCORE - 9
Introduction - 2
Inciting Incident - 2
Obstacles - 2
Climax - 2
Falling Action - 1
ENTERTAINMENT SCORE - 10
Rewatchability - 2
Fun - 2
Impulse/Buy - 2
Impusle/Talk - 2
Sucks Audience IN - 2
TOTAL SPECIAL - 50
TOTAL - 96/100
Fast, action movie with secondary plot without deeper thoughts from the main saga. But it is Star Wars film so as for now - must see! :)
If only all the other Star Wars movies were as good as this one. For me this even beats the original 4-6 trilogy.
While all other movies try to mix a bit of everything (drama, fairy-tales, humor, action, politics etc), this one is dedicated to those who prefer a more darker and realistic approach. The plot is full of really brave decisions and gives you almost no hints on how the movie will progress. The characters are really interesting and likable.
Unlinke 1-3, all technology and CGI fits in perfectly with 4-7.
If you loved games like X-Wing, Tie-Fighter etc. you must watch this. If not, go watch it anyway.
for me a clear 10/10
Who know that Jimmy Smits would be the best thing to come out of the prequels.
As a star wars fan am pleased. Totally delivered on the dark nature of the story and the tie into the rest of the Star Wars Universe got me 'geekying out' like a ten year old. Need to do this again!!
Rogue One!!! Excelente película!!!
OMG OMG god damn amazing!!!!!!....Gareth Edwards is a incredible director and took Star Wars too the top again, this film was just amazing
This movie was perfect from beginning to end! Never thought i would see all those places and people on the big screen again!!
I wasn't prepared for goosebumps on top of my goosebumps. Felt like i was 7 again.... JUST OUTSTANDING!
What The Force Awakens should have been
This movies looks and feels like the original trilogy. Also, I can't help but compare it with last year's episode VII which I didn't like at all. Both movies have a female lead character and that is great. But while everyone is still wondering who is Rey and what is her link to the Jedi, Jyn Erso story is told in a more satisfying way. Cassian is everything Poe Dameron should have been. But what really makes this movie a great addition to the Star Wars franchise is that it is the first true prequel to A New Hope, this movie ends right where Episode IV begins and it allows us to a classic with an enriched background story, which is really great.
"The Force is with me and I am one with the Force."
Chirrut and Baze were my favorites. This film made me think i want more stand alone films then a continuation of Episodes. As someone who has only jumped on to the Star Wars franchise over the past year, watching all the films over the past few months..this has to be my favorite next to the original film and what a fitting place. I can't wait to re-watch it back to back.
It most definitely made up for the Force Awakens which as a new viewer almost put me off. People more informed in film might be able to pin point what Rogue One has done better. That last battle to get the plans, i couldn't blink. Both the space and ground combat really conveyed how desperate the Rebels were.
The C3PO and R2D2 cameo took me out of the film for a moment but the rest of the film felt seamless and pulled me right in. I would of liked to have seen more of the relationship between Jyn and Saw but i am sure novels and television will take that on for us (or already have). So many emotions in those 2 and so hours and i can't wait to watch again, at the theater! Perfect cinema experience and worth the outing. By the way, what an ending! Vader never looked so dominant.
The problem with prequels, with almost all of them, is the general story has already been established. You know what will happen. That was true for Ep I to III and it is true here. So you can say it is about the journey and not the destination. And the journey in Rogue One is worth every minute. I am a decade long Star Wars fan but had you asked me some years ago if I think this story needed to be told in detail I probably would have said "no". And I would have been wrong because this is one of the best SW movies ever. I don´t compare it to Force Awakens on purpose as I see Force only as part of a story that needs to be told completely whereas Rogue is in itself a closed chapter.
Beside the hated CGI characters and, yes, some negligible minor flaws, I love everything about Rogue. It has some amazing moments that had me hold my breath. The visuals are awesome. It builds up towards an end where, despite the fact you know what will be the outcome, you feel with the characters.
And for someone who never has seen any Star Wars movie (yes, those people do exist) you can watch this first or between Ep III and IV because it takes nothing away from those other movies.
And that is how you do a prequel.
IP Man was in this. :D
Just rewatched this again after a few years and having just completed star wars rebels. Id seen youtube footage of Chopper and the Ghost but i was so shocked to hear "General Syndulla" being called over the loudspeaker so this movie that i thought was good went up another couple of notches for bringing things together.
If you criticized this movie, don't see The Last Jedi. ;) This movie is the best thing that Disney did with Star Wars. The scene of Darth Vader worth the price.
After Revenge of the Sith, the last of the prequels, came and went, it seemed that the Star Wars saga was over, as far as the films went; sure, there was the Clone Wars movie, but its box office receipts were well under the standard set for the series. Some years later, Disney bought Lucasfilm, and it was soon announced that there would be a new film in the series. People doubted the House of Mouse, but, the flick was a massive hit, and, soon, there were further films announced, the first one of which was Rogue One, another prequel to the original trilogy. The previous prequels had sort of a mixed reaction from moviegoers and critics alike, but, this one is in a completely different vein. Instead of the childishness of The Phantom Menace or the romantic aspect of Attack of the Clones, this one focuses largely on action, and answers a very big question: How exactly did the Rebels get the plans to the Death Star? Most of the characters introduced are likable, especially main heroine Jyn Erso. There are some familiar faces, though: Darth Vader makes two or so appearances, and there's even a scene with a very realistic computer-generated Princess Leia, who very much looks like a young Carrie Fisher. There's plenty of action and heroism, and no annoying characters like Jar Jar. Even the content is clean; though there's plenty of violence, as expected, it's not graphic, sexual content is absent, and language is limited to one unfinished, "What the...?"
Despite my high praise, I do have to issue some complaints: There was a pokey moment here and there, and, at times, it felt underwhelming. Still, for Star Wars fans like me, this is a blast.
Definitely shocked me, wasn't expecting a great movie after being a bit disappointed with force awakens but this one was great, i know most hate the prequels but ive always thought they were pretty good, not great as yes they could have been soo much better given the subject at hand, that being said i wouldnt mind seeing a star wars movie set during the clone wars possibly, or another spot in star wars galaxy
The non Skywalker Star Wars we've been waiting for.
World Premiere Review: 12/10/16
I think this was only second to Empire Strikes Back. It was that good. This wasn't your Pa's Star Wars, this was Star Wars with grit, intense action, interesting and investing characters and a true sense that at any point in time, your favorite character might die. Almost Game of Thrones meets Star Wars and (talking with Bob Iger) was a goal for this film and it PAYS OFF. Battles are a major part of this film; white knuckled, adrenaline fueled action. You'll be wired hours after viewing. Imagine the opening to Episode 3, but well done and what you wished Episode 3 was following the opening space battle. I'm at a loss for word without spoiling it. GO SEE IT.
new drinking game everytime a character in rogue one dies keep drinking to numb the pain
A new hope for the SW franchise
This is the best Star Wars movie, ever, and that's a fact. The characters, the tone, the plot, the score, the lighting, the editing, the acting - everything was achingly beautiful, absolutely perfect. What I like best is how defiantly hopeful every minute of it is, when it's so full of death and suffering.
I'm taking one point off for that not-happy ending, but I have to admit the beach scene has stuck with me ever since I first saw it. I hate character deaths and I still think that was the easy way out in many ways, but if they had to die, I'm glad it was done that way.
This Star Ware movie beats a lot of Star Wars movies, especially on 1 and 2.
It's good, a very interesting story, like never seen before in the Star Wars universe (that's my opinion), a lot of action, the visual effects were also in the movie, well not in any scene but they were too.
The film had some well-known actors such as Diego Luna and Ben Mendelshon and Mads Mikkelsen who played very well in this film.
This movie is amazing, I hate being this person as very few blockbusters warrant this but some of the performances in this movie are oscar worthy as the acting in this movie is absolutely sublime with Felicity Jones (Jyn), Diego Luna (Cassian) & Donnie Yen (Chirrut) turning in some of the best performances I have seen in a movie for a while. This is the crown jewel of the Star Wars franchise in my opinion and I think in many years time the fans of the franchise will see that, as the story is very unique and it allows you to see how the rebels were created and armed with knowledge.
Also, the cinematography and directing in this movie were perfect as the film is really beautiful to look at and the actions/visuals are shot so well that even in the action sequences you could see everything that is going on, with one scene in particular with Donnie Yen looking so awesome as it is just so kick ass. I can't recommend this film enough and I think if you didn't like some of the prequel movies, this will definitely scratch that itch.
The best Star Wars movie, i have ever seen
Vader moves much faster here and a mere week or so later he's grinds to a halt against Obi Wan on the Death Star! Lord Vader....what happened to you in the space of a week?
By Far The BEST SW MOVIE EVER!!!!!
I was prepared to be a little disappointed, and have the movie spoiled (since you kinda get part of the story, and the ending from the other movies), but I would almost say that I enjoyed this more than The Force Awakens! It was a fantastic side-storyline that wedged itself perfectly in between episodes 3 and 4, and from a different vantage point.
Fun Fact: this is the saddest film of 2016.. and of the whole Star Wars universe
I liked it, but I am a starwars fan
Easily twice as good as the previous one, which I found just average by the way. Rogue one is intelligent, less drama, more Star Wars action and good characters. Excellent Star Wars movie. Maybe it helped that I went with little expectations. Looking forward to the next one.
The Vader scene was freaking amazing <3
Of the entire series, I'd say its a solid 3rd quality and entertainment wise which was a wonderful surprise.
Rogue One is a welcome addition to the Star Wars universe with a perfect balance of classic characters and new ones. Rogue One did essentially everything I wanted it to do. Gareth Edwards and the whole cast need a round of applause. It also remains a pretty ballsy move by Disney as this movie may not be as universally appealing as the other films in the franchise.
The Empire is making a thing called the Death Star that can blow up planets. Boom, I hit you with a spoiler there. If you don't want other spoilers, stop reading and go watch it.
So this is what I wanted last year. Here is a very distinct, original story. Of course, we know where it is going, but the way we get there isn't just one of the movies redone. This is a big deal, and hopefully it will continue this way with the majority of the future films in this franchise.
Starting off, I really like the entire cast. Big roles to small roles, all were very entertaining. The only downside in my book was seeing Mads Mikkelsen get too little screen time. I wish he had made it to the final battle to kill people. And eat them? Out of character, but I'd have been fine with it.
There were, however, two people in this that really made me happy. First, our new droid K-2SO is so entertaining. I don't always love comedy relief in movies like this, but he wasn't there just to be a joke. His character actually had an arc. I genuinely felt sad when he got gunned down in the end, more so than any other character who died (like, everyone).
Second, I love Tarkin. Not just in this, but in everything. He is such an awesome character; the general who can even chastise Vader. I like that he is a calm and level headed evil Hitler guy. Peter Cushing just stepped into that role and owned scenes in A New Hope. So, I'm very happy seeing him post death in this one. Enough to not care about the CGI face. Can I tell it isn't real? Obviously. Does it bother me? Not in the slightest. This is how we resurrect great actors. You hear me Peter O'Toole? I want a Lawrence of America spinoff.
Action scenes in this are a lot of fun. We are going back to cool ground and airfare fights at the same time. That opening ISIS fight is pretty cool, but the big deal is obviously the finale. They use each team character pretty well, and they kill them each in a fun way. The X-Wings also get us back in that classic "Red Something checking in" vibe. Yet, the way the fight has to go down is certainly different. Zooming into the blue shield thingy around the planet is a fun way to explode people.
Unfortunately, the film is not without flaws. I almost think the main things I have issues with are due to the studio reshoots though. They do way too many "call backs" to other films. Do C3PO and R2-D2 really need to make an appearance? Or, specifically, do they need a full shot of them? They could just walk past or something, and do the same job without looking so hokey. There are a few more of these, some more apparent than others, and I think it just keeps the movie from being more of a quality film.
Of all of those though, The one thing that stands out to me is Vader. I get it, they put him in to bring in the cash. As a business move, makes sense. But can you imagine not expecting him in it at all? Then right at the end of the film you see his saber pop out of that smoke while he boards the ship to flow into A New Hope? Instead we hear old man James Earl Jones voice him for a weird convo that doesn't need to happen at all in the middle of the movie.
Finally, I do need to point out that the soundtrack to this is pretty damn fantastic. Giacchinno matches the Star Wars style perfectly, but makes it a bit distinct at the same time. I've already listened through the soundtrack 3 times in the past 2 days, and I'm enjoying it more and more. This is clearly his test to take over the main films when John Williams stops. He's already filled the shoes on Jurassic Park, so I genuinely think he's the child of John Williams.
All in all, this is one of the best films in the franchise. Here is my ranking list below:
Current Star Wars Rankings:
The Empire Strikes Back 5
Star Wars 5
Rogue One 4.5
Return of the Jedi 4
Revenge of the Sith 3
Force Awakens 3
Attack of the Clones 1.5
The Phantom Menace 1
It was epic, I left with that buzz of excitement that only Star Wars can offer.
It fits in very well with the rest of the film's and really enhances the full story. Just wanted to get back and watch A New Hope as soon as I got home.
My only concern is that because it was good it will just open the flood gates, and for the next 10 years we'll get an overload of "additional" film's. I don't want it to become what Marvel has, who seem to just be churning out film's, some are good some are bad, they're just playing the odds.
Lucasfilm should focus on good solid film's only, as a fan I am willing to wait a few years between to really get the best films.
The end with Vader, just absolutely epic, brings back that unmistakable feeling I had as a child watching the originals, he is so damn badass. For the whole thing I was trying to work out where this film fits, I knew it fell between "Revenge" and "Hope" but I do like that it is near immediately before "Hope", really makes a New Hope more dramatic
Everyone is talking about the final third act of Rogue One. Few minor quibbles aside, the third act is simply incredible, easily worthy of top 3 Star Wars films.
The first half is a bit more problematic. Aside from Jyn Erso and Diego Luna, the character development is almost non existent. Most of the secondary characters are reduced to stereotypes. For me, the most disappointing is Donnie Yen, who could've been one of the coolest force sensitive characters. Instead Chirrut Imwe gets the Darth Maul treatment, uttering corny lines while looking as cool as he can. For me, only Alan Tudyk's K-2SO managed to rise with dry delivery.
Limited character development and pacing on the first half aside, the film does an impressive job setting up the atmosphere and introducing new worlds and new species of aliens. That is not to say the film doesn't pay a fair share of homage to the original trilogy, most rendered very convincingly in CGI. Some gave me goosebumps. But Rogue One is restrained and does not go overboard in "trying to fit in" like The Force Awakens. It carves its own style and solidifying "A Star Wars Story" as a franchise worthy of standing on its own legs, rather than playing a second fiddle.
The opening shot is almost shocking and when the title pops up, it screams confidence. Michael Giacchino's score blends in just the right amount of John Williams and his own signature style. And everything from the costume, set design, and dog fights look and feel convincing.
All in all, I am very impressed with Rogue One, much more so than The Force Awakens which I also enjoyed. I left the theater feeling extremely satisfied. I strongly suspect Rogue One will age well, unlike the prequels.
I had a good feeling about this...since they announced the movie plot. I just thought it could have been a great part of the star wars mithology to look into, and the first time ever since 1978 a (risky) chance to openly sideline the main movies storyline. Don't get me wrong, I have no problem (regardless its up and downs) with the Skywalker's saga, but at this point even without taking into account the expandend universe Star Wars built a vivid and structured universe with so many things untold to add or other things simply hinted but ready to be developed.
So...i liked this movie alot for the aforementioned reasons since it was just a concept, and now more than ever as finished movie being to me somehow the first "new" Star Wars movie since Episode IV. As we all know Lucas had an original story and couldn't squeeze it into a single movie (and a single budget in those days) so it delivered its vision in three parts. But it was just a single story but with such a powerful vision that once the movies ended the universe around them kept living and growing on itself in popular culture.
Since a was a kid playing with my Star Wars toys I had my own stories happening in the Star Wars universe Beyond the movie events, my x-wings were always diving into some attack well after the Battle of Yavin, stormtroopers and rebels where caught in endless fights in some hidden base under my bed or securing secret data in strategic lookouts over my desk.
That's where Rogue One is (finally) happening. It's a zooming in and out over a huge landscape of the saga, somehow far from where much greater powers and characters are at work, the get right to that tiny spot that you knew was there but never took the time to appreciate all the difference it made.
Edwards manage to accomplish many not so easy goals all at once, first Rogue One boldly moves away from the storytelling tone of all its predecessors but still cleverly keeping its roots alive inheriting part of the mood of the Empire Strikes Back, not by chance generally considered the darker movie in the classic trilogy.
From there he builds up a strong, well paced war movie in a far, far away galaxy thanks to a set of solid characters and especially in the first half a stellar screenplay and editing that interwine various plots and happenings. If there is something I could criticize of the movie is that actually the final part loose a bit its keen focus on characters to leave more space to the action. On the other hand a price every aviation or space opera fans will gladly pay to see what will likely remain for some time the greatest space fighter scene ever. The Rebel Alliance attack on Scarif is simply aviation dogfights porn.
And it's amazing thinking that what we are witnessing it's kind of the tiny story compared to the overall Star Wars saga happenings we already know; but again Edwards hits the target dosing the screen time of the most iconic characters, like some punchy chorus in a good song he knows where and how to make Darth Vader have its powerful entrance. Moff Tarkin, R2 and C3PO, Leia as Vader himself even in their small screen time are like towering elements on the background, bringing depth, scale and framing to an already vivid picture.
Last but not least Rogue One without getting into too deep waters remaining an entertainment product, strikes that difficult balance between been a war movie and a movie about war, where the first holds the powerful epic of the sacrifice for some higher belief with the unarguable cinematic power of war scenes, while the second weight is to the more jaded vision where circumstances makes us what we are, and once your innocence is lost there is no turning back or true redemption. Just dealing with what we have done and making our best to stay true to why we did it.
In Rogue One too, wars not make one great.
That would have been a great, though a bit too revealing tagline I guess...
Just to preface this, I thought A Force Awakens was emotionless trash that undermined the entire purpose of the original three films.
Rogue One was the opposite.
The best thing about this movie was the emotional impact. It underlined the sacrifices made to make the original trilogy possible. Some people have called it long, but that helped build up characters that you actually felt for, and who weren't carbon copy ripoffs (cough cough A Force Awakens). The final scenes as the two main characters face their fate, recognizing that it was worth it, gave such a high emotional payoff. Each major death scene actually made you feel something.
The second best thing was K-2SO. Very funny, and much needed comedic (but not goofy) relief.
The CGI for landscapes and the world creation was outstanding. When I see a movie like Star Wars I want to be amazed and see things that I haven't seen done before. I want to be impressed and drawn into new, beautifully crafted worlds. In this respect, the movie just kept delivering over and over.
The cinematography was great during the action sequences. The sequences looked epic, and the violence and sacrifice felt meaningful. The Vader fight sequence was intense.
It also had interesting ties to current events with its commentary on terrorism/rebellion/weapons of mass destruction. By the way, the science genius character realizing that he isn't priceless in developing some major device is fantastic. All of the movies with "only so-and-so can figure this out" are very disappointing.
The moral message of the movie was also very clear and well delivered.
I really enjoyed the movie overall and thought that it was a big step in the right direction. It was adventurous again, it was sometimes shocking, original, and most of all meaningful. A Force Awakens failed on all of those points. It's good to see a franchise movie that's taking a bit more risk than average. AFA was just like the new Star Trek films, shiny bling low-impact action movies that just happen to be set in space. Rogue One pushes far beyond to show the what drives the Rebellion in a world we know and love.
Despite the fact that I really liked the movie, it had some flaws:
- Tarkin face CGI
- Some of the acting in the first half.
- Tarkin face CGI
- Some of the cuts were really weird and the pacing felt off for portions of the first half.
- Tarkin face CGI
- Forest Whittaker just deciding to die instead of trying to escape.
- Tarkin face CGI
- A few unbelievable plot lines (thankfully most were minor). Like Cassian being sent to kill Galen for almost no reason, and then deciding not to for no reason, and then Jyn forgiving him surprisingly easily. How did she even know that he was trying to kill her father?
- Tarkin face CGI
- Does every Star Wars movie need to have a father character die? Why didn't Cass follow orders when he heartlessly killed someone else in his first scene?
- Tarkin face CGI
- Heavy handed political messaging.
- Tarkin face CGI
- Said "hope" too many times.
- Tarkin face CGI
- You can just push Star Destroyers that easily?
- Tarkin face CGI
- The word "Stardust"
- Tarkin face CGI
- Too many random worlds introduced that you don't have the time to get invested in.
- Tarkin face CGI
- Too much awkward fan service.
- Tarkin face CGI
- Darth Vader's voice sounded off.
- Tarkin face CGI
- Some of the dialogue was really terrible.
- Tarkin face CGI
It's even better after Andor. The ending is sad and perfect, very much like the ending of 30 Days of Night.
Better than everything JJ did
2 hours of the Vader scene would do very nicely
Original trilogy, episodes IV–VI
A New Hope (1977) https://trakt.tv/movies/star-wars-1977
The Empire Strikes Back (1980) https://trakt.tv/movies/the-empire-strikes-back-1980
Return of the Jedi (1983) https://trakt.tv/movies/return-of-the-jedi-1983
Prequel trilogy, episodes I–III
The Phantom Menace (1999) https://trakt.tv/movies/star-wars-episode-i-the-phantom-menace-1999
Attack of the Clones (2002) https://trakt.tv/movies/star-wars-episode-ii-attack-of-the-clones-2002
Revenge of the Sith (2005) https://trakt.tv/movies/star-wars-episode-iii-revenge-of-the-sith-2005
Sequel trilogy, episodes VII–IX
The Force Awakens (2015) https://trakt.tv/movies/star-wars-the-force-awakens-2015
The Last Jedi (2017) https://trakt.tv/movies/star-wars-the-last-jedi-2017
The Rise of Skywalker (2019) https://trakt.tv/movies/star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker-2019
Anthology films
Rogue One (2016) https://trakt.tv/movies/rogue-one-a-star-wars-story-2016
Solo (2018) https://trakt.tv/movies/solo-a-star-wars-story-2018
Rogue Squadron (2023) https://trakt.tv/movies/rogue-squadron-2023
As a big fan of short stories and anthologies, the thought of "one-off" episodes based in the Star Wars universe is very appealing. It was surprising then, to see how closely "Rogue One" ties into "Star Wars: A New Hope". In fact, it actually made the movie better. The closing moments were very satisfying.
There seems to be a lot of griping about the characters being too thin and not explored to any depth. It seems that since this was originally planned as a self-contained story, a carryover to another story or an extension to "The Force Awakens" plot line was not intended. A personal gripe of mine has been that most all Movie and TV viewers want to know excessive amounts of information about characters. This means everything needs to be a TV series with multiple seasons, or a movie with multiple sequels. It seems every time I read a recently released book, I find that there is no conclusion. Everything is a damned trilogy. I'm not so naive to not consider the economic benefit of turning a well received movie or book into a franchise, but when I start knowing the characters of a show as well as I know my own family, well, it gets stale fast. All that said, the fact that these characters are largely irrelevant to the continuing Star Wars story is just fine. They were all necessary heroes in the larger story.
There are some incredible special effects including one moment involving a couple of Star Cruisers that was worth the price of admission. Darth Vader is here and his moment late in the film is amazing.
Overall, there's little bad to be said about "Rogue One". It's an exciting, great looking Action movie.
The best Star Wars stories don't focus on a Skywalker. KOTOR, The Mandalorian, and Rogue One slap hard as hell.
That's what I call a star wars story
A true prequel to the original Star Wars, Rogue One is a thrilling sci-fi adventure that tells the story behind the Rebel’s first victory. When a defecting Imperial pilot with important information about a new weapon called the Death Star is captured by a fringe resistance fighter named Saw Gerrera the Rebels seek out one of his former followers in order to find Gerrera and get the information from the pilot. The cast is fairly strong and delivers some good performances; particularly Alan Tudyk, who does an excellent job voicing the droid K-2SO (giving him a fun sardonic personality). And, director Gareth Edwards does an impressive job at filming the action and capturing the scope of the battle sequences. Additionally, the special effects are extraordinarily well-done and allow for a surprising cameo. However, the score by Michael Giacchino is rather weak and the two lead characters aren’t that charismatic. Yet overall, Rogue One is an exciting and action-packed film that bridges the two Star Wars trilogies.
I didn't have high expectations for this one judging it useless in the Star Wars universe because we don't need to know everything. But surprisingly, I liked it and it's different than the other movies. It is slow at the beginning but the third act is incredible with great action and the Vader scene is just awesome. However, the use of CGI for Tarkin and Leia is not really good and I personnally don't like when technology is used to bring dead actors back to life.
It's a fine movie, I guess. it starts kind of slow but eventually it picks up and ends in a wicked battle.
I like it 'cause everyone dies.
I really enjoyed this movie.
I liked the characters. It was easy to like them. They did some good performance.
Darth Vader scene was intense.
Great movie.
My full review can be seen here:
http://uk.blastingnews.com/entertainment/2016/12/rogue-one-a-star-wars-story-review-001301535.html
No Bothans were killed in the making of this short review. This is how prequels should be done, sorry
George Lucas - you did a fantastic job with the originals but lost your way afterwards - this is highly reminiscent of the original movie and also deepens our knowledge of that film. It didn't blow me away but then i did see it at a midnight showing and its possible I will enjoy it much more when fully awake.
I absolutely love so much about this movie, but I get bored with some parts as well. Overall, it’s pretty good, and who doesn’t love K2? 8.5/10 :star:
A great massacre this film is :sweat_smile:. The plot is good and it connects perfectly with the original saga, it is the perfect prologue for Episode IV and Felicity Jones next to Diego Luna lead very good the whole story. But, come on! Everybody dies. It is a total massacre. I enjoyed the visual effects, the battles at different battlefields and the different characters presented in the film. The best one this far (I've only seen Episodes 1-4).
I finally got to see this with my dad, who saw the original Star Wars in 1977 when he was 6.
We both liked it way more than The Force Awakens. It loses a tiny bit of the magic the second time around, and K-2S0 is more annoying on repeat viewings, but there's still a little bit of that good ol' Star Wars feeling I get from watching the original trilogy. Also, incredible camera work from Gareth Edwards. Love his work from Monsters (2010) and Godzilla (2014).
pretty nice for a standalone star wars movie but :
- jyn lacks "character" + cassian doesn't seam too real
- chinese actors are just there for marketing and saw gerrera was a joke
Ok, let's face it. Original Star Wars was heaven on Earth when I watched it. Watched it again and it had that "80s bad acting aura" when I re watched it. You know, the ridiculous unrealistic fight scenes that were a must at the time. But still loved it so I was fine with that.
Then came the Disney inspired nonsense. I walked out of one and did not even watch another one. Just horrible.
So now this. I was worried after it started with a kid doing some stuff (the new ones had them perform like the best genius whatever which killed it for me). But no worries, was all fine.
Without giving spoilers, it was good. Vader's voice sucked but that was the biggest drawback. I watched and probably not watch it again but it was ok. Maybe I am just the original Star Wars dude and cannot get new ones. Then again I liked every new Bond movie or Fast Furious. Watch it and rate it :)
Sooo...this was way better than feared.
I put out watching this one for a long time. Mainly because I feared it would not live up to the hype.
I was wrong...it's actually quite good...or rather...the last half or so is good. The first half was kind of meh. I know I have to explain that better, but it just felt too long...too drawn out. It wasn't bad, but not worthy of a Star Wars movie either.
The special effects and CGI was great except for a certain character that ruined the immersion something fierce.
The acting was good all around, except for a few very goofy lines delivered in a very weird way. Almost like the actor wasn't sure about what they were saying.
All-in-all...if Rogue One sets the standard for the "in-between" Star Wars movies...I'll never put out watching one of them again.
Low personality, big feelings. That’s a thing right? Fab movie.
For a story in which we knew how it ended, and all the characters died, it was pretty good. Can we get K-2SOs core downloaded into another robot? On repeat viewing, post VIII, one can appreciate some of those bits of data with long term impact.
I liked this movie more than I remembered. Maybe it is because I am watching them in chronological order in preparation for The Last Jedi and coming off the prequels but I think this movie works well. Decent action with new exotic terrain is a lot of fun. The sacrifice made by all the characters was somewhat emotional, could of been more with a little more character development. I really liked Ben Mendelsohn's Krennic. He is just a middle management guy trying to get credit for his project. Mads is great as always. K-2SO's sassy dialogue made for some funny moments. And of course Vader's scene was awesome but it felt like they had to put some lightsabers in this movie.
Some things that didn't work for me were everything with Saw Gerrera. I just think Forest Whitaker over played him. The CGI faces aren't terrible but they aren't good. It's more of a distraction than anything. They should of just kept Tarkin in reflections only or recast. The music didn't feel right. It felt like it was trying too hard to be different. This is still Star Wars and music is a very important part of this franchise.
I liked it, but it's sometimes so boring
Really well done. A smaller Star Wars story with a human struggle and some tragedy. Filled with a roster of unlikables who earn some redemption with their just cause. Loved the ending, and liked how nicely and subtly it connects the two trilogies. Didn't like the addition of AT-ATs though, this movie cheapened them.
I kinda loved the movie, except for the extremely obvious "lets copy all aspects from the previous movies", with daddy-complex issues, daddy dies, heroes who dont want to be heroes, unimportant people who are suddenly in front of the surpreme council and make a statement to address everyone to re-light their hope. blablalbla. Still: loved the movie.
Aspect that I absolutely did not like was the blatently killing off of all the characters. wtf was up with that.
A Star Wars movie that's actually a war movie too.
Like all the best old war flicks, it's a little cheesy round the edges, but that didn't stop me having a blast.
People said enough here already about the movie itself, so I won't. Instead, I wanted to point out a couple of tiny funny moments though, can't even say it's a spoiler ones.
Firstly, they have freaking starships, highly intellectual robots, they can transmit data through the universe... and yet their holograms always have such a shitty quality! Always glitching and lagging, like it was recorded on 5 inch floppy disc. Amusing really..
And the second thing is how in the first couple of minutes of the movie (so not so much of a spoiler here) when an imperial ship landing - why the hell they landed like 5 miles outside of the destination point, and then just walked there by foot through the field? Did they feel like having a stroll and some fresh air after a long flight in a closed space or something?
After being disappointed by The Force Awakens I wasn't expecting much from another Disney Star Wars movie. However, this one was awesome. Mads Mikkelsen was great and the badass Darth Vader scene was a total geekout.
The creators of Star Wars has found a way to keep us all wanting more. I finished watching Rogue One and I was ready to watch it again or just simply watch every movie again. I am that excited.
At first I wasn't really sure about it all. Seeing that everybody told me it's a whole different story from the "normal" Star Wars movies (I highly disagree there because it literally fits perfect between film 3 and 4) and I didn't know how to feel about Felicity Jones as Jyn Erso (I know, it's bitching about something not worth bitching about, but I did it anyway). I think getting the right actor for the role is so imported. It could make or break a movie. I had my doubts about Felicity but I'm taking them all back because she was so so good. Her looks fitted in perfectly. Although I do feel like once she started talking the amount of "cool" dropped a bit, perhaps because her accent is so perfect, but I don't know. I felt like it just didn't really fit once she started talking. (I'm sorry)
I always like it when I watch a real cool movie with tons of actors I don't know. I didn't really know Diego Luna, Donnie Yen, Wen Jiang or Ben Mendelsohn before Rogue One. I'm sure not to forget them now because they were all great. I liked Mads Mikkelsen as well because he is one of my favorite actors and he is amazing, that's all. (Also, small shoutout to Forest Whitaker for being cool). I enjoyed the camera work as well. It was all beautifully filmed and in the beginning there were a lot of shot containing the environment and not only the actors. That gives a lot of breathing space and I think is a great way to build up the movie towards the action filled parts.
Rogue One did a great job at telling its story, with beautiful camerawork and great actors. It got me all hyped up about the Star Wars universe again and I can't wait to see more.
Not as brilliant as "The force awakens", bit still great and so much better than a lot of people feared when only a year has passed since the last Star Wars movie was out.
I think the newly introduced characters are not as great as the ones from the original films (but since a lot of them died during the film, they may be thought they shouldn't create characters that the audience loves and therefore is severely disappointed when the die, but still much better than ones featuring in "of the rack" action flicks.
The scenery was great and I thought the beautiful planet of Scarif a nice touch and good contrast to the mostly grim planets depicted in star wars movies! What I missed was a great new type of star ship, but that's not that crucial.
Plot-wise it fits perfectly between Episode III and IV and features (as always) a lot of action! I really enjoyed it and look very much forward to the next Star Wars movie: keep up the good work, Disney!!!
Tremendously better than "the force awakens"
A great story without the "whining-ness" that is the Skywalker-gene (prequel Anakin, current Kylo Ren). It was weird seeing a Jedi not using force push or a lightsaber. Now for some spoilers: Darth Vader was brutal, Leia has an appearance, Darksaber is mentioned, and all the main characters -- even the droid -- sacrifice themselves for the cause. It did feel weird not a seeing an intro scroll at the beginning, like every other SW movie, but it was nice seeing completely new characters, not related to the original movie's characters, with their own background and desires. Suffice to say, it dragged somewhat, but you won't be disappointed by the ending.
By far the best prequel of a film franchise i've ever seen... has prequels go.. the force is strong in this one... that really does live up to the 4th, 5th, 6th... to the sound tracks, to the effects, the picture, the one liners, and the cast.. unbelievable... it's great to be alive!
***1/2: Spoiler: A gloomy and probably unnecessary StarWars story it is. However the film is so well acted and well done that it's definitely not bad.
While there's some pretty bad ass Vader appearances. Which
makes us forget the disappointing last time we saw Vader on the big screen in 2005. He gets way cooler lines than "Where's Padme ?" and "Noooooo!" ”
I also liked how they used to bring back dead actors from the original or to make certain actors from the original look younger. They should make a First Order film leading into Force Awakens and use that effect.
My complaint is something that hit me after the film. This a big spoiler: Just that after anyone part of the Rogue One team does their part of the mission, then they're expendable like right after. Time for them to die. Which happens one by one after each character has done what they were supposed to. I didn't expect any survivors from the start but the way it was done was some-what lazy.
In many ways it follows the structure of a standard Star Wars film, and it kind of feels like it was made to sell tickets, but you know what? They figured out exactly how to play with the formula to make a satisfying movie. There were no glaring flaws (although I just came from watching, so maybe I'll think of something tomorrow). They tried with all their might to appeal to the fanboy and fangirl in all of us who can't help but be delighted by every easter egg to A New Hope, every connection and every character, and ultimately it made for a quite enjoyable film. Bottom line: it's not exactly Star Wars, it's trying to test how far a Star Wars spin-off can go in terms of separating itself from the films that came before it. It tries to be fresh and different, but not too much. Takeaway from this ramble: in terms of the franchise, Rogue One may not be the main course, but it's a joy to get to enjoy it on the side
7.0/10. A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi are the sacred texts of the Star Wars universe. Every story and every piece of the universe that has emerged in the wake of those first three films – sequels, prequels, midquels, comics, T.V. shows, video games, trading cards, action figures, and commemorative plates – are indebted to the franchise’s holy trinity. Each of them, no matter what claim to originality or expansion they may make, echoes, references, or “rhymes” with those instigating incidents. For as wide and wooly as the famed distant galaxy has become over the years, the creators and collaborators behind Star Wars are forever filling in the gaps left by those all-important lodestones of the franchise.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is the peak of this gap-filling mentality brought to bear. It is inexorably tied to the original Star Wars, taking great pains to connect the events of the film to those of its hallowed predecessor, even when it gets in the way of telling Rogue One’s own story. In that way, it feels closer to pandering than to a novel extension of the Star Wars universe, like a film desperate to remind you what comes next in the story, without regard for whether any of the harbingers it presents truly add anything to the story we already know.
It’s a shame, because beneath the frantic attempts to show the audience where the film fits into the franchise’s timeline is a solid if unspectacular standalone tale. Rogue One tells the story of the assorted individuals responsible for stealing the plans for the Death Star, and taken apart from the ways in which that narrative is relegated to being mere setup for what’s to come, it’s an interesting, hardscrabble slice of the larger Star Wars story.
For all its strengths, so much of Star Wars inevitably comes down to two warring factions: the Rebels and the Empire, the Republic and the Separatists, the Jedi and the Sith. What makes Rogue One unique is its focus on those who are outside of that dichotomy and its inescapable conflicts. Most of the individuals we meet are ready to buck up against the Empire when it suits them, but not so eager to thumb their noses at this overwhelming force in pursuit of truth, justice, and the midi-chlorian way.
There’s merit in that tack. The problem is that the film stumbles considerably in telling these people’s story, or any sort of complete story for that matter. Rogue One is less a full and robust narrative – one that, ideally, builds and progresses and culminates at the right time – than it is a mere series of moments which bear only a mild relation to one another. Some of those moments are cool. A handful of them are even thrilling. But they don’t amount to something cohesive and complete, and the film suffers for it.
The effort’s also hampered by the uninspiring qualities of the film’s major characters. Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones), Rogue One’s protagonist, is mostly a cipher, whose informed attributes overwhelm any actual personality from the character. We learn her backstory – she’s a de facto orphan (why is it always orphans in Star Wars?); she has abandonment issues that have driven her to apathy; and she’s a survivor – but her emotional journey in the film is underdeveloped and Jones fails to breathe enough life into the role to overcome that fact.
Jyn reconnects, however briefly or ephemerally, with those she lost, and seems to learn something about a commitment and a love that transcends separation or apparent abandonment. But the connection between that mild revelation and her sudden commitment to the greater good is thin at best, and mostly serves as light texture for the major fireworks at the end of the film. It keeps Rogue One playing from behind from the beginning.
The same goes for other lead in the film, Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), a hardened Rebel fighter. As written, Andor should be an interesting character, occupying a moral gray area that’s rare in this universe. In contrast to the purity exhibited by the members of the Rebel Alliance in A New Hope, Cassian is not above killing allies and bystanders when it suits his purposes. Early in the film, he blows away an informant who grows too panicky, as it was for his scruffy cinematic predecessor, the character’s introduction leaves no ambiguity as to who shot first.
But Luna gives a flat performance as Andor, to the point that the character comes off as a lifeless drone, lurching about simply to move the narrative along, but only feigning some deeper emotional drive. This type of performance can work for this type of character, who’s seen too much and grown detached and jaded. But Rogue One never really does the heavy lifting to sell his story in a way that makes this characterization meaningful.
Which makes the side characters the only genuinely compelling personalities in the film. Chief among these are Chirrut Îmwe (Donnie Yen) and Baze Malbus (Wen Jiang), a pair of force-worshipping monks, and K-2SO (Alan Tudyk) a reprogrammed imperial droid with a dry wit.
The former make for a particularly interesting pair. Îmwe makes an impression as a blind but true believer, who trusts in the force and demonstrates the strength of that belief in his effective use of a bow and in his acts of faith. Baze compliments his partner well as the lapsed adherent who’s quick with a futuristic chain gun. He’s a reluctant combatant, but a protective friend. And K2 is practically the exclusive source of the film’s humor, providing unexpected bits of heart as well. It may be the character quirks or the performances, but these individuals stand out as the only new personalities involved to make the audience invest in the results of this little escapade.
Nearly everyone else, from Saw Gerrera (Forest Whitaker, making some deliberate but odd choices in his performance) to Galen Ersa (Mads Mikkelsen who, for the second time this summer, elevates the shallow material his character receives) is lost in a sea of heavily underlined cameos and ham-fisted hints at what comes next.
CAUTION: The remainder of this review contains significant spoilers for Rogue One.
While it’s fun (if contrived) to see minor characters like Ponda Baba and Evazan pop up here and there, Rogue One is awash in nigh-pointless appearances from better known characters. C-3PO and R2-D2 pop up for a moment to deliver a quick dose of their usual banter. A scene with Darth Vader and the film’s antagonist, Director Krennic, serves little purpose beyond allowing the Sith Lord to show off his standard parlor trick and deliver a corny pun. Bail Organa (the only significant presence from the Prequels), also appears in order to participate in awkwardly-worded exchanges about Obi Wan Kenobi. Of all these cameos, only Grand Moff Tarkin (an impressively compu-revivified Peter Cushing) feels at all significant to the plot of this film and not just some sop to fans hoping to see their old favorites.
So the film putters along through clumsy exposition-ridden exchanges; stolid, eye roll-worthy scenes; and convenient but uninspiring developments. Little of it descends to the level of being outright bad. Everything is competent. Almost everyone has a clear motivation. *Rogue One * just offers little reason to be invested in any of it.
Then, however, comes the finale. It’s an epic battle that spans three settings – a raucous dogfight in space, a guerilla-esque battle on the ground, and a race against time to recover the death star plans inside an empire facility – and the film picks up considerably once it hits. In fact, that last gasp of the film, its extraordinary race to the finish, nearly justifies all the stumbles and flaws on the way to that point. There is a vibrancy and an urgency to the rigors of war, the thrill of the fight, and the weight of the sacrifice in the film’s final frame that is all but missing in the first two-thirds of the movie.
Those orbital dogfights live up to the best in the franchise’s history. While far busier than the famous run on the Death Star in A New Hope and more varied than the fight in Return of the Jedi, the interplanetary combat portion of Rogue One brings creativity and visual flair to the fore. The “hammerhead corvette” move to ram one star destroyer into another is not only a stunning image in and of itself, but represents the sort of desperation and lateral thinking that gives the Rebel Alliance a legitimate chance to overthrow the adversaries who’ll otherwise overwhelm and outmatch them.
Similarly, the efforts on the ground among the former monks and defecting imperial pilot Bodhi Rook (Riz Ahmed, who is fine but, again, feels underdeveloped and lacking in personality relative to his robotic and Jedi Temple-defending counterparts) against the invading stormtrooper army are unique among Star Wars action sequences. The beachside setting alone makes the battle feel distinct from any others in the franchise.
And it’s in that setting that Rogue One starts to feel like a war movie in a way that no other Star Wars film has. The images of the troopers storming the beaches, of firefights back and forth and explosions happening all around, create a visceral sense of the struggle here, in a film more committed to the realities and casualties of conflict than the high space fantasy of the original trilogy.
But, as with the rest of the film, the part focusing on Jyn and Cassian is the weakest facet of the finale. Their effort to obtain the Death Star plans amounts to a souped-up take on the claw machine and devolves into a standard cat and mouse game that lacks the immediacy or excitement of the other two elements of the battle. But even that segment of the film’s climax is saved by a cohesiveness and common purpose among the three distinct battle zones that makes each individual fight feel a part of the larger struggle.
In contrast to even George Lucas’s films, Rogue One does a superior job at weaving the various conflicts in the film’s climax into one unified whole. The quest to transmit the Death Star plans involves combatants at all levels. K2 seals the doors and holds off stormtroopers. Jyn and Cassian nab the data tapes and upload them to the Empire’s transmitter. Bodhi connects the comms-line; the monks throw the master switch, and the spaceships in the sky break the Empire’s big honkin’ shield, thereby allowing the transmission through. Everyone has a part to play, with a clear progression in how their actions impact the larger goal, creating a sense of place that’s missing elsewhere, in the film and occasionally in the franchise writ large.
But it’s what happens next that offers Rogue One’s boldest stroke, and which also shows its limitations as a spinoff. Rogue One is the first Star Wars anthology film, the first movie set in this universe not to be a part of the larger saga, not to carry an episode designation, and not to focus on the Skywalkers and their assorted offspring and hangers on. That gives it a unique opportunity to take stories in this expansive and wide open universe and tell them without the larger world- and franchise-building constraints that come with the main saga.
Rogue One takes that opportunity to do something that the other films in the Star Wars franchise wouldn’t, and in many cases couldn’t do – kill off the entire cast. It is a gutsy move, but one done artfully. One-by-one, every major character receives their moment in the sun, to engage is some act of valor or defiance in pursuit of the larger goal, and then to pay the ultimate price in it. These scenes are the most heart-rending in the film, and the ones that feed into the larger theme of Rogue One more than any other – the idea that smaller, harsher, and more personal sacrifices made the epic space opera of A New Hope and its successors possible. There is a power in the way that this film follows through on the stakes it lays out; in the way it embraces the hardship and devastation that had to happen for Luke’s triumphant moment to happen; in the way it closes with Jyn and Cassian, locked in a Watchmen-esque embrace, in the face of annihilation.
And that’s really where the film should have ended, with our heroes having achieved their goal but suffering the mortal consequences of doing so. It’s admittedly a bit of a down note, but also an equally triumphant one, where yes, people suffer for their cause, but also advance it in an immeasurable way in the process. Instead, Rogue One bends over backwards to tie the ending of this film to the beginning of Episode IV, messing with the pacing and punch of its closing parry in the process.
In fairness, the ensuing scene where Darth Vader remorselessly slays a room full of rebels, all of them powerless to resist and trying desperately to send the data tapes on, is the coolest and most menacing the character has looked on the silver screen since The Empire Strikes Back. There’s an awe-inspiring combination of ruthlessness and effortlessness in the way Vader attacks them, that comes through in the way this tremendous sequence is choreographed, shot, and edited.
The film’s actual closing scene is more of a misstep, with an unnervingly CGI’d young Princess Leia painfully underlining the film’s mantra in a strained attempt to end a dark movie on a positive note. In contrast to the aged Tarkin, whose weathered face hides some of the seams of the computerized facelift, Leia quickly drifts into the uncanny valley, already getting a clunky scene off on the wrong foot.
But that issue aside, her appearance still amounts to another pandering cameo, which speaks more to the other films in the series than this one. And to boot, it features another cheesy line about “hope” in a script that couldn’t be more obvious about sending that message if Director Gareth Edwards personally elbowed each audience-member in the side every time the word was used. It speaks into the ways in which Rogue One is constantly tying itself to what came before and what comes next, rather than Edwards and the creative team allowing the movie to stand on its own.
And to be fair, some of the justifications I offered for The Force Awakens’s familiarity – a point that’s been held against the film since its release – apply here as well. Rogue One is trying something brand new – a spinoff that is not a direct part of the continuing Star Wars * saga. Maybe Kathleen Kennedy and the powers that be at Disney and Lucasfilm felt that when wading into such uncharted waters, they needed to tie *Rogue One explicitly and loudly into the main story that even the most casual of casual moviegoers would be familiar with. That way, the film not only works as a recognizable introduction into this brave new world of spinoffs and side stories, but those shout outs also help to demonstrate that these films are still “real Star Wars,” as present and vital to the franchise as any movie fronted by a Jedi.
But these anthology films are also a chance for the cinematic side of the Star Wars franchise to do what its televised counterparts, The Clone Wars and Rebels have done – use this familiar backdrop to tell different types of stories, to explore characters and settings in ways that would otherwise clash with the spirit of the main saga, and to find corners of the Star Wars universe that are not beholden to the adventures of the Skywalker family or the story that started it all.
The core of these aspirations is present in Rogue One, with unique elements and bold choices that stand to distinguish this first anthology film from its episodic brethren. But too often, the film gives into fanservice, or shoehorned inter-film connections, or familiar beats, that make the movie feel more like Episode III and ½ than its own Star Wars story.
The galaxy described in that famous opening crawl stretches far and wide. Rogue One presents a number of very cool moments within that galaxy – waterside warfare, bow-ridden grace, and merciless Sith brutality – but they never transcend being mere disconnected moments outside of the film’s high-intensity third act. So often Rogue One is simply filling in the gaps of the story already told in that galaxy, rather than expanding it. The result is a missed opportunity and a film that, for all its merits, could have been, and almost was, so much more than a pitstop on the way from revenge to hope.
A brilliant final act compensated for an otherwise slow and lacklustre middle and beginning with some questionable story choices.
Shout by MarzouqVIP 9BlockedParent2016-12-17T18:47:48Z
I walked in excited and walked out a smile that I couldn't wipe off my face!
Rogue One was a story almost developed to perfection, at every point your on the edge of your seat and can't help but feel invested in the story. And the Vader scene was epic in of itself, just made me tingle.
The amazing cinematography, fantastic scenes, and a final act that made this an Epic movie, and a must watch for every person, Star Wars fans and others shouldn't miss it.
On par with Empire Strikes back and probably one of the best movies of 2016.
We want more!