I can assure you this is not a trap!

For an individual who before last year would not have ever considered watching a Star Wars film unless forced to or bribed. I for one can say I am invested in this franchise and can see why for years many have dedicated their bank accounts to it as well. Rogue One was the first of its kind to the hit the big screen especially for the Star Wars franchise that is, focusing on a group of characters that no one had heard of prior to the films announcement. It is great for a number of reasons, one being that any individual can buy a ticket while visiting their local cinema and watch it without needing any prior knowledge whatsoever of characters, events or other episodes in the saga. The second being that the events that play out during the film’s run are self contained yet at the same time easily create a smooth transition to its predecessors for those interested in diving into almost 40 years worth of content.

The film consists of a story that isn’t difficult to follow, capturing the viewer right from the get go whether it’s through brilliant character moments, unforgettable one liners or outstanding action set pieces that leave you on the edge of your seat. One can look forward to great performances by characters brought to life who you will fall in love with whether human or those of a non human descent. An outstanding cast who portray or voice characters over the course of two hours that ultimately will become household names for years to come. Also whose toys or memorabilia will probably vacate your household this Christmas or the coming future. The film also explores a number of locations among the vast cosmos. To put it into simple words, places you never heard of but are able to experience without having to go on a space mission. Besides it’s set a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away.

The highlights for me from my first screening had to be the expansion of the universe with the addition of new characters who in their own right stole the show such as Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones), Galen Erso (Mads Mikkelsen), K-2SO (Alan Tudyk), Captain Casain Andor (Diego Luna) and who could forget Chirrut Imwe played by ‘Ip Man’ himself Donnie Yen. I also liked how the movie addressed questions that fans had been asking for years as well as connecting to the overall saga so swiftly without taking away from the main plot itself. I liked the explorations of the new planets and places featured as well as nods to classic sets we have come to love. This film definitely does justice as to explaining how the Rebel spies retrieved the plans to the Death Star but the sub plots are also as intriguing to watch and you actually are emotionally connected to each and everyone of them.

For a nerd like myself who entered the Star Wars Cinematic Universe that Lucasfilm has brought to life with the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens in 2015, I went into this Anthology film very optimistic after witnessing the awesomeness that was Episode 7. Rogue One for sure holds a special place in this saga, at the same time surpassing and exceeding my expectations as to what a Star Wars movie could be especially when it’s not focused on the Skywalker lineage. For those considering on watching the film I definitely recommend it, this is the type of movie that needs to be seen on the big screen and I can say this confidently after only one screening.

Photo Credit: https://www.wired.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/star-wars-rogue-one-cast-1200×630.jpg