Review of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) by Schroederrock — 18 Dec 2016

After a ho-hum Episode 7 that rehashes the plot of Episode 4, I wasn't sure I had much faith left in Disney's ability to resurrect this franchise and push it forward. Rogue One has completely changed my mind on that.

One can make a case that the first 30 minutes of the movie are a bit forgettable but ultimately they create the groundwork for the rest of the film, which connects phenomenally with Episode 4's first moments.

Where Rogue One succeeds over Episode 7 is the visceral feel of the film. This is absolutely a space epic with futuristic technology and tons of gloss but somehow it all comes off with a little grit and loads more adventure than last year's Episode 7.

Rogue One shows that there are stories worth telling in between the major events seen in each Episode film. Even if you're not an avid Star Wars fan, you can appreciate what Rogue One is, but tuned-in fans will love seeing several familiar faces of the early Rebellion.