Review of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) by Nemo P — 11 Jul 2017

After the absolute disappointment that was the Force Awakens, I was glad to find this to be rather engrossing. We actually meet and follow NEW people with diverse goals (that eventually come together as one), making hard-time war decisions, due to which are protagonists that aren't so noble but were more interesting as such.

Unlike the gutlessness of FA, this film had very tense moments due to the unpredictability of its characters, something the SW desperately needs if it wants any hope of being fresh. The primary feature I found most appealing was how gritty it was in comparison to the rest of the franchise.

This is not to mean it's look, as its cinematography has never made the galaxy far far away look better. I mean more of its tone. The movie was definitely a fun ride in a similar way as episodes 4 and 6 were, simultaneous juggling multiple aspects of a space battle.

However, up until this film, the term "war" in the title never really had much weight given the tone of most of the series (save episode 5) has been saturated in levity. This film very much felt like a space WAR, with, as mentioned, usually honorable people having to make ignoble decisions, and the quick unceremonious death of allies.

Overall I was quite pleased with this film, but unlike the ending the crew of Rogue One fought to provide, I have little hope for episodes proceeding from 7 given the kiss-ass direction they're seemingly taking.