ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY

The Star Wars franchise has defined a generation and changed the world. Wait, why are you laughing?! It did! The original films came at a time of a repressed economy and a general malaise in regards to hope for the future. Star Wars was something unlike anything we had ever seen. It defined the epic space saga and became the measure for all films to come. It inspired a whole generation to dream, innovate and reach for the stars.

Since then, we have had special editions and prequels, to the joy and sometimes criticism of old fans and a new generation of Star Wars nerds. Now, we have a new generation of film makers expanding the Star Wars universe, and I can't get enough.

The latest installment is the first film that tells the story of some of the lesser known names of Stars Wars, "Rogue One." This film is based on one line in the original star wars crawl:

"During the battle, Rebel spies managed to steal secret plans to the Empire's ultimate weapon, the DEATH STAR, an armored space station with enough power to destroy an entire planet."

It was interesting going into this film, because we all knew the outcome of the movie as it ends immediately where A New Hope, the film that started it all, begins. Honestly, I didn't know what to expect. I always try to keep my expectations in check, because I want to enjoy movies so I try not to over anticipate. Regardless of expectation, this film will not let you down.

Being that the general ending is known, this film, while full of action and adventure, truly was carried by the struggles of the characters as they struggled to procure the plans of the Death Star and set in motion the events of the film that began it all. It deals with issues of family, serving the greater good, having morals even in the face of a morale-less enemy, and finding the courage within oneself to effect change.

The films style matches seamlessly to the original saga, with so much attention to detail and quality. While there is ample amounts of amazing CG visual effects, there was also so much practical old school movie magic that made it feel so real. This film was really a war film at it's core and it has an amazing gritty texture that plays as much of a character as the characters themselves.

A figure in a dark cape and helmet stands opposite another person amidst atmospheric fog, suggesting a dramatic encounter in "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

And... Vader returns to the big screen, living up to all our childhood memories as one of the greatest film villains of all time.

Purchasing a movie, for me, is so much more than just the film on the disc (or vhs, man did I buy a lot of copies of star wars and kept wearing them out). Rogue One comes with hours of special features. Watching the extras, I got lost in the craft of making this movie and it renewed my childhood awe and wonderment at the idea of "a time long, long, ago, in a galaxy, far, far away."

Rogue One is a fantastic film. It has deep themes and characters that struggle with both internal and external conflict as the strive to find and do what it is right. This film is a must have whether you are a star wars fan or not.

Bonus features include*:

A Rogue Idea – Hear how ILM’s John Knoll came up with the movie’s concept – and why it’s the right film to launch the Star Wars stand-alone films.
Jyn: The Rebel – Get to know Rogue One’s defiant, resourceful survivor, and hear what it was like for Felicity Jones to bring her to life onscreen.
Cassian: The Spy – Diego Luna shares insights into his complex, driven character, who becomes a hero through selflessness, perseverance and passion.
K-2SO: The Droid – Explore the development of this reprogrammed Imperial droid, from initial pitch and character design through Alan Tudyk’s performance.
Baze & Chirrut: Guardians of the Whills – Go deeper into the relationship between these two very different characters, with Chinese superstars Jiang Wen and Donnie Yen.
Bodhi & Saw: The Pilot & The Revolutionary – Forest Whitaker and Riz Ahmed reflect on Saw Gerrera, the broken Rebel leader, and Bodhi Rook, the Imperial pilot who defects.
The Empire – Meet a dangerous new Imperial adversary…and cross paths once more with the most iconic villain of all time.
Visions of Hope: The Look of “Rogue One” – The filmmakers describe the challenges and thrills of developing a bold new look for the movie that can fit within the world of the original trilogy.
The Princess & The Governor – See what it took to bring the vibrant young princess of “Star Wars: A New Hope” – as well as one of her most memorable foes– – back to the screen.
Epilogue: The Story Continues – Filmmakers and cast celebrate Rogue One’s premiere and look forward into the future, to the Star Wars stories yet to be told.
Rogue Connections – Uncover Easter eggs and film facts hidden throughout the movie that connect “Rogue One” to the Star Wars universe.

* Digital bonus offerings may vary by retailer.

Melissa Au

Hi, my name is Melissa! I live in Spanish Fork, Utah. I'm happily married to Rob, and together we have five wonderful kids. Our family loves to embark on adventures, often in our RV, exploring the great outdoors. I'm an avid reader and a big fan of Hallmark movies – they always have a way of lifting my spirits. Hiking is another passion of mine; there's nothing like the tranquility of nature. I have a sweet tooth for chocolate and a love for Mexican food, both of which make life a little more delicious. In my downtime, I enjoy playing games with my family, creating memories and sharing laughter. Life is an adventure, and I'm here to enjoy every moment of it! I'm the blogger and creative mind behind the blog A Sparkle of Genius! Check out our posts on recipes, crafts, kid stuff, printables, travel and more!