Despite concerns over the the first of the Star Wars ‘Stories’ films again featuring the Death Star, as well as known problems during filming that required extensive re-shoots, Rogue One blew away the expectations of many. A critical success, it backed that up commercially, taking in over $1 billion worldwide, the second biggest box office earner of 2016. Aided by a diverse, talented cast and thrilling action, the film was a surprisingly fresh addition to the franchise that now is given a stellar treatment for its Blu-ray release.
Synopsis:
“From Lucasfilm comes the first of the Star Wars standalone films, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, an all-new epic adventure. In a time of conflict, a group of unlikely heroes band together on a mission to steal the plans to the Death Star, the Empire’s ultimate weapon of destruction. This key event in the Star Wars timeline brings together ordinary people who choose to do extraordinary things, and in doing so, become part of something greater than themselves.”
In my theatrical review of Rogue One, I called it an “exhilarating and emotional tale of valor.” On revisiting the film, that summation holds true. Juxtaposing a heist film amidst a galaxy at war, it introduces us to a group of misfits and their cause, drawing us into their journey and fate. Around them are some of the most well executed, and often harrowing, action pieces seen in the Star Wars series. This is where Rogue One truly excels, in balancing scale and intimacy. It’s stirring stuff.
From the hustle and bustle of a space market to a warzone in a place of religious pilgrimage, the threat of the Empire is everywhere. It underlines how this film is about people stepping up, making a difference, and in some cases a sacrifice. In its exploration of valor, it is undeniably a war film, and a rousing call to arms. The abuse of power and the perversion of politics resounds loudly in these times.
It’s grounded, but fantastical. New worlds and creatures are brought to life by fine CGI work married to practical effects. The final act on Scariff remains breathtaking. A thrilling ground assault with a stunning space sequence playing out overhead is second only within the franchise to the Battle of Endor in Return of the Jedi. In spite of it being a gritty wartime venture, the humor is there, a much needed release in the face of tragedy and fear. Much of this comes from the wry humor delivered by a fine cast, notably the sardonic K-2SO voiced by Alan Tudyk. The rest of the ensemble do sterling work, and much of the appeal of the film comes from the emotional beats in the closing act due to their contributions.
Some of the issues I had on release remain; some are eased. The opening act feels more expansive than scattered now. Some of the fan service nods are still a little clunky, but the film is certainly less reliant on nostalgia than The Force Awakens. The main issue is still the sequence on Eadu, which feels more in service to a set-piece than any character or narrative. These flaws are easy to forgive as so many other aspects of the film sweep you along. Rouge One is an exhilarating and emotional tale of valor that doesn’t pull any punches, making it not only the best Star Wars film since The Empire Strikes Back, but one that creates its own mythology, iconic imagery, and memorable characters.
The Package
Rogue One looks stunning here. The Blu-ray showcases deep blacks, rich colors, and superb detail. While shot digitally, the approach to filming and use of practical effects ensure a tangible quality rather than the glossy sheen of the prequels; this is well represented here. It’s a vibrant, lush film at times and gets exceptional treatment for this release.
Special Features:
- 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.
- Blu-Ray, DVD, and Digital copies of the film are all included.
The release is stuffed with content; the descriptions for all the special features are all pretty self explanatory. As a whole they showcase plenty of the technical ingenuity evident on-screen, how much work was done to tie the film’s aesthetic to the original trilogy, as well as the revolutionary work done to revive two characters from A New Hope. Yes, it’s morbidly controversial and their success depends on your own perspective, but what they achieved from a technical standpoint was pretty impressive. Other extras touch on the cast and reinforce the welcome embrace of diversity as well as the talents of everyone on-board. While many will gripe about the lack of any footage from before the re-shoots, their absence is understandable, their being a relic of a film that no longer exists.
Be aware, there are multiple versions of Rogue One available, differing in the some of the special feature content, the physical packaging, or bonus additions. Checkout this week’s COBRA Collector rundown to see which version is best for you.
The Bottom Line
With Rogue One, director Gareth Edwards delivered a film that will satiate even the most ardent fan of Star Wars while simultaneously being a thrilling blend of action, humor, and heart. There’s a tangible quality to the worlds he creates and the people he fills them with. A fresh, bold addition to a galaxy far far away. The quality of the film is matched by a Blu-ray that enriches your appreciation for the work both in front of and behind the camera. A stellar release for a fine film.
Rogue One is available on Blu-ray from 4th April, 2017.