*thoughtfully spoiler free*

Rogue One is the feisty narrative that callously shimmies its way into the story that we adore. And, with the film’s grittiness complimenting the rebellion it portrays, it is nothing short of exceptional.

It’s a bit tasking writing to an incredibly rigid conclusion, for sure, yet Weintz (Antz) created a script that was not only compelling but surprisingly unique and noticeably darker. And there are no apologies as we find ourselves privy to the gravity of the task asked of the Alliance. As we progress, gumption and allegiance guide decision making and precipitate an epic finish.

Jyn Orso (Jones) and Cassian Andor (Luna) are our disparate leaders; a proud maverick and a tactical captain, respectively, spiriting the directive. We find the lovable and corny droid humor from K-2SO but only a dusting of the force, lending to the film’s gutsy human impression.

Edwards certainly championed the details as we race to the original opening crawl. The film builds off an accepted story with soul and resolve. Rogue One call signs 4.76 napkins out of 5, which is equal to the IQ of the Stormtroopers featured in the film. And that’s as authentically Star Wars as it gets.