Reflections on 'Rogue One': Could a Better Story Have Been Told?

When viewing Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, it is apparent that the concept was promising: a tale that needed to be told within the expansive Star Wars universe. Despite a foregone conclusion, the film delves into a deep and somber aspect of war - the inevitable loss of life, especially of good people. The autumn-like tones reflecting the fall of the Rebel Alliance and the rise of the First Order add a poignant texture to the narrative. The cast, particularly Ben Mendelsohn, brought the story to life, and his performance as Orson Krennick was a standout. However, questions arise regarding the writing and casting decisions in the film, leading to a mixed reception.

Ben Mendelsohn's Standout Performance

Ben Mendelsohn played a significant role as Orson Krennick in Rogue One, and his portrayal of the Imperial Grand Moff was a beacon of excellence. Yet, it was not just Mendelsohn who caught the audience's attention. According to multiple wikis, he played a minor and forgettable character in The Force Awakens and similarly in The Last Jedi as Supreme Leader Starkiller. However, a closer look at the cast reveals a different story. Mendelsohn's character of Grand Moff Tarkin in A New Hope helped cement his legacy in the Star Wars universe. The performance in Rogue One was a comeback to the critical acclaim he had received.

Action Sequences

The action sequences in Rogue One were flawlessly executed, leaving fans with a thrilling cinematic experience. From the climactic space battles to the heart-pounding ground fights, the visual effects and action choreography were top-notch. However, the narrative choices surrounding the lead character, Jyn Erso, brought to light a different set of criticisms. Her character development was criticized for being poorly written and overburdened with unnecessary subplots.

The Female Lead and Plot Weaknesses

The introduction of a female lead was a positive step in signaling progress towards gender equality in the Star Wars universe. However, the story arc involving Jyn Erso and her father was poorly executed. The inclusion of her father, Galen Erso, with his intentional design flaw, detracted from the narrative and undermined the source material's integrity. The plot relied too heavily on parental abandonment themes, which could have been replaced with a focus on the harsh realities of living in the thick of the Rebellion.

Comparison with Other Female Leads

Felicity Jones's portrayal of Jyn could have been enhanced with better writing, potentially bringing her on par with other notable female leads in the Star Wars saga. Carrie Fisher's Princess Lando Calrissian and Princess Daisy Ridley's Rey are well-regarded for their depth and characterization. Similarly, Natalie Portman's role as Mara Jade Skywalker in The Force Awakens showcased a complex and multifaceted character. With better writing, Jyn's arc could have been more impactful and more in line with the other outstanding female characters in the series.

Concluding Thoughts on 'Rogue One'

While Rogue One is not a perfect film, it still manages to stand on its own. It successfully introduces a new fan to the Star Wars universe and serves as a decent starting point for those revisiting the saga. The film is a mix of strengths and weaknesses, with standout performances and a strong sense of action. However, the narrative and character development could have been improved to elevate it to a masterpiece. Still, it remains a crucial part of the Star Wars lore, promising a hopeful future for the franchise.