My Rogue One story began in line at Joann’s Fabrics when my friend Yolanda called me screaming to, “Check your email!” I might have hung up on her as I fumbled to my email account but there it was- an invite to the World Premiere to the highly anticipated film, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story! The event was to take place in a galaxy not-so-far-away, at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood, which happens to be a 4-minute car ride for me.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story opens Friday, December 16th with early showings on the 15th (I got my husband a ticket!!). The film is directed by Gareth Edwards and is the 8th feature in the Star Wars franchise. Rogue One is the story of a squad of rebels seeking out the plans to destroy the Death Star, the Dark Side’s weapon of mass destruction.
Attending a premiere gives me the chance to dress up, see friends, meet celebrities but the best part is being one of the first to view the movie! The hardest is not sharing my thoughts and details with anyone! Am I bragging? Heck yeah — it’s Star Wars! I am extremely honored for this terrific opportunity that very few will get to experience.
So, I threw on my heels, black dress and walked past the X-Wing fighter ship (featured in the movie) parked on the red carpet. I tried to take in every dazzling moment (it goes by fast)!
Of course, the cast of Rogue One attended the premiere along with classic characters like Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca) and Anthony Daniels (C3PO). Other star-sightings included Christian Bale, Ricky Martin, Rainn Wilson (who wouldn’t let me photo bomb his picture), Kevin Smith and Spiderman: Homecoming actor Tony Revolori (he plays Spiderman’s nemeses but that’s a story for another day).
Actor Tony Revolori
Marshall Weinbaum working hard at Rogue One.
A highlight for me was meeting Rogue One actor, Mads Mikkelsen. He plays a major role in this film (Galen Erso, Jyn’s father) as we find out his a connection to the Dark Side. I’m a fan of the series Hannibal, and Mekkelsen was horrifyingly perfect as a cannibalistic therapist and he’s perfect in this role (although I wish he made it into more scenes).
Have you asked, do we really need another Star Wars film? The answer is YES. Do we need new characters? I admit some of the characters over the years weren’t the best but yes! Especially this multicultural cast. They are all talented, unique and kick ass in their own way (especially the two Asian actors Donnie Yen and Jiang Wen). I can’t wait for my daughter to see Rogue One as I’m confident she will connect to the lead character of the film, Jyn Orso (Felicity Jones). Because girls can rock in any galaxy.
Rogue One is the complete Star Wars package: A blend of new and old with fabulous characters, stunning imagery as well as an engaging storyline that leaves you wanting more! I’m keeping this vague as I don’t want to ruin any surprises but this is my favorite film of the year. I’m excited for you to see it! I can’t wait to see it again!
Here are more images from the red carpet as well as Avalon (where the after party was held).
