FridayOL

Gareth Edwards, the visionary director behind Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, isn't buying into the widespread praise that has labelled his 2016 film as the pinnacle of the recent Star Wars era. Despite its critical and commercial success, Edwards remains surprisingly grounded about its place in the franchise's history.

Rogue One, a gritty military war film set between Episode III: Revenge of the Sith and Episode IV: A New Hope, was a departure from the more whimsical adventures of the original trilogy and the sequel trilogy. It focused on a group of Rebel spies tasked with stealing the plans for the Death Star, a mission that ultimately paved the way for Luke Skywalker's victory.

The film was lauded for its darker tone, realistic action sequences, and compelling characters, with many fans and critics declaring it the best Star Wars film since the original trilogy. However, Edwards, known for his earlier works like Monsters (2010) and Godzilla (2014), seems unfazed by the accolades.

In a recent interview, Edwards modestly downplayed the “best Star Wars” title, suggesting that the film's success is more about its unique contribution to the overall saga than its superiority over other installments. He emphasized the collaborative nature of filmmaking and acknowledged the contributions of countless individuals, from the cast and crew to Lucasfilm executives.

“It’s really flattering to hear people say that,” Edwards stated. “But I think every Star Wars film has something special to offer. They all serve a different purpose and tell a different story. Rogue One just happened to resonate with people in a particular way, and I’m incredibly grateful for that.”

This perspective offers a refreshing contrast to the often-heated debates among Star Wars fans regarding which film reigns supreme. Edwards' humility and appreciation for the entire franchise demonstrate a deep respect for the legacy of Star Wars.

His approach to filmmaking is also evident in his previous projects. Monsters, a low-budget sci-fi thriller, showcased his ability to create suspense and atmosphere with limited resources. Godzilla, a visually stunning blockbuster, demonstrated his skill in bringing iconic creatures to life on the big screen. These experiences clearly shaped his approach to Rogue One, resulting in a film that felt both familiar and refreshingly new.

Ultimately, Edwards’ comments serve as a reminder that the beauty of Star Wars lies in its diversity. Each film, from the original trilogy to the prequels and sequels, has its own merits and appeals to different audiences. And while Rogue One may hold a special place in many fans’ hearts, Edwards’ perspective encourages us to appreciate the entire galaxy far, far away.