Fans ‘go Rogue’ at PHL premiere of newest chapter in Star Wars saga

“Rebellions are built on hope.” It's a line that holds many truths and it is one of the many inspirational quotes uttered in “Rogue One,” the very first theatrical spin-off of the long-running Star Wars film franchise. It seeks to cover new ground and expand the mythos by introducing tales told apart from the main canonical installments.

On the evening of December 13, Walt Disney Studios Philippines invited guests, press, and Star Wars fans to the advance screening of the film—one of the first in the world and presented in IMAX 3D format at the IMAX Theater at SM Megamall.

Set just before the events of the original 1977 Star Wars film, which is chronologically known as “Episode IV: A New Hope,” “Rogue One” is a return to basics for the franchise.

The author (above) and friends (top) at the 'Rogue One' premiere. Photos: Tim Villasor

As expected of dedicated fans, there were many cosplayers dressed as stormtroopers, Imperial officers, X-Wing pilots, rebel soldiers, Jedi, Sith, and even the Dark Lord himself Darth Vader, who makes a supporting appearance in the spin-off film.

“Rogue One” also introduces new characters who will no doubt become fan favorites, and a lot of them are divisive enough with personalities that are arguably as strong if not stronger than the ones introduced in last year’s “Episode VII: The Force Awakens.”

Telling the tale of a brave and heroic group of rebels who set out to steal the plans for the Galactic Empire’s deadly new weapon—the Death Star—“Rogue One” stars Felicity Jones as Jyn Erso, a young woman searching for her missing father Galen (Mads Mikkelsen), who has ties to the creation of the superweapon.

Getting involved with the Rebel Alliance, Jyn becomes acquainted with a unique set of individuals who have their own stake in the matter and come together as unwitting heroes out to save the galaxy.

In many ways, the movie speaks about moving past individual goals and working together for the common good—something that has come to be a recurring theme in the Star Wars universe.

As one of the most anticipated films of 2016 and the last big blockbuster movie coming out for the holidays, “Rogue One” lived up to the hype, with some calling it “the REAL prequel” to the Original Star Wars Trilogy because it gives off the same vibe and feeling of excitement in exploring a world of sci-fi action, political intrigue, and adventure. Catch the film in theaters starting December 15 and use the hashtah #GoRoguePH! — BM, GMA News

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story opens in theaters on December 15.