Rogue One Panel Highlights

(Image via theguardian.com)

Over the weekend, fans at Star Wars Celebration Europe and those watching at home via the live stream were treated with a very special panel focused on Rogue One which was hosted by the glorious Gwendoline Christie. My face lit up when she walked out on stage because I simply adore her and her passion for Star Wars which was clearly evident throughout the presentation. This was my favorite of the panels that were presented throughout the weekend and it left me anticipating the film even more than I was before! Kathleen Kennedy was present, and whom I might add was wearing a never-before-seen Rogue One shirt (visit The Kessel Runway for photos) and explained that the style of Rogue One is "unlike any other Star Wars movie and that it's a completely immersive experience." Director Gareth Edwards, Kiri Hart, John Knoll, and the incredible cast were also on stage to share their experiences in creating this Star Wars Story. Witnessing their memories on set and overall excitement for the film made the fact that we're actually going to watch it in just a few short months extremely real.

(Image via now.howstuffworks.com)

When Ben Mendelsohn made his entrance in full costume as Director Krennic along with Death Troopers at his side, I was so astonished I can't even remember my reaction (though I honestly probably screamed). At that very moment, I became a fan. There were something in his eyes that revealed his odious nature and the way he carried himself was so majestic, I couldn't help but sense a Maleficent vibe about him. Oh, and I wasn't the only one salivating over the Death Troopers right?

During the panel they revealed the Rogue One poster and everyone who attended was given their own to take home. It's very different from any other Star Wars poster we've seen and we have the new planet, Scarif to thank for that. Though at first glance it appears very serene, the Death Star overshadows the area, and the beach is infiltrated with Rebels and Imperials at war. It's quite a sight and leaves me pondering on the constant thought of how beautifully epic this film is going to be. Exploring both familiar and brand new characters in worlds we've never been to, including the newly announced Jedha, is going to be a real treat!

(Image via insidethemagic.net)

Gwendoline Christie was having the time of her life moderating the panel and was especially thrilled to present Felicity Jones with the newly revealed Jyn Erso Black Series figure. Gwendolyn welcomed Felicity to the action figure club while Felicity had a moment of pure joy in receiving the first Star Wars action figure revealed from Rogue One which will be available to collectors on Force Friday, September 30th. I can't wait!

(Image via makingstarwars.net)

Speaking of Jyn, we got our first look at her father, Galen Erso, who's attire resembles much of the Lars family. Mads Mikkelsen explained that his character "once invented something so beautiful, so fantastic that it could change the universe." Needless to say, I'm intrigued! Each role I've seen Mikkelsen play has been excellent and I think we're especially lucky to have someone with that kind of caliber in a Star Wars movie.

But that wasn't all. They surprised fans with a Behind the Scenes Reel that ran just under three minutes long which showcased several exquisite shots with Gareth and some of the cast commentating on the process of making the film. The music was absolutely moving and no longer left me anxious about John Williams's absence. Of course, I would love if he was creating the score but I have a reassuring feeling this film is in good hands. If you're interested, I uploaded a short fan reaction video to the reel on my Instagram.

The panel concluded with a short but new teaser trailer. At this point it's been kept rather exclusive for only the attendees. There is no word on when it will be released for the world to see but what we do know is that the trailer is focused on Jyn's character. My friends over at Making Star Wars have a detailed description of the trailer if you're feeling especially curious.

For even more highlights, read StarWars.com's 15 Things We Learned From The Rogue One: A Star Wars Story Panel.