I just had one of the best movie experiences of my life. My awesome friend somehow won tickets to an early screening, so in lieu of working on final papers, we went into the city to see "Rogue One". Now, I promise there are no spoilers in this article, so let's begin the review.

First, this movie is beautiful. You can probably gather that from the trailer, but you get the sense that every scene has been so meticulously designed to be an absolute masterpiece. And the best piece is that it isn't just in the trailers. My jaw dropped several times simply because of the scenes that are presented to the audience. There are beautiful landscapes and even though I saw it in 3D and Imax, you still get the feeling that without 3D and IMAX they would be just as beautiful.

There are a lot of little (and not so little) references to the "Star Wars" saga. Even as I was walking back to the train I was making connections about how that scene looked like the scene in Episode (whatever episode it was). But it was nice because these references were not forced. I didn't feel like the director said, "we have to show XYZ". They subtly put it in, and they were such nice acknowledgments of the "Star Wars "universe. Also, the movie is perfect as a stand-alone film. You can see just "Rogue One" and still know exactly what is going on. Sure, you miss some references, but they aren't major details.

Since this movie was announced, I have been excited for one thing: star wars. Not the movie, but a war amongst the stars. Now, people will say that Episodes 2 and 3 (Yes, the prequels are canon, even though there was a lot of CGI-get over it) was very warlike, but it wasn't central to the plot. It became a great plot device, but we were concerned with other things. "Rogue One" is a proper war film. It shows the grittiness of war, the potentials that could be in a war and the war is the entire reason for the movie. There are strategic scenes, battle scenes, calm scenes, and it is absolutely perfect. It's also nice because it's not too gory. it's not "Saving Private Ryan's" opening scene. It's war, but not too much war.

For those who don't know, this is the first live-action theatrical release whose score is NOT composed by John Williams. And yet, you feel that it is. There is (Obviously) new music, and there are also hints of your favorite melodies. The music is stunningly beautiful.

As mentioned before, the prequels get a lot of hate for their overuse of CGI. Now, it is a sci-fi movie so there is bound to be CGI, but it doesn't feel forced. There are beautiful scenes in space, but nothing that forces the CGI on you. Of course, there is the suspension of disbelief that must accompany any work of fiction. But you get roped into this movie and the suspension comes easily. There is also very few "dry" moments, but when there are, it's perfect. The movie is constantly going, as a real war would.

Now, for those that don't know I am a MASSIVE "Star Wars" fan. I watched Episode 5 one day I was sick from school and ever since I've been in love. I have lots of "Star Wars" stuff and have seen all the movies multiple times, and I thought that would influence my decision. But the more I think about it, the more I realize this is an almost perfect "Star Wars" movie. I do have some nostalgia with Episode 5, and for that reason, it will always be my number 1. But "Rogue One"? Where can I put it? I'll say that Episode 2 is my least favorite (Yes, I can tolerate Jar-Jar). Certainly, it's not near the bottom. But I have to put it somewhere. I thought about this on the ride home, and you know what? "Rogue One" is my second favorite "Star Wars" movie. It's that good. It captures the essence of "Star Wars" that we all love while delivering a fresh new story with brand new characters to us, and utilizing old characters in great ways.

So, while you're home for Winter Break or you visit relatives or whatever, go see this movie. I don't care if you are one of those people who haven't seen "Star Wars" (I am so sorry for the lack of happiness in your life). Go see this movie. Then see it again. And again. I could watch this a million more times and love every second of it. If you know what's good for you, go see this movie. I cannot possinbly stress how great it is.

Final say: 10/10 Would recommend again, and again, and again.