If the label "Star Wars" assured Rogue One some entries among purists, it was not at all said that this spin-off would work with the general public. Surprise though, since the latest Lucasfilm baby exceeded this Sunday the billion dollars at the global box office. It becomes the 28th film to obtain this privilege.
If we understand today the enthusiasm of the spectators for this very successful spin-off, remember that the success was not as obvious as one might think for several reasons. For starters, the promotional campaign was particularly discreet, especially when compared to the media hype that took place for Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens. In addition, it was the first Star Wars movie to break away from the Skywalker family and the Jedi Order. Finally, the dark tone and the war movie aspect were enough to put off people looking for light entertainment.
Many elements therefore suggested a moderate success for Rogue One – A Star Wars Story.The Disney/Lucasfilm company was perfectly aware of this, since the CEO himself (Robert Iger) had said that he did not expect the same success as for Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens. It must be said that to reach The Force Awakens, it would be necessary to enter the extremely closed circle of films that have collected more than two billion dollars at the box office (circle including only Avatar, Titanic and Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens). It is therefore a good surprise for the company with big ears, which should now be confident for the next spin-off to come that will deal with the youth of Han Solo.
As a small aside, we can wonder if the death of Carrie Fisher did not play a role, even if it was minimal, in the resounding success of Rogue One. Of course without this tragic death, the film would have reached several hundred million dollars (which is already pharaonic) and probably even the billion. But would the sudden disappearance of Princess Leia have aroused an outpouring of nostalgia among the general public, to the point that people rush into the dark rooms? Hard to say…
Rogue One – A Star Wars Story is still in theaters and still sold out during some sessions. We can only advise you to dive into it and discover our opinion on this story at the heart of the rebel alliance.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWyidfqpQhA
