This is a phenomenal movie. It’s not a “Star Wars” movie but it is a war movie set in the Star Wars world. It is able to create a realistic feel to the universe we all know and love. As a stand-alone spin off story it is well build and has a thrilling over arching story line under hewn with a story about hope and the power that 1 individual can have, even in the face of immeasurable odds. It serves as a precursor to “A New Hope”s story line, and may forever change how you view episode IV of the saga.
In my opinion this movie is worth treating as an episode 3.5, and going forward will always hold the position between “Revenge of the Sith” and “A New Hope” whenever I rewatch the 6 episodes of the saga. (Originals and Prequels, cause there are only 6 Star Wars movies not 9).