Review: ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ Is Pure Simple Fun

“Solo” may not be your favorite “Star Wars” movie, but it’s still fun.

With many of the “Star Wars” films focusing on the Jedi and Skywalker bloodline, “Solo: A Star Wars Story” puts the spotlight on everyone’s favorite smuggler, Han Solo. Joined by friends new and old, this film focuses on the origin of this iconic character as well as chronicling some of his most notable adventures.

Cinematics (Cinematography, Acting, Plot, etc.) – 3

There are pros and cons when it comes to the mechanics of this film. It’s no surprise that Alden Ehrenreich could not live up to Harrison Ford, but his performance wasn’t as lacking as early reports had speculated. His portrayal of Han Solo is more of a reimagining with only a few traits that correlate with the character we all know. Donald Glover on the other hand gives and excellent performance making Lando Calrissian his own. Like Ehrenreich, Glover could not fully emulate his predecessor’s characteristics but his take on Lando was unique nonetheless.

New characters making their debut were mostly lackluster despite adequate performances. This was mostly attributed to the film’s focus on the main character and the simple storyline. There was little room to develop new characters while covering the origins of Han Solo, Chewbacca, and Lando. But of the new characters Tobias Beckett (Woody Harrelson) and Qi’ra (Emilia Clarke) stood out as realms of interest. Tobias ties in closely to Han’s character development as does Qi’ra. I especially look forward to the role Qi’ra may play in subsequent films.

Other details of the film fit a very formulaic, cookie-cutter mold. It’s mostly a heist film that quickly moves from one sequential moment to another. Accompanied by these moments are some appealing visuals but nothing that lives up to the usual “Star Wars” baseline. But while “Solo” follows a simplistic pattern, it still maintains its fun.

Entertainment Value – 4

“Solo” is plain and simple fun. The pacing of the film kept my interest throughout most of the film. There are many fun moments as the characters travel to different worlds and encounter different beings. While it doesn’t feel like it’s a young Harrison Ford driving the story, “Solo” has many of the chases and situations that feel like a Han Solo story.

I wouldn’t consider this to be one of the best “Star Wars” films but it definitely wasn’t the worst. The supplemental origin stories transition well into the existing franchise. Additionally there are some subplots (that I cannot reveal) that carry quite a bit of potential for future films.

Re-Watchability – 3.5

I was surprised to find myself interested in seeing the film again only a day after the viewing. It’s simple fun that I don’t have to become heavily invested in to follow. I will most likely buy this when it hits stores but it could be my love of the franchise that partially influences the eagerness of the decision.