Solo: A Star Wars Story - The Millennium Falcon: An Origin Story is a science fiction movie that takes viewers back in time to the early days of Han Solo, one of the most iconic characters in the Star Wars franchise. The movie focuses on Solo's early years, exploring how he became the skilled pilot and smuggler he was when he later meets Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia.
At the center of the movie is the Millennium Falcon, the ship that becomes synonymous with Solo and his legendary adventures. The movie takes the viewer on a journey to explore the origins of the Millennium Falcon, showing how it was first acquired by Solo and how it evolved over time to become the incredible spacecraft we all know and love.
The movie begins on the planet Corellia, where Solo is a young thief who dreams of owning his own ship and becoming a successful smuggler. He and his friend Qi'ra, who he has known since childhood, attempt to steal a valuable shipment of coaxium, a hyperfuel needed to power starships, from a corrupt gang boss. The daring escape from the clutches of the gang leads to Solo and Qi'ra stowing away aboard a freighter that happens to be carrying the Millennium Falcon.
The Falcon belongs to Lando Calrissian, a smooth-talking gambler who is initially at odds with Solo. However, the two put their differences aside and team up to take on a dangerous heist for a notorious gangster named Dryden Vos. Along the way, the characters encounter a slew of challenges, including a band of marauders and the mysterious Enfys Nest.
The movie is full of Easter eggs that will delight fans of the Star Wars franchise, such as scenes depicting how Solo initially meets Chewbacca, making the notorious Kessel Run, and the pronunciation of the Millennium Falcon's name. The film also expands on the Star Wars universe, introducing new characters and adding depth to some familiar ones, including the enigmatic Lando Calrissian.
One of the standout stars of the movie is undoubtedly the Millennium Falcon itself, which feels like a character in its own right. The viewer is treated to stunning views of the ship's interior, from the chessboard table to the cockpit, and every nook and cranny in between. Seeing the ship in its earliest iteration and witnessing how it evolves over time is a treat for Star Wars fans.
Another standout feature of the movie is Alden Ehrenreich's portrayal of Han Solo. Ehrenreich succeeds in capturing the essence of the beloved character while also making the role his own. His performance is filled with equal parts charm, wit, and swagger, and he does an excellent job of bringing Solo's backstory to life.
In addition to Ehrenreich, the movie features a fantastic ensemble cast, with Donald Glover's Lando Calrissian stealing the show in many scenes. Emilia Clarke's Qi'ra provides a compelling foil to Solo, while Woody Harrelson's Tobias Beckett serves as an older mentor figure to the young smuggler. Phoebe Waller-Bridge's droid, L3-37, also provides some much-needed comic relief.
Overall, Solo: A Star Wars Story - The Millennium Falcon: An Origin Story is a thrilling addition to the Star Wars franchise that explores the backstory of one of its most beloved characters, as well as the ship that became synonymous with him. The movie is filled with action, humor, and heart, and provides a satisfying look at the early days of Han Solo and the Millennium Falcon.
