When Disney first announced that they were going to make an origin movie about Han Solo, fans were skeptical that anything could live up to the legendary actor Harrison Ford’s portrayal of the cynical scoundrel so many grew to love. With high stakes and a production set back with the firing of directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller in June 2017 over “creative differences,” fans were left to believe the execution of the backstory to Han Solo would be a flop. Nonetheless, Ron Howard took over directing duties to create an unexpectedly pleasing summer movie.

Alden Ehrenreich stars as the young Solo in the same space western universe as the other Star Wars films. Yet, the expansion of the depths in that same universe creates an atmoshpere entirely different from one of predictability. Although Ehrenreich is not a younger Ford, the same lovable, independent, dream-chaser and skilled pilot is portrayed effortlessly.

Perhaps the reason this movie is not a complete flop is the fact that it keeps you entertained throughout the course of the 135 minute feature. The unexpected twists and turns secures the character arcs of characters we know already. But Howard’s focus to establish the tone of Solo as a young smuggler in addition to the added comedic element brings the pleasure to the film.

Not only the level of unpredictability adds to the enjoyment of the film, but the fact that you see the character of Han Solo as an idealist making choices to further his dreams creates an admirable feature. Donald Glover’s portrayal of Lando Calrissian excels in the creatively funny, cool, yet charismatic and enjoyable gambler that does not disappoint. Calrissian brings the inner smuggler out of Solo beginning the journey of his outlaw ways.

The dynamic between Chewie and Han Solo is the bromance fans were waiting for. A lovable wookie and outlaw are exactly the chemistry that keeps the audience captured in times of distress. A new character Qi’ra, played by Emilia Clarke, adds the right amount of romantic chemistry that brings an enthralled yet suspicious element levelling out the adventure and jaw-dropping moments.

The effortless humor and a kind of reckless but intriguing behavior of Woody Harrelson as Han Solo’s mentor Tobias Beckett highlights the evolution of the same characteristics Solo developed into in the original trilogy with Harrison Ford.

Ron Howard’s depiction of Han Solo’s origin was an unexpectedly enjoyably film focused on the inner characteristics that made Solo the cynical smuggler fans have loved for so long. Overall, the expectations for the film to perform poorly at the box office should be just another reason to go watch the exciting backstory of Han Solo.

Rating: A