Solo: A Star Wars Story

Solo: A Star Wars Story follows a young Han Solo as he moves through a criminal underworld and learns to survive on the edge of the galaxy. He teams up with a crafty core crew, earning credits through high stakes jobs while testing loyalties and forming a surprising alliance with his future copilot Chewbacca. Along the way he meets the charismatic gambler Lando Calrissian, whose charm and skill complicate the crew's plans. The movie peels back the origins of Han's bravado and piloting instincts, hinting at the choices that shaped the legendary smuggler we meet later. It keeps the focus on camaraderie and the price of ambition. Their efforts uncover humor and danger that frame Han's wit and fearless style.

Directed by Ron Howard, Solo draws on George Lucas's Star Wars universe with a screenplay by Lawrence Kasdan and Jon Kasdan. Released in 2018, it functions as a prequel mapping Han Solo's days and his ties to Chewbacca and Lando.

The film grossed $392,952,373 worldwide against a $250 million budget, signaling solid performance for a standalone Star Wars chapter. It drew audiences sparking debates about origin storytelling within the franchise, and faced criticism for tonal shifts but still performed strongly.

Donald Glover's Lando Calrissian was widely praised and became a standout element for fans, while the film expanded the universe with a brisk caper tempo and sparked discussions about origin stories within the Star Wars canon. Its costume and set design also drew significant attention for updating the era's look.

Critics were mixed to warm on its execution, noting strong performances and visual effects even as some felt the tone was uneven. The film probes identity and loyalty, the costs of crime, and the bond that forges a team. Its heist rhythm and humor offered a flavor within the saga.