Mads Mikkelsen had previously been very tight-lipped about his Rogue One character, letting slip only the fact that he plays Jyn Erso’s father, Galen Erso. We also knew that he played a “key role” in the development of the Death Star, but specifics about that role were also scarce. Now, thanks to an upcoming novel synopsis, we know more about Galen and just what he has to do with the Rogue One movie.
The novel, Catalyst, is a prose prequel meant to set up the events of the movie. In it, we’re introduced to Galen and his pal, Orson Krennic, aka Ben Mendelsohn’s brooding villain. As of the novel, he’s a member of the Republic, which, if you’re at all familiar with Star Wars, you know eventually turns into the Empire. These folks eventually find themselves in a situation wherein Krennic saves the entire Erso family (Galen, wife Lyra, and daughter Jyn). This places Galen in Krennic’s debt.
Then, seeing as how Galen is a scientist who works on energy, Krennic looks to take advantage of him, leveraging this debt against him. The synopsis explains, “While Galen and Lyra believe that his energy research will be used purely in altruistic ways, Krennic has other plans that will finally make the Death Star a reality. Trapped in their benefactor’s tightening grasp, the Ersos must untangle Krennic’s web of deception to save themselves and the galaxy itself.”
Judging by the synopsis, this seems like an excellent setup for the movie itself. While we do know where things eventually end up (Death Star built, Krennic an Imperial, etc.), there’s plenty here to tide us over until Rogue One comes out this December. What’s also nice to think about is how Mikkelsen’s role doesn’t seem to have any hint of villainy whatsoever, which feels like an intriguing change for the Hannibal and Doctor Strange actor. Personally speaking, this gets me way, way stoked to see how he plays it all out!
(via Vulture)
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