Yesterday we found out more about the mysterious planet of Jedha where part of ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY is set, and today we learn a little more about Riz Ahmed's character of Bodhi Rook. Conscripted into the Empire to serve as a pilot, Rook later defects to join the Rebels, and Entertainment Weekly sat down with Ahmed to learn a little more about his rebellious character, including why he still wears his Imperial insignia.
I think it’s to remind you of where you’re coming from, remind you where your debts are. Do you know what I mean? For me personally, every day, looking at that, it reminds you of what you’ve done.
Unlike some of the other heroes in the STAR WARS universe, Rook isn't an especially skilled fighter, but the character who Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy describes as "a little tense [and] a little volatile" won't let that stand in his way of finding redemption by helping the Rebels to steal the Death Star plans. Rook also wouldn't be described as an ace starfighter, he's more of a cargo pilot who Ahmed compares to a "long-distance truck driver."
A character like Bodhi is not born into the life of a soldier, he’s a pilot working for the Empire, doing his job, getting on with it. But when you put ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances, it can freak them out. It can inspire deep passions.
Despite his ornery attitude, the Rebels very much rely on his technical skills to keep them up and running. With a brand-new ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY trailer arriving this Thursday, we may very well find out a little more about Bodhi Rook before the movie's December 16, 2016 release.