Beyond 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story', interviews with cast, director

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The first stand-alone Star Wars film opens in theaters Thursday.

RELATED: 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story' director talks about making the movie

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" isn't about the Skywalker saga that's at the center of the seven films released before it.

Instead, this film takes place between episodes III and IV of the main series, featuring a new cast of characters who band together to steal the plans for the Death Star -- the evil Empire's ultimate weapon of destruction.

RELATED: Watch the final trailer for 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story'

Before its release, ABC7 got to sit down with the director and the cast to talk about the Force and the making of Star Wars magic.

Click the videos below to watch extended interviews with the cast and director of "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story."

Director Gareth Edwards shares his profound connection to "Star Wars"

ABC7 News sat down with Rogue One director Gareth Edwards to discuss his Star Wars fan experience turned directorial work.

Diego Luna on his relationship to Darth Vader as a fan and actor

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" star Diego Luna tells ABC7 News about his ongoing relationship to Darth Vader as a fan and an actor.

Mads Mikkelsen and Paul Kasey on their characters' clash

Mads Mikkelsen and Ban Mendelsohn play opposing forces in "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story."

Donnie Yen on the challenges of playing Chirrut Imwe

Donnie Yen plays Chirrut Imwe in 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story' and tells ABC7 News about the physical and mental challenges of a human who can sense 'The Force.'

Alan Tudyk and Riz Ahmed discuss the joy of working on "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story"

Alan Tudyk and Riz Ahmed were thrilled to be part of "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" and tell ABC7 News about some of the surreal moments during filming.

Click here for more on "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story."