So there has been a disturbance in the Force. Thus, allowing a limited early release of the final episode of the nine-part "Skywalker saga" this Star Wars Weekend which runs from December 20 to 22. Growing up watching the saga, I went to the cinema to watch it on the first day.
There is no need to worry. Like what I did with Avengers: Infinity War (2018) and Avengers: Endgame (2019), this one is spoiler-free. 🙂
Director: J.J. Abrams
Screenplay by: J. J. Abrams and Chris Terrio
Story by: Derek Connolly, Colin Trevorrow, J. J. Abrams, Chris Terrio
Based on Characters by George Lucas
Before I start, here are a few quips from my Thoughts on Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
While The Force Awakens literally awakened a nostalgic feeling, The Last Jedi completely shattered it. Director Rian Johnson took a great and challenging step by using a complex plot making Episode VIII unrecognizable. Yes, The Last Jedi is very different but that change is very acceptable.You have to consider that Episode VIII is the second instalment of the Star Wars sequel trilogy. It bridges the gap between the past and the future. I have to admit though that there was a struggle at the beginning of the film towards the middle.The reason behind this is the number of characters with their own story making it difficult to weave; however, exposing the emotional wounds and flaws, especially of the Resistance, made them more grounded. This influenced their actions that helped put together the grand finale.
So how was the finale?
Incredible!Director J.J. Abrams who co-wrote the screenplay with Chris Terrio was able to fix the problems the previous film had. If you remember, The Last Jedi has a complex plot which was not executed well. T hough at some points The Rise of Skywalker presented some predictable plot, the delivery was well-executed allowing the viewers to accept the conclusion. But I think this has something to do with the strong characters especially the actors.
Speaking of which, having several characters in a saga especially as big as Star Wars is common and it can get confusing. But this is not the Marvel Cinematic Universe and there is no need for a standalone film. That is why you will appreciate how The Rise of Skywalker was able to allow their characters to have their own moment. This includes the past, current and new characters.
And as the saga ends, The Rise of Skywalker also gave a salute to the original trilogy: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977), Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983), as well as to the prequel trilogy: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999), Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002) and Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005). You will see on the last act and let me tell you that it was incredible. The same thing goes with Rey and Kylo Ren's fight scenes.
Even with The Force Awakens, their fight scenes are already well-choreographed. But in the Rise of Skywalker, it is very different. It is much more intense just like their telepathic bond. And this is why I advise you to avoid drinking a large beverage because you wouldn't want to miss anything.
With that, I can honestly say that I truly enjoyed Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker and everything feels complete. Which is why I don't want another trilogy set in the next decade. We all know how things are in this saga; not to mention, Disney.
No offence. I do love Star Wars and Disney's other projects but the saga is now complete. It is better both start and end with a bang!
Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019) 9/10
Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi (2017) 8/10
Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015) 9/10
