I could care less about a tribute to Han Solo, -(but it would be nice to have had.) It's the fact that seeing other characters reel in what happened to him is quite the tear-jerker. In this movie, the millennial with daddy issues, aka Kylo Ren, aka Ben Solo, is still an evil apprentice to the supreme leader of the notorious "First Order". And just as things started to get right with him, he still manages to be seduced by the dark side. Not only does this film have one villain but it also has another one. Well, I guess you could say they're one in the same. The military leader of the "First Order", General Hux, alongside the supreme leader, are as psychotic as Ren.
The film introduces us to new and vital characters- Rose and Admiral Holdo. They play an important part in the defeat of the "First Order." Even though I kinda think they're just pawns- not needed. But they still make good contributions to this film.
Director Rian Johnson takes us to new and soaring heights with the film. He adds something different to the saga, that I was unfamiliar with before. It is the elements of color and detail. Yes, all the films in the saga are detailed and action-packed, but this one has lots of color and detail to the film as a whole.
The returning cast members: Daisy Ridley, Oscar Isacc, Adam Driver and John Boyega stun alongside franchise veterans: Mark Hamill and the late, Carrie Fisher. They all give remarkable performances as the characters that have defined their careers. Especially, Ridley and Driver. They're the two standouts of this film and it's amazing to see their interaction.
Lo and beyond, John Williams. In my opinion, there would be no "Star Wars" and dramatic open crawl if he wasn't in the picture. For this film, he ups the ante on all musical efforts. It's the same ole John Williams, doing what he does best. And it's insane that at 84 years old, he still makes iconic music. I have no doubt his musical presence will remain long after he is one with the force-(this is my own version of a euphemism for death).
One of the most influential cinematic sagas of all time, "Star Wars", has graced audiences for an impressive eighth film-40 years since the start of it all. This film is the culmination of the franchise and the highest of highs for the sci-fi film genre. Though this film suffers from small stuff like the inclusion of those previously mentioned characters and minor setbacks, and a horrendous ending, this installment to one of cinema's most beloved sagas, is one to remember.
Rate: B+
Director: Rian Johnson
Starring: Daisy Ridley, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, John Boyega, Oscar Isacc, with Adam Driver and Domnhall Gleeson and Andy Serkis
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for sci-fi action, violence and some language)
Runtime: 2 Hours and 30 Minutes
Syonopsis: Rey develops her newly discovered abilities with the guidance of Luke Skywalker, who is unsettled by the strength of her powers. Meanwhile, the Resistance prepares to do battle with the First Order.
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| Photo Courtsey of LucasFilms |
Malawski’s Movie Rating System
A+ = Exceptional, One of a Kind, Masterpiece. Definite award season contender
A= Pure enjoyment, happy feeling. Satisfaction
A- = One to remember. Unforgettable
B+ = Can get a little over the top. But, it makes out as a good film.
B= This film has the potential to be better. Lacks in consistency
B- = Watches occasionally
C+ = Guilty pleasure territory
C= Causes viewer frustration due to lack of depth in the story
C-= Meh
D+ = I hated this movie. Some parts were good. Overall, the film was garbage
D= Very few to no good parts about this movie
D- = Minimal qualities of excellence
F= Don’t even bother watching it. It’s that bad.
