Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)

For over 40 years, it has captivated the world, cinema, and pop culture. Two trilogies and now a third one has concluded. In 2015, the “Star Wars” phenomenon returned with the third trio of films. 4 years later the third trilogy has concluded. This new trilogy was the continuation of the Skywalker story and now ends the iconic story. It may not be the best that the series has to offer, but it sure is better than 2017’s “The Last Jedi”.

Episode VIII was utterly horrendous, but this film is a much more satisfying entry into the franchise. It is a wonderful end to this third trilogy and is an exciting finale to the original story which has spanned for four decades. Episode VIII lacked severely in being a fun and entertaining film. This film was able to make up for the previous installment’s errors, in an extraordinary fashion.

Legendary director J.J Abrams returns to the series. He previously directed the first installment in this trilogy, 2015’s “The Force Awakens”. That film was a nostalgic treasure for all fans and brought us to love our favorite characters all over again. Abrams concludes this trilogy in such a way that satisfies fans and honors the late Carrie Fisher, with this being her last appearance. Through stunning visuals and your typical action sequences thrust into the film, this is another job well done for Abrams.

Returning once more are Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, John Boyega and Oscar Isaac. All of them give some of the best performances in this set of films. Despite the lack of narrative quality, they are still able to make the film as entertaining as it should be. This film also sees the return of iconic character Emperor Palpatine, played once again by Ian McDiarmid. He is one of the most exciting parts of the film because it brings fans to be more nostalgic than ever.

Giving his last hurrah at the iconic franchise is composer John Williams. Williams has scored every single film in the franchise minus the spin-off films and the Disney+ series. He’s been creating iconic scores for this franchise since the beginning. He returns in an epic and glorious fashion once more. He does yet another great job at creating enchanting sounds that I have no doubt will remain iconic just like the rest of his work throughout the franchise.

The time has come, and now it is here. The end of one of the cinemas' most beloved stories. This franchise phenomenon has created a mega fanbase and cult following. It will remain an iconic staple in cinema and pop culture for years to come. This film shows that this franchise will continue to remain entertaining for fans of all kinds.

Photo courtesy of Bad Robot, LucasFilm and Disney

Rate: B+ 

Director: J.J Abrams

Starring: Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, John Boyega and Oscar Isaac

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for sci-fi violence and action)

Runtime: 2 Hours & 22 Minutes 

Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

Long ago in a galaxy far away, were two pals kicking intergalactic butt and saving the galaxy. For over forty years cinema has given us the dynamic duo of Han Solo and his wookie partner-in-crime, Chewie aka Chewbacca. This film gives us an inside look of how the title character began and how the friendship of every ones favorite wookie and Han Solo came to be. Solo is surely to be one of many exciting spin off films in the world of "Star Wars".

Lurking from not so far away, is controversy. The early stages of the film experienced drama within the original helmers. "Jump Street" directors Christopher Miller and Phil Lord were originally tapped to direct the film but got fired for creative differences. Ron Howard was the replacement and oh man does Howard do this film justice.

Ron Howard is a director I couldn't imagine making a "Star Wars" film. But after seeing his first go at a Star Wars film, I was pleasantly surprised at Howard's vision and style. He makes the film with your typical iconic music and special effects along with the Millennium Falcon. Howard crafts by all means necessary, an exciting and exhilarating venture.

This cast is nothing short of fun. Playing young Solo, is Alden Ehrenreich. His portrayal of the iconic Harrison Ford character is awesome and memorable. Ehrenreich makes Solo a stand out character, rightfully so because it's the title character. He has a tough act to follow, and he makes out an impressive portrayal of the beloved character. Rounding out the cast:"Game of Thrones" Emilia Clarke, "Avengers" Paul Bettany and Hunger Games' Woody Harrelson. They are an exciting group in this backstory film of one of Cinema's most beloved characters.

Also featured in the film is a young Lando Calrissian, the iconic Billy Dee Williams character. Playing young Lando is Donald Glover, aka Childish Gambino. In all honesty, young Lando is a selfish guy. But that doesn't stop Lando. Glover makes due as the iconic character in a love-hate kind of way.

Some of the best things in this movie are the small things. One of the most surprising things this film had to offer was humor. It offers humor in gabs at its characters. While also providing the audience with laughter not typically seen in the "Star Wars" films.  Standing out for me as the best parts of the film was Han and Chewies first encounter. That scene alone was the best part of the movie for me.

What's a "Star Wars"  movie without John Williams mesmerizing scores? Considered it not a Star Wars film at all. But I am so glad that this film has those iconic melodies. Scoring this new film is John Powell. Powell, with the assistantance of Williams, crafts a big and melodic sound for the film that keeps the film zooming in hyperspeed.

If there's any negatives about this movie, it's a useless droid. L3-37, a new droid not seen in other films in the space saga. L3 for short, makes this film annoying even without trying to. Her presence is not needed. We would have been better off if C-P30  was in this film instead of the annoying L3.

You can bet this film is a showstopper. This film in all honesty, is way better than the sorry-excuse of a spin off that is "Rogue One". The two films are unrelated but are complete opposites. One, being an enjoyable film (this one) and the other being complete trash. For over forty years, cinema has given audiences world wide one of the most iconic friendships of two amazing characters. This film doesn't disappoint in entertaining and giving audiences a first look at what is to come for the two friends. Even if that means including a useless character in the film that trys so effortlessly to make the film go from entertaining to boring.


Rate: 🍿🍿🍿🍿4 out of 5 popcorn buckets

Director: Ron Howard 

Starring: Alden Ehrenreich, Emilia Clarke, Woody Harrelson, Donald Glover and Paul Bettany

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for sci fi action violence) 

Runtime: 2 Hours and 15 Minutes

Synopsis: Board the Millennium Falcon and journey to a galaxy far, far away in Solo: A Star Wars Story, an all-new adventure with the most beloved scoundrel in the galaxy. Through a series of daring escapades deep within a dark and dangerous criminal underworld, Han Solo meets his mighty future copilot Chewbacca and encounters the notorious gambler Lando Calrissian, in a journey that will set the course of one of the Star Wars saga's most unlikely heroes.

Photo Courtsey of Lucasfilms Ltd.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017)

The eighth installment of the sci-fi saga picks up directly where episode 7 ends.  The shot of Rey-(Daisy Ridley) on an island located on some planet wasteland- handing a powerful lightsaber to a lonesome Luke Skywalker-(Mark Hamill). And the rest is history. It's definitely one of the more action action-packed films in the series. It entertains from start to finish, despite it having a less than exciting ending getting people confused after that. All the while, this addition to the "Star Wars" franchise, is exciting and emotional, and funny.

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.

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.

Star Wars Episode IV: a new hope (1977)

One of the world biggest phenomenons, "Star Wars: a new hope"  is brought to life by science fiction author George Lucas. "A New Hope" is filled with amazing action, old-school, retro special effects, and a wonderful cast. For over forty years, the kickstart of the space epic "Star Wars" has been widely acclaimed.

Bringing in a new breed of science fiction, similar to that of the popular Star Trek television show. Teamed with: Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, and Mark Hamill, as the leads: Han Solo, Leia, and Luke Skywalker, respectively, they are absolutely fierce and fun.


On top of the film's spectacular action, lay the films composition. Executed by John Williams, it is unequivocally one of cinema's best scores and most famous for an action, sci-fi film.

It's been a cinema powerhouse for over four decades. The stunning action sequences offers a thrill, the classical music composition and the action alongside it's superb ensemble  are why the "Star Wars" franchise has reigned supreme as a major cinema and fan favorite.




Rate: B+

Lucasfilm Ltd and 20th Century Fox present a George Lucas film. "A New Hope" stars: Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Peter Mayhew, and Harrison Ford. Rated: PG (for sci-fi violence and brief mild language) Runtime: 2 Hours and 5 Minutes

Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015)

  Star Wars is a force to be reckoned with. Approximately thirty years after the "Return of the Jedi" Episode VI, and the defeat of the "Galactic Empire", comes a new threat of evil the "First Order". Also in addition to the new film, there are new characters. Lead by newcomers Daisy Ridley and John Boyega. There sense of an on-screen connection between them and it  is sensational. They give lots of emotion to their roles as Finn and Rey. 

Also, returning to the franchise are Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamil, and Harrison Ford, Respectively as roles: Princess Leia, now General of the Resistance, Luke Skywalker, and Han Solo. And also returning to the film are CP-3O, R2-D2, and Chewbacca.

What makes the film exciting is that it's got lots of action, fun, excitement, and occasional humor. Directed and Written by JJ Abrams, he does a fantastic job at his take on the visual effects, cinematography, sets.

Renowned and Award-Winning Composer John Williams scored the film. He has scored all movies in the franchise. Some of his original work is in the film. He is in my opinion, the number one thing that makes these types of movies special. He has created a theme that everyone knows and loves. And will continue to enjoy his Star Wars scores as the Star Wars legacy lives on. He made for this film an original piece of work that fits perfectly for the movie. Sets the tone for it. 

The costumes and special effects are awesome. Original Stormtrooper outfits are in this new film. And many new costumes in the film as well, to understand the personalities of each character. The special effects are beautifully defined and very colorful. 

Star Wars is a force to be reckoned with. The global phenomenon for over 30 years continues to shatter the globe. It's influential on millions. From toys, apparel and pre-sale records, Star Wars will live on in history. 

Director: J.J Abrams

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (Sci-Fi, Action, Violence) 

Starring: Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamil, with Gwendoline Christie and Adam Driver

Runtime: 2 Hours and 16 Minutes

Synopsis:

Thirty years after the defeat of the Galactic Empire, the galaxy faces a new threat from the evil Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) and the First Order. When a defector named Finn crash-lands on a desert planet, he meets Rey (Daisy Ridley), a tough scavenger whose droid contains a top-secret map. Together, the young duo joins forces with Han Solo (Harrison Ford) to make sure the Resistance receives the intelligence concerning the whereabouts of Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), the last of the Jedi Knights.

Rate: A+ 

   

Photo: LucasFilms