My Opinion on Star Wars 7-9

Star Wars 7-9, a trilogy that reignited the love for the franchise for many, but disappointed others. This review delves into my personal opinions on these films, discussing my initial enjoyment, subsequent disappointment, and the overall mixed feelings I have towards the sequels.

The Beginning and Challenging Middle

Starting with The Force Awakens (Episode VII), I initially appreciated the film's nostalgic elements and efforts to return to the feel of the original trilogy. However, there was a clear disconnect in storytelling when comparing it to the beloved originals. Personally, I found The Last Jedi (Episode VIII) to be a significant disappointment, particularly in terms of its narrative flow and character development. The final film, The Rise of Skywalker (Episode IX), while not terrible, felt overly structured and predicable, which diminished my overall enjoyment. These films, while not the worst entries in the franchise, certainly had their shortcomings.

Personal Preferences and Nostalgia

Despite the perceived flaws, I deeply appreciate the elements of these sequels, such as the character development of Rey and Finn and the acting of Adam Driver. Rey's character, though admittedly underdeveloped, brought a fresh perspective to the series. Driver's performance, while overshadowed, was commendable and demonstrated his talent. These moments brought back the nostalgic feelings of early Star Wars fandom, enhancing the overall experience for me.

The Force Awakens: The Pivotal Beginning

The Force Awakens, in my view, serves as a solid foundation for the sequel trilogy, yet it could have set a stronger stage for what would follow. My personal attendance of the film, as well as my 4 visits to see The Empire Strikes Back, highlights my enthusiasm. If financial struggles hadn't intervened, I might have attended more often to fully immerse myself in the experience.

The Last Jedi: A Thoroughly Enjoyable Film

The Last Jedi stands out in my opinion as a film with a unique perspective on established Star Wars tropes, offering a more human and thoughtful narrative. This film, in particular, resonated with me, despite its mixed reception by many. Its innovative storytelling and new characters, particularly Luke Skywalker's transformation, provide a refreshing take on the series.

The Rise of Skywalker: A Mixed Bag

While The Rise of Skywalker had some redeeming qualities, its overall structure and pacing left me wanting. The film's attempts to satisfy fans and wrap up loose ends resulted in a predictable and somewhat underwhelming conclusion. The final battle, while visually impressive, lacked the emotional depth needed to truly captivate the audience. This confluence of factors ultimately detracted from my enjoyment of the series as a whole.

A Call for Civil Discourse

It's important to recognize that there are differing views on the later films in the franchise. For some, the last two films are viewed as ruining the franchise, stemming from fan devotion and attachment to the original trilogy. While I understand these feelings, I advise against perpetuating overly harsh criticism or calls for action such as firing Kathleen Kennedy. Instead, it's more constructive to engage in thoughtful, civil discussions about the merits of each installment.

While there is plenty of debate and controversy surrounding these films, my personal journey through the sequels has been one of nostalgia, appreciation, and some disappointment. I encourage both fans and critics to approach these films with an open mind and a willingness to appreciate the nuances each offers.