Reviving the Force in Star Wars: Lessons from the Sequel Trilogy

Introduction

Would you like to see new characters learning to use the Force in the upcoming Star Wars movie? The sequel trilogy had its share of mishaps, one of which significantly hindered the franchise's potential reach. This article delves into the mistakes made and offers a blueprint for a future set of films or even a series that could rectify these errors and reignite the Force's prominence in the Star Wars universe.

The Sequel Trilogy's Oversights

Benjamin Linala, a renowned Star Wars expert, argued that the sequel trilogy was a monumental blunder from a marketing and storytelling perspective. He suggested that the trilogy's approach was akin to trying to revive a beloved character or concept after a major reboot, a strategy that often backfires. Specifically, the sequel trilogy's attempt at a reboot left out some of Star Wars' most iconic elements: Jedi lightsabers, Sith, and the Jedi order itself.

According to Linala, the sequel trilogy strayed from the franchise's most popular and enduring elements. The original trilogy already had a limited focus on Jedi and Sith, yet these elements resonated deeply with audiences. In contrast, the sequel trilogy seemed to deliberately exclude these key elements, offering minimal Jedi presence and one new lightsaber design, not to mention an absence of Sith. This approach did little to satisfy the fanbase that had grown accustomed to these beloved characters and settings.

Revisiting the Prequels: A Successful Blueprint

The significance of the Force and the Jedi order reached its peak in the prequels, where we saw an abundance of Jedi and a clear hierarchy. The prequels appeared to strike a better balance between the Force and the narrative, blending it deeply into the storyline. This approach, Linala suggests, could be emulated to create a more engaging and expansive Star Wars story.

If a new Rey movie or future Star Wars project were to follow a similar blueprint, it would include the rise of new Jedi Padawans, a thriving Jedi Order led by young Jedi, and dramatic conflicts surrounding the Force itself. For instance, a storyline could feature Leia establishing the New Republic while Luke oversees the formation of a new Jedi Order, but with limited resources and manpower. Amid this challenge, Rey could emerge as a promising student capable of great power but also tempted by the dark side. Her journey would then involve a group of new Jedi, under Ben Solo's tutelage (Kylo Ren), to confront these dark forces and thwart the ambitions of Snoke.

The Need for Diverse Storylines

Another perspective comes from a commentator on Rogue One, who emphasized the importance of storytelling beyond the Force and the Jedi. The commenter suggested that the first nine episodes (Ep 1-9) heavily featured Jedi and Sith, and that the expanded universe presents a rich tapestry of stories and characters that do not necessarily revolve around these elements. The Star Wars universe, as outlined in the expanded universe, includes a vast spectrum of Force users, non-Force users, and unique narratives that could enrich the story without relying solely on Jedi and Sith.

Linala's suggestion is that while Force users, notably Jedi, should remain a significant part of the story, they do not have to be the focal point. The plot could revolve around other elements, perhaps political intrigue, military strategy, or the exploration of new worlds, while still incorporating Force users as supporting characters. This approach would help in showcasing the diversity and richness of the Star Wars universe, catering to a broader audience and tapping into the franchise's expansive lore.

Concluding Remarks

In conclusion, the success of the Force and the Jedi order in the Star Wars universe can be significantly enhanced by drawing from the prequels and the expanded universe. Instead of sidelining these key elements, future projects can weave them into a dynamic and expansive narrative that resonates with fans and newcomers alike. By doing so, the Force and the Jedi order can serve not only as central plot devices but also as conduits to explore a more diverse and multifaceted Star Wars universe.

As Star Wars continues to evolve and expand, it is essential to balance these core elements with the vast array of untold stories and characters. By embracing a holistic approach that includes both the Force and a broader range of narratives, Star Wars can maintain its enduring appeal and continue to captivate audiences around the world.