Rian Johnson's Approach to Star Wars: The Last Jedi - A Critical Review

Rian Johnson's direction of Star Wars: The Last Jedi has been a topic of intense debate among fans and critics alike. Many have expressed differing opinions on whether Johnson succeeded in his ambitions or fell short due to perceived incompetence. This article delves into the nuances of Johnson's approach, the impact on fan expectations, and the broader implications for the Star Wars franchise.

Controversy and Expectations

Johnson's decision to depart from the general plot structure of The Empire Strikes Back (Episode V) and introduce new directions for the characters has sparked considerable controversy. While some fans appreciated his willingness to challenge established narratives and explore deeper themes such as failure, legacy, and the complexity of heroism, others felt that these changes strayed too far from what they wanted to see, leading to a sense of disappointment.

The polarized response indicates that Johnson's choices were driven by a calculated risk rather than incompetence. His intent was to refresh the narrative and offer a more nuanced take on the Star Wars saga. This approach reflects the challenging balance between honoring legacy and innovating, highlighting the diverse perspectives within the Star Wars community.

Fans and Incompetence

Some have dismissively labeled Johnson as incompetent, suggesting that he would have been praised for simply copying The Empire Strikes Back and making minor plot changes. However, this perspective overlooks the significance of Johnson's artistic vision and the narrative depth he aimed to achieve. Critics argue that Johnson's approach was more considered and intentional, reflecting a desire to challenge fan expectations rather than a lack of skill or competency.

One common argument against Johnson is that his work is too difficult to understand or connect with, often attributed to a lack of comprehensibility. However, this view ignores the complex storytelling techniques Johnson employed and the depth of character development in The Last Jedi. Critics like "He cannot write let him stay in direction although he's not particularly spectacular at that either but its at least comprehensible" reflect a superficial understanding of the film's complexities.

Comparison to Previous Episodes

A detailed comparison between Star Wars: The Last Jedi and The Empire Strikes Back reveals that despite the broad similarities in plot structure, there are significant differences in execution and impact. Both films involve characters facing dramatic challenges, but The Last Jedi introduces new dynamics, such as a dramatic betrayal, a mentor who challenges established perceptions, and character revelations that deeply affect the protagonists.

For example, Luke’s arc involves discovering that he is the son of the very opposite of a great Jedi, while Rey learns that she is not the daughter of a significant figure. These revelations subvert expectations and add layers of complexity to the characters' journeys. The Star Wars community often views such subversions as dissonant, even though they are necessary for the narrative to progress. Critics argue that the methods by which these subversions are implemented deviate from the desired characterization, leading to a sense of inconsistency or betrayal.

Johnson's approach to the dark characters and villains also faces scrutiny. While the conflict with darkness remains impactful in both films, the methods by which it is resolved in The Last Jedi are fundamentally different. The visual and narrative choices in The Last Jedi reflect a different interpretation of the saga, partially because of the inclusion of new characters like General Riecus Holdo, who adds depth to the narrative without necessarily adhering to traditional character-centric frameworks.

Conclusion

While Star Wars: The Last Jedi continues to be a subject of intense debate, it is clear that Rian Johnson's approach was deliberate and thoughtfully implemented. The film's success hinges on the balance between honoring the legacy of the franchise and introducing fresh perspectives. Ultimately, the polarized response highlights the evolving nature of Star Wars as a franchise and the complex relationship between creators, fans, and the narrative itself.