The Impact of Rey Finn and Poe on Star Wars: Beyond the Original Trilogy

Introduction

The Star Wars franchise has undergone significant transformations with the introduction of characters like Rey Finn and Poe Dameron, particularly in the films post-Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith. This article delves into the contributions of Rey and Poe, identifying how they have shaped the narrative, theme, and character development of the Star Wars universe, and compares their roles with those of the original trilogy's hero's.

From introducing a new perspective, emphasizing diversity, and laying the groundwork for modern Star Wars storytelling, Rey and Poe bring fresh elements that contrast with the static heroism seen in the original series. This article will explore these aspects and discuss how their presence has both enriched and detracted from the franchise.

The Diversity and Inclusion Factor

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - One of the most significant contributions of Rey Finn and Poe Dameron to the Star Wars franchise is the injection of diversity and a commitment to inclusion. This is particularly evident in the portrayal of Poe Dameron, a character who is a Black male pilot, which adds a new dimension to the predominantly white, male-dominated cast of previous films.

Rey, as a female character, is also a testament to diversity but often faces criticism. Some argue that she embodies the idea that “men apparently can't do anything right without a woman”. This notion is both a strength and a weakness, as it highlights the evolving narrative that star characters must now include female perspectives and support.

Rey's character arc is underdeveloped and often criticized for being too idealized. Her immediate heroism and lack of character growth have led to debates about the authenticity of the storytelling. In contrast, Poe's character feels inconsistent and lacked a defined narrative arc, which reflects the imperfections of the broader franchise.

Humanizing the Heroic Elements

Finn's Transformation - Perhaps the most significant contribution of Rey and Poe is the introduction of humanizing elements to the Star Wars narrative. Finn, initially a Stormtrooper, embodies the dual nature of the Force and the moral ambiguity present in the franchise. His journey from stormtrooper to hero introduces a layer of realism that the original trilogy lacked.

Rey and Finn's characters add depth to the narrative by showcasing the potential for growth and change in the characters. Rey's transformation from a naive and powerful figure to a more complex and flawed character adds a maturity to her storyline. Finn's initial betrayal in Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi and his subsequent return bring a level of relatability to his character, making him a more three-dimensional figure.

While these elements enhance the narrative, they also introduce a level of narrative tension and moral complexity that can be both compelling and challenging for audiences. The portrayal of Poe as a character who switches between roles and seems undefined at times mirrors the fractured nature of the franchise's storytelling.

Measuring the Impact

The Question of Improvement - The question of whether Rey, Finn, and Poe bring something new to Star Wars or complicate it is subjective. Finn's role is the most significant, as he introduced a new dynamic to the narrative. The concept of a character switching sides and then potentially abandoning a cause is a departure from the original heroes, who were steadfast and unchanging.

Rey's character, while promising, often falls short of the rich, nuanced development seen in characters like Luke Skywalker. Her idealism and emotional journey can be seen as melodramatic and underdeveloped, particularly in the context of a film series that has explored complex ethical and moral issues.

Poe, on the other hand, remains an enigma. His character has been a work in progress, often shifting roles and serving as a placeholder for the evolving narrative. His development as a character feels tenuous, lacking a clear path and purpose that would grant him a more lasting impact on the franchise.

Conclusion

The additions of Rey Finn and Poe Dameron to the Star Wars franchise were designed to bring new elements to the narrative. While they have contributed to the diversity and inclusion of the cast, their presence has also introduced a degree of complexity that can sometimes overshadow the clear, heroic archetypes of the original trilogy. Their roles reflect a broader shift in the franchise, embracing the idea that heroism can be messy, that characters are flawed, and that growth is a continuous process.

However, the success of these characters in enriching the Star Wars universe is debatable. Rey and Poe may have brought necessary changes, but they also introduce a level of inconsistency and narrative tension that some would argue detracts from the cohesive storytelling of the original trilogy. The future of the franchise will undoubtedly depend on how these characters continue to evolve and how they are integrated into the broader narrative arc.

Overall, the impact of Rey, Finn, and Poe on Star Wars is a topic for ongoing debate. While their contributions have been significant, they also highlight the challenges of reinventing a beloved franchise without losing the essence that made the original trilogy so captivating.

Keywords: Rey Finn, Poe, Star Wars Original Trilogy