Why the Criticism of 'The Last Jedi': When Writing Deviation Hits the Fans

The debate around 'The Last Jedi' has raged ever since its release, and one significant point of contention has been its deviation from the traditional Star Wars formula. For many critics and fans, the film fails to fulfill the narrative expectations set by preceding entries in the franchise. This article delves into the reasons behind the critical reception of 'The Last Jedi' and explores how writing deviations can impact fan expectations and the overall storytelling.

The Importance of Stream of Consciousness in Storytelling

In the realm of storytelling, the ability to connect multiple aspects of a story cohesively is crucial. This is known as 'stream of consciousness' in literature. It helps in weaving together various threads of a narrative, whether it is a single plot or multiple character arcs. The goal is to ensure that by the end of the story, all threads come together in a satisfying manner, either bringing the story to a conclusion or leaving it open-ended with intriguing possibilities.

The Failure of 'The Last Jedi' in Storytelling

The critique of 'The Last Jedi' often centers on its perceived failings in cohesiveness, which can be attributed primarily to poor writing. One of the key issues highlighted is the idea of 'catering' - whether the film caters to a new audience by undermining the old one, follows an agenda, or panders to a faux fanbase rather than the true core of Star Wars enthusiasts.

For instance, the focus on Luke Skywalker, a character who was largely absent from the prequel trilogy and the original trilogy, has been heavily criticized. In 'The Last Jedi', Luke is portrayed as running away, a decision that was not previously seen in the Expanded Universe ('Legends/EU') or even in the novelizations. This deviation from the established character has led to substantial criticism, as it contradicts the character development and motivations that fans are accustomed to.

Character and Plot Discrepancies

The story of 'The Last Jedi' is decidedly different from the expectations set by previous films. Rey's development, for example, is often seen as rushed and lacking in adequate explanation. Her abilities in the Force are introduced abruptly, and the explanation for these abilities is left hanging, creating an unsatisfying experience for viewers. Similarly, the focus on political elements in Canto Bight feels like an unnecessary detour, taking up significant screen time at the expense of the main narrative.

The Influence of Writing on Fan Reception

The failure of 'The Last Jedi' boils down to the flaw in its writing. Good writing in storytelling requires the ability to intertwine multiple aspects and ensure that the story's conclusion holds up as a whole. When these elements are left unexplained or unresolved, it can lead to a sense of frustration among fans who are used to a seamless narrative experience.

In summary, 'The Last Jedi' faces criticism largely due to its deviance from the established Star Wars formula. While an innovative approach to storytelling can sometimes be appreciated, it must be done in a way that does not alienate the core fanbase. Writing is the fundamental tool that connects every element of a story, and when it fails to do so, the entire narrative suffers.