Originally posted 2016-01-02 17:00:01.
Star Wars Force Awakens Movie Review
Grade: A-
Millions of fans across the world are letting out a near-simultaneous breath of relief.
Possibly the mo
st anticipated movie of all time, director JJ Abrams has delivered us a gem; a modern day time machine, putting us right back in the thrill-ride of the original Star Wars trilogy.
Thanks to marketing overexposure and two generations of fandom, the seventh installment in the Star Wars series, “The Force Awakens” debuted to record sales domestically and internationally.
Taking place approximately 30 years after 1983’s Return of the Jedi, we return to our favorite galaxy far far away to a world in turmoil. Led by the mysterious Kylo Ren and General Hux, the evil remnants of the Empire have formed the sinister First Order. An outnumbered and outgunned band of heroes, aptly named the Resistance, mirror the Rebel Alliance from the original trilogy.
A potential-laden group of young actors join the original cast as they travel from system to system, narrowly avoiding danger at every turn. The chemistry between the actors, both young and old, drives the film forward. Witty dialogue, homages to the older films, and convincing new characters adds a charm and excitement that were missing from the prequels.
Daisy Ridley and John Boyega are both revelations. Picked from the depths of obscurity these two actors seamlessly find their characters and connect with the audience. Boyega is well on his way to being the new Han Solo and Ridley a role model for girls everywhere.
Most prominently, Harrison Ford returns to his iconic role as Han Solo, the smuggler who made the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs. Ford’s performance removes all doubts of his commitments as his wit, confidence, and presence radiates from the screen.
While the plot parallels 1979’s “A New Hope” a little too closely for some, most are able to take it for the joyous spectacle it is – generations of fandom geeking out to lasers, spaceships, explosions and magic.
But Abrams greatest accomplishment is bringing back the magic. Character driven humor, practical visual effects, and fantastic character development have recreated the world we’ve all fallen in love with. As many questions are answered throughout the film even more are asked.
If episode eight was playing across the hall, there isn’t a person in the theater that wouldn’t try to sneak in.
