Perry Boyd
Star Wars. The name conjures images of high speed space vessels and operatic encounters with light sabers doused with symphonic storms of John Williams’ melodic mastery. The franchise is a creature of cinema that constantly changes and evolves with each unique incarnation. In the traditional vein of good vs. evil storytelling The Force Awakens continues the legacy of this cosmic event. Although George Lucas is no longer captain at the mighty helm of the galactic adventure J.J. Abrams has stepped in for his unique visual interpretation of the epic saga. The story centers around Rey (Daisy Ridley) and Finn (John Boyega). Their goal is to return a small but lovable BB-8 droid to the resistance because within its possession is a valuable map leading to none other than Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill).
I want to clearly state that it’s not a carbon copy of the Phantom Menace nor is it a rehashed summary of the original trilogy. This is new and pristine. We’re talking freshly wrapped from the deli and topped with a leafy continuance of the story. This takes place thirty years after the death of Darth Vader and the rise of Luke Skywalker as the last remaining Jedi. Despite being born in the shadows of the empire this film is noteworthy all on its own. The highlights for the movie show growth in the original vision and finality to some of the lingering questions from the past. There are in fact about a billion and three new queries that we the viewers have been left with as we wait for the next edition of the series Star Wars VIII. What are Rey’s true origins? What will be the next foul scheme of the first order?
This motion picture isn’t a confusing tale of science fiction it’s more a buffet of assorted genres. Romance, between old heroes. Action sequences, that draw out cheering from the crowd. Comedy sprinkled in various dialogues. Drama, as family issues are dealt with to the backdrop of stellar battles. Then there is the random hate of the storm trooper named by the internet as TR-8R. Not to mention the most important ingredient, its Star Wars. Carrie Fisher, Harrison Ford and Mark Hamill, did I mention Chewbacca? Is this film worth your time? I would argue yes and I would also debate it’s definitely worth a second watch, even a third. If you don’t like trilogies or epic sagas that’s no problem because the film is still enjoyable as a standalone. In my opinion it’s the movie fans hoped it would be and the entertaining phenomenon that it was meant to be. The next installment is already in production (Star Wars VIII) and set to come out December 15, 2017. Enjoy the thrill ride for now and expect more in the future.
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