Star Wars IX Review: The Light Side

To see a more negative review of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, click here.

**Minor Spoilers Ahead**

Where do I even begin? WOW.

This is a movie I've waited for since I first watched A New Hope as an 8 year old back in 1997, when George Lucas re-released the original trilogy in theaters. 

I have to hand it to Disney and Lucasfilm -- they had the almost impossible task of creating a finale to one of the most celebrated and groundbreaking franchises in cinema history. And they delivered.

While imperfect, Star Wars Episode IX has a little bit of everything for even the most avid Star Wars fan. The most epic space battle in any of the nine episodes, fantastic lightsaber duels, a healthy dose of Jedi and Sith lore, cameos and Easter eggs, questions answered, identities revealed, redemption, triumph, comedy, moving scenes of loss and love, and (in my opinion) the best ending scene I could have imagined for the Skywalker Saga. 

What I Liked Most

• Learning more of Rey's story and identity and her connection to the Star Wars universe. While not fully explained, her origin and connection to the Force makes so much more sense now.
• The depth of character that finally came to Kylo Ren aka Ben Solo. I've really struggled with the character of Kylo Ren in Episodes VII and VIII, but his story in Episode IX was compelling, real, and meaningful.
• Deeper understanding of Kylo's and Rey's Force connection first explored in The Last Jedi. This was kind of weird for me in Episode VIII, but I feel like it lent itself well to the story in Episode IX and makes more sense learning Rey's identity.
• A story arc that actually made me care for the character of C-3PO
• The films tribute to the original characters of Luke, Leia and Han. These three actors and characters defined the original trilogy and in my opinion led to much of its success.
• Leia's farewell and presence in the film. Knowing Carrie Fisher is no longer with us, this was a particularly meaningful component of my viewing experience
• The ending scene with Rey. Pure perfection.

I hope Disney continues to explore this universe and the wealth of story-telling opportunities it provides.

There are some answers I still don't have, but putting all of that aside (and leaving some to the imagination) The Rise of Skywalker takes its rightful place as a fitting finale to one of the greatest and most endearing stories ever told.

To see a more negative review of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, click here.