Beware, this review contains spoilers!
Since The Mandalorian Season 2 is coming out soon I thought I’d have a look at it’s cousin: Star Wars the Rise of Skywalker. Star Wars The Rise of Skywalker was a fitting end to the trio of trilogies known as the Skywalker Saga. Or was it? Let’s find out.
What was good?
As it was the end to a series of brilliant blockbusters, The Rise of Skywalker had to cap it off well, and I think they just about pulled it off. From high speed space battles to slow thought-provoking family moments, this film had it all. The visual effects were on point, as were the easter eggs and cameos. From Harrison Ford reprising his role as Han for one last time to comfort Ben, to legendary composer John Williams making an appearance as the bartender on Kijimi. Special mention, as well, to all the actors and actresses who played the Jedi and uttered the infamous line “Rise Rey, rise!”. Speaking of John Williams, the blend of old and new compositions meant the film had hair-raising music all the way through. Another thing to look at is right at the end when the Resistances’ friends - and those in debt to them - come to the rescue. The sight of the Millennium Falcon fronting this attack could make even the coldest of hearts sing.
What didn’t go as well?
Many did not like this film, thinking it didn’t live up to the hype. I’m now going to look at the nitty gritty of mess ups in this film. One is definitely General Hux being the spy. I’m sure there are others who agree with me in saying that General Hux being the spy was a real let down; I was angling towards Richard E. Grant’s General Pryde to be the mole in the Final Order. One of the others is the massive plot-hole of Rose Tico. Did anyone else see her die at the end of The Last Jedi? Maybe it’s just me! The last let-down for me was definitely Sith Rey. Looking at the trailer, I thought we might have maybe even a small five minute section with her in it, not a ten second one.
Great Performances
Some actors and actresses had great performances in The Rise Of Skywalker. Who? Let’s find out!
One of the standout performances was Oscar Isaac (Poe Dameron) with what was his best performance in the sequel trilogy. He finally had some interaction with Rey (although most were arguments). His comic reaction to the others finding out he was a spice-runner was classic - all in all a great day in the office for him. Another standout was Anthony Daniels (C-3PO). His comic timing, as ever, was brilliant, and C-3PO’s goodbye was definitely a tear-jerker. But by far his best moment was when C-3PO exclaimed, “ Ooh, Babu Frink! He is one of my oldest friends!”. Classic! Lastly, a shout-out to Joonas Suomato who filled in as Chewbacca for the late, great Peter Mayhew.
Conclusion
In conclusion this was a very good film with rare slip-ups.
***** ( 5 stars)
By Jake MacLeod
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