Growing up we both were intimately familiar with Star Wars Episodes IV, V, and VI and practically wore out the VHS tapes. While we wouldn’t call ourselves super fans, Star Wars has always been enjoyable and held a special place in our hearts; when the franchise was acquired by Disney it just felt right to us. We recently went on a Star Wars movie marathon (thanks Disney+!) to gear up for the last installment. It was so enjoyable to watch films we hadn’t see in years and really get clear on characters and details. We were also reminded how “The Last Jedi” felt a bit mediocre to us. With plot holes and silly moments it felt a little fluffy, but it also felt like it was building for the final chapter.
We were excited to hear that for “The Rise of Skywalker” J.J. Abrams was back at the helm. But we knew he had his hands full to not only include nostalgia from all the movies previously, but also bring in new exciting moments, and tie up a lot of loose ends. When we were invited to an early screening of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker we felt a big build up of excitement and nerves. This could be the final goodbye to many beloved characters (including ones that had been around since before we were even born!) Read on for our spoiler free review…
The latest generation pilot the Millennium Falcon.
Official Film Synopsis:
Lucasfilm and director J.J. Abrams join forces once again to take viewers on an epic journey to a galaxy far, far away with Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, the riveting conclusion of the seminal Skywalker saga, where new legends will be born and the final battle for freedom is yet to come. Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker opens in U.S. theaters on December 20.
The film stars Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Anthony Daniels, Naomi Ackie, Domhnall Gleeson, Richard E. Grant, Lupita Nyong’o, Keri Russell, Joonas Suotamo, Kelly Marie Tran, and Billy Dee Williams.
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is directed by J.J. Abrams and produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Abrams and Michelle Rejwan. Callum Greene, Tommy Gormley and Jason McGatlin serve as executive producers. Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker was written by J.J. Abrams & Chris Terrio and opens in U.S. theaters on December 20.
BB-8 is joined by a new little buddy.
Julie's Thoughts
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker starts immediately with action and stays at a quick pace through most of the movie. The previous two films have built up to this one, and everything feels bigger and more final. We pick up with Rey training as a Jedi, while what is left of the Resistance is gearing up to face the First Order. In the Rise of Skywalker you will finally get more insight into Rey’s back story as well as the strong connection between her and Kylo Ren. Everyone is preparing for a final battle of light and the dark and with a lot going on this movie really does have it all. From gorgeous alien landscapes, adventure/battle scenes, emotions, cameos, and twists. We were here for it all, and Rise of Skywalker delivers.
I found myself smiling at nostalgic nods to past films or a bit of humor here or there (but luckily not as silly as some of the moments in “The Last Jedi”). I found myself getting goosebumps or teary eyed through multiple moments of the film. Seeing some favorite characters feels more emotional in this film, from the famous droid duo who has been here every step along the way, to a few surprise faces here and there, this movie feels like one heck of a farewell party. It was also amazing to see Leia brought into this film with not a speck of CGI. I don’t know how they did it, but the team pretty seamlessly pieced together old footage of Carrie Fisher with stand-ins and were able to tell her story and pay tribute to her.
I did find that The Rise of Skywalker was balancing a TON of content in one film, not only were questions answered, and stories wrapped up, the film even brought in new characters and plot lines as well. At times all you could do was sit there and say wow because so much was going on. Some people question if there was too much. Did we really need another droid introduced? Probably not, but I didn’t find that he took away from the film. I found the fast pace felt adventurous and I never got bored.
At the end of the film I felt emotional and super satisfied. I think Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker was everything I was hoping it would be and even more, I don’t think there is anything I would even change. I can’t imagine the weight on the shoulders of everyone making this final chapter of a multi-generational story. But as Yoda says do or do not, there is no try. And do it they did. Bravo team for absolutely nailing it.
HER RATING: 5 out of 5 “lightsabers”
Can’t you just feel the anticipation between Rey and Ren even in this still?
Andrew's Thoughts
This is the conclusion to the Skywalker saga you are looking for… While I’m not a diehard fan that goes nuts over tiny details, I still found in Episodes 7 & 8 there were some plot holes and other odd moments that annoyed me and left me somewhat unfulfilled. But with Star Wars comes the theme of hope, and I actually had really high hopes for Episode 9 based on how things had built up, and seeing the trailers. Luckily for me, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker did not disappoint. This is far better than the two that preceded it and the perfect way to wrap up a story that has spanned generations.
For those that were left with a lot of questions following the last two films, The Rise of Skywalker does a great job of wrapping up the original saga and answering some lingering questions. I have heard grumblings from others that this covered too much ground in one movie but I thought the pace was spot on, especially when you consider how much filler and lack of a good story Episode 8 was. The movie hits the ground running and really never lets up. The 2.5 hours in the theater flew by and had me excited for each new scene.
The visuals were awesome! I really enjoyed the crazy battle scenes, high speed Storm Trooper chases, and intense light saber fights. The locations were even dramatic, a lot of this film felt dark and detailed, compared to many stark scenes in past movies. I also enjoyed the character interactions. It felt like one last amazing time with well known friends. I was surprised with some moments and reveals, but also felt like everything worked well together to wrap up the story. (we won’t give away any details, and let you discover them for yourself).
Even if some viewers find the first half slightly convoluted, the last 30-45 minutes provides the ultimate pay-off. The one thing that stood out in this movie and proved to me how much I enjoyed it was how many "goose bump" moments there were, probably because there were a few times when the story tied back to the original three whether it be through characters, scenes, or quick one-liners. It was the perfect blend of old and new. For me, The Rise of Skywalker has earned its place in my top three Star Wars movies and I can’t wait to see it again.
HIS RATING: 5 out of 5 “lightsabers”
Rey and Leia in a teary eyed moment.
The movie is best for: any Star Wars fans. From a mild fan to a super one everyone should love this episode. This one does get pretty scary though, it may not be best for super young fans. (Also make sure you see the previous movies first!)
View the official movie website.
