Back with a bang! The Star Wars franchise, now owned by the Disney corporation, is back in cinemas with a whole host of new and familiars faces. Directed by J.J Abrams, The Force Awakens is set to be the first in the Star Wars sequel trilogy following on from the events in Return of the Jedi. After 30 years, fans are thrust back into the world that George Lucas originally created to discover that the First Order has risen and is hunting to kill Luke Skywalker - the last 'Jedi'. We are reunited with Leia and learn that the Resistance are hoping to find Luke and first and save him - and have him save them. Throughout we are treated to callbacks to previous films, a touch that felt unnecessary at times but was likely included to appease die hard fans. The pacing was great and did not feel rushed which allowed for such moments to take place. But clearly keeping the fans happy was not the primary goal of this film. The creators are clearly trying to link this film to its predecessors but are also distinguishing the film as a powerhouse of it's own. ***SPOILERS***
Perhaps killing Han Solo is the only way to move this film on from the popular storyline of the first six films. The way that Kylo Ren seems conflicted in his actions, after all he is Solo and Leia's son, could imply possible redemption in future instalments. However, I do believe 'once a villain, always a villain'. It's one thing to fall to the dark side, but to discover light seems like too big a challenge even for Ren at this point.This death allows fans and the general masses to move their attention towards Ren and the younger generation.
The new faces that I mentioned were led by Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac and Adam Driver (sort of - he will likely be recognised more for his role in Star Wars than his role in HBO's Girls). Isaac, thought to be dead shortly after the film's opening fight scenes, makes a return with the Resistance to save his new allies. Although he wasn't featured heavily, I feel that Poe, the character played by Isaac, may become the Han Solo of the new films as pilot Rey moves towards embracing the force and becoming a Jedi.
Ridley was spectacular. I found it took some time to warm up to her and her style of acting - which I would say seems very much based in theatre - but once I did, I found her character, Rey, to be completely believable and her portrayal compelling. It is my belief that her character will be revealed as a relative of either Obi Wan Kenobi or Qui-Gon Jinn. I don't think the creators of this new season are stupid enough to focus on another brother and sister storyline which is why I'm thinking she's not related to Leia or Luke. I'm hoping that with the next film, we delve further into her origin story and get the answers to some of the questions that this film simply did not answer.
Boyega was another pleasant surprise. A true light within the film with most of his actions geared towards doing what is right, he provides the film with a one giant helping of heart and hope. His character, Finn, has real gumption and determination which Boyega accurately portrays. I felt like he was one of the characters that will have an interesting twist in future films and that it may involve either family or losing Rey to the darkside.
As for Driver, portraying villain and Vader grandson Kylo Ren, his face was hidden for a large portion of the film but was revealed for the last third. He was distant but almost sympathetic which is what I think will propel the character into the hearts of fans. He is the best direction for this film to follow and dare I say, a better baddie than even some of the best - I'm looking at you Vader!
The return of Han, Chewbacca, Leia, Luke and several other Star Wars classic characters was a lovely sight to see. They have helped introduce old fans to a new film but hopefully they will feature slightly less in the upcoming films. I only say this because I think the new cast is strong enough to hold the fort on their own. The films humour, from both new and old characters, was a great touch. Throughout there were jokes and hilarious gestures that had me giggling quietly in my seat. And with adorable BB-8 pulling out the 'awes' this film had everything I needed.
Seeing the film in 3D was a little overwhelming. I felt overloaded at times by my senses but wouldn't have opted for anything else. The best way to see any new blockbuster is at a cinema and in the best possible seat with the best quality screen that you can find. I've never been a huge Star Wars fan, I've seen every film but I've never felt any allegiance to the characters or the franchise. But now, I'm excited to see how this new cast, with the odd familiar character, will develop next year in Rogue One.
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