Star Wars returns in all its glory for the second best instalment in the iconic franchise.
Having taken her first steps into the Jedi world, Rey joins Luke Skywalker on an adventure with Leia, Finn and Poe that unlocks mysteries of the Force and secrets of the past.
Star Wars is an iconic institution that prides itself on leading the way in science-fiction cinema. New director/writer Rian Johnson has crafted a brilliant story that advances original character storylines and helps progress the new cast too. John Boyega and Kelly Marie Tran’s storyline does feel a little under-utilised, but otherwise the script is excellent. It especially highlights the talents of the late Carrie Fisher, who the film is dedicated to. Mark Hamill, Adam Driver, Domhnall Gleeson, Laura Dern and Daisy Ridley also give exceptional performances. The scenes between Ridley’s Rey and Driver’s Ben Solo are some of my favourite of the whole franchise. Oscar Isaac continues to be charming as Poe, but again gets less screen time than other leading characters.
Visually exceptional, as expected and featuring a great score by John Williams this really is the best Star Wars film since The Empire Strikes Back. As the last film featuring Carrie Fisher it certainly is a fitting exit for Princess Leia and *spoiler alert* also a great swan song for Mark Hamill’s Luke. Now that the original characters have been “retired” it allows for further development of new heroes. Certainly the boldest entry in Star Wars’ cinematic history this is bound to delight, thrill and enchant fans worldwide.
Overall a truly excellent film.
4.5 Stars
Review by Benjamin Maio Mackay