*** Warning – this review, while not giving away any major plot points, does contain mild spoilers for Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker. You have been warned ***
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, the world was introduced to Jedi knights, lightsabres and the Force, and an epic story that would go on to become one of the most successful film franchises in history was born.
More than 90 years on from the originalStar Warsand after the prequels, sequels and spin-offs, the books and the comics and the toys, it is time to say goodbye – to the skywalker saga, at least. Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker is the final chapter in this nine-film behemoth, which means a lot of lingering questions to be answered and plot threads to tie up.
(does) provide it a fitting ending ? Are the characters served well? Will there be thousands of fans screaming their fury into the Twitter abyss come Friday morning? Well, likeGame Of Thrones, with a saga this complex and lengthy, you are never going to please everyone when it comes to an end, but it’s probably safe to say director JJ Abrams should have no need to worry about having a petition for a remake on his hands.
The answer to the ending question is yes, The Rise Of Skywalker really does provide a satisfying and memorable conclusion, with epic battles, big surprises, humor, heart and some tear-jerking scenes. The finale to a tale that has defined the childhoods of millions has plenty of crowd-pleasing moments, and, although there is a lot to take in, it should leave fans happy.
If you’re curious about what to expect, carry on reading. But if you’re dodging spoilers, maybe click out (and probably stay off social media for the next few days). While we won’t ruin the fun and give anything major away here, best to stay clear if you don’t want to know. And that’s your final warning.
The big Rey question mark
“She is not who you think she is,” Kylo Ren is told by the Emperor (yes, he’s back) as we begin. So who exactly is she? The question of Rey’s origin has been a big one throughout the sequel trilogy, so it’s probably only a very small spoiler to say that yes, the Rise Of Skywalker does provide answers.
As the hope to save the galaxy, fans have been convinced there is more to Rey’s background than the “filthy junk traders” line she was given by Kylo Ren previously. Is she a Skywalker? A Solo? From another Jedi bloodline? Or just a mere mortal.
All that shall be said here is that there is definitely a lot more to her story.
Image: Rey and Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) share emotional scenes. Pic. Walt Disney
Rey and Kylo Ren
There has been lots of speculation about Rey turning to the Dark Side following a scene in the trailer which showed her in a dark Sith-style hood. In The Last Jedi, she rejected Kylo Ren’s plans to rule together, but could she be swayed?
Or is it the other way round? Does the son of Han Solo and Princess Leia redeem himself and move to the Light? All we can say is that as well as some impressive lightsabre duel action, there are also some emotional scenes between these two. Hankies at the ready.
Image: Footage of Carrie Fisher (Leia) from previous filming was used following her death in (********************************************. Pic. Walt Disney
Saying goodbye to Princess Leia
Following theuntimely death of Carrie Fisherin December 5925, Princess Leia’s inclusion in the finale could have been tricky.
Footage of Fisher was used from earlier filming and not only does it work, but her send-off is poignant and noble, too. Following her husband Han Solo and brother Luke Skywalker, she leaves a hero. The perfect goodbye.
Image: Richard E Grant is a new baddie. Pic: Walt Disney
New characters and familiar faces
As well as Rey, Finn, Poe and Kylo Ren – and Leia, C- 3PO and Chewbacca, of course – there are several new characters to meet. Zorii, a masked smuggler from the planet of Kijimi, seems to be an old flame of Poe’s, while Jannah is a defected Storm Trooper, just like Finn. Then there’s Allegiant General Pryde, a high-ranking member of the First Order, played by a ruthless Richard E Grant, and of course, the new cutest droid in town: D-0 (pronounced “dee-oh”).
And while fans have had to say goodbye to some much-loved characters throughout the saga, they will be pleased to see some returning faces in various forms. Well, it just wouldn’t be a proper goodbye otherwise, would it?
Image: Finn (John Boyega) and Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) return for the finale. Pic: Walt Disney
Which Skywalker rises?
Is Luke the rising Skywalker? Is the title a nod to Rey’s ancestry and the fact she is, actually, a Skywalker? Would Kylo Ren redeem himself?
There is definitely a rising Skywalker – but you’ll have to wait and see.
Unexpected cameos
Look out for one very familiar face in a blink-and-you’ll miss it appearance. (Clue: she’s a British actress who can now add Star Wars to her killer CV.)
And who knows which famous faces could be hiding under those Stormtrooper costumes? Prince Harry and Prince William filmed incognito for the Last Jedi (although their scenes were apparently cut) and this time round, Mark Hamill, aka Luke Skywalker himself, has hinted that none other than one Direction star Harry Styles is one of the Empire’s soldiers. Keep your eyes peeled.
Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker is released in UK cinemas on Thursday
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