Review | Star Wars:The Force Awakens (SPOILER FREE)

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Whether you love or loath the Star Wars films you cannot deny that the franchise is iconic. When ‘A New Hope’ was released back in 1977 the film was a trailblazer for the sci-fi genre and changed the face of cinema forever. The expectation, especially after the pretty anticlimactic prequel trilogy, is immensely high for the latest and seventh addition to the saga. I thought I’d dedicate my first film review on the blog to a series I have always been a fan of. So here we go; a review of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. 

The feeling of anticipation in the air in the queue for the midnight viewing was definitely noticeable. I spotted many star wars t-shirts, a few jedis and even a fully suited storm trooper. It has been over 10 years since the last instalment and many fans thoughts we’d not see any more films. For newcomers to the saga, let me set the scene. The film starts thirty years after the previous films with Luke Skywalker missing due to mysterious circumstances. What is left of the ‘rebels’ and the ’empire’ are now known as the ‘resistance’ and the ‘first order’ respectively. The film blends new faces with some old favourites exploring new leads as well as revisiting some fond storylines.

Back in the original series relatively unknown actors were cast in major roles and this trend has continued. Whilst all performances were good throughout I’d personally like to comment on newcomer Daisy Ridley who plays Rey, a shy scavenger from the desert planet of Jakku. Her perfomance envisages a young Keira Knightly bringing determination and grit to a inspiring female role. The ‘dark side of the force’ also welcomes a fantastic new addition known as Kylo Ren portrayed by newbie Adam Driver. Struggling to break free from the shadow that the infamous Darth Vader cast, Adam’s brooding looks mixed with his spiteful and cruel portrayal of Kylo Ren brings something refreshing to the typical bad guy.

Old faces from the original trilogy were a must for this film to be a success in my opinion. When Han Solo and Chewbacca appear on screen I’m not going to lie the hairs on my arms stood on end. The return of Carrie Fisher as Princess Lei also created a warm fuzzy feeling inside.  She is now referred to as General Organa, a more battle weary, broken hearted version of the Princess Lei we all remember.

Thankfully this new instalment goes back to what we all loved about the original series with the ideal mix of humour, action and adventure. An absolute highlight is the addition of BB-8; the little droid that everyone has their own motive to want. At one point the droid managed to have the whole screen laughing but I don’t want to spoil any of the comedic gems provided.

To conclude, if you’re a long term fan of the saga you’ll certainly be in for some surprises so be prepared, however that is all I’ll say regarding the matter. Newcomers will also be far from disappointed as J.J.Abrahams managed to create something for everyone. In fact the Disney chief Bob Iger summed it up perfectly by thanking J.J. for making “a film that exceeded even our loftiest dreams and expectations”. I’d 100% go and see what all the fuss is about. May the force be with you.

 

What do you think of my first film review on the blog? Would you like to see more? Have you seen the film? What’s your verdict?

Declan

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