Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017)

Star Wars: The Last Jedi

• When this was released nine years ago, I absolutely hated it. It seemed so worthless and stupid and made no sense in Star Wars canon. That was the only time I’ve seen it, until now. On a rewatch, this is one of my favorite Star Wars films, and I completely understand it now. I have too many thoughts to put into one review, especially when it comes to the messaging. The shortened version is this: I absolutely love the way it takes identity, culture, and religion, and uses those topics to make a character study. The writing uses the Jedi religion to show how destructive religion can be, and how it can corrupt one’s mind. The obvious example is Luke. I don’t think his character was ruined. I think it takes an experienced mind and makes the audience realize that not everything is as it seems when it comes to being the “good guy”. There’s pain, and doubt, and reluctance, and fear. Luke is a product of all of those, and I think the writing around his character is bold and successful. That’s a hugely unpopular opinion, but I’m standing on it. This whole film is about figuring yourself out and being your own person, rather than listening to others or following guidelines. Anyways, moving on. I love the story and the characters, and most everything improves from the previous film. The dialogue still sucks, but the actual character and plot completely works for me. Give or take a few key moments. Visually, this might be the best Star Wars film out there, and I can’t get it out of my head. So many stunning shots and scenes that make you spiritually feel the environments. The acting is pretty decent, though no one stands out above someone else. The score…..well, I don’t need to speak on that. You already know. The action sequences are all fantastic and fun, though the choreography is sometimes questionable. Holdo’s jump to lightspeed remains my all time favorite Star Wars moment, and I can’t get past how astounded I was by that scene in theaters. I have many more thoughts on my change of heart with this film, but I’ll leave it here. This is a highly underrated and (unfortunately) somewhat hated entry, but I’m dying on the hill that it’s amazing, bold, and intricate. I love it so much. Screw you if you don’t. I would recommend it to all Star Wars fans, especially if you hate it. Watch it with an open mind. Think about the context. Enjoy it. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go check it out now!