Plot: The First Order has risen from the ashes of the Empire and is on a mission to conquer the galaxy. A group of ragtag heroes join the Resistance, the only thing standing in the way of this new threat.
The Force Awakens may be one of the most talked about films of all time, but does it live up to the hype? Lock S4s in attack position, we’re going in.
When an audience is excited for the return of a popular franchise, it always helps to see that excitement reflected by the creative team behind the film. And reflected it was. Director JJ Abrams’ love of the Star Wars universe shines throughout. From subtle nods to key scenes from the original trilogy, to in-your-face “yeah that happened” moments that show longtime fans exactly what they want to see. The Force Awakens aims to please, and for the most part it does just that.
There are certain aspects to The Force Awakens that are too familiar. Its no surprise that there’s a bit of repetition, Star Wars does after all need to tick certain boxes with each release, but I would’ve preferred it if the film didn’t play it quite so safe. Some may see this as homage, others as a lazy retread. Whichever side you fall on you can be safe in the knowledge that The Force Awakens brings enough new material to the table to be a strong, fresh experience in its own right.
Star Wars has never looked better than it does here. Strange new aliens populate baron landscapes, lightsabers clash in a dark snowy forest and fighters soar over pristine waters, all accompanied by John William’s iconic score. This often feels like a world (or galaxy) that’s alive and breathing, which no doubt is largely down to a variety of real locations that give the environments a much appreciated physicality.
As for the cast; fan favourite Harrison Ford kills it as Han Solo, but the real highlights are the saga’s new stars. John Boyega, Daisy Ridley and Adam Driver were instantly likeable as the upbeat Fin, the mysterious Rey and the sinister Kylo Ren. The script offers all the necessary beats, including some much appreciated comedy, but doesn’t offer any depth for potentially interesting supporting characters and occasionally throws in unnecessary expository dialogue, awkwardly telling the audience information rather than showing them. Here’s the thing though – you rarely have a moment to dwell on these problems because they’re swept under the rug by scene after scene of pure excitement. Stormtrooper raids, alien encounters, aerial battles, lightsaber duels – it’s all here. The Force Awakens is a relentless thrill ride bound to satisfy old fans and introduce a new generation to a galaxy far far away.
Verdict:
The force is strong with this one. A triumphant return that, despite retreading many of the steps of its predecessors, breathes life back into a galaxy many of us never want to leave behind.
4/5
Screened 