Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker – A Satisfying Conclusion to the Trilogy

The is the final movie of the re-booted Disney Star Wars trilogy, and, considering all the challenges faced by director J.J. Abrams, it's well-crafted, entertaining, and up-lifting. Abrams directed the successful "The Force Awakens" (2015), but "The Last Jedi" (2017), directed by Rian Johnson, was controversial (too dark for some). Even though Colin Trevorrow was supposed to direct this final film, Abrams was called in to "rescue" this billion-dollar franchise. No Star Wars movie will ever capture the magic and wonder of the first few films, but there's still plenty of emotionally-moving moments and lightsaber and starship battles for Star Wars fans. Sith Master Emperor Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid) has either risen from the dead or never died! In any case, he plans on making the ultimate galactic comeback! He will accomplish this beyond-amazing feat by building numerous space ships with planet-destroying power, establishing the Final Order and ruling the galaxy from the hidden planet of the Sith. The only thing standing in his way is "The Resistance" and its remaining Jedi, Rey (Daisy Ridley). Palpatine orders the conflicted Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) to find Rey and either kill her or bring her to him alive. Palpatine is planning to attack very soon, so time is of the essence. Rey and her friends must locate Palpatine and somehow destroy his fleet before he can launch his ships. Things look very grim indeed. I thought the first 30 minutes of the film were a little slow, but the movie then finds its groove. The acting is excellent and there's a nice balance between action sequences and drama. As always, the special effects are great. If you are a fan of the franchise, it's a MUST-SEE! Have a great holiday season, and "May the Force be with you!"