The best Star Wars flick since the originals

Rating: 9/10 (22 December 2016)

First and foremost, see this in 3d.
Perhaps my high rating was influenced by low expectations. I and my son were vastly underwhelmed by the prequels of recent years. Part of the downfall of those movies IMHO was due to stacking it with known actors, e.g. Samuel Jackson, Natalie Portman, etc. and bringing back original cast. Fail. The actors here are largely unknown and therefore have to stand on their own and the story has to stand on its own. Although there are ties to the original moves, it's a natural fit, nothing is forced, and the originals aren't milked.
The story is coherent, flows, and keeps moving along. The music helps with that and keeps the sense of excitement going. No forced romances, and the epic moments come and go without being overstated. Little if no one scene character development.
There are minor humor angles, which were limited to a couple of scenes and done really well. One made me and the two kids bust a gut. No spoilers here, sorry.
Felicity Jones nailed her part as did others. The worst of them rated a B, which is saying a lot.
I gave it a 9 as Diego Luna could have been just a bit better in a couple of parts, nor does he have the charisma/engagement of Ford or Hamill.
Go see it, very worthwhile.