Wow.

Rating: 9/10 (19 December 2019)

I consider myself a Star Wars fan. I've had a lot of mixed feelings about post-Disney Star Wars. That's probably why I went into the cinema with fairly low expectations this time around. And maybe it was because of my lower expectations, but Episode IX blew me away almost immediately. It's the best Star Wars experience I have ever had! I'm not old enough to have experienced the original trilogy as it was released, so don't get me wrong. I'm not saying this is a better Star Wars film than back then. But it's an epic conclusion to the new trilogy and it's in my opinion the best Star Wars film to be released in my 22 year old lifespan.
There are a couple of cringeworthy scenes. There are some WTF moments. But that's all part of Star Wars. Always have been. But no other Star Wars films have left me so emotional. J.J. Abrams did a great job in my opinion. Much better than Episode VII.
The pacing felt good when I saw it. The cinematography is beautiful. Personally I loved the story too. Okay, maybe they could've dropped one or two of the new characters, but it's not a dealbreaker for me.
The conclusion to this tale is epic. And kind of sad. Personally I loved it. At the same time, I know a lot of people will diss it. Not because it's a bad film, but because it's Star Wars and it's not the original trilogy directed by George Lucas.
I'll go watch it again. Hopefully with less tears next time ...