Say What You Want...

Rating: 10/10 (23 December 2019)

1/3 of the way in, I caught myself several times contemplating on where this Episode stood on my list, as I was most certain it would be top 3 (behind, III & V). However, the drama never let up, the stakes remained high, and the action felt like a nuke had dropped on the entire theater. As to why critics, whether or not they're paid to post, regard this film as lackluster or simple fan-service, I don't understand. I chose to not watch a single teaser or trailer for the movie and by doing so, I was blown away and will always cherish this installment. I felt the humor was far more natural and less forced, contrary to VIII, the action surpassed any preconceived notions, and the ending was absolutely perfect. On my drive home, I debated where exactly this episode stood, and as I finally surrendered my outright love for Revenge of the Sith, I had no choice but to place The Rise of Skywalker on top. I was honestly skeptical how the finale would salvage what The Last Jedi had damaged, as far as the essence of Star Wars storyarch is concerned, but thankfully, I too can fade away, leaving behind nothing but the garbs of a man out of touch with style.