As a hater of TFA and JJ's approach, this was redemption

Rating: 9/10 (20 December 2019)

Being a middle school and high school teacher you learn to be flexible and to approach students and people with new slates everyday. If you don't and place predisposed grudges and judgements you'll end up an unhappy camper. I had zero faith in JJ after TFA because it was such a copy and paste derivative mess of a film - so much that it made me appreciate the prequels more and the vision (but lack of execution) of Lucas. TLJ I cheered because certain scenes I knew the whiny fanboys would complain about because why? Johnson took risks with its storytelling and imagery. I came in TROS with below negative expectations but took that mentality of a clean slate with JJ. The further I was going through the film the more I felt like the Star Wars-feel was coming back. Are there still some narrative and plot questions? Sure, but what SW film doesn't have some? Long story short I bought two sets of tickets - one at 6pm and one at 9:35 when sales opened back in October just to make sure I covered my bases. Ended up seeing both and was still in a euphoric state both viewings. Already make plans with a more faithful, non-whiny SW fan to see again next week! Can't wait!