Close to perfect

Rating: 10/10 (18 December 2015)

To put it simply, I feel like if this movie was released on its own, without any of the former Star Wars universe in existence, it would have blown people away. It really is that good. But, let's face it, we're all just being so overly critical about every detail of this movie (myself included). So, I'm going to give it the rating it deserves as a stand alone film but the critique it deserves as an epic saga.
The beginning half felt invigoratingly new and was paced beautifully. It actually put me in a wonderful trance-like state. The last half was more nostalgic Star Wars with seemingly faster pacing but still parts that slowed down so you could enjoy them. I did feel like the last few minutes were drawn out a bit much to show that it will be continued- but nothing to complain about.
My only real critique of this beautiful film would be that it could have slowed down a bit. But realistically, I'm sure that would have been an incredibly difficult feat with J.J. trying to get in as much as he was trying to in such a short amount of time.
My wife's main complaint was that there were too many tight and constantly moving camera shots. This makes for a feeling of a lot more action. Now, this could be amazing in some scenarios, but too much is overkill and it becomes slightly unnerving at times.
Some people feel like Kylo was too whiny. I happened to like this and felt it was realistic for his circumstances. He is a young and confused immature kid trying to make very difficult decisions while still trying to figure himself out.
Although I've mainly only mentioned some negative points, this is really a great movie! Not perfect, but art never is. I think I'm more critical of things that are closer to perfection. And this movie is really close.