Just doesn't work somehow

Rating: 7/10 (19 July 2016)

I don't know what it is, but it just seems like the soul of the Star Wars universe is missing. There is an emptiness that was only emphasized by killing off one of the main characters. It was almost like the director knew something was missing, and had to do this dramatic stunt just to make a surprise/shocking ending to add some sort of life to this shallow film.
It's an empty shell trying to galvanize itself to something greater. If the next movie somehow (miraculously) pulls all of this together (and possibly brings the deceased character back to life) they might be able to continue the series. Otherwise, it's just another MockingJay imo.
The good news is, at least there is a story. Is it important enough to extend the series by three or four more films? It all depends on the next movie. If they blow it in the next film, it's over. In fact, they may actually kill the entire franchise if they pull another "Force Awakens". I feel like I've lost interest in the whole franchise after watching this attempt.
This may seem a little harsh, but I just watched the film, and I am expressing my first impressions precisely. The new younger characters are okay, but not even close to the caliber of Ford, Hamill, Fisher. Maybe it's a problem with what this generation produces and accepts (like Hunger games et al). Shallow is the best way to describe it. And, second-rate seems to be good enough for some evidently.