Star Wars for a new generation of characters and viewers

Rating: 9/10 (15 January 2016)

First off, see the film several times. The first viewing will leave you so overwhelmed with information due to sensory overload and a dense back story that you'll probably leave the film with a bad taste in your mouth. After waiting decades for this film, your first viewing won't be a pure one.
I saw the film a second time and was able to enjoy it for what it is - a grand epic adventure with a deeply personal and emotional storyline. Both of these are rare in cinema, and make for a fine with when combined. And Harrison Ford steals the show.
There's tons going on within the Star Wars family and the plot universe, and the fact that Disney produced it, JJ directed it or that Lucas had little influence guides this film but doesn't ruin it. The concept is simple - imagine that a whole world of people don't know anything about Star Wars, have never heard of the Jedi or the dark side, and need an introduction. A new universe is built and an interstellar conflict unfolds. But like the film, where there are a handful of people who know about Luke, Han, and the Rebellion, the film tries to satisfy them as well by continuing there story. It largely succeeds on both counts.
On second views, I was blown away by the performances, humor, action and special effects, and the intensity of the emotional depth of the film. There's so much at stake, I loved how it all came together and love how it leaves you satisfied but still wanting more. While some people might feel it is a ripoff or a reboot, I think the underlying Star Wars themes came through better - family and friendship are what save the day and win wars, and a bit of bravery. Not the force The force is irrelevant. Watch the film again, and you'll see that the bonds of friendship actually defeat the enemy, and the main protagonist and main antagonist are extremely conflicted the entire film. The villain is excellent - he's very conflicted the whole time, which makes his villainy so much harder to stomach.