A great even if familiar restart

Rating: 7/10 (17 December 2015)

Between Return of the Jedi and Phantom Menace, Star Wars fans had to wait what seemed like an eternal 16 years for a new entry in the iconic saga that has seduced millions worldwide. Although it had George Lucas again directing his creation, it is universally agreed that not only did the film not live up to the hype of almost two decades, it is also quite a lackluster one that messes with some very dearly regarded traditions that came from the original trilogy.
For that matter, I did not have too high expectations for The Force Awakens which is the first entry in 10 years. Decided to be cautious but at the same time trusting of J.J Abrams who has done what I consider a good job with Star Trek on film along with other ventures in the science fiction world.
Unlike the second trilogy, this is an actual sequel so we see many of the characters that enamored us along with new ones that are meant to take the franchise to the future. A future that remains very closely linked to the past as much of what happens is highly similar to what we have seen before. This is most likely going to be a polarizing issue although in my opinion, while it is very much a rehash, it is masterfully done and we can take The Force Awakens - the jump-start of the new trilogy- as a tribute before the next ones find their own ground.
My biggest problem with it however relates to the way the force is presented in the movie. Not as offensive as Phantom Menace where it is shown as being something you are born with but still highly questionable in that it discards aspects that we have been taught about it. Again this will most likely be divisive among fans and it is ultimately up to you as the viewer to decide what you think about it.
All in all, this was a refreshing return to the action that we enjoy, characters that involve us and the sense of purpose that we love from the originals. The cast seems to be really into the characters which will help in them finding their way into icon status. All in all, this is a recommendable movie to fans, non fans and wanna be fans. Even if it might be lost when the next ones go deeper into the character and story development.