Matter of Perspective

Rating: 8/10 (14 April 2016)

As I read the reviews, I realize the most people remember the original (Episodes IV-VI) from their childhood. Even when they re-watch it as an adult, it is filtered through those early memories. I was in my early 20's when the very first movie came out, and loved it - a really great sci-fi B-movie! But - I was old enough to see the really corny acting, obvious plot, and many of the other things that youngest viewers did not care about. When Return of the Jedi came out, I was able to take my oldest son (very young) and he was mesmerized! First and foremost, Star Wars is supposed to be fun! It's real entertainment, not a deep philosophical movie folks.
The second trilogy disappointed my kids (now in their 30's), but I laughed inside - it was the same quality of acting and writing as the first movies, with better SFX.
Now - the closing trilogy (which Lucas promised 40 years ago) is disappointing those who are seeing it as adults.
I REALLY enjoyed this movie (Ep. VII)! It was fun, and there was a lot of cool back story (of course it was easy to see a lot of it - it's supposed to be that way). There are several obvious cliffhangers elements - who are Rey's parents (or does she only have a mother - like Anakin), who are Finn's parents (Lando? - wouldn't that be interesting), what is Luke going to do - now that he recognizes he can no longer hide from his fate...
I think there is a lot of good chemistry with the new actors, and am looking forward to the next 2 movies. Don't go in expecting something deep, go in expecting to have fun. Like a thrill ride at Disney Land!