Disappointing

Rating: 3/10 (17 January 2016)

This film gets a 4 rating only because of the special effects, which were terrific - some of the best I've ever seen, even the rather badly-named Supreme Leader Snoke. In terms of originality, plot, character and theme it fares less well. Parts of the movie are virtually the same as Star Wars (Episode IV). But I was prepared to give it a chance. The action in Act One was quite thrilling. But where the film fails the worst is in 2 places. Firstly, Rey is not sympathetic or believable. She got on my nerves because she knew how to do everything! Even Luke Skywalker started out by having to learn a few things. Rey is smug and angry and not very likable. Secondly, in Act Two the movie really fell apart. It felt like a cookie cutter plot hashed together from things people thought should be in a Star Wars movie, together with very cheesy moments whenever we met an old character, and some very forgettable new characters. I didn't buy any of these characters as real people. Even Harrison Ford's character felt like someone's impression of Han Solo. I loved the original trilogy but thought the prequels were lame. This latest edition came across as soulless, empty spectacle. An advertisement for a Star Wars movie. I was prepared for a disappointment, and I got one. Episode VII is sure to rake in the cash from hopeful moviegoers. But I doubt they'll be queuing around the block for Episode VIII.