"A New Hope" for a New Generation

Rating: 10/10 (18 December 2015)

Ten years ago we never even dared to dream of finding another "Star Wars" movie hitting theaters after "Revenge of the Sith" ended. In fact, many probably hoped/prayed there would never be another opportunity to ruin "Star Wars" again. Then Disney bought Lucasfilm and a new age dawned.
Needless to say the anticipation (as well as anxiety) has been high. For the first time since 1983, there is an actual SEQUEL to the original "Star Wars" trilogy. However, the prequel trilogy left quite the bad taste in people's mouths. This meant it was top priority for Disney to make this movie one of the best they possibly could. Now if they just wanted to make money off of this then making a bad movie wouldn't have mattered much. This movie was gonna make money either way. But it is very clear they wanted this movie to kick-start a new franchise that will live on throughout the ages.
I will refrain from giving any of the plot away because that could detract from the experience of it. Going into this movie completely blind to what you'll find is one of it's many joys. I will say this movie gives us what "Star Wars" fans have been craving: a "Star Wars" movie with the joy, thrills, emotion, and (arguably the most important aspect) fun of the original trilogy.
I will speak very briefly (by briefly I mean a lot) on the huge mount of talent on screen: the entire cast is fantastic. There is not a single weak-link among this wonderful ensemble. The original cast bring a sense of nostalgia with them while the new cast represents the torch being passed down to them. Daisy Ridley is one of these new actors and she is perfect for the role of Rey. As soon as you meet Rey you can tell she is going to be a hero worth rooting for. She is the new Luke for this generation (young person longing for a life of amazement). Throughout the entire movie she gives you reasons of why you should love this character. A great new addition to the cast.
Of course John Boyega is also fantastic as Finn. His charm and humor makes him someone easy to cheer on as well. He is truly a great persona to have on-board. Of course there is Oscar Isaac, Gwendoline Christie, Domnhall Gleeson, and Andy Serkis in great yet limited roles. Their characters are so interesting I cannot wait to learn more about them down the road.
However, out of the new villains introduced, Adam Driver steals the show as Kylo Ren. This villain is almost the exact opposite of Darth Vader in every way. In fact, as a character, you could say he's even stronger than Vader ever was. Driver is able to give Ren a sense of tragedy and pain that never shined through in Vader (mainly because Vader was always meant to be imposing to the very end). Even though Ren does terrible things, you cannot help but feel sympathy for him. However, he is still incredibly imposing, not as imposing as Andy Serkis' Supreme Leader Snoke though. You can tell this being is the big bad of the series now and he is a terrifying figure. Another intriguing character I cannot wait to learn more about.
However, if any character was the heart and soul of this movie it would have to be Han Solo. Harrison Ford is back and I cannot tell you how wonderful it was seeing him back in this iconic role. He brings a sense of weariness and scruffy charm Han never had before. He is the biggest tie to the original trilogy and it is wonderful seeing him again.
The action is also very impressive. JJ Abrams use of practical and CGI effects blends beautifully to create an intense and wonderful feeling throughout the movie. It feels like classic "Star Wars."
Overall, this is the movie we have been waiting for. Filled to the brim with intense action, emotion, humor, and heart. Also populated with fantastic characters both old and new (with great actors in these roles). "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" reminds us (while showing new viewers) why this series is so beloved while giving us greater hope for the future.