Satisfying attempt on continuing the Star Wars saga

Rating: 7/10 (18 December 2015)

It has been ten years since the last entry of arguably the most popular science-fiction film series of all time. J.J Abrams who brought an amazing vision with stellar special effects and visuals to the screen with his hit films such as Mission Impossible III (2006), Star Trek (2009), Super 8 (2011), and Star Trek: Into Darkness (2013). This year, Abrams brings his incredible vision to the long-waited sequel that would continue the epic saga of the Star Wars Universe. Set thirty years after the events of 'Return of The Jedi', when Luke Skywalker brought down the Galactic Empire, a new threat known as the First Order lead by the evil leader Snoke (played by Andy Serkis) and his ally Kylo Ren (played by Adam Driver) arises, along with the Resistance in attempt to capture Luke Skywalker who has gone missing, and his whereabouts are unknown. A young stormtrooper named FN-2187 a.k.a Finn (played by John Boyega) escapes from the galaxy with pilot Poe Dameron (played by Oscar Isaac) to search for mini droid named BB-8, who has the map to Luke Skywalker's location. When the mission goes wrong, and Poe and Finn are separated, Finn meets a scavenger named Rey (played by Daisy Ridley). Assisted by Hans Solo (played by Harrison Ford) and his furry friend Chewbacca, Finn and Kylo must fight against the First Order and save the galaxy once and for all.
After all the massive hype beginning from the release of the trailer, I knew that this film was one not worth missing. I noticed the absence of Luke Skywalker in the trailers which quite concerned as he is supposed to be a play a key role in whole plot. Upon walking out of the theater, it it safe to say I was satisfied, but there is no ignoring that the film does face a few flaws along the way. With the film introducing new characters to the franchise, it is important for the characters to be well-developed. John Boyega's character Finn is an interesting character and serves decently as the main hero. Boyega himself gives an alright performance, although his acting does slip in some scenes. Then there is Emily Ridley's character Rey who is another interesting character. The biggest flaw with her character however, is that we don't learn very much about her in terms of origins, and the nothing in the story seems to hint of it. The rest of the new characters such as the villains Snoke and Kylo Ren make compelling villains, even if they are not as memorable as Darth Vader. Later on, we are treated with some familiar faces such as C-3PO, R2-D2, and Princess Leia.
As the story follows events took place in sixth episode of the series, it fortunately treats the us with a great premise, and the plot does work; at least for half of the time. However, there is no doubt that the story is a bit disappointing at times, especially considering the compelling the stories these previous films. Nearly scene after the other is easy to predict, particular for those who are avid Star Wars fans. There are few scenes that will undeniably tick many fans off, one in particular that left many (including me) in my theater letting out a loud and collective groan. There are also a few hiccups in terms of pacing here and there. Overall, the story was entertaining enough, at least in my opinion. The climatic light saber battle towards the end is one of the best scenes throughout the film, and kept me glued to my seat.
Stars War: The Force Awakens is a satisfying attempt on continuing the saga of this beloved franchise, and is destined to only garner over a billion dollars at the box office, but very likely break the worldwide box office record, currently held by James Cameron's 'Avatar'. It is critically important for viewers to be familiar with (at least) the first trilogy in order to understand storyline a little better. Star Wars fan are likely to be hit with some disappointment with this installment, even if they enjoy some of its small pleasures like the enticing visual effects. However, this film is not worth missing and it definitely deserves a try from every Star Wars fanatic out there. In other words, may the force be with you!