It returned to the roots of star wars... something the prequels failed to do

Rating: 8/10 (24 December 2015)

First of all, before you discount this review, let's not forget the route the prequels took. They completely abandoned the tone that the original trilogy had set and went for something completely different that ended up being a combination of poorly written and acted films. At least the force awakens went back to the roots of star wars- the films we all love the most. Look, I'm a little disappointed that it wasn't as original as it could've been, but honestly, it was just good to see star wars back. And also, there were many things this movie did well- acting was phenomenal(Rey and Finn are great additions to the series), the cinematography exceeds any other star wars film has done, john Williams is back (though his score isn't as out there as some of the other films were), and the writing is good... for the most part. You could get all salty about it and just look at the similarities, but I think that's a good thing. They stuck to the roots of star wars and while it may not have been as unique as everyone wanted it, it's a good film nonetheless.
Overall, I give it an 8/10 because it set the new trilogy on a good course, the new characters are great, and the little things that were added to this movie (acting, soundtrack, filming) make it an entertaining film.