A Mimic of Star Wars

Rating: 7/10 (26 December 2015)

J.J. Abrams is an exceptional mimic and director.
In this extension of the Star Wars series, he faithfully captures the visual tone of the original trilogy, specifically episode IV. It was an enjoyable movie. That being said, though the tone and quality direction of Star Wars The Force Awakens was clearly evident, the actual genius and depth found in the other Star Wars movies was nowhere in this film. Even the much maligned prequels had way more depth, plot points, thematic quality, and character development than the Force Awakens. If not for the appearance of the original cast from this movie there would have been no emotional drive or connection in this movie.
It was an action movie with a borrowed heart.
This may well be that a generation raised on Star Wars primarily from a gaming console has now lost the expectation of anything more from the series than well directed action. I am not saying I didn't enjoy the space romp, I did. I enjoyed both the main characters which were well acted, though screaming for enough back story for me to actually care for them. If not for the presence of the original cast there would have been no emotional pull at all.
The beautiful message, memorable characters, and depth of storytelling that was in Lucas's movies I hope they get back to. For the first foray into this universe by someone other than Lucas, it was promising. As a full fledge Star Wars movie, it was lacking. I am still holding out hope for the future of the now Disney franchise.