The Much-Anticipated Return of Han, Leia, and Luke

Rating: 8/10 (6 March 2016)

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" was the much-anticipated installment in the "Star Wars" franchise which featured the return the classic characters of Han, Leia,and Luke. These three characters had not been seen on screen since the 1983 film, "Star Wars: Return of the Jedi." Like the actors who played them, all three characters were roughly thirty years older; and, the depiction of the characters was believable and age appropriate. The return of these characters to the screen was a real treat for "Star Wars" fans. Han and Chewbacca stole the show in virtually every scene in which they appeared.
The seventh installment of the "Star Wars" franchise was the first to be created since Disney's purchase of Lucasfilm. The opening of the film without the familiar 20th Century Fox logo seemed a bit strange. For many fans, the music which accompanied the 20th Century Fox logo was almost considered to be part the "Star Wars" theme music itself. In its place, the Lucasfilm logo appeared without music. However, the "Star Wars" theme itself was unaltered.
"The Force Awakens" was the first "Star Wars" film to be created after George Lucas relinquished control of the franchise. J. J. Abrams assumed control as producer, director, and writer of the new film; and, fans were curious as to whether or not the new film would have the same feel as the original "Star Wars" films. Abrams succeeded in creating much of the same feel as that of the original trilogy (episodes IV, V, and VI); but at the same time, it also felt like something new. The first six films told the story about Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker; while, this film started an entirely new story arc.
Elements of the story of this film looked familiar. Just as the prequel trilogy mirrored the original trilogy in many ways, the story in this seventh film indicates that the new trilogy will be mirroring the original trilogy as well.
The seventh "Star Wars" film featured all of the elements which fans have come to expect. Familiar aliens, spaceships, and sound effects appeared along side some newer creations. In addition to the classic characters, the film featured three new characters who will carry the franchise into the future. The story was generally well written and well acted; and, the film will leave many fans satisfied and looking forward to the next installment in the film series.
A number of fans (who had not yet seen the film) wondered whether or not Han, Leia, and Luke would appear together on screen. The reader will have to see the film to find out. The film did leave unanswered questions which will hopefully be answered in the eighth and ninth films. "The Force Awakens" is highly recommended.