Big shoes to fill, so this is a sliding scale

Rating: 8/10 (19 December 2015)

Compared to the originals, I was disappointed, especially considering the hype. my biggest complaint is in some of the dialog between the original cast members.
I think JJ Abrams did some great things; incorporating new faces (the way Lucas did) Great character development, and great special effects. but with the elapse of time between episode 6 and 7 (within the story line) there were some major gaps in the story that I'm not sure can be filled if Mr. Abrams produces a trilogy. the other major complaint i have is that it seemed more of a re-telling of the original than a continuation... the movie scenes and general story seemed like a different version of the originals and not a new story or a next chapter
The 'new characters' where great to watch and there was some real chemistry which set the bar high for the veterans. it was the interaction between Mr Ford and Ms Fisher that I found to be,, Flat. Considering their 'history' i expected more.
Kylo is an interesting character to watch and I can't wait to see how his story develops,, lots of strong writing here as well with the female lead Rey and Fin. But the new Master Villain reminds me of a giant Gollum from Lord of the Rings, kind of the Jar-Jar Binks of the Preqels.
as a stand alone movie it was great if the Original star wars did not exist.. , it is only in the light of the originals that I graded it down. I felt like i saw this movie before 30 years ago