Reminiscent, but stands on its own

Rating: Null/10 (18 December 2015)

Star Wars Episode VII, The Force Awakens was an exciting movie. The direction, the acting, the visuals and the plot are very much worth the wait. A very nice continuation to the saga. You can tell this movie is new, because the special effects far outdo any previous installment, but it manages to stick close to the original trilogy that many people loved so much. Overall, it fits perfectly with the original trilogy, unlike the prequels which seem out of place.
The Force Awakens borrows certain elements from the Star Wars original movie, later known as Episode IV A New Hope. Now, a new generation of heroes and villains are set to protect/dominate the galaxy and I find likable, strong characters that no doubt will make the new trilogy a success. The movie had its exciting moments, others were intense, so much so that the audience was in absolute silence and expectation, there are also emotional scenes, and the audience was reacting positively as the plot unfolded. They were especially excited as the characters from the original trilogy came out.
I like the way the company handled the marketing, because it had fans all over trying to figure out plot twists and details, but as you watch it you realize how accurate or mostly inaccurate several hints were. I found myself surprised and moved. I still think Episodes IV, V and VI are better, but this movie in no way disappointed at all.