Contrary to most whiners this is episode can hold its ground

Rating: 8/10 (16 December 2017)

I was initially conflicted about whether I should go see this episode after cold-shower that episode VII was. I went in the theater with very low expectations. I have to say that the movie faired better than I expected. Acting is superb with Fisher and Hamill showing the younger folks how it's done. My gripes have to do with Adam Driver who really has remarkable potential but neither the plot nor the directing allows his real talents to shine through, leaving you with a 'meh' feeling sinking like a rock in your stomach. The other gripe I have from this movie is its over-use of comedy. I think that they overdid it in this regard in a superficial way, un-becoming for a star wars movie. Apart from these 2 dark spots the movie is engaging in every other way. If you want to throw a rotten tomato or two throw it at episode VII. Episode VIII is getting things back on track. Thumbs up (yes even to you Adam Driver).