This is the Star Wars you're looking for...

Rating: 10/10 (20 October 2018)

In my opinion, the greatest Star Wars movie. Made me feel like an 8 year old watching the original trilogy back to back in my local cinema back in '85.
From the opening battle and escape. To the epic fight in Snokes throne room. The wise words of an old friend. Each characters journey, facing fear, anger and conflict takes you on an emotional rollercoaster.
Canto Bight aside, which isn't awful, it serves a wider purpose of showing more than just Rebels and First Order. The Vegas of Star Wars. Says it all...
Force fight, Finn/Phasma fight and a Light Speed collision idea finally come to light in spectacular fashion.
Final battles are equally spectacular, again playing on the "fear leads to anger" trope, the heart of every Star Wars movie.
And a twist of self sacrifice (nod to Obi wan)... The swell of JW score, the beautiful visuals of the western stand off and that reveal... Wow! It still resonates on the 2nd, 3rd and 8th viewing as it did when the cheer went up on opening day.
All wrapped up to a satisfyingly emotional end to a tense and very simple Star Wars movie, but leaving you yearning to see ep9...
Bring it on JJ...
And thank you RJ, for a true fans film. New and interesting, and comfort food familiar Star Wars moments.
The force is strong and burning brightly...