The Force Remains Strong!

Rating: 8/10 (18 December 2017)

Okay, first up, 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' is what a Year End Blockbuster is meant to be. Its action-packed & extremely ambitious.
Having said that, not ALL Star Wars fanatics might end up feeling the same. Reason? The narrative's familiarity as well as the humangous expectations, those looking for hardcore emotional-connect. So if 'The Force Awakens' worked for you, 'The Last Jedi' will do so too. I, myself, loved the film & was engrossed by the mayhem all around it.
'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' Synopsis: Rey develops her newly discovered abilities with the guidance of Luke Skywalker, who is unsettled by the strength of her powers. Meanwhile, the Resistance prepares to do battle with the First Order.
'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' isn't perfect, but its superbly entertaining nonetheless. Having watched the film today at IMAX, the experience of the epic scale of the film, left me overwhelmed. Though overlong & also bloated at places, 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' is still a potent blockbuster, that never runs out of breath or energy. It sticks to being a magnum-opus & goes all-out as far as the action is concerned. I won't give away any spoilers, but all I can say is, get a huge tub of popcorn & ride into this galaxy far, far away!
Rian Johnson's Screenplay lags at places, but is engrossing for the most part. Johnson's Direction, too, is pretty good. Cinematography is staggering. Editing needed to be crisper, the film is overlong by at least 15-20-minutes. Graphics are outstanding, yet again. And the action set-pieces are magnificently designed & executed. Art & Costume Design are fabulous. John Williams' Score is impactful, as ever.
Performance-Wise: The Late/Great Carrie Fisher in her final turn as Leia, is the emotional core of the film. Her appearance here gives the film that extra emotional heft. Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, is a joy to watch. Daisy Ridley as Rey, looks gorgeous & delivers confidently. Adam Driver as Kylo Ren, leaves a strong mark. John Boyega as Finn & Kelly Marie Tran as Rose Tico, are wonderful. Oscar Issac as Poe Dameron, is perfect. Benicio del Toro as DJ, is a great new addition to the cast. Others lend perfect support.
On the whole, 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' may not live up-to everyone's expectations, but it certainly worked for me. I had a ball. Go, have fun!