Don't believe the hate -- this is a great movie!

Rating: 9/10 (31 December 2017)

This movie definitely does not conform to any of the fan theories that were rolling around in the galaxy before its release. I think that's a great thing, but it accounts for a lot of the vitriol being spit out online towards this film. The characters in this movie are the most real, human, fleshed-out characters there have ever been in the Star Wars franchise. There are some crazy awesome action scenes, incredible demonstrations of the force, amazing new locations and creatures; it's beautifully filmed, it's funny and touching.
The Star Wars experience has always been one that can be shared across generations and this new trilogy needs to attract and please new and younger fans who will keep the franchise alive in the future. In my house, this new movie scored big time on that front. All of my kids thought this movie was awesome. Not a one of them came home crying about Luke's character having been ruined or the legacy of the original films being dragged through the mud. They are ages 6-18 and have seen every movie, Clone Wars movie, Clone Wars episode, and SW Rebels episode multiple times. They love The Force Awakens and they love The Last Jedi.
In addition, their parental units, who grew up on Star Wars, also loved this movie. Star Wars hasn't been ruined for all its fans. Go see it and judge for yourself.