Fantastic, thrilling, emotional ride

Rating: 9/10 (21 June 2011)

Abrams keeps getting better each time. He really recaptures some of the old Hollywood magic in this film. And by Hollywood magic, I don't mean fancypants fx and glamorous arrogant actors. I mean the storytelling style that Spielberg made famous, that truly imparts a sense of thrills, excitement, and a sense of wonder to the audience. Where he surpasses Spielberg is in the sentimental relationship development of his characters and their ties to the storyline and the action, and Spielberg's no slouch in that department. Where he falls slightly short, is in a conclusive thrilling ending that ties in well to the rest of the story and to the characters. Still the ride was a fantastic, emotive experience and should be a lesson to other contemporary filmmakers (unfortunately the majority) who go for cheap, lazy, and simple gimmicks rather than an innovative or genuine investment in the story and characters.