Is it really the end of the saga?
Episode IX is the last chapter of the Star Wars saga but, even if J.J. Abrams brought the original story to an end (also announcing he’s done with the franchise), it’s hard to believe it’s true. That said, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker will debut globally on December 19, 2019 and there’s no way to be ready for it.
In the new film Ray’s journey continues, one year after the events of The Last Jedi: she’s dealing with her inner turmoil, trying to find answers about her past. Meanwhile, the remnants of the Resistance ask for her help, as they have to face the First Order once again. In Episode IX the conflict between the Jedi and the Sith will peak, bringing the Skywalker saga to a definitive end.
The first thing to say about The Rise of Skywalker is that no one is really gone: Carrie Fisher, who’s passed away in 2016, appears in the new film as Leia thanks to archive footage; Harrison Ford (Han Solo), Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker) and Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian) also have some scenes that will make Star Wars fans very happy. Daisy Ridley (Rey), Adam Driver (Kylo Ren) and Oscar Isaac (Poe) give their best performances so far.
Bringing to an end a 40-year-old saga was not an easy job for J.J. Abrams: he did his best providing a massive experience which includes strong but difficult family bonds, moving friendship moments, epic battle scenes and some memorable jokes. There’s a lot to like in this film, but some things don’t feel right: there’s too much action in the first part and no time to focus on the single characters. It does get better, as the film gives some necessary explanations, but also leaving other questions unanswered. Without spoiling the film, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker also features a major plot twist that you’re not prepared for. The screenplay, co-written by Chris Terrio and Abrams, is good, even if the narration feels more accomplished in The Force Awakens, the best chapter in the Sequel Trilogy so far.
However, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker remains a must-watch that will make you emotional: it’s the end of the Skywalker saga, but expect at least some spin-offs because it’s not the end of Star Wars for sure.
