When the new Star Wars trilogy began with The Force Awakens, warmly welcoming old fans, The Last Jedi chose a different path. It's not just a continuation; it challenges every belief we have about the Jedi, Skywalker, and this universe. Although some fans rejected it, for our editorial team, this film is one of the boldest and most interesting in the franchise.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
The story continues from the previous film as Rey (Daisy Ridley) travels to a remote island to find Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), who has become a hermit after past failures. She hopes to learn the ways of the Jedi and bring hope back to the galaxy. Meanwhile, Finn (John Boyega) and Poe (Oscar Isaac) must lead the surviving Resistance in escaping the First Order's pursuit, with Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) and Supreme Leader Snoke as key variables.
The film runs parallel on two main tracks: Rey's training on the island and the Resistance's escape. Both tracks are connected by themes of failure and forgiveness, and importantly, questioning the legends of the Jedi and Sith, as well as the meaning of being a hero in a world without clear certainties.
Acting and Characters
Mark Hamill returns as a Luke Skywalker different from what fans knew. He portrays bitterness, disappointment, and reluctance to be a hero convincingly. Daisy Ridley remains strong as Rey, facing painful truths about her origins. Adam Driver continues as a fearsome yet sympathetic Kylo Ren, especially in scenes where he opens up to Rey.
New characters like Rose (Kelly Marie Tran) and Vice Admiral Holdo (Laura Dern) add new dimensions but are criticized for sometimes being forced to serve the plot. Carrie Fisher as Leia Organa completed filming before her passing, and this is her final performance, full of emotion, especially in the scene where she uses the Force impressively.
Direction, Visuals, and Music
Rian Johnson, director and writer, boldly subverts expectations. He uses symbols and beautiful imagery, such as the battle in Snoke's throne room with red contrasting white, or the fight on Ahch-To island drenched in rain and muted colors. Cinematography by Steve Yedlin, an Oscar-winning cinematographer, captures the grandeur of space and the intimacy of characters perfectly.
The score by John Williams remains iconic, but in this film, he creates standout new themes, especially Rey's theme blending hope and uncertainty, and the song "The Rebellion is Reborn" that perfectly complements the climax.
Editorial Analysis
The editorial team views The Last Jedi as the boldest Star Wars film in questioning what fans hold dear, whether it's the perfection of the Jedi, the goodness of the Skywalkers, or even the concept of the "chosen one." The film suggests that failure is part of life, and true heroes may not be the most powerful but those who fight even knowing they will lose.
However, this boldness causes the film to be sharply polarized. Some fans feel the film disrespects the legends they love, especially the treatment of Luke as a loser, while others see it as realistic character growth. The issue of the Force's balance and the revelation of Rey's origins are also heavily debated.
Structurally, the film has sluggish parts, especially Finn and Rose's adventure that feels forced, but also brilliant moments like the Force-bond scenes between Rey and Kylo, which are among the best in the franchise.
Verdict
The Last Jedi is not a safe Star Wars film; it's a film that takes risks and dares to be different. For fans who want to see this universe grow and are open to change, this film is a worthwhile experience. But if you cling to old legends, you may be disappointed.
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +Boldly breaks the mold and questions Jedi legends
- +Excellent performances, especially Mark Hamill and Adam Driver
- +Beautiful visuals and music that match the mood
- +Force-bond scenes between Rey and Kylo are a highlight
👎 Cons
- −Some parts of the story drag, especially Finn and Rose's subplot
- −Some character decisions feel illogical
- −Luke's tonal shift may disappoint old fans
Top Cast
FAQ
It depends on perspective. If you like traditional Star Wars, you might not like it. But if you want something different and thought-provoking, it's very worthwhile.
Main reasons include the portrayal of a weak Luke, the revelation that Rey's origins are not significant, and the use of some new characters that feel unnecessary.
The Rise of Skywalker tries to undo many things set up in The Last Jedi, but is criticized for changing direction too quickly, causing inconsistency.
No post-credits scene, but there is a short scene at the end where a slave boy uses the Force to sweep a broom, symbolizing hope.
