My Review on "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" (2017)

Ok let me just say this if you didn't already know...I love movies...deeply! What one can do with their imagination in the film industry is, limitless! I love going into the theatre, never really knowing what to expect. One can never fully know what their reaction will be, how a film can affect them or simply reinforce ideals about some of the themes and messages within a particular genre. My friends I come to tell you that Rian Johnson and Lucasfilms struck gold here!

John Boyega and Gwendoline Christie. "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" (2017)

"The Last Jedi" pretty much picks up where Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015) left off. The lead protagonist Rey (Daisy Ridley) is coming into her own under the tutelage of Luke Skywalker. Rey's powers and how in-tune she is with the force is not truly known yet which leaves Skywalker very concerned. Meanwhile, the dwindling Resistance assisted by high flying gunner Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) and ex-foot soldier Finn (John Boyega) is in a seemingly losing battle with the First Order. Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) toils with decisions made in the last installment and how he will position himself to move forward.

"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" has many strengths: beautiful sets, sweeping cinematography, highly kinetic action sequences, very efficient writing and solid acting. There is a scene of self-sacrifice by one of the characters that so breathtakingly beautiful, I recommend seeing it in iMax! What stood out more for me than anything in this installment is the human condition factor; how we deal with the soul, mortality and even the idea of immortality. Power struggles and codes of honor and humility are prevalent throughout. Every character in the film is affected by the ever changing factors of "The Force" that surrounds them and the constant struggle with hope and purpose in a very dark universe.

"The Last Jedi" really puts its main characters through the ongoing dilemma of choosing between the unknown power that the Dark side brings or the heroism that the Resistance fights to sustain. As we drill deeper into the ongoing Star Wars saga we are given deeper meanings that deal with choices that define who we are and how fragile our existence is in this process. As each character in the cast try and find their way into history, the film gladly welcomes us along for the ride. As a viewer, go into this knowing that you will enjoy great spectacle surrounded by meaningful and fulfilling themes.

"The Last Jedi"is definitely the film to beat this weekend! Full of more phenominal story telling and awe-inspiring visual effects from the LucasFilms team. Go see it on the big screen! It's a real treat!

Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia in her final Performance for this franchise is truly historical and will not be forgotten.

My favorite line in this film is...."No one ever really goes away."

AV3 out...