The Rise of Skywalker (2019): A Visual Spectacle with Flaws

In this episode of Mindset Movie Reviews, I take a closer look at Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019). Directed by J.J. Abrams, starring Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Carrie Fisher, and Mark Hamill. ⭐ Rating: 3.0/5 🏆 IMDb: 6.3/10 🎬 Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy ⏱ Runtime: 141 minutes 📅 Release Year: 2019 🎥 Watch the full video review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBMf9AwWWlE Follow the podcast for more honest movie reviews — no fluff, no hype.

Transcript

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Today's review is Star Wars Episode nine The Rise of Skywalker from twenty nineteen. Star Wars Episode nine The Rise of Skywalker is a film that attempts to bring closure to the iconic Skywalker saga, a journey that has spanned over four decades. Directed by J JJ Abrams, this instalment is a blend of fantasy, action and adventure, featuring a star studied cast including Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, and Oscar Isaac. The movie follows Ray, played by Daisy Ridley, as she completes her Jedi training and faces the resurrected Emperor Palpatine while grappling with the truth about her lineage. Alongside Finn, played by John Boyega and Poe Damron, played by Oscar Isaac, Ray embarks on a mission that could determine the fate of the galaxy. The film is a visual spectacle with impressive special effects and action sequences that are sure to captivate audiences. However, it is not without its flaws. The narrative is packed with numerous plot lines and characters which can make it feel overwhelming and rushed at times. The return of Emperor Palpatine, played by Ian McJamede, adds a nostalgic element, but his presence feels somewhat forced as if the filmmakers were trying to recapture the magic of the original trilogy without fully justifying his return. One of the film's strengths lies in its performances. Daisy Ridley delivers a compelling portrayal of Ray capturing her internal struggle between light and dark. Adam Driver also shines as Kylo Wren, bringing depth to his character's complex relationship with Ray. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable and adds an emotional layer to the story. The supporting cast, including Carrie Fisher in her posthumous role as Leia, provides a sense of continuity and nostalgia, although some characters like Finn and Poe feel underdeveloped. The movie's pacing is uneven, with a first half that feels cluttered and a second half that struggles to find its footing. The editing is choppy and the film often relies on fan service, which may please some viewers but can detract from the overall narrative. The action sequences, while thrilling, sometimes lack clarity, making it difficult to follow the fast-paced dogfights and battles. Despite its shortcomings, the rise of Skywalker offers moments of genuine excitement and emotional resonance. The film's score composed by John Williams is a highlight, evoking the grandeur and nostalgia of the Star Wars universe. The cinematography is visually stunning, capturing the vastness of space and the intricacies of the film's various settings. In summary, The Rise of Skywalker is a mixed bag. It succeeds in delivering a visually impressive and action-packed finale to the Skywalker saga, but it falls short in providing a satisfying and coherent conclusion to the beloved series. While it may not reach the heights of the original trilogy, it offers enough thrills and nostalgia to entertain fans and newcomers alike. As the saga comes to a close, one can't help but feel a sense of melancholy, wondering if future Star Wars stories will recapture the magic that made the original film so iconic. That wraps up my review of Star Wars Episode 9, The Rise of Skywalker, and I'm giving it three stars out of five. Thanks for listening. If you enjoyed this content, please like, subscribe, and I'll see you next time.