Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures | Release Date: December 18, 2015
6.7
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 7984 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
5,073
Mixed:
1,217
Negative:
1,694
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9
YakuhlDec 30, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. SPOILERS.

I have been a fan of the series since the 80's and I must say that this is the best in the series since Episode V, no doubt. You will find endless "red" reviews with 0's and 1's and 2's and this is RIDICULOUS FANBOY GARBAGE REVIEWING. YES, the movie has quite a bit in common with Episode IV (which is not a bad thing). YES, some of the climactic events (a.k.a. spoilers) are predictable but not in an annoying or let-down way. YES, some of the characters that were built up didn't have a huge place or hours of screen time (e.g. Captain Phasma), but then again, neither did fan favorite Boba Fett. YES, Rey becomes a badass immediately (so what? it's the Force -- this is how ALL Jedi are -- they don't realize they have powers, so they don't use them (much) and then someone tells them they have powers and BOOM they're badasses (but just low on a spectrum of badassery)). The fact that Rey can own Ren in a fight I think speaks more to Rey having quite a bit of potential and perhaps Ren not quite living up to his (dark) potential quite yet. I love how Ren is the opposite of Vader -- Vader was pretty much all dark but with just a twinge of good left in him that ultimately was pulled out in Episode VI. Ren goes the other way -- very conflicted. He WANTS to be dark but still is pulled by the good (instead of the dark side winning him over like with Anakin, he WANTS to be dark and it is the good in him that is pulling him, conflicting him). I LIKE that Ren shows human weakness and isn't a "creature" under his mask as Rey suggested. He is a confused and fearful (exactly what the dark side plays on) and scared of the future and ultimately I think that this will push him into being a truly heartless horrible bastard in the next 2 trilogy films.

Overall, the FEAL of this movie is perfect. Hits home really nicely (the same way the Star Trek reboot did). Sound effects and music spot on. Just enough humor. Just enough sadness. Just enough carnage. Left with a cliffhanger scene (almost literally). Can't wait for Episode VII (or whatever prequel side story is supposed to come out in the interim...).
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2 of 28 users found this helpful226
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7
ajmiz827Dec 30, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It was a good movie, though the quest-type plot was a little predictable. I don't think it lived up to the hype but on the whole, it was a good starting point for this phase of the overall story started oh so long ago. Even the feel of many of characters hearkened back to the original movie. Despite its slight predictability, it was nice to see a few familiar secondary characters.

I did have a few problems with it though -- the plot seemed a bit thin: the search for Luke Skywalker (who is only seen in the last two minutes of the film). The New Order was just another Nazi re-hash of the old Empire. Even Kylo Ren -- the new "Vader" -- is really only a pretender 20-something with enough teen angst to make him merely unlikable rather than evil. Even the "unforgivable" act he commits near the end of the film will most likely be forgiven by the third movie in this trilogy (and even though I didn't see it coming, it did make sense, especially given all the parallels to "A New Hope").

The only big question the movie leaves unanswered (hopefully to be answered in the next film) is "Who are Rey's parents?" Is she Han and Lea's lost daughter? Is she Luke's daughter? Could she be Obi-Wan's long-lost granddaughter? I suppose any answer will ultimately be disappointing, so maybe we're better left wondering. Just like many of us are wondering why this movie wasn't any better.
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2 of 22 users found this helpful220
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3
Raph75Dec 30, 2015
So, like many before me I did not believe the well-written and thoughtful negative reviews and I went to see the movie. I mean it is a 200 million JJ Abrams movie and I like JJ Abrams. How bad can it be? It turns out it can be pretty bad. AndSo, like many before me I did not believe the well-written and thoughtful negative reviews and I went to see the movie. I mean it is a 200 million JJ Abrams movie and I like JJ Abrams. How bad can it be? It turns out it can be pretty bad. And it is not JJs fault. JJ Abrams has strengths and he has weaknesses. His strengths are an ability to create intense, memorable, R-rated characters, full of flare and fun to watch. His main weakness is his willingness to sacrifice the strength of the plot for the bigger bang.

So what happens when JJ Abrams meets Disney executives, the manufacturers of the wholesome family entertainment? The answer is you get all of the JJs weaknesses while he is obviously forbidden from using any of his strengths. You should never forget that Disney execs are the brain trust that hated Johnny Depp's Captain Jack Sparrow and only Depp's "star power" forced them to acquiesce.

So what you get is an impossibly bland version of Star Wars universe, shot the same way all of Disney's TV movies for preschoolers are shot. The movie was carefully sanitized to extract any content that a 5-7 years old may find traumatic according to the most modern definitions of what a 5-7 years old finds traumatic (everything). Every scene of the movie you can see that the force grip executed by Darth Disney on JJ Abrams' throat was a powerful one and his leash was very short. Death, grief, fear, evil, romantic desire: all are removed or downplayed to the level of the core definition of "wholesome family entertainment".

My wife who is not a Star Wars fan but likes action and sci-fi and simply takes every movie as a stand-alone story gave it 3/10. She said it was basically another Disney Channel movie she would watch on TV with our kid. For me, as a Star Wars fan this movie was a bitter disappointment. 0/10. The thing is it could be a substantially better movie even with the same script (very minor changes) and the same director and the same actors, if they were ever allowed to cross the boundaries of a de-facto PG rating.

You can read other reviews for blow-by-blow details of what makes this movie so bad (those stories, they are all true), but at its core it is caused simply by Disney being Disney and JJ Abrams being only half of JJ Abrams - per Disney requirements.
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73 of 121 users found this helpful7348
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7
thunderball001Dec 30, 2015
It felt like a bird stuck in a cage. They didn't give it the freedom to experiment like the originals did.

Don't get me wrong. I still enjoyed it for what it was but it didn't really add anything to the franchise in terms of story. It
It felt like a bird stuck in a cage. They didn't give it the freedom to experiment like the originals did.

Don't get me wrong. I still enjoyed it for what it was but it didn't really add anything to the franchise in terms of story. It followed too closely to the New Hope while adding parts from empire strikes back. The opening scene captured Star Wars brilliantly and JJ Abrams knows how to get the audience's attention almost immediately but throughout the rest of the film it fell flat and stayed too 'Safe'. The reason the originals were so popular was because they did something that cinema had not seen before. They were original and that my biggest problem with this film.

I would like to point out the new characters of Fin and Poe were enjoyable to watch and Rey even though being a little flat, captured the feel of Luke Skywalker which was nice. The new villain was somewhat interesting but wasn't a 'classic villain' and didn't give me the same fear that Darth Vader gave me even though that is what his character essentially is.

On the positive side, as this is a soft reboot disguised a sequel, I generally hope and believe it has given them the foundations to be let off the leash and explore the Star Wars universe so much more in the future sequels. Give me a bit of that magic back. Please.
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4 of 23 users found this helpful419
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1
WEL16Dec 30, 2015
This movie is not better than "A New Hope" and it is not better than "The Phantom Menace" either even with JarJar Binks. "The Force Awakens" feels formulaic, it doesn't introduce any new elements to the series and it plays it safe from startThis movie is not better than "A New Hope" and it is not better than "The Phantom Menace" either even with JarJar Binks. "The Force Awakens" feels formulaic, it doesn't introduce any new elements to the series and it plays it safe from start to finish by emulating A New Hope.

The movie's full of beautiful special effects and there are some amazing action scenes at the beginning and some at the end but seeing how high critics are rating the movie it seems such shallow crap was enough to satisfy them. Me on the other hand enjoyed the movie for what it was. A competent and sometimes fun but it wasn't anything special or something I'd watch a second time.
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15 of 35 users found this helpful1520
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5
dans221Dec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I tried to keep my expectations for the sequel in check, but I'm quite disappointed of how it turned out overall.

I'll start by saying there are good things about the movie. I liked the acting for all the new characters and that the emphasis was on them rather than the old ones. Rey was a strong, lead female character; Finn was very likable; my personal favorite was BB-8 whose cuteness kept my interest up the whole movie! The visuals and cinematics were very good, and I think will age much better than the prequels. The First Order stormtroopers and fighters seemed more competent than the ones Original Trilogy (OT), providing a more satisfying menace. The dialogue was better than in the OT. The first half hour of the movie was great!

BUT, in spite of having all the elements in place for a great sequel it simply does not work and quickly started falling apart. The problem lies with the directing. The story arc is chaotic. Too many cuts destroy immersion. The main thing the OT and even the prequels did very well was to feel connected to each world that's portrayed -- and this absolutely is not the case in this new episode. Everything felt like a throw-away. Not even Jakku on which most screen time was spent seemed like an interesting world that I would like to know more about. The new Death Star was such a throw-away story arc -- it happened quickly, was anti-climatic, and was overall pointless. Maybe it would have worked if it was built-up over the arc of the three episodes (in the OT, Lucas only had the Death Star blow up in the first episode because he did not know there would be more episodes -- there was no need to make the same mistake again). And seriously, the third time a Death Star is blown up in the same identical way, only this time it's bigger???

I had a strong sense of deja-vu throughout the whole movie. Overall, this was a re-make not a sequel. If it had been made and marketed as a re-make with new actors and new visuals it could have worked quite well as that -- the individual parts of the movie are quite good (except the music, which oddly, I did not find at any point as epic and engaging as the prequels or OT). However, as a sequel it's extremely thin and chaotic in the overall story arc and feels forced. Worst of all, I just don't care about the "new" worlds, and where the "new" story arc is leading.

For all their faults, the prequels at least took a chance and Naboo and Coruscant were interesting, immersive worlds and it was an interesting question to see how the Galactic Republic turned into the Empire. Maybe if the next episode is not directed by JJ Abrams it might be better? Who knows, but my feeling is that if they don't make a second installment in the "sequel" trilogy it wouldn't be a big loss.
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30 of 49 users found this helpful3019
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10
saltyfriesDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. There were only 2 things I didn't like about this movie, a Liar Revealed story arc with Finn, I hate The Liar Revealed, it can ruin movies VERY quickly for me, thankfully it didn't with this one, but it could have had the lie kept up. Also, I felt mixed about Kylo Ren, with his mask on, holy crap was he intimidating and awesome, without it, he was young Anakin all over again, a beta **** whiny ****

However, these didn't detract for how awesome this movie was start to finish. It had the right timing for all humor bits, awesome bits, sad bits, everything. The fan service was over the top, and holy crap KEEP YOUR EARS OPEN!! So many audio easter eggs hidden in the film! It's great! Hearing the opening theme in theaters, was bliss.
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6 of 39 users found this helpful633
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3
HotMacheteDec 29, 2015
After all the hype, The Force Awakens is ultimately a failure and missed opportunity in the same vein as the prequels. JJ Abrams gets better performances and better visuals on film than Lucas was able to with Episodes I through III, but theAfter all the hype, The Force Awakens is ultimately a failure and missed opportunity in the same vein as the prequels. JJ Abrams gets better performances and better visuals on film than Lucas was able to with Episodes I through III, but the actual story in Episode VII is just as riddled with plot holes, dues ex machina, fan service, and one-dimensional characters. It's Star Wars for the Transformers generation ... louder, more exaggerated, and ultimately dumbed down. Expand
43 of 73 users found this helpful4330
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3
goblin6Dec 29, 2015
Visually interesting but poorly written, characters were one dimensional and plot was unimaginative. Making a bigger death star and spending five seconds planning to destroy it with the same idea ripped off from episodes IV and VI wasVisually interesting but poorly written, characters were one dimensional and plot was unimaginative. Making a bigger death star and spending five seconds planning to destroy it with the same idea ripped off from episodes IV and VI was completely asinine. The only good thing about this shiny turd is that episode IV and V keep looking better and better. All three writers deserve the blame for this mindless tripe but I smell more Toy Story than Empire Strikes Back. Hopefully Disney's check will bounce and Lucas can quietly repossess the franchise and prevent any further suffering for the fans. Expand
82 of 139 users found this helpful8257
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10
Aphex001Dec 29, 2015
I'm not sure what everyone is crying about. This movie was awesome. At first, when Disney bought Lucasfiilm in 2012 from ol' George, I thought the movies they would inevitably make would be cartoony and horrible (much like a certain prequelI'm not sure what everyone is crying about. This movie was awesome. At first, when Disney bought Lucasfiilm in 2012 from ol' George, I thought the movies they would inevitably make would be cartoony and horrible (much like a certain prequel trilogy). But on the contrary, JJ Abrams and company did a very tasteful job in bringing back the character development, humor, and progressing plot lines they were evident in the original trilogy. To all the people that gave this film a 0, what exactly were you expecting? This movie has great dialogue, action sequences, and enough witty scenes to more than redeem the beloved original trilogy in 2015. No matter what product, movie, TV show, or video game one makes, there's always going to be a group of people that are going to hate it. Whatever. To each their own. I thought it was great! Expand
9 of 58 users found this helpful949
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8
nicojaboyDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens... What the movie lacks at first off is the idea of taking Kylo Ren seriously. Adam Driver's character seemed so dumb and childish throughout the film, we realize that he is a young adult but this isn't a characteristic for a strong villain. His voice was so odd that I was questioning if it made him feel as uncomfortable as I do about it. The death scene of Han Solo was built up yet let down due to the fact of the similarity between this scene and the scene between Luke's fight with Darth Vader. There were many jokes and puns thrown into this film that for some reason were felt to be needed yet I beg to differ. About half of the puns were somewhat humorous in this film all the others were not at all. Oscar Isaac's character Poe decides to start off the stand-up comedy show by saying probably the dumbest line in the movie to the galactic boogeyman known as Kylo Ren, it goes along the lines of something sort of like this, "So who starts this thing do you talk or do I talk?" Like what the f*ck, shut up, just sit there acting fearful or whatever to try and build Kylo Ren's "daunting" character and save the screenwriter's career ok Poe. I would like to have seen some more of a back story for Rey's character and Jakku in general which will possibly be addressed in Episode 8, but I highly doubt it. One thing I don't like about movies that I know are getting a sequel is that for some reason they feel the need to create the movie as a "set-up" for the next sequel. I'm here to watch a movie when I go to the theaters and I guess you all feel the same way, I'm not there to watch a "set-up" film. What's great about this film though is that this film really isn't even a "set-up" film, I was happy where they left off and they did pretty well with the ending. A very strong point in this whole film is that the acting by everyone (discluding Adam Driver) was done very well. Harrison Ford looked very comfortable back again to reprise his role as Han Solo and I loved that about his character. Daisy Ridley, Rey, has a great story and I am anticipating where they will take it with Episode 8. The greatest character though in the whole movie and what really helps my score for this review, is John Boyega's character Finn. The concept of Finn's character is such an awesome idea because it seems to be something out of a stormtrooper's limits to have even done what he has done. A boy who was grown up and raised to fight with the authoritative figure turns its back on them and fights against them, seems a little cliche. What makes Finn great though is that it's not even like he is the number 1 hero in the film and he seems to be more of a newcomer than a trained killer which gives the audience a sheer liking for him based on him seeming more like one of us than just some type of a person who is supposed to be a programmed assassin. Because Finn is learning throughout this whole movie from start to finish, he learns just how cruel the Empire is to where he learns his purpose to stay with the squad who helped him get where he is at. Finn is ironically a "down-to-earth" kind of character and an interesting one too based on how he left the First Order and I can't wait to see his role in the next movie and I hope he can make a large impact again. The movie overall is good, even though I have critiques about it and what not I have seen it twice and wouldn't mind watching it a third time. Expand
3 of 26 users found this helpful323
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9
WheelzFourReelzDec 29, 2015
With great characters, exciting action, and a familiar yet investing plot, Star Wars The Force Awakens not only proves that is was worth the hype but also that good Star Wars movies can still be made.
8 of 44 users found this helpful836
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0
AwakenedDec 29, 2015
The force sure wasn't awakened in this debacle, but I sure was. And what I've learned is tis: Critics are not to be trusted. Disney played them like a fiddle, keeping them away from the film until the hype machine was roaring, assuringThe force sure wasn't awakened in this debacle, but I sure was. And what I've learned is tis: Critics are not to be trusted. Disney played them like a fiddle, keeping them away from the film until the hype machine was roaring, assuring that any critic who dared to speak against this joke of a film knew that they would be speaking out against what was sure to be the biggest hit of the year. And the critics, just like the early viewing kids and teens, were just swept away by it. Newsflash people: A movie isn't good just because it gets a lot of coverage. You need to decide if a movie is good AFTER you have seen it, not before based on the marketing. That's what I did, and the actual quality of this film is zilch! The biggest cash hit of the year is also the worst quality film of the decade. Regarding critics, lesson learned. They have lost all credibility. Expand
65 of 110 users found this helpful6545
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0
WalkingCarpetDec 29, 2015
Clearly Disney and Abrams had no idea whatsoever to do with this franchise, so they retreated back into the original films and did a remake instead. Wow! The result: a sad excuse of a so-called next episode. It's not just that this film isClearly Disney and Abrams had no idea whatsoever to do with this franchise, so they retreated back into the original films and did a remake instead. Wow! The result: a sad excuse of a so-called next episode. It's not just that this film is so bad. What does it say about future episodes? If they have this much trouble coming up with a new idea already, what the heck are they going to do when they run out of original source material to plagiarize? Expand
54 of 89 users found this helpful5435
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0
HardcaseDec 29, 2015
This movie isn't just bad, it's shameful. How can Disney take a franchise that has meant so much to so many people and pervert it into this ridiculous sham? This is not the next episode of the Star Wars series. It's not the next episode ofThis movie isn't just bad, it's shameful. How can Disney take a franchise that has meant so much to so many people and pervert it into this ridiculous sham? This is not the next episode of the Star Wars series. It's not the next episode of anything. It's a remake! Are you kidding me? You acquire the most successful movie franchise ever, and rather than take advantage of the possibilities that it presents to you, you decide to remake it instead? Did you really think you could remake those movies better than they already were? Talk about brainless! Movie audiences fell for the hype this time. We'll see what happens with episode 8 (or rather the remake of episode 5). Unbelievable! Expand
32 of 54 users found this helpful3222
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0
IzakMeeyanDec 29, 2015
Man they're turning Star wars into a joke. The villain's meant to be son of Princess Leila, which makes him the nephew of Luke Skywalker and the grandson of Darth Vader, gets beaten up by some girl who's character build up doesn't justifyMan they're turning Star wars into a joke. The villain's meant to be son of Princess Leila, which makes him the nephew of Luke Skywalker and the grandson of Darth Vader, gets beaten up by some girl who's character build up doesn't justify why or how she's a match for the villain. Just make the whole plot very trivial. On top of that apparently Lightsabers are now some kind of magical weapon that is able to call people. "youve heard the calling of Luke's lightsaber... " WTF Expand
53 of 89 users found this helpful5336
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6
GuccimayneDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie looked like Star Wars (characters, ships), but it definitely didn't *feel* like one. I didn't hate the movie, but I certainly didn't love it, so I feel a 6 is about as low as I can realistically rate this.

Going into the movie, I felt the trailers didn't give away much of the plot (a good thing), so I was eagerly awaiting a brand new adventure with new characters and some old faces. The first 1/3 of the movie was pretty unique and I was glued to my seat with wonder and awe. But about halfway through, I sadly realized I was watching a remake of the events of Episode IV as the movie began to become extremely predictable. The film doesn't even try to hide the fact that our new heroes were repeating 80% of the events from A New Hope with some tidbits from Empire and Jedi sprinkled in here and there. There was hardly anything *new* to take from the movie -- it's almost like it couldn't decide if it wanted to be a sequel or a complete reboot. Instead of feeling like part 7 of an ongoing story, I felt like I was watching a "Star Wars: Greatest Hits" compilation of iconic moments from the original trilogy, but with a fresh coat of paint. The heavy handedness of the nostalgic scenes was almost fourth wall breaking since they were so obvious. Regardless of the thinking behind this, I can say with 100% certainty that what was delivered was not what I waited 10 years for. If I wanted to watch the original trilogy again, I would have stayed home.

Beyond the unoriginal plot, pacing was another HUGE flaw. The movie hits the accelerator around half way through and packs in a lot of action, but little explanation about why and how the events on screen are taking place. Who is the Resistance and why is it needed if the Rebellion/Republic won 30 years ago? What exactly was the significance of the Hosnian system, given the characters only spent 2 lines total talking about its destruction? Does Coruscant no longer exist? Is the entire Republic somehow just 5 planets total? These questions, plus more, are left to be answered by the novelization and future films, which is a dissatisfying business decision. While sitting in your seat on opening night, these options don't yet exist, so you're left clueless. Character development (Rey in particular) was also a casualty to the fast pace, as lot of the characters do things seemingly out of nowhere with questionable motivation and explanation. Had they given the film an extra 30 minutes of run time to allow the story to breathe a little, that could have cleared up a lot of the holes. It's Star Wars! I would have sat in my seat for 3 hours without a question.

Lastly, John Williams. I don't know what happened, but Williams and company absolutely phoned it in on this film. I feel like there wasn't any particular moment where an epic orchestra caught my attention and got my blood pumping. The only song that I remember (after listening to the whole thing on Spotify) are very slow and mellow and would fit better within the magical halls of Hogwarts, not an epic space opera that is Star Wars. All in all, the music was underwhelming and severely detracted from the "Star Wars experience" that I know and love.

All in all, I was pretty unimpressed by The Force Awakens. I didn't hate the film, as there are plenty of bad films out there and the prequel trilogy really set a low bar. But I did not love the decisions to recycle old plots as an attempt to send the viewer on an apology tour full of star wars nostalgia. I wanted a new story mixed with new and old faces, not a glorified reboot. As much flak as I give the prequels, I'll give them credit for at least trying to be unique in each installment.

I hope the next two films will take the gloves off and really advances the Star Wars Universe.
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13 of 24 users found this helpful1311
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9
zappbrannigan23Dec 29, 2015
Star Wars - Force Awakens. Solid 8.75/10
Give me a break with all the 5 or below user scores. Get a job people, and make useful comments to serve the community.
The star wars series was never a super clever masterpiece. That's OK. It
Star Wars - Force Awakens. Solid 8.75/10
Give me a break with all the 5 or below user scores. Get a job people, and make useful comments to serve the community.
The star wars series was never a super clever masterpiece. That's OK. It does not need to be to still give us an imagination inspiring fun romp. The series gives us a legacy worthy mass pop culture inclusions.
I was a star wars fan before the film and remain so after. This was a very good movie telling us what happened after Vader fell and the death star exploded.

Pros - several characters we know and love are back, great special effects, felt like coming home warm and cozy, some questions as to who some characters were kept it interesting.
Cons- a little to much pandering to fans with rehash of lines and story ideas (essential to have some but maybe a bit much (rehash).
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4 of 32 users found this helpful428
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10
rfunesDec 29, 2015
As good as Episode IV and V, The Force Awakens is amazing. Forget the kids trying to look cool and hate this brilliant movie. Star Wars is back, and it is amazing.
3 of 37 users found this helpful334
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0
RootieKazootieDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is the biggest disappointment of the 21st century since the residency of George W. Bush It. This is just a rehash of the original three Star Wars movies--- almost exactly--- and obviously on purpose. And with a dull, trite script and uninteresting characters. This was obviously done consciously--- but I cannot understand why or why audiences seem to love it. This was an opportunity to go where no Star Wars had gone before-- to break new ground, take us to new places and new adventures, and introduce new wise-cracking, witty, characters with panache and depth. None of that happens here. It is literally just a trite, cliche-ridden and somewhat inane remake of the first Star Wars movies, but lacking the humor, surprises, wit, soul and excellent writing and acting that made the first Star Wars movie such a wower. I almost fell asleep, no kidding--- I could see everything coming from a mile away. I think folks have bought into this--- but, really--- it's a piece of brainless junk. Expand
56 of 95 users found this helpful5639
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7
HnarquDec 29, 2015
Great movie, but too much seemed like Episode IV. It followed "The Hero's Journey" trope too much, and, while entertained, I sat through the movie waiting for something different.
3 of 22 users found this helpful319
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9
smsandiferDec 29, 2015
Even though this movie was not without its flaws, it was indeed a very fun and entertaining movie to watch. Much better quality than Lucas' prequels. Regarding the highly critical reviews by some viewers, I think anybody who would rate thisEven though this movie was not without its flaws, it was indeed a very fun and entertaining movie to watch. Much better quality than Lucas' prequels. Regarding the highly critical reviews by some viewers, I think anybody who would rate this movie less than a 5 is just being ridiculous. Expand
3 of 27 users found this helpful324
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0
kk84Dec 29, 2015
Dont get me wrong its not bad but its way too overrated this movie! really dont get the hype after watched the movie but the world is full of nerds so their you have it!
37 of 61 users found this helpful3724
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0
MasywsDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Being totally honest, this movie is a joke. Not a joke that deserves a 0 but I can't, for any reasonable reason, see it at 8 or 7. This movie is better than I and II but it stops there. You simply can't get a major character killed by the worst SW villain ever created. Even him killed by Jabba or Greedo would have made more sense. Also the plot is 90% rehashed material / nostalgia tricks.
JJ failed big time and this movie put in clear light how much "real critics" are being paid by majors to sponsorize box office movies.
I've seen the movie 2 times (just to be sure) and the only likeable character in the whole movie was Ray. Villain could have been more believable if he didn't remove his mask (half the cinema laughted at his unmenacing teenage face) or if he didn't fail against not 1 but 2 lightsaber noobs.
Sorry but No. I expected much much more than:
Star Wars IV Remix: The Whiny Teenager
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38 of 64 users found this helpful3826
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0
564Dec 29, 2015
Wait, isn't this "Galactic Battle"?
Sheesh this thing cannot be Star Wars.
Ben Solo? Same story of Jacen Solo in the Expand Universe but wait now EU doesn't exist.
Same also the mask of Kylo Revan...ops Ren.
I sense your lack of faith disturbing.
48 of 81 users found this helpful4833
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0
j1331418Dec 29, 2015
It is really disappointing.
I was always a Start Wars fan but I can only hate this episode.
This movie is a proof that Hollywood do not need to create great movies, but only rehash old popular movies in a bad way and hype it as much as
It is really disappointing.
I was always a Start Wars fan but I can only hate this episode.

This movie is a proof that Hollywood do not need to create great movies, but only rehash old popular movies in a bad way and hype it as much as possible to generate profit.
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66 of 111 users found this helpful6645
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0
ZellySmadaDec 29, 2015
I just love the fact that more and more fans are coming out and rating this movie for what it is: pure trash! It is shameful that the critics can be so byass. It leads me to believe they have been bought by the Disney corporation to giveI just love the fact that more and more fans are coming out and rating this movie for what it is: pure trash! It is shameful that the critics can be so byass. It leads me to believe they have been bought by the Disney corporation to give this movie a good review.

I cannot give this movie even a one point rating, it is embarrasing to sea that supposed professionals can be so lazy and slopy to produce this kind of embarrasing movie.
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78 of 131 users found this helpful7853
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7
oneNilDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Go see the movie. That being said, it was a bit disappointing. I was expecting something epic, and while it had some epic elements, it failed to combine them all into a work of art.

Best-
1. Daisy Ridley: She did a great job in the role, albeit some of the writing was a bit off. Not really her fault.

2. Poe Dameron: Basically the new Han Solo. A lot of the wholesale ripoffs from the previous movies bothered me, but in addition to being a good character, the acting was spot on. I wish we could have seen more of him.

3. The Grit: Abrams flawlessly executed the "feel" of the original movies.

4. BB-8: Lovable droid, that's basically the modern R2-D2. Will be a money making machine for Disney. Seems like they stole him out of WALL-E, though.

Good-
1. Lightsabre fights: I'm simply remarking on the quality of fighting, not anything else. The acrobatics from the prequels was fun, but the style of this and the originals is more dramatic.

2. Kylo Ren's Costume design: Looks and feels the part.

3. Modernization: what I mean is that they've updated the ships, etc. Think about what a mini-cooper looked like in the 70s and what it looks like today. It's a similar thing with the TIE Fighters and X-Wings.

4. Return of original cast members: With one exception (discussed below), the original cast was used properly.

Bad-
1. You could see the big ending coming from a mile away. I mean... cmon.

2. Carrie Fisher has come a long way since the metal slave bikini days. Obviously she's aged and nobody is expecting a sex symbol, but her acting and characterization are off.

3. The writing. I'll just lump it all in here. There's some good parts, but there's also some horrible parts. There's humor laden throughout the movie, but I think I laughed once or twice. Speaking of which, there's way too much humor as well. This is supposed to be an action/drama with just SOME comedic relief.

Worst -
1. Kylo Ren: I'm not sure if he's supposed to appeal to the post-millennial generation, or if he's supposed to come across like a spoiled brat who just had someone spit in his cereal. He started off great, but quickly fell apart as soon as Poe talked back to him. Vader would have never put up with that. I hope his character changes in the following movies.

2. The Plot, and overall rehash: This was basically a wholesale ripoff of A New Hope. I know just about everyone's said that so far, but it was quite annoying. I don't mind nostalgia. For example, when Poe and Finn escape in a TIE fighter and shoot down their pursuers, it's identical to when Han and Luke escape the Death Star and shoot down TIE fighters. That part is fine on its own and works when done with subtlety, but comes off as corny when pervasive throughout the whole movie.

3. Character development: How are Poe and Finn are somehow best friends at the end of the movie, but only met for 30 minutes? I guess I'm fine with a Stormtrooper becoming good, but it happens more or less instantaneously. There was no internal confrontation, just a blood smear and boom he's a good guy now. Also, if he was basically just a janitor, why was he in a raiding party to destroy that village? Makes no sense.

The whole part where Rey yells at Finn for holding hand could have been done so much better. I think she yells at him 4 or 5 times not to help her. Just do it once and leave the 4 other times out. You accomplish your social justice agenda without over-doing it, and save a few seconds you could use on developing someone else's character. Plus this whole part made her seem like a child, when the goal was the opposite. I could go on about the character development, but will leave it at that.

4. Hand Holding the Audience: I'll use another example to illustrate. Poe basically runs train on a bunch of First Order TIE fighters while ground troops for both sides are also fighting. In the midst of this Finn exclaims something to the effect of "whoa that's one awesome pilot." I just watched him down like 6 enemies in a row while dodging blasters and doing barrel-rolls. I don't need a character in the movie to tell me that. Plus, why is Finn looking at the air battle when he could get shot any moment?

5. Finn cannot use a lightsaber. They never should have put this in the movie. Also, no way Rey can crush Kylo Ren in a lightsaber fight like she did. Even though he was shot, there's no way. It took Luke, one of the greatest Jedi ever, 3 movies to get on that level and she does it in one? I call BS.
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5 of 25 users found this helpful520
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9
TheQuietGamerDec 29, 2015
Star Wars is back. It's exciting enough to enchant new audiences and bring out some glorious, nostalgic feelings for the longtime fans. It bares a striking resemblance to the original classic "A New Hope." The set up is basically the same,Star Wars is back. It's exciting enough to enchant new audiences and bring out some glorious, nostalgic feelings for the longtime fans. It bares a striking resemblance to the original classic "A New Hope." The set up is basically the same, with scenes clearly being strongly influenced by that masterpiece. It leads to a very familiar feeling film.

Yet, despite it's direct influence (and outright borrowing at some points) to a previous film the modern touches give it a feel all it's own. It feels like a new take on a classic that simultaneously moves the series forward. The set up for the new trilogy is a bit too familiar, but the possibilities for where the series can go from here are both endless and exciting. I can't wait to see where things go from here.

As far as this movie itself goes it proves to be a stunning way to kick things off. J.J. Abrams knows just how to play off of people's love for the original(s) by borrowing the right elements, while simultaneously moving the story and universe forward so it doesn't feel like a straight up rip-off.

The new characters are incredible. The movie lets us learn just enough about them to make them compelling, but also gives them enough secrets and hidden depth to keep us intrigued and interested in discovering more. The same could be said about the universe as a whole now. We get a delicious and filling first taste that will have us dying for the second course.

The new heroes are incredible and I can't wait to see more from them. That being said the real stars of the show are the villains, most specifically Kylo Ren. I made the mistake of initially viewing him as nothing more than a Vader rip-off. However thanks to some incredible writing and an unbelievably stunning performance by Adam Driver I found him to be much more. Unbelievably complex in his motives and emotions, he is almost instantly compelling. Part of the excitement moving forward for this series is going to be where his story goes.

The rest of the villains have a great deal of mystery behind them. Who are they? What are their ultimate goals? The movie leaves us with a great deal of questions to keep us interested in the future. It leaves us wanting more, but in a good way. A way that leaves us entranced with what we have already been given. A way that lets our imagination run wild.

It's a movie not only meant to get us excited for the future of the series, but also one that's meant to rekindle our memories of it's past glories. It's nostalgic and new. Things like added humor and darker action give it a more modern feel. The new plot elements and characters serve as a great way to make a borrowed template feel like something almost completely different. The return of the original characters played by the original actors is just an joyous touch. Star Wars is most definitely back and Episode VII is an exciting way for it to be brought back to life.

I give the movie a 9.8/10
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12 of 62 users found this helpful1250
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1
Tony27nineDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dull, dull, dull.....
The showing my wife and I went to was around 10% full and mostly with people in their 40's and 50's. This told me a lot. Seeing the show was an act of nostalgia for those that were literally blown away by what we're cutting edge effects in their time.
What Disney have done is dishonest...

Plot....
Some important info is hidden by a fleeing rebel in a droid. The baddies are sent to recover said droid. The baddies have a chuffing big round thing with a massive gun on it that can destroy planets. They use it to destroy some planets which upsets everyone. The rebels need to destroy said round thing which involves someone getting inside, disabling the shields and allowing a load of X-wings to target the vulnerable bit. Which they do. And it blows up. And everyone is happy.
Sound familiar.......?

They didn't even try to hide their shameless plagiarism. Right down to an X-Wing or two flying down a heavily defended channel to deliver the fateful blow, a bar scene with a bunch of very odd looking aliens that all go quiet when the main characters enter, a face off between father and son ( yes, you got it... On a very large, narrow bridge thingy), I could go on.....

It's the very first one all over again but with a bit more advanced cgi.
Regurgitate a formula, hype it up, make a squillion.
Embarrassing that I fell for it.

Glad I bought the large popcorn bucket because counting it gave me something to do whilst all the noise and shooting was going on.
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58 of 96 users found this helpful5838
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3
weirdcryoDec 29, 2015
After first seeing this movie I thought it was good movie and a made a review giving it a 7 but every time I think about the plot the more "mistakes" I found.

First of all the movie the movie is consider (even I consider it) "too safe"
After first seeing this movie I thought it was good movie and a made a review giving it a 7 but every time I think about the plot the more "mistakes" I found.

First of all the movie the movie is consider (even I consider it) "too safe" when actually it's just lazy writing and a cheap attempt to please the "fans" that hated the prequels to the point of making death threats.

We have the plot, that for some reason they tried to adapt the old to the new one but now it doesn't work or make sense at all, we goes from searching Luke to destroying planets and fighting a new Death Star that doesn't make sense at all.
The good guys group is call the resistance but actually the bad guys (The First Order) are not a command, so of we have more that one bad guys (which doesn't make sense because the first order destroy the current government without retaliation) or the name doesn't make sense. What also doesn't make sense is how they manage to build that weapon without drawing attention.

We have the new characters, they are basically all the old character's characteristic we liked in the first SW spread in younger actors.
We have also the new characters that does nothing like Captain Phasma and Snoke and essential character development that doesn't make sense or is not existing on screen like FN-2187 fighting against what he was taught and becoming Finn, how he and poe didn't die crashing in a space ship, how they became BFF in one scene(I understand that Finn save Poe, but owing =/= best friends, and more considering Finn used to be a Storm Trooper and you don't know nothing about him), how Rey pass from not knowing how to elevate the ship to do the best moves in the whole movie in just 1 minute, why Kylo Ren acts like a 3 yo boy having tantrums and can do a 180° turn stop a shot and a person in the same movement, reads mind and then sucks ass, to name a few (to be hones I got bored of arguing the lack of sense in the characters actions).

We have the old characters, they are just here to merge the first trilogy with this new story and bring nostalgia, Leia could be replace by any kind of new general, Han Solo (I like him in this movie) had more purpose and Luke appears only to set the new movies.

So this movie make no sense the more you think it, if I didn't like how gorgeous some scenes looked I would gave this a 1 without a doubt.
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35 of 60 users found this helpful3525
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0
CharleiDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was looking forward to watching the new Star Wars movie. With all the media, and marketing hype, I was expecting to see a really good movie. I was disappointed. In particular, I hated the character of Rey; she was a Mary Sue character. I hate Mary Sue characters in general. Everything was so easy for her. She just flipped her fingers and everything worked for her. How the hell did you learn to do the Jedi mind control thing?

Harrison Ford's performance was so pathetic, that I actually felt happy when Han Solo was killed - one less annoying thing in this movie phew! Every male character in this movie was pathetic. Seems like guys in this movie were in touch with their feminine side in this movie. Who wrote the script? A bunch of teenage kids?

I bet Superman hates Rey. Superman, for example, is allergic to kryptonite, and he got his butt kicked by Wonder Woman. What could be more humiliating for a strong muscular dude than to get his butt kicked by a chick that looks like a supermodel? On the other hand, all Mary Sue Rey does to get out of a tough spot is say "i'm good enough, i'm smart enough, and, doggone it, the force is with me".

If the movie producers would have chosen Ronda Rousey for the lead role, I would have bought everything done by her without questions. Ronda is built like a mean bad-*ss scary fighter, unlike the actress that played Rey. When Ronda says jump, you reply "how high Mam!"; she doesn't need stinky Jedi mind control tricks.
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32 of 54 users found this helpful3222
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4
misterbrisbyDec 29, 2015
There are no magic, no imagination, no tension, hardly any memorable moments or ideas. The script is amateurish.

People who praise this mindless, shallow remix of Episode IV are just desperate for their overdue Star Wars fix and would try
There are no magic, no imagination, no tension, hardly any memorable moments or ideas. The script is amateurish.

People who praise this mindless, shallow remix of Episode IV are just desperate for their overdue Star Wars fix and would try to love EVERYTHING as long as it is called "Star Wars" and isn't connected to the prequels (which are better than their reputation, btw).

But without nostalgia, Episode VII sadly has little to offer. I like some of the new actors, some of the dialogue is good and the effects are okay - though pretty standard.

Overall, this is just a lazy cashgrab. Abrams is playing it way too safe and the result is boring and disappointing.

This is the weakest Episode of Star Wars.
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96 of 159 users found this helpful9663
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1
BlackVoidDec 29, 2015
Reused content from the old films. Yet again, there is a Death Star to be destroyed. Yet another force field needs to be downed by Han Solo and team. The Emperor is back, the same old bald man. Darth Vader also has a reincarnate, anotherReused content from the old films. Yet again, there is a Death Star to be destroyed. Yet another force field needs to be downed by Han Solo and team. The Emperor is back, the same old bald man. Darth Vader also has a reincarnate, another masked villain, but he fails to scare. Another bar filled with aliens. Another fight on a bridge over an abyss. The only novelties are a heroine and a hero of african descent (?). I missed the revelation by Chewbakka that he is gay.

And the film manages to be worse than episode 4. The last SW movie I will see in this life, a waste of time and money.

Oh, I forgot to mention: it is incredibly predictable and also boring.
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38 of 64 users found this helpful3826
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7
Jollyjoe1000Dec 29, 2015
over all it was a good movie.But because of all the promotion and outrageous anticipation it disappoints me. I was thinking of it to be near perfect.And I thought that my expectations were met.But the final half an hour,ruins the movie.Hansover all it was a good movie.But because of all the promotion and outrageous anticipation it disappoints me. I was thinking of it to be near perfect.And I thought that my expectations were met.But the final half an hour,ruins the movie.Hans death,and the fact ray gets almost all the credit.And my expectations are now not meant,I wished that phin defeated the Sith he deserved to win the battle,not ray. Expand
6 of 36 users found this helpful630
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10
ManiacUKDec 29, 2015
I'm not going to lie, I understand why a lot of people have given this film poor ratings but I think they are being especially harsh due to the franchise it represents. Had this been released as a standalone film I reckon most ratings andI'm not going to lie, I understand why a lot of people have given this film poor ratings but I think they are being especially harsh due to the franchise it represents. Had this been released as a standalone film I reckon most ratings and reviews would be in the 7 or 8 out of 10 range. Admittedly the plot isn't exactly going to blow your mind but the mere nostalgia of the Star Wars universe brought a tear to my eye. The action is well filmed and the special effects, as one might expect, are fantastic. The introduction of new stars while also featuring many of the old ones marks the start of a new generation for Star Wars fans. Of course it's not the best film I've ever seen but there wasn't a single minute of the film I didn't enjoy. So if you have been delaying in seeing this film because you fear that it won't live up to your expectations, don't, because it will not disappoint. Expand
6 of 53 users found this helpful647
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6
YorkManDec 29, 2015
TFA is exactly what it was supposed to be, nothing more, nothing less.... People seeking something completely new and extravagant in what is effectively another J J Abrams 'reboot' should set their expectations somewhat lower than they mightTFA is exactly what it was supposed to be, nothing more, nothing less.... People seeking something completely new and extravagant in what is effectively another J J Abrams 'reboot' should set their expectations somewhat lower than they might hope.
However, the film itself isn't inherently bad, and is a MASSIVE improvement over the God-awful mess that was the prequels.
Gone are the 99% CGI/Green-screen backgrounds that dated the film practically the moment of their release.
Gone are the unnecessary racial stereotypes which made everyone uncomfortable.
Gone are the bland 2-dimensional characters played by actors who, after the first film, must have been held to the letter of their 3 film contracts.
Gone (Thank The Lord) is the pathetic, stilted, borderline patronising dialogue spouted forth without emotion nor conviction, either for pointless exposition, or to merely tie up the loose ends.

In their place we have proper characters, fleshed-out and actually interesting. A lot of proper, old-school, practical effects, although there is a fair bit of CGI it is 'blended' into the physical aspect of the cinematography very well.
The film includes some real emotional depth, introducing new actors into roles which (on the whole) they brilliantly portray, leading into a storyline that pulls you along for the ride quite nicely.

OK, the film is far from perfect. People have (quite rightly) highlighted the similarities in structure to the original Star Wars. But it's different enough to stand on its own.

My main problem with the film is that there is no sense of risk from the main protagonist, who is introduced as a scavenger on a desert planet whose background is never revealed. It is revealed she is powerful with the Force (leading to certain levels of speculation from those who've watched the film), but she also has unarmed combat skills, is apparently an accomplished pilot, understands mechanical engineering, seems able to sneak around undetected.... And none of that is rationalised, but is defined in the story as a overly-simplistic means to have her get from A to B to C.

People on here have complained that the film is too much like the original film, and these are probably the same people advocating a return to the sensibilities and storytelling etc of the original Trilogy. The bottom line is you can't have it both ways, for a film to 'be' within the Star Wars universe it has to have certain tropes and elements that viewers are familiar with. Otherwise it might as well just be another generic Sci-Fi film.

Hopefully this will lead into a second part of the (planned) trilogy that really does open up the taps on the story and takes it into new and completely unexplored directions.
That, for me, is the film's greatest achievement....
It's made me want to see what happens next, find out more about the characters introduced, understand more about what the 'Awakening' in the Force actually is, and how it will culminate in terms of the story arcs which are now underway.
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6 of 22 users found this helpful616
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0
WanderManDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Serious Spoiler Warning: The new Star Wars is a tired, worn out imitation of itself. I am baffled by the good reviews. I used to love the original Star Wars, but this one is just a re-run of the EXACT SAME things we have already seen. This is the FOURTH giant, round space ship that got blown up. Count them, FOUR!!!!! I just don't care anymore!
More things that were the same as what we've already seen:
-Old villain was Luke's father, new villain is Han's son.
-Old villain killed old man hero/father figure Obi-wan, to show he was scary. New villain killed old man hero/father figure Han, to show he was scary.
-Old movie had important item hidden on droid, droid is sent to dessert planet, where it finds 2 unlikely heroes and Chewbacca, who fly millennium falcon to to giant round spaceship, then return droid to Rebellion. New movie, exact same thing, except returned the droid to "resistance" instead of "rebellion."
-Old movie, mysterious emperor guy who is black-helmet-villains' boss. Mysterious ruler has one military guy who commands giant round space ship, who he lets compete wi black helmet guy . New movie, exact same, right down to the military guy competing with helmet guy, it even LOOKS like the same mysterious emperor guy.
-Old movies, wise little green guy. New movies, wise little orange lady.
I could go on. It was the EXACT SAME frickin' movie! The originals were beloved because they were creative. The new movies are just a tired repeat of what we've already seen.
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74 of 122 users found this helpful7448
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6
SweaterGuyDec 29, 2015
Let's rehash the best of A New Hope, Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi and somehow make them average? Entertaining? Maybe. Worth a second look? Nah.

I'm giving the movie a 6 based on the most amazing marketing plan of all time.
Let's rehash the best of A New Hope, Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi and somehow make them average? Entertaining? Maybe. Worth a second look? Nah.

I'm giving the movie a 6 based on the most amazing marketing plan of all time. Big congrats.

Jurassic World was a better reboot.
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19 of 33 users found this helpful1914
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5
MavZeroDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I created an account to write this review. I grew up on the Star Wars movies, extended universe books, video games, everything. After the failure of the prequels I was hesitant but optimistic for TFA. I really, really wanted to like this movie.

The Plot
I know that if some Disney exec came to me a few years ago and asked me to sit down and write out a plot to a new Star Wars movie, I would be terrified. It is just insane how many stories they could have told with this new trilogy, and the pressure to come up with one that would please both the old fans and newcomers would be crazy. It is hard to put into words my disappointment when I discovered I was watching a rehash of A New Hope. JJ Abrams basically selected all his favorite scenes and themes from the original trilogy and recreated them with fancy visual effects and new characters. The Resistance, Mini Vader, Mini Boba Fett, shiny new Luke/Han mash-up (who can do seemingly everything perfectly on the first try), droids holding plans to things, cantina scenes, new Death Star (why?). All that and more, hastily thrown together. The little cameos and nods to the original trilogy were interesting at first, but after Finn accidentally activated the chess board on the Falcon in an absolutely pointless scene, I found they were getting stale. I don't need you to beat me over the head with the fact that I'm watching Star Wars, I already know I am, show me something new and let me enjoy it. It is like they realized the movie was not strong enough to stand on it's own, and kept pointing "See? See? It's STAR WARS!! You love this!" There is also no explanation on the origin of The Resistance and First Order. If the Resistance is backed by the Republic, why is it the Resistance? Why do they have a single base and why is their entire "fleet" 12 X-wings?

The Characters
The Old
In the time between ROTJ and TFA, existing characters did not act like themselves. Luke has run off. Why? Because his new Jedi school was destroyed. But dont worry, there is a map to him. Where did the map come from? Who cares, we don't need to explain it. The Luke Skywalker I know and love would not hide while the galaxy is being ripped apart by one of his pupils. Han Solo leaves Leia and runs off with Chewie. AND loses the Millenium Falcon!! Why, how? Because his son is evil. Leia doesn't even care that both Luke and Han have abandoned her to fight against the First Order by herself, she is mildly annoyed by it, if even that. Just a "how do you do" to Han with some cringe worthy chemistry on the side when he finally shows up. The Leia from the original trilogy would be pissed off, and probably would have dragged both of them back by herself 20 years prior to the movie.

The New
The new characters suffer from being smashed into pre-defined roles as the new generation. Kylo Ren is a laughable attempt at a new dark lord. Lightsaber temper tantrums do not make him scary. His power seems to fluctuate wildly with JJ Abrams giving and removing power to fit him into whatever is happening and move the plot forward. First of all, he can read minds with the Force. Not even Vader or the Emperor could do this. Next, we are shown that he wiped out Luke's entire new generation of Jedi. So this guy can potentially stand toe-to-toe with Luke Skywalker, he must be pretty damn powerful. But wait...now he is fighting a stormtrooper with no force sensitivity...and almost losing? He can sense Han Solo landing on the Starkiller, but can't sense him 20 feet away? This man who was trained by his uncle Luke Skywalker and whatever Snoke showed him cannot defeat a scavenger who used the Force for the first time that day? Rey suffers from this same power fluctuation. She is a combat, mechanical, and Force genius. She outsmarts Han when fixing his own ship, despite probably never having been in a running ship in her entire life. Without any training, she deduces that she can use the Force to control another being's mind, and immediately does so successfully. She handily defeats a trained ex-Jedi, the grandson of Darth Vader, after remembering the Force exists and closing her eyes. Captain Phasma as the Boba Fett-ish character is weak and serves no purpose whatsoever. Finn is totally forgettable and could be replaced by anybody. There is little character development. At the end of the movie I thought, "Gee, I cared a lot about the characters after seeing A New Hope. Do I care about these?" I had trouble even remembering their names.

In all, I would say that this is an okay Science Fiction movie. The visuals are wonderful, music is great as always. However, when you add the Star Wars title to it, I expect more. I expect it to fit in an established universe and its rules. I expect the characters to act like themselves. I expect NEW STORY for god's sake. You have the entire Star Wars universe to play with and you choose to recycle an old story...it is just mind boggling. An average rating for an average movie, 5
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22 of 37 users found this helpful2215
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0
InterceptorDec 29, 2015
Episode 7: The Forced Mistakes. There is no reason that this movie had to be this God-awful. How about having the courage to actually try to tell a new story? There was not a single risk taken in the entire film! It was nothing exceptEpisode 7: The Forced Mistakes. There is no reason that this movie had to be this God-awful. How about having the courage to actually try to tell a new story? There was not a single risk taken in the entire film! It was nothing except what worked in past films except for a few details here and there. The problem is, it doesn't work in this film because WE'VE ALREADY SEEN IT BEFORE! Give us what we were told was coming, a new episode. What complete cowards. Disgraceful. Expand
71 of 117 users found this helpful7146
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0
dirkdeaglerDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I too felt a need to create a Metacritic account just to review this.

I wish JJ Abrams didn't exist. A lot of reviews rightly criticize him for ruining two sci-fi franchises in Star Trek and Star Wars, but let's not forget his hack friend Damon Lindelof also ruined the Alien franchise with the crappy writing in Prometheus.

I can't fathom how critics rated this as highly as they did. Kudos to Michael Hiltzik of the LA Times for having the stones to appropriately review this turd.

Star Wars TFA critical flaw is that it suffers from writing I'd expect to find on a Disney Channel show for eleventeen year olds. Others reviews have provided an overview of the enormous plot holes present in the script, so I'll focus only on the central Maguffin, the star map to Luke. The main plot arc for the entire movie focuses on locating Luke, who, inconsistently with all his characterization in the preceding 3 films, has disappeared as soon as the going gets tough. The search for Luke revolves around a portion of a star map, stored on the Star Wars equivalent of a USB drive. However, later in the film during the battle around the Starkiller base, we repeatedly see the Resistance HQ getting real-time updates from the battle. This establishes that faster-than-light transmission of information is possible even under the most extreme conditions. Why then, did the Resistance bother making a map and committing it to their Star Wars USB when they could've just beamed the information directly back to rebel HQ?!? In other words, instead of just sending an email, they decided they'd rather put the information on a USB and physically transport it across the entirety of a hostile galaxy. Yeah, that's the central plot, and it would be a historical anachronism in present day Earth, let alone in a Star Wars movie.

The film is set against a muddy backdrop, where the outcome of events of the first six episodes is unclear. I kept expecting at least a cursory attempt at exposition at some point during the film, but apparently forgettable and pointless fifteen minute scenes fighting tentacle monsters were more deserving of screen time than a basic understanding of the setting.

The characters were more often flat caricatures than believable people with understandable motivations. The new characters were particularly bad:

-Finn is the bumbling sidekick, whose only apparent purpose is to provide comic relief when not providing crucial details about the Starkiller base due to his vast experience in the custodial arts. His conscientious objection to pointless killing is conveniently forgotten when it's time to gleefully cut down some storm troopers. The failure to explore his de-conditioning as a storm trooper and to show his growth as a character is another of the many missed opportunities in the film.

-Rey. Exhaustively covered in other reviews, but she can do everything effortlessly and with no training, which dissolves any tension related to this character's place in the plot because we know beforehand that she will easily succeed at anything she tries.

-Kylo Ren started as one of the more interesting characters with his struggles between the dark and light side of the force (although apparently no one told him that Vader wasn't a paragon of the dark side and redeemed himself before dying. No big deal, only one of the most important developments of the preceding six films.) The chance to explore his motivation in a stunning act of betrayal against the light side and his uncle Luke is wasted in favor portraying flat teen angst. Kylo is reduced to a foil to show us how awesome Ren is.

The older characters don't really belong and are shoehorned into the script wherever possible. It seems like Harrison Ford really tried to give us Han Solo, but at some point realized what a disaster the script was going to be. Princess Leia was a trainwreck. C3PO's face moves more than Carrie Fisher's.

I desperately wanted to like this movie, but it's clear that I'm no longer Disney's target audience. This is bland, safe, filmmaking where every facet of the script was run through multiple focus groups to optimize Disney's return on investment. The resulting product will no doubt give executives and Disney shareholders what they desire, at the expense of making anything resembling a good Star Wars film.
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53 of 88 users found this helpful5335
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4
RAGrierDec 29, 2015
I am still not certain which is the more fitting descriptor, "forgettable" or "disappointing." Let's go with both.
The plot was rehashed and the characters were flaccid. The bad guy character, ummm, what's his name? Mike? Billy? Anyway, he's
I am still not certain which is the more fitting descriptor, "forgettable" or "disappointing." Let's go with both.
The plot was rehashed and the characters were flaccid. The bad guy character, ummm, what's his name? Mike? Billy? Anyway, he's the type that would be at a Gender Dysphoria Emo Rave telling everyone how dark, deep, tough and oh yeah… how misunderstood he is.
There were no "wow" moments. I really didn’t see anything new. There were only a couple of thrills (CG stuff mostly) and you could cut the suspense with a jelly bean. It felt like a cheaply and quickly made mashup of Harry Potter meets a few guys from Lord of the Rings in space with some faces you knew in 1977 so you can say it is Star Wars. Oh and the cliff hanger ending. Hmmm… golly, how dramatic and symbolic. The biggest symbol was the actual cliff. Made me want to jump off…
The Clone Wars cartoons are much better with storyline, character and plot development. Heck, Star Wars Rebels has more depth. LEGO Star Wars has better jokes...
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74 of 122 users found this helpful7448
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0
RodTheAccusserDec 29, 2015
Yes, I know that many out there will never give Lucas a break after Attack of the Clones, but after this debacle, let me just say it: "Man I wish George Lucas was here!" No, he wasn't the movie maker he was back in the 70s and 80s, but atYes, I know that many out there will never give Lucas a break after Attack of the Clones, but after this debacle, let me just say it: "Man I wish George Lucas was here!" No, he wasn't the movie maker he was back in the 70s and 80s, but at least he had a vision. George was a story-teller with a vast understanding of mythology and politics. Abrams is just a mere movie-maker. He's no visionary. In fact, the only vision that anyone at Disney had with this film was dollar signs. The classic films are actually about something big, the struggle between good and evil both out there in the world and within our own souls. This film is just a smattering of random scenes from previous films thrown together to make a buck. There is nothing big going on. It's just a shallow money grab. Yeah, episodes I and II were really bad movies, but, man, I would give anything to have a visionary like Lucas back at the helm now. Expand
68 of 114 users found this helpful6846
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5
GrogmonsterDec 29, 2015
George Lucas said after seeing this film "it's what people wanted." Really? People wanted a remake of
Episode 4? A lot of scenes just didn't feel right and felt rushed and far too many items conveniently placed like the millennium falcon for
George Lucas said after seeing this film "it's what people wanted." Really? People wanted a remake of
Episode 4? A lot of scenes just didn't feel right and felt rushed and far too many items conveniently placed like the millennium falcon for example. Really disappointing, I was expecting better.
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34 of 56 users found this helpful3422
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6
Batman6794Dec 29, 2015
The good: The effects look good for the most part, particularly the light sabers. There is some good banter and funny dialogue throughout.

The bad: The script follows the pattern of the original almost beat for beat without adding anything
The good: The effects look good for the most part, particularly the light sabers. There is some good banter and funny dialogue throughout.

The bad: The script follows the pattern of the original almost beat for beat without adding anything valuable. The new characters don't develop much depth. The story lurches from one set piece to the next, connected only by forced coincidences that strain credibility at first, and then push well beyond it.

Not as ugly as the painful prequels, but not very good either.
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12 of 26 users found this helpful1214
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0
Nate3nateDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. How this movie is getting so much praise is beyond me. Oh it's got Han and Leia and Chewie and Luke? Oooo must be 10/10 woo!

It's basically a parody of Star Wars a New Hope, at one point I thought "Am I watching an Austin Powers reboot?" the "First Order" Empire was so inept it was bordering on three stooges stupidity with them not giving two **** about anything.

Oh something crash landed on your planet base THOUGH YOUR SHIELDS no less and no one cares or investigates or even makes a remark about it.

Oh somehow out planet base shields are down and NO ONE MENTIONS IT OR EVEN TRIES TO TURN THE DAMN SHIELDS BACK ON!!!

Oh there is a force user loose in the base, shesh better not alert anyone or put anyone on guard or even how about sending out some storm troopers with those light saber blocking electro weapons... nope nothing.

Hey how about locking a door so Han, Chewie and Finn at least have to blast it open or even hack it open or even fight to get into the base!!! NOPE! Nothing, no cameras, no security, no nothing.

And that's all just the last scene, I could go on and on and on about everything in this movie like how the Xwing pilots have no problem sniping storm troopers to free Han, Chewie, Finn (the three amigos as it were) but miss the giant imperial shuttle that's parked right out back.

Or how Finn, who was a storm trooper janitor, knows important information about the imperial base. Or how the imperials have THE REST OF THE DAMN MAP TO WHERE LUKE IS!!!! But can't be bothered to send even 1 damn probe droid! I mean seriously?!

Ugh... I could go on for another 10000000 words on why this movie is awful and not worth money to see or your time, but I would basically just be pointing out more of the same.

OH OH OH!!! Don't get me started on a magical 2 seater tie fighter with back lasers and missiles!!! TIE FIGHTERS ARE A SINGLE SEATER SPACE CRAFT WITH FORWARD FIRING LASERS ONLY! Holy **** I still can't believe they couldn't come up with anything better than, hey lets just pretend Tie Fighters have this stuff cause we need them to be able to escape. Hey JJ, how about they just take idk, a Tie Bomber... oh pry cause you didn't actually read up on any Star Wars lore... oh...

0/10 for the love of all that is good with the Force do not pay to see this movie!
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44 of 74 users found this helpful4430
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0
starfighter1Dec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A huge disappointment. It recycles far too much material from the original trilogy, contains too many plot holes, and the story-telling is sloppy at times. In no way does the film advance the Star Ways mythology. It simply regurgitates it, into things we have seen before. There's another Death Star, there's more father & son issues, and then we have cheap knock-offs of Yoda, Boba Fett and the Obi-Wan death scene. A huge missed opportunity to tell something fresh, or even offer an intelligent, thoughtful story. Thanks J.J. Abrams for ruining two of my favorite sci-fi franchises. Expand
37 of 63 users found this helpful3726
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10
NShep53Dec 29, 2015
The Best Star Wars since Empire Strikes Back. Not a copy of Episode 4 but it does pay homage to it. If this is just remake of A New Hope, then Terminator 2 is just a remake of The Terminator. And it seems really odd to me that over half ofThe Best Star Wars since Empire Strikes Back. Not a copy of Episode 4 but it does pay homage to it. If this is just remake of A New Hope, then Terminator 2 is just a remake of The Terminator. And it seems really odd to me that over half of the negatives scores have a review on this site. And that every reviewer's profile I go on that gave a negative review of this movie just created an account recently (it looks like Universal paid people to review this movie a dog sh*t score to make up for their **** movie, Jurassic World). Expand
9 of 56 users found this helpful947
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5
KapitanhDec 29, 2015
Es una pelicula que recuerda demasiado el capitulo 4 de la saga; además se espera una historia más espiritual y nos encontramos de lleno en una guerra, que pensábamos que ya estaba extinta le doy un cinco porque pense en un "despertar" y meEs una pelicula que recuerda demasiado el capitulo 4 de la saga; además se espera una historia más espiritual y nos encontramos de lleno en una guerra, que pensábamos que ya estaba extinta le doy un cinco porque pense en un "despertar" y me encontre con una pelicula de guerra, igual me gusto como pelicula de accion. felicito al equipo de marketing muy buena la publicidad, engañosa pero buena... Expand
16 of 27 users found this helpful1611
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10
samoohDec 29, 2015
Brilliant. Humorous, heartfelt, genuine and produced with authenticity and close attention to the spirit of the saga. Abrams clearly understands Star Wars fans and creates enough that is new and fresh while honoring the past.
8 of 50 users found this helpful842
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7
jcpshdDec 29, 2015
Not bad Disney, not bad. If you're a huge SW fan and you go to watch this movie with your expectations low as I did, you might be gladly surprised of how much this movie doesn't suck. It is not a masterpiece, but it's not bad either. MostNot bad Disney, not bad. If you're a huge SW fan and you go to watch this movie with your expectations low as I did, you might be gladly surprised of how much this movie doesn't suck. It is not a masterpiece, but it's not bad either. Most importantly, when the movie finished I didn't leave with that bitter sensation from Episode I, quite the contrary, I found myself whistling the Star Wars theme while driving home.

It does rely a lot on nostalgia to please the fans, but I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing. It also introduced new characters, which I found refreshing and I think it's something the franchise really needed.

The acting from the main characters was decent-good and the effects were excellent as in most modern high-budget movies.

Overall a solid 7, I would recommend watching it if you have the slightest interest for Star Wars.
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3 of 25 users found this helpful322
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6
CoNn3r_BDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I wanted to like this movie, I really did but there are just too many underlying issues that just ruins this movie for me:

The good:

The action scenes in this movie are phenomenal, I expected them to be good but I was taken by surprise with how engaged I became especially with scenes like the Millennium Falcon dog fight that was nothing short of captivating. The light saber battle between Kylo Ren and Finn was one of the most intense saber battles I've ever seen in a Star Wars movie I would put it in the same league as the fight between Vader and Luke in episode V.

I was surprised with how much I like BB-8. when I first saw the design I was reprehensive because it was obvious they one up the original trilogy which draws some comparisons you just don't want, all in all he was a functional and fun character and a worthy successor to R2-D2.

Finn was a great character and I really connected with him, his underdog roots and his complicated life made for a compelling character.

The original characters were more than gratuitous cameos and actually had bearing on the plot.

The bad:
This movie is terrible at pacing, the movie flies by in an instant which can be a good thing but in this case it just feels rushed, for example; the destruction of Starkiller base which had no impact at all when it happened, I wasn't captivated with this movies story. In fact I was rather bored with the whole story because it blatantly rips off episode IV at almost every turn.

Unimaginative locations, if I see another desert planet I'm going to stab someone. All the planets look familiar because they lack in creative imagination. Jaku is Tatooine, the forest planet they go to looks like Endor and most of the movie is filmed in space or inside a ship, this just makes the galaxy feel dead and stale which is not what I should be feeling from the galaxy far, far away.

The ugly:

Rey...everything about her. First off her acting was god awful, her character was bland and flat with no interesting qualities. Even though she has a mysterious backstory, it somehow feels so familiar that it lacks in impact. Her ability to instantly be good at everything she does is nothing short of insulting and don't get me started on her battle with Kylo Ren...The worst thing about Rey though is that she is the jedi. I never felt that she earned it in the movie, when she holds the light saber it just doesn't seem right and to top it off her battle with Ren was boring to watch. The best person to be the jedi would have been Finn, I felt he deserved it more and his back story made him a more interesting and engaging character.

Kylo Ren was just bad, I felt so disappointed when Ren took off his helmet to reveal a snivelling little teenager, it removed all the intimidation he had and from there on out he just felt like another Anakin Skywalker but somehow more whiny, the idea that he is Han Solo's son was cool but the reveal was so lacklustre that I didn't care.

Han's death, I didn't hate the idea that Han died in fact I was hoping for it but he was killed off so quickly at the hands of a character I didn't care about just so the movie can have one memorable moment. If Kylo Ren had been better developed and the conflict inside him had been shown more that scene might have had some impact on me. All in all the death of Han Solo is brushed aside pretty much as soon as it happens which just takes away from it more.

Overall I found this movie to be an enraging experience with an absolutely phenomenal start that falls flat halfway through. Well done JJ, you messed it up.
6.4/10
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12 of 23 users found this helpful1211
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4
Eyeball_PaulDec 29, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After watching Episode VII, here is my synopsis for Episode VIII:

The movie begins on an ice planet, where a First Order probe has landed. The probe identifies the new location of the Resistance base on the planet. Meanwhile, inside the base, Finn wakes up and finds out that Rey has left. He then indicates his wishes to find her. Before he sets off, the base is attacked by First Order troops. Cue battle scene where Poe and Finn kick ass. Finn then sets off to find Rey.

Back at the Island planet seen at the end of Episode VII, Luke trains Rey in the ways of the Force. Luke is amazed that Rey grasps the concepts of the Force so easily and already knows so much. Luke naturally thinks nefarious thoughts and thinks something is not quite right.

Back in space, Finn is captured by the First Order. Rey senses this through her incredible knowledge of the Force and sets of to find him, despite Luke's warning that she is not ready and she needs to complete her training.

Rey flies to the Star Destroyer Finn is held on. After kicking Stormtrooper ass, she comes face to face with Kylo Ren (again). Ren gives a speech about how he is now more powerful since he has completed his training. Cue the inevitable lightsaber fight where, at the end of the battle, it is revealed that Ren and Rey are siblings. "Noooooooo" proclaims Rey who then proceeds to slice off one of Kylo Ren's limbs. Finn and Rey then escape.

Kylo Ren then slumps off to Snoke. Snoke then orders a full scale attack on the Resistance with their new superweapon, which we will see in Episode XI..... THE END.
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11 of 25 users found this helpful1114
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4
bullywugDec 29, 2015
So, basically this is a remake of Episode 4. What people are calling nods are actually the entire movie. There is almost no original content. As with all Star Wars films the action is plentiful and fun but the acting is weak and the storySo, basically this is a remake of Episode 4. What people are calling nods are actually the entire movie. There is almost no original content. As with all Star Wars films the action is plentiful and fun but the acting is weak and the story filled with holes. I don't want to sound too critical. I think it's at least as good as Hunger Games or Maze Runner but it is certainly not an amazing piece of art. Expand
25 of 42 users found this helpful2517
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4
TixyLixDec 29, 2015
The second worst Star Wars Movie after Episode 2.....

I loved the opening 30 mins or so, I thought they were going to take us on an exciting new adventure with these new characters. However they quickly got bogged down in fan service, they
The second worst Star Wars Movie after Episode 2.....

I loved the opening 30 mins or so, I thought they were going to take us on an exciting new adventure with these new characters. However they quickly got bogged down in fan service, they brought us the original characters back who really had no purpose what so ever. I mean you'd think they would have developed as people over 30 years, they would have a few stories to tell.... but no, they're there for fanboi cheers.

Then the story quickly just follows the plot of Episode 4, to the point they have a Death Star at the end that they explode. Haven't they learnt with Death Stars yet? Either don't bother or STOP GIVING IT A MASSIVE WEAKPOINT!!!!! What's even more crazy is some Stormtrooper had the ability to turn off the shields... no.. something like that would never have been designed that way. Then how a few bits of c4 could make something the size of a planet explode... wtf?

The problem with the story not being unique and it's own thing is when you decide to Watch the entire Star Wars movie collection in the future, you'll want to skip Episode 7 because it's just Episode 4 but worse.

Walking out of the Cinema, not one person was excited, they were all saying it was boring and crap and laughing at there being another Death Star. My friend who was a huge Star Wars fan.. he just said it was **** and worse than The Phantom Menace.

That is why I put this film as the second worse, because at least The Phantom Menace had something new going on. I was excited to watch it and I still am, despite it's shoddy acting, at least it had The Pod Racing and Darth Maul and other exciting things going on, you can even watch "The Phantom Edit" to make it better.

I can just hope Episode 8 and 9 do something new and they don't make Rey related to any of them. I had a hard time believing Luke would just give up a run away (seems to be the Jedi way now) but I'd have a harder time believing he or any one else would just abandon that girl.
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63 of 101 users found this helpful6338
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8
nutterjrDec 29, 2015
I was 10 when I saw Star Wars for the first time in a special triple bill of Episodes IV, V and VI in cinema in Leicester Square. I still remember the feeling of being transported to a another world where the battle of good vs evil was ragingI was 10 when I saw Star Wars for the first time in a special triple bill of Episodes IV, V and VI in cinema in Leicester Square. I still remember the feeling of being transported to a another world where the battle of good vs evil was raging on, in a fairytale where princesses, funny creatures, talking robots and awsome super powers existed.
I was fortunate after all these years to watch the next episode of the saga in a church turned cinema in Winchester on a super comfy sofa for two with my 10 year old son and it was like being 10 years old again myself, like seeing it through his eyes.
Everything that I came to love about the original trilogy was there and all the familiar characters were back. The special effects were made to look realistic, there was good doses of action and humour, the new protagonists introduced are all genuinely interesting (with the exception perhaps of the Supreme Leader) and at the end of it, both my son and I, are left counting the days to the next Episode...
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8 of 41 users found this helpful833
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0
johnangelDec 28, 2015
Why do you need deathstars and fleets train Rey for a week and watch her destroy planets and eat galaxies wtf is this **** I didn't expect sharknado type of writing in the new star wars but this is what I got and zero is that this movie gets.
39 of 66 users found this helpful3927
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10
nanibabaDec 28, 2015
The Force Awakens is a fantastic movie! Everything in it is logical, and the plot is great. Yes, definitely, some things in the movie repeat other things that have been seen in other movies of the sequel. However, this repetition is logicalThe Force Awakens is a fantastic movie! Everything in it is logical, and the plot is great. Yes, definitely, some things in the movie repeat other things that have been seen in other movies of the sequel. However, this repetition is logical and the repetition doesn't become too much and doesn't become annoying. It even makes the plot better. Also, the visuals of The Force Awakens are awesome, and the actors act quite well. J.J Abrams made a good job with continuing the sequel, and I would be happy if he makes the next movies too. Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens definitely gives me the feeling of nostalgia, and I would watch it again when I have the opportunity. Expand
9 of 49 users found this helpful940
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9
beliebersimranDec 28, 2015
The Movie was very well displayed. All the characters were very well thought out and so were the Dialogues, although Kylo Ren could have been more evil
4 of 28 users found this helpful424
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1
Dreoh86Dec 28, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I really like Star Wars, but this movie almost felt like a bad remake of A New Hope. Besides that, Kylo Ren is one of the worst villains I've ever seen. Why is he so weak? He was trained by Luke Skywalker and is quite easily defeated by Rey. How is that possible? Oh wait, he's an expert at throwing tantrums.
Then there is the First Order. I know that ODESSA supposedly was the inspiration for the First Order, but all they seem to be is a bunch of incompetent Space-Nazi-Wannabes. Don't they know how the first Death Star was destroyed? Why didn't they implement tougher security measures? ...
I just want some consistency.
Well, at least the actors did a good job, especially Adam Driver (it's not his fault Kylo Ren is such a poorly written character) and Harrison Ford.
I'll give the next movie a chance, but this one has far too many flaws.
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44 of 73 users found this helpful4429
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5
getatyourboyDec 28, 2015
I agree with rederp's comment, "Sadly, we get a rehash of the same story we have seen before. The same plot lines with the same progression as before. It's paint-by-numbers star wars. You have seen it all before and it's missing the adventureI agree with rederp's comment, "Sadly, we get a rehash of the same story we have seen before. The same plot lines with the same progression as before. It's paint-by-numbers star wars. You have seen it all before and it's missing the adventure movie magic in an immersive fantasy world." Expand
25 of 42 users found this helpful2517
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0
abresslerDec 28, 2015
Abrams did a dis-service to Star Wars. It was Disney, yep you got disney. I expect Jedi princess Rae dolls in stores from now to forever...Movie was enjoyable but could have been told as episode X. There's 25 years missing between episode 6Abrams did a dis-service to Star Wars. It was Disney, yep you got disney. I expect Jedi princess Rae dolls in stores from now to forever...Movie was enjoyable but could have been told as episode X. There's 25 years missing between episode 6 and episode 7 .. It was a copy cat film re-playing episode 4. Should have taken on the EXPANDED UNIVERSE for the trilogy. HEIR TO THE EMPIRE would have made a better Episode VII then this... I want GRAND ADMIRAL THRAWN and Mara Jade. Dont get me wrong It enjoyable but overall writing was weak. Great screen play. I hope to see how the new Republic actually rises on screen some day..... Expand
44 of 74 users found this helpful4430
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5
ALLCAPSDec 28, 2015
Nothing special. Nothing seemed new. The planets were familiar, the scenes, the fights and even the characters. I found the first hour incredibly boring only for nostalgia to save it for me a little at the end. Was it the worst thing I sawNothing special. Nothing seemed new. The planets were familiar, the scenes, the fights and even the characters. I found the first hour incredibly boring only for nostalgia to save it for me a little at the end. Was it the worst thing I saw this year? No, but it definitely wasn't even close to one of the best. Expand
44 of 73 users found this helpful4429
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0
MindTrickedDec 28, 2015
Were critics praising this pile of garbage under the influence of the jedi mind trick or something? What absolute cowards! No one experienced in film could possibly look at this joke and not see it for what it is: 1/2 rip-off of previousWere critics praising this pile of garbage under the influence of the jedi mind trick or something? What absolute cowards! No one experienced in film could possibly look at this joke and not see it for what it is: 1/2 rip-off of previous films and 1/2 incoherent ridiculousness. Beyond awful. Expand
94 of 159 users found this helpful9465
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10
ForeverFallingDec 28, 2015
Fantastic. Sure, it has similarities and parallels A New Hope in certain regards. But it is not a "re-hash" or "remake". It, for sure, has it's own identity and continues the saga beautifully. People claming that it is a bad film are deludedFantastic. Sure, it has similarities and parallels A New Hope in certain regards. But it is not a "re-hash" or "remake". It, for sure, has it's own identity and continues the saga beautifully. People claming that it is a bad film are deluded and kidding themselves. Even if you don't love it, I can't see how it isn't at least a good or well made film. Expand
9 of 48 users found this helpful939
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0
ForcedAwayDec 28, 2015
The problem is not only that this movie is just a hodgepodge of scenes that we've seen before. It also sets up the remaining films to also be more of the same as well. We already saw the fall of the Empire thanks to jedi Luke Skywalker andThe problem is not only that this movie is just a hodgepodge of scenes that we've seen before. It also sets up the remaining films to also be more of the same as well. We already saw the fall of the Empire thanks to jedi Luke Skywalker and the rebellion in episode 6. Now, we'll see the fall of the First Order thanks to jedi Rey and the resistance in episode 9. Why stick around for that? JJ, you have forced me out. Expand
67 of 113 users found this helpful6746
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9
Bestone890Dec 28, 2015
I loved the movie. In my opinion, it was fantastic and everything that I wanted it to be. The key words here are "I" and "opinion". What bothers me is the fact that some people who did not like the movie feel that I am some kind of idiot orI loved the movie. In my opinion, it was fantastic and everything that I wanted it to be. The key words here are "I" and "opinion". What bothers me is the fact that some people who did not like the movie feel that I am some kind of idiot or just plain crazy for my opinion of liking the movie. If you did not like the movie, that is fine by me. You are 100% entitled to your opinion, but it is flat out just your opinion. Remember, you can be the only person in the whole world that enjoys something, and the only thing that ever matters is how you feel. Expand
8 of 35 users found this helpful827
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8
UserScoreDec 28, 2015
Great main characters (Rey, Finn), fantastic action sequences, emotional depth, great music and effects.
Reveal of the villain too premature, weak secondary villain (general hux), too many nods to the original and the movie coul've done
Great main characters (Rey, Finn), fantastic action sequences, emotional depth, great music and effects.
Reveal of the villain too premature, weak secondary villain (general hux), too many nods to the original and the movie coul've done without poe (oscar isaac).
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5 of 29 users found this helpful524
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10
SenseiAgotDec 28, 2015
I loved this movie. It's not a perfect 10 but i'm giving it one because there are way too many morons who are giving it a 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4 to this movie, failing to recognize at the very least the craftsmanship behind it. Is this really aI loved this movie. It's not a perfect 10 but i'm giving it one because there are way too many morons who are giving it a 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4 to this movie, failing to recognize at the very least the craftsmanship behind it. Is this really a movie deserving a 0? Are you completely nuts? There's a limit to be a hater (or a fanboy). Normally i would give it an 8 or 8.5, maybe, when i just left the theater, i would have gave it a 9, but because of all the retarded people who are giving it a 0 (REALLY????), i'm going the other way. Expand
9 of 35 users found this helpful926
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9
JuanLuisGG14Dec 28, 2015
Surely, best Star Wars film since Episode V
Episode VII is plenty of intense moments, ahd although many of them are fan service moments, those moments really shine on their own.
Great movie 9/10
6 of 31 users found this helpful625
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0
tigerskin84Dec 28, 2015
I really want to love this movie but i cant ... it has so many flaws, a carbon copy of episode 4, the new order is now under the command of a bunch of teens , the villains arent evil!!! what where you thinking jar jar abhrams?? rey is way tooI really want to love this movie but i cant ... it has so many flaws, a carbon copy of episode 4, the new order is now under the command of a bunch of teens , the villains arent evil!!! what where you thinking jar jar abhrams?? rey is way too overporwered and kylo ren is a crying b!tch, and if you are going too kill a big hero do it with the honor he deserves, nobody was touched by his death i really cant believe people gaving a 10 to this movie , the thrawn trilogy is way better than this!! IM TOTALLY DISSAPOINTED!!! Expand
65 of 110 users found this helpful6545
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9
gdiego135Dec 28, 2015
wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy better then the pre quels, if not better then the originals or as equal. if your not a star wars fan or still have a bad taste in your mouth since the prequels well worry no more, for everyone out there this is a greatwayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy better then the pre quels, if not better then the originals or as equal. if your not a star wars fan or still have a bad taste in your mouth since the prequels well worry no more, for everyone out there this is a great movie not just star wars but in general. almost everything is fantastic, can't wait for episode 8, imma go the first day, dbox, and go in star wars pants, shoes, shirt, sweater, and beanie!!!!!!! Expand
8 of 41 users found this helpful833
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0
mindclearerDec 28, 2015
THERAPY FOR STAR WARS FANS. Long-time Star Wars fans out there, I feel your pain. I am your pain. I've loved this franchise since 1977, and after 38 years, it is over for us. JJ played it safe by making a movie that was sure to appeal toTHERAPY FOR STAR WARS FANS. Long-time Star Wars fans out there, I feel your pain. I am your pain. I've loved this franchise since 1977, and after 38 years, it is over for us. JJ played it safe by making a movie that was sure to appeal to younger viewers who never cared much for Star Wars but would crush the hearts of long-time fans, a stunning new experience for newbies, a problem-ridden remake to the rest of us. Why did he do it? Because younger viewers are where the money is. Ignorant of the fact that this is just a sad cobbling together of scenes from the classic films, younger viewers are gobbling it up as if it’s a stunning new breakthrough film. They just don't know any better, and that's the whole idea. Blind to what they are actually seeing, they are paying hand over fist for this movie while those of us in the know sit in slack-jawed amazement at the travesty that we are witnessing. There is just no gentle way to put it. JJ Abrams has sold us out.

But here is how we have to deal with this. Yes, we were all looking forward to another chapter in the Star Wars saga, and yes we are all disappointed that we didn't get it. But there is no changing that now. What's done is done. That being the case, what we must now realize is this. There is only one way that we could have possibly enjoyed this film and the future installments as well. We would have to watch them in the same condition of ignorance that these younger fans are in. In other words, we would have to have never seen and loved the classic films that captivated us so. We would have to erase from our past the amazement and the wonder that Star Wars has given us for all of these decades. Yes, it would have been great to have enjoyed this movie, but such enjoyment could only have been purchased at the price of the original epics. No one who has ever been truly moved by this Franchise would ever accept such a tradeoff. Let the younger viewers have this film and those to come. Let them enjoy this shadow of the original under the delusion that they are witnessing an innovative new marvel. Let them do all of this while we rest firm in the knowledge that what we ourselves experienced was the true masterpiece, an irreplaceable treasure that these merely derivative new episodes simply will never be.
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60 of 101 users found this helpful6041
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1
besstDec 28, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. STAR WARS a review from a fan. Spoilers!!!

Banal story, poorly told. Uninspired, silly, forced dialogue. Unqualified actors with zero chemistry with the script or other actors. Under developed characters. Sluggish pacing. Ridiculous, absurd, nonthreatening, lightweight, villain. (Worst bad guy in history) Princess Leia is his mother? Luke is his uncle? Darth Vader is his grandfather and he's an inept Jedi, beaten up by a silly, underwritten, girl????? The villain alone gives this movie an F, and everyone who has seen it over 17 knows it. Attempt at humor a complete failure. Old characters tired looking with nothing to say, yet the only redeeming factor of the whole movie.
Stupid. Poorly cast. Poorly written. Better CGI in the prequels. Terrible fight scenes. Special effects sucked.
Boorish mess that should have been left on the cutting room floor.
I almost walked out.
Like J J Abrams Trek films, it was nonsensical, loud, and instantly forgettable.
My grade: D+
Now all the star wars nuts will flip out, when they know in their little hearts that this was not a good movie.
And this is how hey kill off Han Solo? By some wimpy, whiney, temper tantrum throwing show girl???
Your kidding, right?
I am stuned by the reviews.
I think this was the worst of the series.
Come on! You thought that villain was worthy???? You thought that RN was a good character? Or a good actor for that matter? All that panting and sweating for the first 10 minutes of the movie. Zero chemistry between the 2 main leads????
Please.
This movie is a disgrace.
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82 of 138 users found this helpful8256
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6
RobertOBrienDec 28, 2015
I won't spoil the big scene but let's just say that even before I knew about it it was the most predictable thing ever. And sadly I can say the same thing about the story. Not because of bad plotting, but because I have seen this plot before.I won't spoil the big scene but let's just say that even before I knew about it it was the most predictable thing ever. And sadly I can say the same thing about the story. Not because of bad plotting, but because I have seen this plot before. Not just in other films but in other Star Wars films. They follow Episode 4's formula to an excessive degree and the film is too derivative to truly recommend for theatres. Expand
13 of 18 users found this helpful135
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9
benjammin089Dec 28, 2015
Despite sticking very close to the plot of New Hope, JJ Abrams breathes new life into a movie many expected to be a bust. The character development throughout the movie and the emotion that is exhibited in decisive scenes knows no bounds.Despite sticking very close to the plot of New Hope, JJ Abrams breathes new life into a movie many expected to be a bust. The character development throughout the movie and the emotion that is exhibited in decisive scenes knows no bounds. Overall, I am extremely impressed with The Force Awakens and believe it should be nominated for Best Picture. Not just for its outstanding visuals, but for the movie as a whole and the pressure put on Abrams to deliver, a goal that he exceeded. Expand
6 of 29 users found this helpful623
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7
SmaseliafDec 28, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Although I don’t intend to give SWTFA thumps down, I expected it to be more solid, less cliched. 4 points I disliked:

1) The fact that the son of legendary soldiers of “Good” Han and Leia is the villain (and not just any villain, an evil leader). Family business as ridiculous as Han Solo’s scene of death.
2) The Gollum-like villain.
3) Lack of depth, e.g. how Rey discovers she's gifted with the Force and even beats Ren, a master of lightsabering.
4) Sloppy video game action in some scenes, e.g. on the ship where Han meets Finn and Rey.

Likeable characters, old and new, the lightsaber duel in the snow, and some stunning visuals (epic last sequence) offset some of its flaws.
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7 of 23 users found this helpful716
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0
j1261922Dec 28, 2015
This is the worst Start Wars ever.
The story is mostly from episode 4 with additional stupid stuff and plot holes.
Not much new and especially nothing uniques in this film. Even Episode 1 was better and more creative as this one. For me
This is the worst Start Wars ever.
The story is mostly from episode 4 with additional stupid stuff and plot holes.
Not much new and especially nothing uniques in this film.
Even Episode 1 was better and more creative as this one.
For me Start Wars is unfortunately dead. Or was killed by Disney!?
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66 of 111 users found this helpful6645
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0
donb5302Dec 28, 2015
I'm dumbfounded how this movie is getting good reviews in some circles. This movie is horrible. And I'm sick and tired of critics giving positive lazy reviews of something that history will show was crap. You don't care about theseI'm dumbfounded how this movie is getting good reviews in some circles. This movie is horrible. And I'm sick and tired of critics giving positive lazy reviews of something that history will show was crap. You don't care about these characters. You don't care ( outside of Hans Solo) about anybody in this film. Nothing is explained. There is no edge of your seat story to hold it together. In short, this thing goes nowhere! a complete waste of $10, and 2 hours of my life I can't get back. Look, I wanted to like this movie. I did. But there was nothing. Bad acting. Bad story. Bad music. Need I go on? Save your money. Your welcome. Expand
42 of 71 users found this helpful4229
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3
THe_NoMaDDec 28, 2015
The fun new characters and past favorites aren't enough to stop the plagiarism of A New Hope. It's TYBOE. Turn Your Brain Off Entertainment. If you can do that then it will be an enjoyable popcorn movie. If not you will hate it's many flawsThe fun new characters and past favorites aren't enough to stop the plagiarism of A New Hope. It's TYBOE. Turn Your Brain Off Entertainment. If you can do that then it will be an enjoyable popcorn movie. If not you will hate it's many flaws and logic failings. Expand
15 of 26 users found this helpful1511
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5
Kaiser_BenDec 28, 2015
I really like Star Wars, it is one of my favorite movie series ever but this time, after I watched a new VII episode, I was confused.

I will be honest, I didn't like the actors, most of them. They didn't have charisma or something that can
I really like Star Wars, it is one of my favorite movie series ever but this time, after I watched a new VII episode, I was confused.

I will be honest, I didn't like the actors, most of them. They didn't have charisma or something that can catch you to feel happy when looking at them.

I can't say that the movie is bad, it is not but I expected more from it. It's star wars, on of the biggest space action movie ever, and as everyone already pre-said "Disney will ruin everything". And this phrase is kind of true.

I want to say thanks for J.J. Abrams, he really did well, he tried to show us the atmosphere of star wars.

Overall:
Action - 8/10
Actors - 3-4/10
Script - 3/10
Special Effects and sound - 9/10
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16 of 27 users found this helpful1611
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3
ragtopman69Dec 28, 2015
Its obvious that the professional critics get paid to like the big blockbuster movies because this was just the same old Star Wars. The battle scenes are the same. The storm troopers wear the same uniforms as they did 30 years earlier.Its obvious that the professional critics get paid to like the big blockbuster movies because this was just the same old Star Wars. The battle scenes are the same. The storm troopers wear the same uniforms as they did 30 years earlier. Same old light saber, space craft and blasters. Same aliens. Same tavern scene. Darth Vadar was replaced with a slimmed down gayer version named Ren who of course is Han Solo/Leia's son who went over to the dark side. DUH Rey and Finn are the new characters who are essentially clones of Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker from the original Star Wars. Rey is one of the few bright spots of the movie. Finn is just plain stupid and irritating that you hope will be a minor character while the guy you think will be a major character (Poe) ends up being the minor characters. Androids are the same. Nothing new except for the 3D. Same plot from beginning to end as the original Star Wars. Even the battles could have been taken directly out of the original and spliced into this mess as there was nothing new. Heck, the entire movie is summed up in the scrolling prelude before the movie begins. I thought surely there is more to this movie than Luke Skywalker's whereabouts. NOPE. That is exactly what the movie is about. nothing more. And in the end he is on the top of a mountain herding goats or something. And I though the ending of LOST was biggest pile of crap laid by JJ Abrams. This tops that steaming pile by a mile. I give it 3 stars only because of Harrison Ford, Chewy and Rey. Oh, and my wife who was so fired up to see this fell asleep after about 45 minutes. If you are 12 years old this would be great movie. If you are over 20+ and like this then you got big problems. At least LOST didn't cost me $30.. Expand
59 of 99 users found this helpful5940
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3
HelenHDec 28, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. To see this movie once is more than enough. It lacks both the originality of previous episodes and the carefree fun of the 2008 Clone Wars series. And some of the situations are simply not credible.

***SOME SPOILERS AHEAD***

Hm... We have captured an X-Wing pilot. He doesn't have the plans we are looking for anymore, because he hid them somewhere (and we know that for fact). We can see his X-Wing and there is no droid around. Where are the plans? Let's go and torture the pilot on our base, because leaving someone behind looking for the missing droid would require too much brain activity.

We are on a Star Destroyer and steal a TIE. And we have almost no problem getting out except for a cable that ties the TIE to the wall? Seriously, why aren't there shields protecting the entrance to the hangar? Or anyone can fly in and out as they fancy?

A stormtrooper is able to defend himself for several minutes against half-trained ex-Jedi in a lightsaber duel (OK, I know he lost in the end, but still). Why didn't the said ex-Jedi just use the Force and just snap his neck, slam him into a tree, or anything? I guess the Force is not so strong in this family, the intelligence most certainly isn't.

And so on and so on.

All in all, it's not a very good rehash of the previous movies with several flaws in logic.
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70 of 116 users found this helpful7046
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1
Henry0012Dec 28, 2015
The Force Awaken plays it way too safe and it feels almost rather like a nostalgia trip than a new story line with interesting story arc. So much has been borrowed from New Hope. The villains are so underwhelming and cliche. They are moreThe Force Awaken plays it way too safe and it feels almost rather like a nostalgia trip than a new story line with interesting story arc. So much has been borrowed from New Hope. The villains are so underwhelming and cliche. They are more pathetic than evil honestly. The good guys are kicking butt with hardly any training. Luke was actually struggling for entire 3 movies against the empire. I'm sorry but the attempt to be politically correct has ruined it. It's really a fun movie for family outing. Maybe kids will love it, but you're not going to find a lot of creativity and interesting new stuffs with this one. Expand
54 of 91 users found this helpful5437
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2
ThePhatNinjaDec 28, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie, had so much potential, but like Anakin, it was cut short. Kylo Ren in the beginning was seen as a strong force user who was seen to have strong mastery of the force as he not only stop a blaster bolt in mid air, but kept it there for several minutes and then release it at will. He also built his own lightsaber which suggest that he has training with it. However as the movie progress Kylo Ren turns out to be a b*tch. Not a badass b*tch, just a **** He got destroyed by the two main characters, and both were non-jedi. Rey also somehow becomes super good at the force FOR NO REASON AT ALL. That's not how the force works, yes it can guide people, but mastery of the damn force takes years. J.J. Abrams just gave a big f*ck you the legacy universe (what used to be cannon). Kylo Ren should have easily killed both Rey and Finn, but no, turned out he sucks at not only using the lightsaber but incapable to use simple force pushes or pulls against his opponents. Overall, Kylo Ren is a little b*tch, Rey somehow gets force powers that should take years to master, and Finn somehow managed to hurt Kylo Ren in a lightsaber duel. If you haven't watched ANY Star Wars movies before, its ok. But those who are true fans will be disappointed. Expand
44 of 74 users found this helpful4430
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10
LaurgosDec 28, 2015
Hit all the right notes! Nostalgia mixed with a yearning for more Star Wars! I really couldn't of asked for more in this new Star Wars film. I am eagerly looking forward to Episode 8!!
9 of 48 users found this helpful939
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8
fitchbuckDec 28, 2015
Unfortunately, the euphoric high I felt leaving the theater was not to be sustained. Sure the thrill ride this flick takes you on is like no other; the best sound/motion company in the world saw to that! This was the first movie of the lotUnfortunately, the euphoric high I felt leaving the theater was not to be sustained. Sure the thrill ride this flick takes you on is like no other; the best sound/motion company in the world saw to that! This was the first movie of the lot where you actually felt & understood the size / feel of the craft [esp. x-wing, tie-fighter], with very little CGI muddying the waters. And watching in a theater with reclining leather seats & superb sound only added a notch to the headboard.

But as I began to contemplate the obvious problems [ie. Carrie Fisher's absolutely wooden performance, akin to Karen Allen's laughable appearance in Kingdom of the Crystal Skull; is it me or was Leia botoxed beyond reproach?], some other outlier issues rose to the surface. Why another death star? Why another father-son conflict? Another sand planet? Was supreme leader snoke an offspring of gollum and voldemort? Why was the stormtrooper ladycaptain such a pushover? And why oh why would Kylo Ren display such wussiness at the end when he was so powerful in the beginning?

Many more questions need to be answered, although I'm not sure we can completely fault Abrams here ... as it may have been Disney's writing team who drummed up some of these doldrums. The largest underlying problem felt to be the weighing down of the new with the old. Hopefully in the upcoming sagas, the writing teams leech out most of the old ... as this fresh core of actors more than held their own here.
In the end, my emotions were tied more to the special effects than the rehashed storyline or even most of the human drama. I certainly didn't feel surprised or remorse when one of the big names goes down. As any individual born in 1970: the original SW released right in my wheelhouse, and I know many of my classmates will be eternally tied to that first trilogy.

I certainly won't be one of the ones found saying this is the best Star Wars ever. B+
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6 of 30 users found this helpful624
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1
AbrownleeDec 28, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The movie tells the story of the resistance fight against the totalitarian First Order: space nazis. Unfortunately, the central plot, the battle to take out the nazi superweapon with a squadron of X-wing fighters, has been told before in two previous Star Wars movies, and so the story felt predictable. Daisy Ridley, playing a key character, often delivered her lines as if in theatre rehearsal, effusive and earnest, rather like Hermione Granger. This was an opportunity to use these fables to show is something new, but here was just repetition. Expand
53 of 88 users found this helpful5335
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9
LVeldhuizenDec 28, 2015
A movie worthy to the Star Wars series for sure! While the movie mostly introduces a new cast, older characters make their return in style! The new main characters freshen the series up a bit and again makes it another interesting Star WarsA movie worthy to the Star Wars series for sure! While the movie mostly introduces a new cast, older characters make their return in style! The new main characters freshen the series up a bit and again makes it another interesting Star Wars movie to watch. The Force Awakens has a very interesting plot and succeeds to make every second of the movie fun to watch. The Force Awakens makes a great start to the Sequel trilogy. Expand
10 of 46 users found this helpful1036
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6
FraggyMuffinDec 28, 2015
Not a bad movie but not a classic. Lots of action and nostalgia although at times it felt really forced. The two "factions" are never explained and what their motivations are aren't clear. The same can be said for the main characters, whyNot a bad movie but not a classic. Lots of action and nostalgia although at times it felt really forced. The two "factions" are never explained and what their motivations are aren't clear. The same can be said for the main characters, why they do what they do is a mystery. Overall a solid film that holds interest and has a decent flow but I wouldn't want to watch it again Expand
3 of 13 users found this helpful310
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6
Faker_PaperDec 28, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie is sort of a disappointment. It's definitely better than Phantom Menace, and Attack of the Clones, but I felt like it was slightly worse than Revenge of the Sith. The old actors did great, but some of the newer ones weren't that good. I liked Finn his character was good, but most of the other new characters were uninteresting especially Rey. The plot is good at parts, and bad at others. Some stuff wasn't explained Eg: How did they get Luke's lightsaber, how did the Empire become more powerful than they were before, and most importantly how the heck does BB-8's head not fall off (okay, maybe not that one). Over all I think this movie was fun, but nothing to wright home about. Expand
4 of 15 users found this helpful411
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4
Alaska_WolfDec 28, 2015
It was a fun movie, there's no doubt about that; even so, I am not sure yet, but I really don't think I liked it. I really felt let down at the end of the movie, so much of it felt like it was simply a complete rehash of previous movies. ItIt was a fun movie, there's no doubt about that; even so, I am not sure yet, but I really don't think I liked it. I really felt let down at the end of the movie, so much of it felt like it was simply a complete rehash of previous movies. It felt completely disconnected from Episode 6, Return of the Jedi which we watched the night prior. Do I want to see this again? Not really, which is really unusual considering how many times I have watched the other six movies. I just don't know, but the ageless, enduring qualities of the first movies were simply missing. To me, The Force Awakens ended up feeling like an attempt to mash all of the major plot points of the previous movies into one new one all the while completely discounting the volumes of Star Wars written materials out there. Now George Lucas' comments prior to the release make perfect sense. I can only hope they do a better job with the next two shows. Expand
24 of 40 users found this helpful2416
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1
SyFy4LyfeDec 28, 2015
I am still in disbelief at how many things this film gets wrong. The force is cheapened and the struggles of our beloved original heroes so long ago are invalidated. Character development is non-existent. The story offers nothing originalI am still in disbelief at how many things this film gets wrong. The force is cheapened and the struggles of our beloved original heroes so long ago are invalidated. Character development is non-existent. The story offers nothing original and the plot holes are aplenty. It is beyond me how so many people can give this movie a 9 or 10. Those are not critical reviews by any means. The real critics you will find here, in the red. We are not "trolls"; we are very dedicated, concerned Star Wars Fans whom have just collectively witnessed an atrocity and feel the need to voice our dismay. Expand
37 of 61 users found this helpful3724
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1
insert_hereDec 28, 2015
This movie fails in everyway possible. To echo one if the critic reviews: been there done that. There is simply no purpose for the movie. Poor writing. Poor acting. Dumb story line. 80's special effects and computer graphics that may haveThis movie fails in everyway possible. To echo one if the critic reviews: been there done that. There is simply no purpose for the movie. Poor writing. Poor acting. Dumb story line. 80's special effects and computer graphics that may have worked in the 80's but doesn't work anymore. Expand
37 of 61 users found this helpful3724
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7
vonzuchterDec 28, 2015
mediocre at best... I liked the prequels a lot more... Never understood why they got so much hate. This movie was pretty dissapointing. Let us hope the next ones will get better. Script below average , characters weak. The sith lords weremediocre at best... I liked the prequels a lot more... Never understood why they got so much hate. This movie was pretty dissapointing. Let us hope the next ones will get better. Script below average , characters weak. The sith lords were good enough. Good guys where boring. Battle scenes nothing special , lightsaber duel one of the worst so far if not the worst. I couldn't put a "yellow" rating just because this was star wars and we saw Han Solo again but a 7 is the best this movie can recieve. Expand
8 of 27 users found this helpful819
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0
Ldeighton2Dec 28, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I have no idea how this film is getting such rave reviews.... I actually don't mind that it has plot similarities with a new hope, my problem is with the use of Deus Ex Machina as the sole means of plot advancement. For example, why is there a map to Luke's location if he disappeared? How did Finn manage to crash land on a planet in a location that just happened to be near Rey's village? Why was the millennium falcon on her planet and how lucky that Chewy and Han found it just after Rey and Finn? That's the first half hour of the movie alone and it continues for the duration. Really lazy screenwriting.... Expand
57 of 96 users found this helpful5739
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9
custompcmaxDec 28, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I am not going to go into a lengthy explanation of everything, I think there is plenty of people out there doing that. What I will say first and foremost is that despite some flaws in storytelling, this is a worthy follow up to Episode 6. It is a fun movie that stays true to it's roots. It utilizes the old characters well and introduces some new ones that are going to be able to carry it forward into the future. The use of more traditional special effects is nice as it looks very much like Ep 4-6 in art style and not overly CGI like Ep 1-3.

I feel like unless you just enjoy hating things, you should enjoy this movie. It is fun, fast and exciting journey into the fantastical universe of Star Wars. I am excited to see where it goes and sad that I will have to wait almost 2 years for it.

Now - to prove I can be sort of critical... though despite these things, I still loved the movie:
1. Another Death Star? A bit of rehash? (now to play devil's advocate to myself, it was a relatively effective weapon in the original trilogy, they did manage to destroy a few planets, which is no small feat. It might actually make a lot of sense that they tried it again.).
2. How did Finn manage to duel Kylo so well?
3. Was Kylo a little to much like an emo teenager? (But, devil's advocate again, I think it was intended, he is going to transform into something much darker (I am guessing). I am thinking he was kind of in that phase Anakin was in before completely going to the Dark Side.)

On a final note, I will try remind everyone that none of the previous films are perfect in any regards. Many of us probably hold them high on a pedestal that might not be totally deserved. Or if they do deserve it, you should give the new film the same exceptions you give to the older films. They are a journey into another galaxy and do a great job of transporting us there. But, many of us saw when children so the nostalgia filter is thick. They have plenty of flaws as well if you are willing to acknowledge them. But, I do love them all!!
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6 of 31 users found this helpful625
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9
MadMaxFuryRoadDec 28, 2015
Star Wars: The Force Awakens. I finally got to see the film and I am definitely telling you this film is loads better than Age of Ultron and I was extremely happy when I left. I have never seen any Star Wars films and this was my first oneStar Wars: The Force Awakens. I finally got to see the film and I am definitely telling you this film is loads better than Age of Ultron and I was extremely happy when I left. I have never seen any Star Wars films and this was my first one since my friends pulled me to it. I was worried by the negativity but the film really blew me away. The acting was great and the action sequences were cool. I'm not quite sure if the reason I enjoyed it so much was because I saw it in 4XD or something where the chairs move. I did notice some cliches and plot holes, but I didn't really care as long as it was entertaining, I'm fine! This is one of those movies that is fun for the whole family and fun to watch with friends. Also great for a Christmas Movie! Daisy Ridley and John Boyega are amazing in this film! Expand
193 of 256 users found this helpful19363
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8
DarkWolf1991Dec 28, 2015
I personally liked the film, I thought the acting was great, the action was superb, Not going OTT on CGI and the characters were like-able! I do agree with other people on here that it is pretty much a modern remake of A New Hope which knocksI personally liked the film, I thought the acting was great, the action was superb, Not going OTT on CGI and the characters were like-able! I do agree with other people on here that it is pretty much a modern remake of A New Hope which knocks off a few points from my scoring but any Star Wars fan, new or long-time should go and see it! Expand
4 of 23 users found this helpful419
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