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9

ArthurKoutzApr 16, 2016

A great resurrection of the franchise.
Some critics say its an almost reboot of Star Wars(1977) but its not that bad.
That's all I can say.
Must see.

12 of 22 users found this helpful1210

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6

Aaron_WassermanJun 1, 2016

The Force Awakens is a good movie, don't get me wrong, but i can't rate it higher because of several reasons. It is A New Hope all over again, and that bothered me. I found the new characters with the exception of Kylo Ren to be enjoyable.The Force Awakens is a good movie, don't get me wrong, but i can't rate it higher because of several reasons. It is A New Hope all over again, and that bothered me. I found the new characters with the exception of Kylo Ren to be enjoyable. There was a ton of potential with Kylo but once we started to truly see him, I was pissed.… Expand

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3

SadovLaxerJul 22, 2016

This movie is Star Wars IV with modification, and the real history ain't like this movie show us. and Rey couldn't won the fight versus kylo ren because she doesn't know nothing about the force, this is a bad job 3/10

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10

KenjenAug 6, 2016

Wow i love this movie. Only third best to Covil War and Suicide Squad so far this year. Many cool characters and many old school special effects. And good to see msny diverse characterd i givevthis movie 10/10 so easy. And Dausy Ridley wow so cool

6 of 11 users found this helpful65

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1

Nomad67Sep 2, 2016

When sizing up a movie like Star Wars: The Force Awakens, you have to go back to what made the original trilogy so special. Each was an original film built on a foundation of legend any mythological archetypes. If the stories had not beenWhen sizing up a movie like Star Wars: The Force Awakens, you have to go back to what made the original trilogy so special. Each was an original film built on a foundation of legend any mythological archetypes. If the stories had not been so enchanting, there would have been no merchandising juggernaut. Return of the Jedi -- though flawed by ewoks -- was presented and ended in a terrific finale with the Emperor, Vader, and Luke followed by a mind-blowing battle sequence that is all the more technically impressive given the lack of CGI. In other words, the story came first.

This is the primary sin of SW: TFA; it has no purpose other than to serve as a naked commercial for conspicuous progressive "right-thinking" and selling crappy toys.

One of the most iconic things about the storm-troopers in A New Hope was the mechanical sameness of them. It was better not seeing what was under their mask, and we never did unless Luke and Han were wearing the costumes. As the Empire were naked "Space Nazis," it was absurd to introduce a black stormtrooper. Lando was a far better character that was true to thematic form and actually was consequential to the story! All we have in Boyega's character is a runaway "Tom" straight out of Huck Finn...(probably where the screenwriter got the idea.)

The film simply doesn't work.

Star Wars worked because it was like nothing anyone had ever seen up to that point. This film fails because it is exactly what we have seen before, and done better to boot.

Time will ultimately be unkind to this movie, and deservedly so. It is the work of a hack. It will pay the bills for now, but it will not stand the test of time and will be an embarrassment to an otherwise impressive trilogy.… Expand

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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.… Expand

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5

andisartDec 21, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Star Wars Episode VII - The Remake Awakens...
Not surprising given the 4 billion price tag, Disney payed for the franchise.

Being a Star Wars fan since the 80s I really wanted to like the new film, but here is what made that impossible.

If you are going into this film with fresh eyes, you probably will like it a lot. The visuals are amazing, the use of practical effects and going for a more old trilogy style have paid of for sure. And it's good action popcorn stuff. But if you know anything about Star Wars you may have serious issues with this film. Here's why: the film is basically a rehash of A New Hope and also leans heavily on the other two old films. I didn't feel like I was watching a new film at all, but like I was watching an endless fan-service, constant nods to the old films pointing to particular scenes, in many cases almost exactly matching them. If the old cast wasn't present in the film you might as well just call this film a remake, it is that similar.

To go into specifics:

- the Rebels obtain an important plan, which the Empire wants.

- The plans are again being hidden inside a droid (R2D2 / BB8).

- the Rebel responsible is being detained by the Empire (Leia/Poe)

- the droid is being hunted by the Empire on a desert planet

- the droid gets into the hands of a nobody, which will turn to be the hero (Luke/Rey)

- said nobody is thrown unwillingly into a galactic adventure

- they flee from the desert planet with the Millennium falcon

- Luke is in hiding like Yoda was, on a distant planet, alone, avoiding responsibility. Like Yoda, the last Jedi.

- Rey goes finding him, alone, presumably to start her training, like Luke went alone to Yoda in Ep. V.

- another Father/Son issue between a hero and the villain, Han/Kylo, and again a showdown between them on a bridge over an abyss (Luke/Vader in Ep V)

- the name "Ben" used to reveal Kylo as Han's son, like "Ben" revealed Obi Wan in Ep IV.

- General Hux and Kylo Ren have issues, yet have to work together. Moff Tarkin and Darth Vader say hello.

- Another Deathstar! Wow, of all things I was sure they would NOT do that. And leading to the next point:

- the Empire, now the First Order, is still doing their evil things, apparently still as powerful as in the old films. The Rebels, now the Resistance, appear to be still somewhat a minor force. So what happened the to the big victory after episode VI? Looks like that never happened. And no word is lost explaining more here. So again the heroic underdogs against the evil huge Empire with their super massive weapon.

- therefore the whole Darth Vader story arc of the old films that he will bring balance to the force is nullified. The Empire and the Dark Side are still having their party.

- And here-ho we go, another trench fight with X-Wings, and the cherry on top is the count-down before the super-weapon strikes. Quick let's hit the ONE vulnerable spot this planet-sized weapon has while Leia is waiting in the control room. Hurray, like we never seen this fight before. Apart from the impressive fact they could somehow still come up with the means to build a weapon that sucks up a sun, the Empire's engineers must be really stubborn or outright stupid

- another Sith lord kinda guy behind the villain, again he wants the new Jedi (Luke/Rey)

Other issues I see with the film:

- Captain Phasma character wasted, no screen time and put in a bad light in the last scene

- General Hux trying a bit hard, not so scary

- reveal of Kylo Ren's face way too early, after that scene his menace was reduced significantly
- reveal of the Sith-kinda guy way too early, no suspense - destruction of Coruscant in a meager few seconds and that was it. The capital of the galaxy gone. - Rebels / Republic are not one, why not? What happened since Ep VI? - lack of new worlds, designs, vehicles etc. Over-reliance on the old designs (dont get me wrong, I like the old designs in the film, but where is the new stuff too?) - Rey, totally untrained in the force, beats Kylo in the mind battle and in the lightsaber duel? Makes the force look more like a gimmick the filmmakers were using too easily. Luke had to train very hard for this. - Han's death felt wasted, too fast and undramatic and no mention of him afterwards. Yes, we all wanted more of the old Star Wars again, but not THAT much. We wanted more adventure, more charm, less CGI, and we got that. But who wanted an almost exact remake of A New Hope with even more references to the other two old films? They went way too safe with the story, which I find too bad particularly because they otherwise managed to create the Star Wars feeling again. This makes me hope, that the next two episodes will be more interesting. J.J. was the right one for bringing fresh air into Star Trek, but he wasn't for Star Wars. Never let a fan take the helm, they are too blinded and what you get is a 2 hour fest of fan-service.… Expand

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5

cwatzDec 20, 2015

Pros: Very visually appealing. Dogfighting in particular was fantastic. Han/Chewie steal the show.

Cons: Severe lack of originality. For spoilerish reasons of laying out the movie I wont say why, but when you see it, you will knowPros: Very visually appealing. Dogfighting in particular was fantastic. Han/Chewie steal the show.

Cons: Severe lack of originality. For spoilerish reasons of laying out the movie I wont say why, but when you see it, you will know what im talking about.

The new cast is also disappointing. The performances are fine, but the characters dont shine. Poe had a lot of promise but was barely in it. Finn also had some promise, but half of his time on screen is used to prop up other characters. The biggest problem was with Rey. Reactionary and bland character, and to make matters worse she was a complete "im perfect at everything" Mary Sue. Its fixable, but they have a long road to redemption, particularly kicking Rey back to earth.… Expand

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7

CPLPDec 22, 2015

As a Star Wars fan, I would sit through every one from beginning to end, no questions asked. I loved the acting to this film, the plot, and the direction in the stand alone movie was great.

When it was said and done at the end, I was moreAs a Star Wars fan, I would sit through every one from beginning to end, no questions asked. I loved the acting to this film, the plot, and the direction in the stand alone movie was great.

When it was said and done at the end, I was more underwhelmed with the experience than I was optimistic and that is why it received a 7. I was more 'meh' at the end movie than when I went into it excited, thinking I could have probably waited until a few weeks later, regardless of the spoilers. I think J.J. Abrams left me more disappointed than anything.… Expand

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4

NoelManojJan 19, 2016

The Force Awakens is a let down - repeating same concepts and story from from before - having like another death star 2 - another attempt by rebels to destroy it but the bigger oversight here is not having any important character destroy it -The Force Awakens is a let down - repeating same concepts and story from from before - having like another death star 2 - another attempt by rebels to destroy it but the bigger oversight here is not having any important character destroy it - so the excuse of showing the former glory of star wars in the movie is baselessly inadequate- the decision to have Luke Skywalker wear a beard is ridiculous considering that as an actor in real life, he looks great and the same thing was done for Han Solo and it worked....seems unclassy ...again despite Leia appearing , she seems so ordinary - earlier in previous star wars movies whenever u see her, she would appear dressed in a regal manner- Even now as the leader of the new republic(which they show no evidence of in the movie) , she should have been given a better look - plot wise- the story is really makes a senseless appeal which only true star wars fans would recognize - in the previous movie , with the fall of Darth Vader and the emperor , we saw all planets celebrating so we feel the empire is over but now again they continue this so called empire like an unnecessary charade...it seems pointless- the new evil sith warrior dressed like darth vader is a disgrace to the movie - he doesnt have great looks - luke and anakin ( Mark Hamill and Christen Haydensen) were absolutely great looking characters but the new guy looks pathetic and the way he uses the force is a disgrace to both the sith and jedi order - he has to reach out his hand so close to the face or body to make it work - that totally ridicules the ability of the force....the new actor does not resemble Han Solo , his supposed father in any way too ....u might suppose that with handsome and great parents, this new guy would look great too but unfortunately that s not the case, - another point is that the story is kind of flawed by making this guy appear everywhere like a magnet - he didnt even have a glorious stage entrance ( i mean like a suddenly dramatic appearance)....he becomes like a clonetrooper going everywhere in the movie, really not impressive....also the acting of han solo and leia seem forced - han solo's class and charisma doesn't appear much - its only his memory in previous star wars that seems to carry him through the movie - when Han dies , there doesn't seem to be a big reaction ....even leia's reaction seems unprofessionally subdued in terms of acting.....as for the new girl actress, she seems kind of too good to be true - its very irrational the way she suddenly becomes so adept at using the lightsaber especially against a sith warrior ...its a hypocrisy - she also uses the force as if she knows it well...its not like she discovered it in a great way....even anakin skywalker and luke were shown to have receiving training and almost were destroyed in their first fights ( against Count Dooku and Darth Vader respectively)....That she even suddenly using force on the clone trooper to release her without using her hands withh such confidence - it should be considered blapshemy for a person who is not yet a jedi to do all this....- another plot wise blot is the clone army - it is supposed to be consisting of clones but suddenly that famous concept seems to be a risk with the new guy coming out as a clone soldier, when he is not a clone.....the addition of the new guy actor who leaves the clones seems good though,,,,,,another disappointing fact is that the filmakers didnt seize a crucial way to represent the glory of the earlier star wars movies - the moment she touched the lightsaber , she has visions of the past - but it only is concerned with herself and slightly on luke....that moment should have been used to display the actual legacy of star wars heroes , by showing the flashbacks of anakin skywalker using the lightsaber ...him fighting obiwan..becoming darth vader....luke receing the lightsaber from obiwan ....using it in battle...so all this coupled with what was shown in the movie at that moment would have made it a truly dramatic moment so that Rey (the new girl) would truly understand the terrible yet great legacy attached with the lightsaber ....but the filmmakers dont do this and this makes rey 's fear of touching it somewhat unreasonable ..Again plot wise- the finding of luke skywalker seems so easy - the way he was standing there in the island makes it appear like he was there all along, aware of everything going around in the universe...and thus he should have come to the aid of his friends like han solo..... The filmmakers should have left finding him for the next movie , maybe make it a heroic quest for rey and others , which would have built the mystery and the powerful significance of him being a great jedi , being a key to the first order's defeat....but they don't do this ....even finding and recognizing yoda was not an easy task for luke but this dampens it all .The only two thumbs ups for the movie would be the funny moments and Han Solo's dramatic death on screen… Expand

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8

reviewerd1Apr 18, 2016

I have never really been a star wars fanatic but I surprisingly enjoyed this film. There is a fair amount of action that at times keeps you on the edge of your seat. There is both the classic characters as well as a host of new charactersI have never really been a star wars fanatic but I surprisingly enjoyed this film. There is a fair amount of action that at times keeps you on the edge of your seat. There is both the classic characters as well as a host of new characters that I think works well. I wouldn't go as far as saying this is one of the best films I have ever seen but I would recommend this film. This might sound obvious to some but I would recommend watching past star war films in order to get this one. Overall a good film but not in my all time top 10.… Expand

9 of 17 users found this helpful98

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7

Phil_T_123May 23, 2016

I loved the Star Wars films when I was a kid. You know, the real ones, the first ones: Phantom Menace... Got you! Well, probably not.

After the sequence of contrivances kicked off by The Phantom Menace, I had no hope - new or otherwise -I loved the Star Wars films when I was a kid. You know, the real ones, the first ones: Phantom Menace... Got you! Well, probably not.

After the sequence of contrivances kicked off by The Phantom Menace, I had no hope - new or otherwise - that this film would be worth watching.

DIGRESSIONS!

It turned out that the stormtroopers were all Boba Fett clones because everybody loved Boba Fett - I mean, for ligitimate plot reasons.

It also turned out that 500 Jedi all got exterminated at one Jedi meeting of Jedis because they all needed to be nearly extinct for episode IV - it made complete sense: one Jedi can normally destroy 500 robots on his own (or her own) (or robot own), but as we know, a Jedi's strength is inversely proportional to the number of Jedi around him, therefore, 500 robots cannot destroy one Jedi but can easily despatch 500 Jedi together, within a few minutes.

Turns out, as well, that Darth Vader could fly over lava, and did just so for a scene that went on for at least three hours, until he got low blood sugar, the poor lad, and then just jumped in. So it made perfect sense that he had no legs and a special suit for episode IV, turns out.

Completely irrelevant and unhelpful digressions aside, I really liked this new film. The story was pretty well-structured, the action was exciting, the cameos were great and it had plenty of funny moments. It was, however, kind of an episode IV pastiche. It was almost like they were saying: "Hey, guys. We know the other films took too many liberties with the mythology from the originals. Don't worry. We, are basically just going to use stuff taken directly from them, and use that stuff in the same way. With extra nods to other stuff from those same movies, in case you don't think we are using that same stuff enough, or in a similar enough way. Thanks."

I really enjoyed this film and thought it was well done. I'm willing to label it a pastiche rather than a rip-off; I will give team Disney the benefit of the doubt. But it's the next film that will determine if the Star Wars magic in this film was stolen or taken directly from The Force itself.… Expand

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0

LaSh4wn328Dec 18, 2016

Full of plot holes, and just lamely tries to copy the original movies. Daisy Ridley can't act worth a d*mn, and her character is a total Mary Sue. Han Solo was OK, but the fact that they had to hang the movie on him shows how littleFull of plot holes, and just lamely tries to copy the original movies. Daisy Ridley can't act worth a d*mn, and her character is a total Mary Sue. Han Solo was OK, but the fact that they had to hang the movie on him shows how little confidence they had in this new generation of actors. Basically a bunch of Millennials trying to cosplay their own Star Wars fan fiction.… Expand

9 of 17 users found this helpful98

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10

scorates8Apr 12, 2016

Force Awakens deserves the critical acclaim, it was a great movie and it gets better each time I watch it, there are many little things that you notice each new time you watch. This has the Star Wars feels!!!!!!

10 of 19 users found this helpful109

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4

heAd3rDec 22, 2015

Does everyone really think, doing a story plot again is good enough to be called an awesome movie? (NO spoilers!) alot of scenes are 1:1 taken from a new hope, it sure has a few funny (not too funny) lines, but god! the plot was the weakestDoes everyone really think, doing a story plot again is good enough to be called an awesome movie? (NO spoilers!) alot of scenes are 1:1 taken from a new hope, it sure has a few funny (not too funny) lines, but god! the plot was the weakest of all movies, people complain about the prequels? at least they had information about what was going on,. not impressed at all. Star Wars was once for the family, but now, how many people got killed? without explanation at all? no reason why? blood, really? sure there was blood in "A new hope", but that was because george didnt know how do to it in a more suitable way I presume, the story telling did well for like 35min of the movie, after that everything went overspeed, no real explanation on what happened in the past 30 years? thats just weak storytelling, I guess i know why so many people are excited, it got explosions, it has 1:1 scenes from episode IV, it has a slow lightsaber duel, it has spaceships, a spacestation, (i hope thats no surprise?) it has a lot of action, shootings, but does it have heart? no!, does it explain why everything is even worse than it was under the control of the empire? no! what happened between Han and Leia? weren't they in love? why does Han make the same mistakes again? why does carrie fisher sound like an old hag, why the hardcore 3rd Reich reference, not even the emperor the evil itself wanted this kind of temper, I just cant understand why they tried so hard to make the emperor look like a little lamp compared to those first order murdering maniacs without motive? As someone who really loves star wars, I just cant understand how someone can write such an easy predictable script. I did enjoy some of the characters acting, Han did well, Lukes hair looked amazing, Rey was ok, bb8 was enjoyable, Kylo was at first enjoyable but that changed pretty quick, Finn was like the lion from "The Wizard of Oz", Chewbacca is getting old, where is Lando? where is wedge? they destroyed the second death star, why are those not in the movie? r2d2 which is the main character in every single star wars movie, had like 35 seconds of screen time, that is in fact unacceptable, i do know they wanted bb8 to be the new r2d2 but why cant those two co exist at the same time? I cant really say it deserves a rating below 4, because, some things were ok, some things were acceptable, a few scenes were good at best, but it is not extremely bad, it has no soul, and no real story, maybe episode VII will be better, i really hope so.… Expand

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8

Ham_CriticApr 16, 2016

This is by far my favourite movie of 2015

This movie was basically a copy and paste of a New Hope, but it had to be! Star Wars is a franchise that is on a downfall. This movie was a fun thrill ride. I would even say it's better than A NewThis is by far my favourite movie of 2015

This movie was basically a copy and paste of a New Hope, but it had to be! Star Wars is a franchise that is on a downfall. This movie was a fun thrill ride. I would even say it's better than A New Hope. This was a great re-introduction into the Star Wars Saga, I am looking forward to watching 8 and 9.… Expand

11 of 21 users found this helpful1110

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10

sapizdownApr 11, 2016

History will be kind to the Force Awakens as it introduces us to some of the best new characters seen in an action franchise in a long time. Granted the plot is highly derivative but it's forgivable when the rest of the movie is so damn good.

11 of 21 users found this helpful1110

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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… Expand

12 of 23 users found this helpful1211

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8

MovieFiend0Dec 21, 2015

I came out of the theater kind of disappointed. It was predictable, copied many plot points from A New Hope, and didn't have much of a back story. I left with many unanswered questions. But I ultimately enjoyed the movie for what it was. AnI came out of the theater kind of disappointed. It was predictable, copied many plot points from A New Hope, and didn't have much of a back story. I left with many unanswered questions. But I ultimately enjoyed the movie for what it was. An action sci-fi adventure with awesome special effects set in the Star Wars universe. I liked most of the new characters, especially Rey. People are really hating on Kylo Ren but I think his character is going to get better with the next two movies.… Expand

13 of 25 users found this helpful1312

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6

qwerpJan 9, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The film is almost good. Worth to look everybody but there are some disgusting moments:

Kylo Ren does not deserve to be the main antagonist in film! He is like little girl, hysterical and spineless. It can not be trusted any commanding or responsible tasks for him + his fail at the end, dweeb. Perhaps they were trying to make a complex villain, which itself is good, but it has turned a complete failure
+ it seems that the translator voice timbre was worse than original eng. Hall where laughed when he removed his mask and began speaking.

The miraculous destruction of the enemy's main station. There were other problems with the logic, but this is a huge hole in the logic. Thank to captain stupidly disabled shields. Thanks to engineers which not learned in the 2 previous mistakes and not provided elementary protection rules, it need 0 technical skills to break defence (e.g. this was good in SW KOTOR 1, 2). Thank to idiots among the stormtroopers and their commanders. And to screenwriter.

Too bad that is not taken as an example the good things from 1-3 parts prequels (and there were plenty of good!) For example there is no intrigues, strategy, policy, and a more complex story. Could make in reasonable limits and without boring. Ideally, for those who do not understand it make not ruin the perception, with depth. More of the new things could be brought. I wish the following parts will bring a lot of new.

"Wonderful" Force / lightsaber knowing without any training.

And it is a pity that a good part of the expanded universe that does not conflict with the film is put in not canon.

(By the way. Midi-chlorian are not The Force. They have potential to help connect living beings with The Force! No need to remove science)… Expand

13 of 25 users found this helpful1312

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4

GringolocoJan 3, 2016

Liked the movie but it was to slow, and i hated that they killed han solo. I think they should look back to the old movies, and look at the pace they had on them for the next movie.

14 of 27 users found this helpful1413

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1

bersekesDec 20, 2015

It's an absolutly avarage movie. I could say it's also the fourth worse and the fourth best star wars movie. If it wouldn't be star wars you would forget it in a few days.

14 of 28 users found this helpful1414

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6

TAFM17Jan 9, 2016

Overall, it's episode 4 with new characters. Pretty much the same film. Now I need 150 characters, but there's not much more to say. So I'm gonna just... 158!

14 of 28 users found this helpful1414

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7

ToryBoyDec 21, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Is this Palpatines new robe? Its been interesting to sit back and read the plethora of reviews lauding this as a cinematic masterpiece as though people are scared to deviate from the party line. I'll say up front, its good fun as a film and a massive improvement over the prequels, a huge, star-killing improvement...but its really not in the same league as IV, V, and VI in terms of story telling.

In essence, there is practically no story at all. There is no background whatsoever to what happened after VI other than things appear to have gone galacitcally pear-shaped. I am guessing that it was Coruscant that got blasted by the Starkiller but its not explicitly stated....nor are the origins of the First Order, their leaders, why they are not using clones, why there is a Resistance and what they are resisting (is the FO actually in charge, was the Republic in charge...is the Resistance fighting the Republic or someone else?).

Then we get onto the need to suspend disbelief in all known laws of physics and human behaviour; now I know SW is not known for worrying about these trivialities, but seriously - the Rebel, I mean Resistance, base could tell instantly that Coruscant(?) had been destroyed...and never mind Rei seeing the Starkillers blast in the sky of whatever planet she was on (seriously, I've forgotten already). We also have to believe that bad-ass Briene, sorry I mean Capt Phasma, would lower the shields to the entire planet without putting up the slightest hint of resistance thus allowing about 12 (probably fewer) x-wings to destroy the whole place after only setting off 10 mins earlier? And that every storm trooper in the galaxy personally knows Fin is a traitor? Small world indeed. There are many more examples of this, but you get the picture.

People criticized Lucas a lot for the prequels and rightly so; they were dreadful on every level. But put those to one side, and how many 40 year olds today spent....basically there whole lives quoting star wars lines....I dont recall a single quote-worthy line from this film and that is one of the big let-downs, its all spectacle and no substance. The baddies are particularly wimpy, with Supreme Leader Snoke looking very digital and comical in appearance....Palpatine would use him as a pinata.

Having said all that, I did enjoy it. I will get the blue-ray collectors edition when its out, I have a BB-8 rolling around on my desk, Santa will be delivering several SW toys to my kids this year.....and I can't say this enough, its a MONUMENTAL improvement over the prequels; the return to physical environments instead of the sterile, digital worlds we saw last time has an imeasurable impact on what we experience and the assembled cast all excel except possibly for Kylo Ren who really needs to man-up a bit more.

If its done one thing its re-affirmed just how amazing IV, V, and VI were in their day and although its left me feeling fairly entertained, its also left me feeling more than a little bit let down in terms of what it could have been if just a little bit more time was spent on the script and a little bit less time spent on hype.… Expand

13 of 26 users found this helpful1313

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2

LagstandApr 12, 2016

It's a recycled plot from episode IV and the first half of episode V, the use of a Mary Sue character, filling the feminist agenda, lame dark side counterpart, cheap jokes from the secondary character called Finn.
Just a money grabbingIt's a recycled plot from episode IV and the first half of episode V, the use of a Mary Sue character, filling the feminist agenda, lame dark side counterpart, cheap jokes from the secondary character called Finn.
Just a money grabbing movie, an excuse to eat pop corn and a soda.… Expand

13 of 26 users found this helpful1313

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5

xXGaming101XxJan 18, 2016

Warning Minor Spoilers Below (yes i know there is a button for spoilers but this is just a warning)

Movie was overall Ok but it ripped off its plot from Star Wars The New Hope Giant Weapon Of Death Exhaust Port? Sound Familiar? it shouldWarning Minor Spoilers Below (yes i know there is a button for spoilers but this is just a warning)

Movie was overall Ok but it ripped off its plot from Star Wars The New Hope
Giant Weapon Of Death Exhaust Port?
Sound Familiar? it should
The Dark Side was also underwhelming with Kylo Ren being much younger than he should and less threatening unlike Darth Vader who was more mature and threatening
And his master is apparently the alien from the Crystal Skull? Lol XD
But the movie retained its old style with original transitions between scenes and good actors
Was dissapointed that Jar Jar did not show up… Expand

11 of 22 users found this helpful1111

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1

JJthisApr 18, 2016

I thought Disney was a company who was all about creativity and fresh ideas. Instead they gave us the story of Episode IV again.
They were just trying to play on nostalgia and hoped it would get the votes...well it did. It got a lot ofI thought Disney was a company who was all about creativity and fresh ideas. Instead they gave us the story of Episode IV again.
They were just trying to play on nostalgia and hoped it would get the votes...well it did. It got a lot of votes.
I, for one, would have preferred a more original approach.
The action was great and there were some awesome moments, but the plot parts that weren't exactly that of ep IV were just so predictable.
I'd score it lower if it weren't for the actors that did such great jobs.… Expand

11 of 22 users found this helpful1111

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4

choppyDec 20, 2015

It is exactly the plot of the first star wars movie, just redone with new characters. Likable enough, watchable enough, but nothing exciting or innovative that will make me excited for the new series or would make me care at all about theseIt is exactly the plot of the first star wars movie, just redone with new characters. Likable enough, watchable enough, but nothing exciting or innovative that will make me excited for the new series or would make me care at all about these bland new characters. It's just comfort food for Star Wars fans, nothing that moves the series forward.… Expand

10 of 20 users found this helpful1010

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5

LordOfCommunismJan 1, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So... I watched this movie now and it wasn't like an I expected. It was, sadly as it is, way worse. It was a good film tough, but it felt like a complete remade episode IV. There was a Death Star, an X-Wing suicide command and even a low-budget Darth Vader. "The new Order" and the "Resistance" could be called Empire 2.0 and Rebellion 2.0. And Han Solo dies. And it was pretty obvious too. But it still was fun to watch with all the new characters and the old(er) ones too. A friend of mine paid my ticket so I didn't felt ripped off. But sadly, it isn't a worthy sequel to the Original.… Expand

10 of 20 users found this helpful1010

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5

NikitaBrandtJan 3, 2016

The average movie with trite plot and not a very good selection of actors. However, we must pay tribute to the spectacular special effects and well shooted end.

10 of 20 users found this helpful1010

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2

jojimboMay 20, 2016

Entertaining, but woefully bad. Bad scriptwriting, cheesy and hammy. every cliche in the book was thrown at this NON Lucas re-hash. It really is a tragedy, and a ludicrous one with characters that were instantly forgettable, in a style of aEntertaining, but woefully bad. Bad scriptwriting, cheesy and hammy. every cliche in the book was thrown at this NON Lucas re-hash. It really is a tragedy, and a ludicrous one with characters that were instantly forgettable, in a style of a cheap US sitcom.

Let's face it, the stormtroopers in the beginning set the stage, more like stormpoopers out of a fan exhibition at a convention.

The only good thing was the ending, and I can't help but feel a slower film paced, gritty approach would have been far better, you never really get to know any of the new characters as we did in the original films, jj abrams doesn't have what it takes give it to David Twoohy next time.

TLDR; bad scriptwriting comparable to an 8 year old child
bad acting by forgettable unknown actors
generally overall bad.

I gave it a 2, because i got a laugh out of it.… Expand

9 of 18 users found this helpful99

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5

bcatonJan 17, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This wasn't a bad movie, but the problems were substantial. There's the feel of politics and PC driving this rather than internal logic. Why is Rey so powerful, so skilled at things she has never done before? Because raisins.

The answer I have been given is "because Phantom Menace". That is a terrible reason, no-one thought that movie made sense, and mostly you want to forget that movie to enjoy this one.

I thought about it afterwards. Rey is there because they wanted a woman who could do everything a man could do, but better. She out-pilots Han, out-fights trained soldiers, and can use force powers without any training.

Kylo Ren does that to an extent, showing abilities that even Darth Vader didn't have, which I assume was done because the effects allowed for it.. I gave that a pass, one unbelievable thing shouldn't break a movie, but everything Rey does is overpowered.

She's not quite a Mary Sue - she makes the mistakes of the hero's journey pretty much on cue - but she's not really much of a person. "Star Wars Rebels" actually did a much better version of her story.

The twist of the movie was revealed to me by a friend without my consent, which kind of killed the emotional impact - but honestly, it seemed gratuitous. I really just wanted Kylo Ren dead anyway - I didn't need any more motivation for it.

Everyone being related to everyone is a weakness of the whole franchise - you could get away with it in the originals, because it was a fairy story, but this seems to want to be more realistic, and should have tried something new.

I don't regret spending my money on it but don't feel any urge to do so again. It's hyped up as being the best thing ever, but i can see much more enthusiasm for other movies. Most people will see movies like Casablanca or Gone with the Wind many times in their life, but will there be any market for repeat viewings of this?

All that said, this was so much better than the prequels.… Expand

9 of 18 users found this helpful99

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6

Cyclictunic209Jan 19, 2016

Eh, The movie was meh. Very disappointing. The first ten minutes contain some of the best cinematography I have seen in modern film. Practical effects were awesome. But behind all of the glamour and special effects lies a very lacklusterEh, The movie was meh. Very disappointing. The first ten minutes contain some of the best cinematography I have seen in modern film. Practical effects were awesome. But behind all of the glamour and special effects lies a very lackluster story. Way too many plot parallels between this and a New Hope. It's almost like they ripped the plot out of the first movie and just made everything bigger. Very lazy. The new actors are ok. I liked Finn. Rey seems like a Mary Sue. She's too good at everything. I thought the new villain was okay. Harrison Ford does give the film a lot of life. The plot twist was expected. Carrie Fischers acting is god awful as always. Not a good actress at all. Oscar Issac was pure charisma. I liked his character a lot. All in all it really was average. Kind of disappointed. This is coming from a Star Wars fan who wanted something different.… Expand

9 of 18 users found this helpful99

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10

thetwojakesApr 17, 2016

Great fun addition to the Star Wars canon, this movie isn't breaking new ground but it achieves what it sets out to spectaculary well lays down an enticing blueprint for what's to come. Just a blast all the way.

9 of 18 users found this helpful99

All this user's reviews

4

suthnaraDec 21, 2015

Have you ever enjoyed reading books from a series. Like the "Game of Thrones" books. The authors writing is recognizable throughout. Imagine if J.K Rowling didn't write the last 2 Harry Potter books and someone else was hired to finish itHave you ever enjoyed reading books from a series. Like the "Game of Thrones" books. The authors writing is recognizable throughout. Imagine if J.K Rowling didn't write the last 2 Harry Potter books and someone else was hired to finish it would it still be a Harry Potter book. You get the same feeling watching The force awakens. It looks and feels like someones interpretation of Star Wars. It feels looks and feels like a transformers movie.

There are so many coincidences within this movie. It is like they were to lazy to take the time to come up with logical reasons for one person meeting another. Instead you see these chance meeting with exactly the right person not once but on numerous occasions. Like come on.

This movie is not really star wars. Its an adaption, set to the pace of movies like transformers and star trek. So if you're OK with that then you will enjoy this movie. I walked out 3 quarters of the way in.… Expand

8 of 16 users found this helpful88

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6

LaneMeyerDec 31, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. TFA has some serious flaws which are quite obvious. I did find the movie entertaining, although it's impossible to ignore the pitfalls of the movie. It's a remake of the original. Lack of character development. It's geared towards teenagers. And the biggest flaw I think was the scene where they took the droid into the the tavern. If the whole Empire is looking for the droid, why the hell would you take it into a public tavern where anyone and their mother will see it. Is Han and company really that stupid?… Expand

8 of 16 users found this helpful88

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7

hoograMay 18, 2016

This movie achieves what it needed to. It restores faith in the franchise by returning to it's roots and sets up a compelling story for the sequels to develop. But to be fair, it doesn't aim high. It plays things very, very safe. Far tooThis movie achieves what it needed to. It restores faith in the franchise by returning to it's roots and sets up a compelling story for the sequels to develop. But to be fair, it doesn't aim high. It plays things very, very safe. Far too safe to ever be considered a great movie. Big chunks of the film will feel very familiar to anyone who has seen the original movie (ie.nearly everybody in the world). If your new to this, prepare to be blown away. Everyone else will likely find this satisfactory but all too familiar.… Expand

8 of 16 users found this helpful88

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8

Muskrat147Dec 17, 2016

(Re-review) Rating - 8.0/10

The Force Awakens, directed by J.J. Abrams, is a terrific return to form for the Star Wars Saga (after the prequels, that is). The film, which centers around the characters of Rey (portrayed by a fantastic Daisy(Re-review) Rating - 8.0/10

The Force Awakens, directed by J.J. Abrams, is a terrific return to form for the Star Wars Saga (after the prequels, that is). The film, which centers around the characters of Rey (portrayed by a fantastic Daisy Ridley), Finn (John Boyega), Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac), and villain Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) as the resistance tries to destroy the rising First Order, and stop them from taking full control over the galaxy. First off, the performances in the film are simply much better than the original trilogy (especially Mark Hamill in A New Hope). Each character is given their own special twist by their performers, who all fit their character's personality and charisma extremely well. We grow to care for these characters, especially Rey, who, as we learn through flashbacks, has a tragic past that she cannot let go of. Even though we learn very little about each new character, we can understand their pain, and can easily feel emotional towards them by the end of the film. Many old characters from the original trilogy, most notably Han Solo and Chewbacca, appear in the film, and even serve as main protagonists. Even though The Force Awakens is mainly centered on Rey and her journey, we get to spend some time with the older characters, which is a different approach when it comes to Star Wars in general.

John Williams is back at it again with another fantastic score (as always). Its great mix between new themes and classic elements makes the film so unique when compared to the prequels (which still had fantastic music, by the way). The story and even the characters wouldn't feel the same without Williams' music. One of the biggest problems with The Force Awakens is its story. It is almost a perfect copy of A New Hope, and follows the same basic structure. Heck, they even added another Death Star (Starkiller Base)! If the film had more original story elements and plot points, it would have been a lot more interesting. It would've also helped if the characters visited some of the same planets that existed in the original trilogy, or even the prequels. The fact that the planets in the film are almost all new to the Universe makes it harder to feel connected to the story.

The CGI, which makes up a large part of the film, is definitely a highlight. The magnificent action sequences, as well as the wonderful new creatures, make the film worthwhile, and help in adding that "Star Wars Magic". Some motion-capture characters are seemingly plastic, though, and can be distracting during some key scenes.

All things considered, The Force Awakens is a great first installment in the deemed "Sequel Trilogy", and is sure to excite and entertain fans of the Saga and regular film-goers.… Expand

8 of 16 users found this helpful88

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1

BigwilmaAug 15, 2016

A masterpiece of fake film making and truly, truly awful. TFA, conceptually, as a project has to be the most deeply cynical film ever commissioned. Abrams stunning lack of ambition and originality in this remake of SW A New Hope have somehowA masterpiece of fake film making and truly, truly awful. TFA, conceptually, as a project has to be the most deeply cynical film ever commissioned. Abrams stunning lack of ambition and originality in this remake of SW A New Hope have somehow been rewarded at the box office and received a favourable critical response. If Michael Bay had made this exact same film he would have been crucified.… Expand

8 of 16 users found this helpful88

All this user's reviews

3

Lucius_13Aug 5, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I don't normally review movies but here goes, the plot of this movie is explained in one sentence: Star Wars Episode IV A New Hope, the whole plot is the same as said movie, the villain (Kylo Ren) is a bland and stupid Darth Vader Rip-Off (Albeit without the scars) with a dumb as **** lightsaber, Abrams is so stupid he couldn't come up with an original storyline so he just remade Episode IV although ill give a big thumbs up to Simon Pegg's Character. The death of Han Solo was expected but handled poorly, Kylo Ren develops a new super weapon (which is just a bigger version of the Death Star) only upside to this disaster of a movie was the original cast its pretty sad when the prequel trilogy is better than this crap, do yourself a favor and save your money and don't buy this movie I did and I regret it… Expand

7 of 14 users found this helpful77

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8

CineAutoctonoMay 20, 2016

Star Wars: Episode VII was a good movie for which many mopped with that movie and that publicity so winded , but I dared and was very good, I liked the new characters , and the ancient characters, what i missed them , and scenes and specialStar Wars: Episode VII was a good movie for which many mopped with that movie and that publicity so winded , but I dared and was very good, I liked the new characters , and the ancient characters, what i missed them , and scenes and special effects were incredible , pity who have not won any Academy Award, but it was very good.… Expand

7 of 14 users found this helpful77

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8

jimjamzMay 22, 2016

Boyega Ridley Driver and Issac elevate this movie it goes to show how far a bit of charisma can go JJ Abrams shows his gift for casting once again. Good movie I think history will be kind to this because this introduced these brilliant characters.

7 of 14 users found this helpful77

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6

HeavesDec 22, 2015

I have to say given all the hype, I was slightly underwhelmed. I don't think the story was that bad (a bit too cliche) but I think it was good enough. For me, the biggest pitfall was the lack of character building. The movie doesn't reallyI have to say given all the hype, I was slightly underwhelmed. I don't think the story was that bad (a bit too cliche) but I think it was good enough. For me, the biggest pitfall was the lack of character building. The movie doesn't really give you much reason to like the main to characters with very little backstory. Another moment of annoyance was the final fight scene which went against all logic. Having said that, the film did have its moments and the potential is there to produce an amazing sequel.… Expand

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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0

DesariusJan 2, 2017

commercialism + recycled, predictable, and banal storytelling. The film introduces no real emotion or connection and levies a foolish amount of shallow comic relief in moments that otherwise could have benefited from taking themselves morecommercialism + recycled, predictable, and banal storytelling. The film introduces no real emotion or connection and levies a foolish amount of shallow comic relief in moments that otherwise could have benefited from taking themselves more seriously to create some tension. Abrams filmmaking ruins everything, give us back the real star wars.… Expand

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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10

JimmykerrAug 6, 2016

Force Awakens is an absolute blast. Theres been a lotvof disappointing blockbusters this year but this had everything....mostly its just great fun with characters who you can root for.....even the bad guy iscsomeone who you can sympathiseForce Awakens is an absolute blast. Theres been a lotvof disappointing blockbusters this year but this had everything....mostly its just great fun with characters who you can root for.....even the bad guy iscsomeone who you can sympathise with. JJ isnt the greatest creative mind in Hollywoid but he was the safe pair of hands Star Wars needs. Cant wait for Ep VIII and Rogue One.… Expand

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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0

MarvikNov 3, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The poverty, insult the entire series !!!
J.J. Abrams - remove Star Trek, it's better to get you ((((
Where Richard Marquand, why he did not shoot a sequel!?!?!
Studio as always regretted money!?!?
Here, I received full gov..no rather than a continuation !!… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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7

shepard75Jun 2, 2016

The technical side is really made great, it's up to date for todays movies but the rest....Watch once, nice entertainment for the evening, and then it's done! Sorry Mr. Abrams, but your Star Trek Movies are much more better and worthThe technical side is really made great, it's up to date for todays movies but the rest....Watch once, nice entertainment for the evening, and then it's done! Sorry Mr. Abrams, but your Star Trek Movies are much more better and worth re-watching them! My Opinion as a SciFi-Fan.… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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9

pjthexdjJul 22, 2016

I go to the movies to be entertained and I was entertained. Introducing new characters and mixing in the old ones bring back a bit of nostalgia. Popcorn movie at its finest.

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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9

SimpsonFansAug 4, 2016

After the long, long wait, I honestly expected JJ Abraham's entry in the legendary science-fiction series to be a bit like Halo 4 - good game, but not a true Halo in the sense of atmosphere & that big presence you feel when playing. But thisAfter the long, long wait, I honestly expected JJ Abraham's entry in the legendary science-fiction series to be a bit like Halo 4 - good game, but not a true Halo in the sense of atmosphere & that big presence you feel when playing. But this sci-fi blockbuster NAILED the atmosphere. The sheer nostalgia I felt at the end(which I won't mention any specific bits of, since if you're reading this you probably haven't seen the film) made me remember my childhood, watching Episode V over and over & playing with toy lightsabres and OH MY GOD, so much nostalgia. While I was upset by the death of a certain someone, the villain made up for it. He had something I'd never seen before in a bad guy - being torn apart & slowly driven insane by the dark and the light. Now I only have to wait until 2017 for Episode VIII..... dammit.… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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10

EightyheartAug 4, 2016

Outstanding return to form and the best SW movie since Empire, the Force Awakens gets the franchise back to its roots and back in the public consciousness. Whether Disney can maintain quality control with a film each year is another matter entirely.

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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9

TremazzAug 16, 2016

Im a massive Star Wars fan and this totally hit the mark for me. In fact im not ashamed to say that i like the prequels they have lots of good bits on them but this had a better story and characters and felt more like Star Wars should thanIm a massive Star Wars fan and this totally hit the mark for me. In fact im not ashamed to say that i like the prequels they have lots of good bits on them but this had a better story and characters and felt more like Star Wars should than those prequels did. The Force Awakens gets back to basics and delivers 100%. The action is well directed its exciting and fast moving, and the dialogue is emotional and funny. The best movie of last year.… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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0

Wesp5Jan 26, 2018

A bad remake of ANH with a bit of ROTJ thrown in, with plotholes big enough to drive a star destroyer through, a Mary Sue as main character and a setting destroying everthing gained in the original trilogy.

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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3

someone132Aug 31, 2016

Unfortunately for all of us, Star Wars has always been a franchise with more promise (enormous galaxy with ridiculous amount of races and cultures, a central concept tying it together) than the actual ability to execute it. The prequels areUnfortunately for all of us, Star Wars has always been a franchise with more promise (enormous galaxy with ridiculous amount of races and cultures, a central concept tying it together) than the actual ability to execute it. The prequels are rightly maligned for their utter mismanaging of the series' tone in their attempts to be "child-friendly", as well as poor performances, often horrific dialogue and the way literally every single "exciting" action scene in them was utterly fake, which had less to do with the weak CGI then the utter ridiculousness of every action on screen (Coruscant chase in Attack of the Clones being the primary example).

However, many of the same problems were also present in Revenge of the Sith, a fact remembered less often than it deserves. Sure, Vader's ultimate redemption was a great twist: sadly, everything else was simply ridiculous, and you can't escape the feeling Rebellion triumph is owed entirely to their enemies' incompetence. Ewoks are the ultimate incarnation of this, but even before that, the ease with which Stormtroopers get tricked into being captured, or indeed, their pathetic willingness to give Solo & others a chance to surrender when they are HOURS away from winning it all, is no better.

Why did I just give you all of this history? It's simple: Force Awakens might now be often called a remake of New Hope, but that description is far too kind. In practice, it's far closer to a remake of Revenge of the Sith, and shares the exact same problems, coupled with weaker new cast.

Finn doesn't even have his own name at first, and was trained up to be a Stormtrooper from birth. Yet, he goes from being shocked at the death of a fellow stormtrooper, to helping Poe Dameron, WHO KILLED THAT VERY SAME STORMTROOPER, escape, killing more Stormtroopers in process. Afterwards, this upbringing of his is utterly irrelevant: he never questions others' methods, and gleefully partakes in killing of those who were like him until very recently. The only catalyst for this was seeing some civilians he knew before get executed. He never thinks back on this, though, and nor does anyone care, when halfway through the film, Death Star MK III (sorry, Starkiller Base), is activated, and kills literally billions of people; everyone forgets it soon after. By the end of the film, the death toll is in the billions on one side, and millions for the other; yet the conclusion is still "cheerful" in a way that's utterly infuriating. In New Hope, you genuinely felt like a massive threat to Rebellion was averted at the end, and they received a lease of life. Here, though, we know this happened twice before, and there's no one to say another Death Star won't be built again, because apparently no-one learnt anything since then. It feels pointless, much like the entire movie.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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8

GorgyJul 23, 2016

This was a solid Star Wars movie, that perhaps works better as a soft reboot rather than a continuation of the old story. This will likely bring in lots of new fans but perhaps alienate some of the older fan base who grew up with the ExpandedThis was a solid Star Wars movie, that perhaps works better as a soft reboot rather than a continuation of the old story. This will likely bring in lots of new fans but perhaps alienate some of the older fan base who grew up with the Expanded Universe… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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2

BoombastixDec 15, 2016

This movie is trash, but all is forgiven in Rogue One. Seriously, watch that instead! It's a crime against humanity that it is currently rated lower than this.

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

All this user's reviews

0

HammerOfThoriumOct 16, 2018

Derivative, devoid of appealing characters, and a central protagonist who, aside from being portrayed by a spirited but inept actress, lacks anything even remotely resembling an arc. If one were to describe her as a "Mary Sue" one would beDerivative, devoid of appealing characters, and a central protagonist who, aside from being portrayed by a spirited but inept actress, lacks anything even remotely resembling an arc. If one were to describe her as a "Mary Sue" one would be correct. Alas, one would also be "sexist" somehow, so I shan't.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

All this user's reviews

8

laberinto911Jul 31, 2016

JJ did a very fine job. The movie is pleasant, filled with every kind of action sequence, from a breathtaking chase through a giant junkyard, to a very dramatic duel in a dark snowy forest, but unlike the prequels, there is heart in movingJJ did a very fine job. The movie is pleasant, filled with every kind of action sequence, from a breathtaking chase through a giant junkyard, to a very dramatic duel in a dark snowy forest, but unlike the prequels, there is heart in moving characters througout the story, in making them care about each other. A very well done piece of entertainment.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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8

AckseesSep 26, 2016

Good fun movie with a bit of heart and soul, totally lacking originality, plays it safe but it works. John Williams score isnt as noticeable as previous entries but a few listens and it really is very beautiful in parts.

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

All this user's reviews

8

doroutNov 4, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Overall, it was a great watch. Highly recommended.

The only issue I will always have is when Ray just randomly inherited her powers. She was never trained, but somehow overpowers Kylo Ren when the two were in the woods during winter (Fin was unconscious). Kylo is a trained Sith and Ray intercepts Kylo from summoning Luke Skywalkers light saber using the force. If Ray had a smidge of training I would be totally okay with it, but the only thing she literally has going for her at this point is Han Solo told her the Force and Luke are real, not myths.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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9

Estoque1986Nov 6, 2016

Loved it! Loved all the actors (such great chemistry with Rey and Finn), loved the throwbacks to the old trilogy, thought the villain was a hoot and BB-8 is a contender for my favourite droid - no mean feat considering the awesomeness ofLoved it! Loved all the actors (such great chemistry with Rey and Finn), loved the throwbacks to the old trilogy, thought the villain was a hoot and BB-8 is a contender for my favourite droid - no mean feat considering the awesomeness of Artoo. If i had an issue its perhaps that Artoo gets a bit short changed in this. More Artoo next time please. Other than that, a worthy sequel.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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10

LerritsnowDec 18, 2016

Great fun and entirely in the spirit of Star Wars...one can see why the safe creative decisions made in this film allowed bolder choices to be made in the spin off Rogue One. An absolute delighthe from start to finish.

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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8

SumwhenDec 20, 2016

A decent re-introduction to the Star Wars universe. Strong in character and humour but somewhat lacking in the story department. But certainly a good starting point for more inventive stories to come (hopefully)

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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1

Jan_FetzerDec 27, 2016

I absolutely love Star Wars and have been a fan for as long as I can remember and sadly this film was a massive disappointment to me. Not just because it didn't live up to my hopes but because IMO it just isn't a very good film.

The plot isI absolutely love Star Wars and have been a fan for as long as I can remember and sadly this film was a massive disappointment to me. Not just because it didn't live up to my hopes but because IMO it just isn't a very good film.

The plot is basically plagiarised from A New Hope (young hero from a desert planet gets sucked into a conflict in which an evil super power has built a terrifying weapon with a critical weakness etc.) except that nothing in this film makes any sense. Why is the empire now a super powerful terrorist organisation? How are they so powerful with no real resources? Why is the new Republic separate from the political leaders of the Rebellion and why does it not have its own army?
Why is Luke sulking in some corner of the galaxy and if he's so important, why do they just send Rae for him in the end?
Why is Kylo (mopey Anakin clone) Ren so desperately trying to be evil when he clearly doesn't want to be?

I could go on and on. Not only does this film completely re-write the post Emperor Star Wars epoch for no reason, it does so incredibly badly. I just don't get why they didn't simply create the screen play based on some of the amazing Star Wars novels that already cover this period in time. Don't get me wrong, the re-writing part isn't a problem in itself. I just think it was done incredibly badly.

And to top it all off, the film is just riddled with teasers and cliff hangers that make you feel as if you watched half a movie, rather than a complete one.

To me, The Force Awakens is the weakest film of the Star Wars series. A bad movie with lazy script writing where almost everything is tied together with convenient and unbelievable coincidences.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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1

DaddyO3Feb 14, 2018

Love the older Star Wars movie. Did not care for this. It seems like they modeled it after the original. How about some originality folks! My kids and I enjoy the Clone Wars series on Netflix much more than the main movies.

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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3

3lusiveDec 31, 2016

One of the worst Star Wars films ever. Boring, boring, and boring. In complete contrast to Rogue One, this has nothing that makes the other film great. The story didn't grip me in any shape or form, it has childish drawn-out scenes, theOne of the worst Star Wars films ever. Boring, boring, and boring. In complete contrast to Rogue One, this has nothing that makes the other film great. The story didn't grip me in any shape or form, it has childish drawn-out scenes, the villains are pathetic (one is CGI and the lead villain is a geeky, lanky college student who cannot hold a lightsaber correctly), and there is no tension. The lead female is not particularly likeable either.

Blows my mind how people have rated this so highly when, to me, it's a clearly a poorly balanced and executed film. Avoid the disappointment and watch Rogue One.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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9

BeacherwahwahOct 12, 2016

Many of the aspects of this film that annoyed some Star Wars 'fans' I actually appreciated. The familarity of the story (yet with many twists), Starkiller Base (this is what these evil types do), Kylo's weakness (a genuinely great andMany of the aspects of this film that annoyed some Star Wars 'fans' I actually appreciated. The familarity of the story (yet with many twists), Starkiller Base (this is what these evil types do), Kylo's weakness (a genuinely great and fascinating villain), the reveal of Luke (makes me incredibly excited to see him in action next year). There were issues that stopped the movie being great....Rey's mind trick was a step too far, the introdution of Han and Chewie was far too coincidental. But they didn't spoil the fun of this return to the magic of Star Wars.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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10

BillybongovNov 13, 2016

Great movie....loved it as much as I love all the other Star Wars movies (prequels included). This feels more like Star Wars than the prequels, it feels like a homage to Star Wars rather than an attempt to do something new, this is what wasGreat movie....loved it as much as I love all the other Star Wars movies (prequels included). This feels more like Star Wars than the prequels, it feels like a homage to Star Wars rather than an attempt to do something new, this is what was required as the prequels didn't go down so well with many. They were different movies that tried something different, this sticks to the formula and the execution from JJ Abrams is perfect.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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10

DannydoggNov 15, 2016

Awesome movie with great characters, action and special effects. It was also funny and sad. In fact I think I like Rey more than whiney Luke Skywalker. And Harrison Ford is at his best as Han Solo this time, after disappointment of RotJ.Awesome movie with great characters, action and special effects. It was also funny and sad. In fact I think I like Rey more than whiney Luke Skywalker. And Harrison Ford is at his best as Han Solo this time, after disappointment of RotJ. Carrie Fisher not do much. All in all I really loved this movie… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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9

dddddeuceNov 17, 2016

I’d say this was a good movie but with faults – I’m not bothered about the usual complaints that people have about this, i.e. the similarity to A New Hope, Rey being over-powered, the new Death Star…..tbh I was fine with all that. I found theI’d say this was a good movie but with faults – I’m not bothered about the usual complaints that people have about this, i.e. the similarity to A New Hope, Rey being over-powered, the new Death Star…..tbh I was fine with all that. I found the CGI monsters in the Rathtar scenes to be jarring, although I thought the CGI Maz Kanata was handled rather well. We should have been introduced to some new fighters in the space combat sequences, even as bit part players to the X-Wings and Tie Fighters (in a similar way we saw A-Wings and B-Wings in Jedi). We should see some new environments that we haven’t seen before in a Star Wars. Other than that it’s a thoroughly enjoyable movie, and I was impressed with the casting, the acting, the visual effects and, most importantly, the replication of the Star Wars magic. The set up for the future instalments is intriguing.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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10

DiggseeNov 22, 2016

This was one of my favourite movies of all time. Daisy Ridley and John Boyega have such great chemistry it's a joy to watch, as is the chemistry with Harrison Ford and the new actors and Poe with Finn. That's why this movie is so great itThis was one of my favourite movies of all time. Daisy Ridley and John Boyega have such great chemistry it's a joy to watch, as is the chemistry with Harrison Ford and the new actors and Poe with Finn. That's why this movie is so great it feels like everyone is having a blast and the results are reflected on the screen. So much fun but also sad moments this movie has it all.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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10

HasskthugDec 14, 2016

The Force Awakens was magnificent. It was exactly what I wanted. You can nitpick all day but it doesn't change the fact that this movie has the heart and soul of Star Wars. And for this old fan, that's pretty much perfect.

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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4

varmadmcgooDec 23, 2016

While I enjoyed watching TFA and many moments contained therein — Harrison Ford’s reprisal as Han Solo comes to mind — I cannot look back on it favorably. So much of it seems, quite simply, cheap: The recycled plot. The inexplicablyWhile I enjoyed watching TFA and many moments contained therein — Harrison Ford’s reprisal as Han Solo comes to mind — I cannot look back on it favorably. So much of it seems, quite simply, cheap: The recycled plot. The inexplicably reincarnated Empire by another name. The tragic loss of a key character in a way that doesn’t seem earned or even believable. The injection of clumsy, modern 'romance' into a series that was just fine without it. The fight between a Sith lord and someone who has never used a Lightsaber before. I could go on. The short of it is: If I were an exec and Disney reviewing a submitted script like this, I would give it back, rejected, with the notes: “A new Star Wars movie must be true to the Star Wars universe and legacy, and it must also be original and compelling. Your script is neither.” But somehow, this turd of a movie was actually made.

I don't understand why critics have rated this disaster so well. I guess a lot of the analysis didn't get much deeper than “it’s nice to have a strong female lead.” Sure. True. But Luke trained hard to become a Jedi. There is nothing empowering about someone just lucking out with magic powers without earning it — and that doesn’t change just because that someone is a female lead!… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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10

joseywalezJun 23, 2017

This represents a return to form for the franchise and is a whole lot of fun as a standalone movie. Fun heroes we can root for and an interesting villain, topped off with a beautiful John Williams score and some gorgeous visuals. Very much inThis represents a return to form for the franchise and is a whole lot of fun as a standalone movie. Fun heroes we can root for and an interesting villain, topped off with a beautiful John Williams score and some gorgeous visuals. Very much in the spirit of the Star Wars I grew up with… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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3

ZergessiDec 31, 2017

Not canon. First order after shreads of empire? Really? Sorry, but no go. Other things are mor or less ok.

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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1

AFriendlyManDec 18, 2017

Star killer (Death star), jakku (tatuin), BB8 with important info (R2D2),some Rey with force (Luke), New order controlling galaxy (Galactic Empire)... enough!!!

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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3

Thisperson1Jan 2, 2018

The worst Star Wars ever made. Uninspired plot with bland characters that makes 0 sense most of the time. The visuals are nice, but that's the only nice thing in this movie. I REALLY wanted to like this movie, but I just can't. DisneyThe worst Star Wars ever made. Uninspired plot with bland characters that makes 0 sense most of the time. The visuals are nice, but that's the only nice thing in this movie. I REALLY wanted to like this movie, but I just can't. Disney butchered this series and the prequels are better.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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1

AndyWollandJan 9, 2018

Nothing but a badly written re-hash of episode IV with a 'Mary Sue' main character. Plot holes aplenty, just a plain lazy attempt.

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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0

JosephZanabriaJul 27, 2019

0 is even way to much for this film, a big lack of creativity. , and 0 respect for all the new and old characters .

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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0

WeidenwieselApr 6, 2023

Just like George Lucas said himself, this is a carbon copy of the story of Episode IV, but without the old Trio we know, love and wanted to See but instead with new heroes noone wanted.
Rey specifically is an insult to everything Luke standsJust like George Lucas said himself, this is a carbon copy of the story of Episode IV, but without the old Trio we know, love and wanted to See but instead with new heroes noone wanted.
Rey specifically is an insult to everything Luke stands for and achieved in the original trilogy.
She's basically a female Luke, without the training and experience he went through but she easily outperforms him.
Unlike Luke, who failed in his first duel against Vader, she easily defeats Kylo, because of course she does, she's a WOMAN.
This episode is what started it all.
The whole woke and feminist bullsh()t that plagues every modern movie.
When I watched it back then I didn't like it that much, I was mostly confused how they managed to create such an underwhelming movie.
Now, with a more experienced look into modern media, I understand, this movie is where it all went downhill.
Don't watch, its a nightmare.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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0

MrDeedsDec 17, 2020

Just a terrible movie/story all around. Even my 11 year old nephew figured out Disney just recycled the A New Hope story. I never thought someone could make worse movies than the prequels but that has been accomplished with overwhelmingJust a terrible movie/story all around. Even my 11 year old nephew figured out Disney just recycled the A New Hope story. I never thought someone could make worse movies than the prequels but that has been accomplished with overwhelming success. This movie might appeal to your average hyper liberal feminist, but not to a long time star wars fan. What Disney has done is unforgivable and I will talk trash about this big budget cash grab whenever I am able. Lucas is as much to blame for selling it to megacorporate Disney. Even the most awful star wars fan fiction I've ever read blows this Disney turd right out of the water. It ISN'T Star Wars plain and simple. It's a mega corporate cash grab and I wish nothing but failure on the likes of Disney and their blood-sucking peers… Expand