“Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens” Review
*This review does not contain spoilers.*
Thursday night into Friday morning audiences around the world were taken back to “a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away.” That’s right, the highly anticipated and newest installment in the Star Wars saga finally hit theaters. Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens was here and I was among the first of many to see the film. To say the least, it was nothing short of amazing.
I had purchased my tickets about three weeks prior to seeing the film on Thursday night knowing how crowded each theater in my area would be. From seeing the first teaser trailer almost nine months ago, I knew that I had to see The Force Awakens as soon as possible. After much time waiting, along with all the hype and mystery surrounding the film’s release, the time finally came to see what director J.J. Abrams had done with the newest installment.
Arriving at the theater, my excitement level was in overdrive. I got my snacks and headed to my showing. As I neared the door, I was met by a line of about 50 people waiting to get in as well. Everyone started filing in to get their seats and wait for what was coming.
Other fans and I grew impatient as we sat through multiple previews prior to the showing. Finally, the time came. The lights dimmed, fans began to cheer, and for the next two hours and 16 minutes, we were immersed in the Star Wars universe once again!
Without giving away any plot points, I can say that the movie is worth the wait. New characters like Finn and Rey, played by John Boyega and Daisy Ridley, are introduced as the new heroes of the saga. We are also introduced once again to some beloved older characters as well. Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, and Mark Hamill reprise their roles as Han Solo, Princess Leia, and Luke Skywalker. A lovable droid named BB-8 is also introduced. The whole film does a great job balancing the old characters with the new. There is a nostalgic feel that takes you back to the original trilogy while keeping you set on the fact that it’s a new film. The visuals of the film are amazing and I can only imagine that they look 10 times better in the IMAX and 3D formats. All in all, The Force Awakens is the return of Star Wars that I was sincerely hoping for.
From the famous opening crawl until the end credits of the movie, it was a rollercoaster of emotion for me and everyone else in the theater. The pure joy of knowing that the Star Wars franchise is back on the big screen had me smiling ear to ear. The Force Awakens truly captures the spirit of the Star Wars saga and awakened the fan in me once again.
