☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ½
Star
Wars: The Force Awakens (2015) – J. J. Abrams
I saw the first Star Wars in the theatre
in 1977 with my dad. Now, 38 years
later, I thought I’d see the new one in the theatre (in 3D) on a whim on the
hottest day of the summer so far. I’m
not a zealous fan, particularly after all of the disappointments and I didn’t
even watch the 6th/3rd film. So, it is a very pleasant surprise to say
that J. J. Abrams and his team have pulled it off and recreated the magic of
the very first Star Wars. They have done
this by essentially making this new film a remake of the first, with enough
plot similarities to cause anyone to raise an eyebrow and, of course, to
delight those fans who know the films inside and out. Let’s call it an emotional remake, if not an
exact replica – the music of John Williams helps on this score. However, the real key to success, I think, is
a generous helping of Harrison Ford; it is great to be back in the presence of
the wisecracking but sentimental Han Solo.
Of course, there is lots more nostalgia to be had, but the new cast,
particularly Daisy Ridley and John Boyega, more than hold their own. That’s another after-image from 1977 – the
feel that a cast of unknowns has been thrust into a blockbuster. Naturally, not everything works perfectly –
the relationship between Han and Leia and their son feels forced (I kept
thinking who is this guy and what part of the story did I miss?). But the schematic plot, the dazzling action,
and the giddy fun of returning to one’s childhood memories make this highly
recommended – if you are in the tribe (more or less).
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