Due to the fact that so many people haven't seen STAR WARS - THE FORCE AWAKENS, I have resisted a public review... but I can't hold off anymore... so here you go a spoiler free review!
To say THE FORCE AWAKENS is everything we fans hoped for is a huge understatement! Despite the fact that i love the 'prequels' I have waited to see what happened to the Star Wars Universe following the dreadful RETURN OF THE JEDI!
Well, the galaxy is in huge turmoil with the Empire now giving way to the First Order, led by the evil Kylo Ren. Their mission is to hunt down Luke Skywalker who has gone missing for the past 30 plus years. The First Order, led by the mysterious Supreme Leader Snoke have created a weapon that threatens not only the Republic but the entire galaxy.
As the film moves on we are introduced to three young heroes that have come from different worlds and backgrounds to save the galaxy. Much like Luke, Han Solo and Princess Leia did in A NEW HOPE, these three have not only survived their baptism of fire, but have become a team united for greater things.
Daisey Ridley (Rey), John Boyega (Finn) and Oscar Isaac (Poe) not only bring fresh and different faces to the saga but are three characters and actors I can't wait to see grow as their roles expand.
The action in the film is non-stop! From the SAVING PRIVATE RYAN beginning to the fantastic battle at the end, everyone gets something. Director J.J. Abrams did everything I hoped he did for the STAR TREK franchise; make them fun, relevant and enjoyable for everyone. Mission Accomplished!
STAR WARS - THE FORCE AWAKENS is a great bridge for the new series of films being planned. Using existing characters (Han Solo, Chewbacca, Leia, Luke, R2-D2 and C-3PO) gave older fans the closure and familiarity they needed and give many who aren't even into STAR WARS a movie that stands alone.
I could go on and on in my praise for this move BUT i'm afraid the more I type, the more I may say something I don't want to... or give away spoilers. i will end with this... GO SEE THIS MOVIE RIGHT NOW!!!
Matman Rating: 4.5 out of 5 small heart attacks and tears!