A spoiler-free review: Star shines bright in 'The Force Awakens'

This is the seventh strike from the Empire to date — Star Wars: The Force Awakens marks 11 years since the trilogy first hit screens worldwide. The entire franchise has over the years boasted some hugely successful films as well as merchandise worth billions of dollars.

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Directing the latest installation of Star Wars: The Force Awakens was clearly a fanboy’s dream-come-true for J. J. Abrams (Star Trek Into Darkness, Super 8).

While Force Awakens seemed geared for a younger target audience with its sprawling adventure, Abrams also made sure to cleverly weave in its core story while adopting a fresher, younger perspective without forsaking the nostalgia evoked by the franchise.

At times, it also felt like Abrams paid homage by allowing members of the original cast in its latest installment. This fact alone will evoke some strong emotional resonance; each cast member relish the chance to be in a Star Wars movie and this is displayed through their commitment to character.

Even with its new cast members, there is an air of familiarity: considering the film’s main line-up, it would seem that this latest Star Wars celebrates diversity and as a result, had characters on screen which represents each one of us.

The grandeur of the film comes from its brilliant set pieces, breathtaking battle scenes, bone-chilling bad guys, its beautiful and classic theme music, CGI, multiple angles, and flight chase scenes. Most of all, everything happening on screen felt believable, resulting in a completely immersive experience — it’s safe to say that not a dime from the film’s sky-high budget of US$200,000,000 has gone to waste.

The pièce de résistance of the film however was a funny and loyal droid named BB-8. It was a major feat that a robot could evoke a sense of humanity, and credit is due to its “vocal consultants” Bill Hader and Ben Schwartz.

Even for non-fans, Force Awakens could definitely pique the interest thanks to its accessible storyline speckled with humor — expect to want to watch this movie again soon after exiting the cinema. Those who have been waiting for this sequel, rejoice: your expectations might have just been met.

In the meantime, you’ll be glad to know that Episode VIII is scheduled for 26 May 2017.