Star Wars: The Force Awakens – Spoiler Free Review for Fans and Families

I was lucky enough to get to attend an early press screening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens and I have promised a spoiler-free review in return. All opinions are my own!

It’s been over 30 years since Return of the Jedi, and Star Wars fans like me have been waiting for Friday, when Star Wars: The Force Awakens hits theaters. As I sat and watched the Star Wars opening crawl, I actually got giddy. I also had a lot of questions: Where would the movie pick up? Why no Luke Skywalker in the previews? Would anyone die? Would there be a cliffhanger? My mind seemed awash in anticipation and questions. Staying true to my promise of a no-spoiler review, and wanting you to experience the answer to those questions and more yourself, I will just highlight seven things you need to know about the movie.

Seven Things to Know About Episode VII

1. Timing: The movie picks up pretty much in real time, meaning it has also been about 30 years in that galaxy far far away.
2. Old friends: There are many familiar characters you will be happy to see. If you’ve seen the previews you already know that, but do not underestimate the warm fuzzies you will get when you see your favorites up on the big screen again.
3. New characters: Several new characters are introduced, some good and some bad. These characters are well written and complex. You will love or hate them.
4. Feels like old times: Let’s be honest, many Star Wars fans are not fans of Episodes I-III. However, Star Wars: The Force Awakens feels like it fits with the original trilogy. It has the same wit, humor, adventure, and fun as those fan favorites Episodes IV-VI do. Star Wars fans will love this movie.
5. Feels like new times: If you have been under a rock since 1977 and have never seen the Star Wars movies, you can still go see this movie and enjoy it. There is enough new story-line development to make it enjoyable (just promise not to annoy your Star Wars fan friends with questions throughout the whole movie).
6. No scene after the credits: I waited until the very last credit and was treated to the “Bad Robot” clip J.J. Abrams fans know well, but no extra scene.
7. Family-friendly. If you kids have seen any of the other Star Wars movies, they will be enjoy this one. It is completely appropriate for any child already familiar with Star Wars. No real profanity, sex, or gratuitous violence here.

I cannot wait to go back and watch this movie again, this time with my family. Take yours and go this weekend, just be prepared for long lines and sold out shows. Be forewarned: you will laugh and cry. This one is going to be big.