Star Wars: The Last Jedi (Spoiler Free Review)

The conflict between good and evil and dark and light is a conflict that is as old as time itself. Stories centering on this struggle have intrigued mankind for generations. This conflict shows up in religion, literature, and in our movies. Maybe that is why the Stars Wars franchise has been so successful. The story of dark versus light is something we can all relate to. We all feel that internal conflict from time to time. Some feel it more often and more deeply than others. Perhaps we even identify with characters like Darth Vader and Kylo Ren – understanding their struggle, but hoping they will make right choices.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi picks up where The Force Awakens left off. We see a determined Rey and a conflicted Kylo Ren and an epic battle between dark and light. The force may have awoken in the last movie, but it really comes to life in The Last Jedi. As always, this is a spoiler-free review, so I will not ruin your experience by giving you too many details. Just know that this movie, perhaps more than any other Star Wars movie, is a story about the age-old conflict of good versus evil. We see several characters struggle with choosing dark versus light, reining in pride, struggling with regret, and fighting against selfishness.

Like The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi blends well with the tone and spirit of the original trilogy, providing an effective balance of science fiction, comedy, drama, and suspense. Star Wars fans will be happy with this movie. Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill were fantastic in their beloved roles and true to their characters. The characters we met in the last movie return with flair and a few impressive new characters are introduced.

The Last Jedi finishes with just the right mix of revelation and unanswered questions. There is one big question that appears to be answered in the movie, but I do not believe the answer (I don’t think you will either). Time will tell.

Parent Info:

There is no sexual content or serious profanity to speak of. Of course, there is violence since the Rebellion is fighting the First Order. Themes of good versus evil permeate the movie, providing a fantastic segue to family discussions later. One closed-mouth kiss occurs between a male and female character. Children who have watched other Star Wars movies with no difficulty will do fine with The Last Jedi.

Rating: PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi action and violence.

Scene after credits: No.

I attended a media screening of this movie to facilitate my review. All opinions are my own.