Opened: December 20, 2019

Directed by: J. J. Abrams

Starring: Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Anthony Daniels, Naomi Ackie, Domhnall Gleeson, Richard E. Grant, Lupita Nyong’o, Keri Russell, Joonas Suotamo, Kelly Marie Tran, Ian McDiarmid, Billy Dee Williams, Billie Lourd, Greg Grunberg, Dominic Monaghan, Shirley Henderson, Nick Kellington, Hassan Taj, Lee Towersey, Dave Chapman, Brian Herring, Amanda Lawrence, Vinette Robinson, Jodie Comer, Billy Howle, Josef Altin, Denis Lawson, Warwick Davis, Hayden Christensen, James Earl Jones, Andy Serkis, Ewan McGregor, Alec Guinness, Ashley Eckstein, Freddie Prinze Jr., Olivia d’Abo, Frank Oz, Liam Neeson, Jennifer Hale, Angelique Perrin, Samuel L. Jackson & Harrison Ford

The final chapter of Star Wars’ Skywalker Saga, The Rise of Skywalker is filled with issues but ultimately brings a fitting end to the franchise.

Learning that Emperor Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid) is still alive and leading the First Order, Rey (Daisy Ridley), Finn (John Boyega) and Poe (Oscar Isaac) know that their last chance to defeat evil is at bay.

Using repurposed footage of the late Carrie Fisher as Leia, there’s a proper ending to her story but it’s not deserving enough for the iconic character. Throughout the film, there are several characters choices that make the story more formulaic.

However, the production design is awe-striking. From the cinematography to the use of more practical puppets to the climactic battle, there’s a feeling of reminiscent of the original trilogy.

Final say: Not as powerful as it should be. ★★★☆☆