Third: Time for Criticism

My first thought after watching the The Last Jedi on Thursday night was “what a mess”.

Seriously.

But I didn’t dwell on that.

My second thought was that it’s the 21st century, I’m 50 years old, and Star Wars films are still a thing.  This cornerstone from my childhood is still here.

The film is a mess, but I can’t explain why without spoilers.  The most I can say, after seeing it for a third time, is that certain story elements… failed.

There were a few visual continuity problems (mostly body positioning).  There were questionable casting/character decisions.

And then there’s the whole subplot that some say should not be dismissed, but I felt it could have been.

It’s not a better film than Episode V, but for some reason I like it more than Empire, warts and all.

It’s an enjoyable mess, and very emotional to me.

I should take the lead of others and simply say that I like the Original Trilogy, the Disney movies, and some of Revenge of the Sith.  With no ranking of the films themselves.

Though the original Star Wars is still my all-time favorite.

Rogue One is a VERY close second.

Second Viewing

After a second watch of The Last Jedi, one change to the rankings:

  • IV
  • R1
  • VIII
  • V
  • VII
  • VI
  • III
  • I
  • II

The Last Jedi is my 3rd favorite Star Wars film.  The second viewing was much more of an emotional experience than the first time, probably because I knew what was coming this time around.  It’s a roller coaster, with a few ‘WTH?’ moments, unlike Rogue One, which had none, IMHO.

Episode IV remains my favorite Star Wars film, because without that one, NONE of the rest exist.

Also, PORGS ARE STILL AWESOME.

PORGS ARE AWESOME

It was great.  And even better when you see it with friends and family.

Rankings:

  1. A New Hope
  2. Rogue One
  3. The Empire Strikes Back
  4. The Last Jedi
  5. The Force Awakens
  6. Return of the Jedi
  7. Revenge of the Sith
  8. The Phantom Menace
  9. Attack of the Clones

I thought Rogue One was a better film.  Maybe that will change after I see The Last Jedi again.

VIII