10 Things That Redeem Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

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As a devoted cinema enthusiast, particularly when it comes to Star Wars, I must confess that the recent release, “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” has sparked quite a debate among fans. While some are still reeling from J.J. Abrams seemingly reversing all the choices made in “The Last Jedi” by Rian Johnson, others are taken aback by Rey’s proclamation as a Skywalker. Nevertheless, it appears that the general sentiment is that “Rise” falls short compared to other films in the Skywalker Saga. However, if one can step back and appreciate that no Star Wars movie is flawless, there are indeed numerous aspects of “The Rise of Skywalker” that make for an enjoyable cinematic experience.

Similar to the criticized film “Star Wars: Attack of the Clones,” “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” might not hold together as a seamless storyline, but there are individual elements that shine just as brightly as anything else within the franchise. While we anticipate some opposition, here’s our list of 10 aspects in “The Rise of Skywalker” that make it worthwhile.

1) Palpatine’s Creepy Aesthetic

Regardless of whether the Emperor should have reappeared in the story, his portrayal in “Rise” was undeniably spine-tingling. Scenes with a decayed, Palpatine-zombie are the most terrifying moments Star Wars has ever approached, venturing into horror territory. J.J. Abrams created an atmosphere around Palpatine where he is accompanied by enigmatic Sith followers who employ equally cryptic Sith powers and forbidden practices. This entire scenario carries an occult vibe that is unique to Star Wars, something we have not witnessed before or after.

2) Babu Frik

In the Star Wars universe, when we thought Grogu was the sweetest character, along comes Babu Frik in “Rise of Skywalker”. This small Anzellan is a standout in the movie, even making skeptics grudgingly acknowledge their fondness for this miniature droid mechanic.

Although ILM mainly deserves most of the recognition for giving Babu’s puppet a physical soul, it was Shirley Henderson’s exceptional voice acting that truly made Frik a crowd favorite. Known as Moaning Myrtle from the Harry Potter series, her talent contributed significantly to Frik’s popularity.

3) The Citizens’ Fleet

Instead of The Last Jedi where no one responded to Leia’s plea for aid, The Rise of Skywalker showcased a 14,000-strong makeshift fleet rallying to assist the Resistance in their decisive battle. This Citizens’ Fleet is an ideal scenario for using the pause button. Packed with numerous Easter Eggs such as Hera Syndulla’s ship, The Ghost from Star Wars: Rebels and Dash Rendar’s Outrider, the fleet serves as a Star Wars enthusiast’s Where’s Waldo.

As a die-hard Star Wars fan, I must admit that there’s an undeniable element of fan service in the Citizens’ Fleet. But, from where I stand, it doesn’t detract one bit from the overall enjoyment. In fact, it feels like a warm embrace from the universe I love so much.

4) The Return of Lando Calrissian

Undeniably, the Citizens’ Fleet owes its existence to a long-standing figure from Star Wars lore, Lando Calrissian. While it seemed logical that Lando would appear in The Rise of Skywalker, fans wondered if Disney’s sequel trilogy finale would include the veteran rogue. However, director J.J. Abrams managed to reunite Billy Dee Williams with the Star Wars universe, and remarkably, he granted a unique distinction to Lando that neither Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, nor Carrie Fisher received: his character was given life beyond the story’s conclusion.

5) Chewbacca Finally Gets to Grieve

Among all characters in the sequel trilogy, none experiences as much loss as Chewbacca. In “The Force Awakens,” he’s compelled to bear witness to his galactic friend’s brutal demise. In “The Last Jedi,” Chewy suffers another devastating blow when the venerable Luke Skywalker passes on, joining the Force. Throughout these ordeals, the Wookiee is left with no respite to mourn his dearly departed comrades. However, in “The Rise of Skywalker,” Chewbacca gets a chance to express his grief, and express it he does, profoundly so.

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I’d put it this way: Upon learning about Leia’s demise, Chewie crumples to the ground, unleashing heart-wrenching howls that echo the sorrow not just for her, but for Han and Luke too. Overwhelmed by grief, he seems to have lost all control, allowing his despair to consume him completely.

6) The Visuals

In terms of visual appeal, both “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” and its sequel, “The Rise of Skywalker,” are stunningly beautiful. However, while “The Last Jedi” often receives high praise for its cinematography, “The Rise of Skywalker” is rarely recognized for its visuals despite being just as captivating. From the awe-inspiring duel between Rey and Kylo on the remnants of the Death Star II to the eerie ambiance of Exegol, “The Rise of Skywalker” offers an unparalleled feast for the eyes from start to finish.

7) Ian McDiarmid’s Performance

Fans of the prequels will agree that Ian McDiarmid’s portrayal of Sheev Palpatine in the Star Wars trilogy is exceptional. His over-the-top, mustache-twirling villainy is second to none among the Star Wars cast. Thus, it’s not surprising that McDiarmid delivers the same level of intensity in “Rise of Skywalker”.

In a different phrasing, the seasoned actor portrays a character that switches between a gentle old man trying to persuade Kylo Ren and later Rey to join his side, and the madman audiences have adored since his debut in 1983’s Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. While it’s clear that other actors are also part of the cast, it could be argued that Rise of Skywalker effectively belongs to McDiarmid; everyone else seems to be merely participating in his story.

8) Han Solo’s Non-Force Ghost

Among the surprise appearances in “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” Han Solo’s role was particularly unexpected. Typically, Force users are the only Star Wars characters who manifest as ghosts, and Han Solo isn’t one of them. However, he doesn’t appear as a literal ghost; instead, he’s more like a memory that Kylo Ren experiences.

I know”. This moment instantly brings tears to everyone’s eyes.

9) Leia As A Jedi

In the final chapter of the Star Wars saga, “Rise of Skywalker,” we get a single scene featuring Leia Organa wielding the power of a Jedi. This is a moment long anticipated by fans who have followed her character through the movies, ever since Luke revealed her Force-sensitivity in “Return of the Jedi.” For those well-versed in the Star Wars Expanded Universe (now known as Legends), Leia’s journey as a Jedi has been unfolding in books since the early ’90s. However, this is a moment fans of the films have eagerly awaited for decades.

Through “Rise”, the long-awaited desires of the fans were fulfilled, albeit not in the most optimal conditions.

10) Ben Solo vs The Knights of Ren

Despite having limited screen time, approximately 10 minutes in total, Ben Solo’s appearance is impactful enough for an intense fight sequence. With the coveted Skywalker family lightsaber now in his possession, Ben Solo engages in a thrilling one-against-six battle against his former allies, the Knights of Ren. This brief but intense skirmish showcases Adam Driver’s acting prowess as he crafts a unique fighting style for Ben Solo that remains reminiscent of Kylo Ren, yet offers something fresh and intriguing. Although fans didn’t get to spend much time exploring the character of Ben Solo, the brief glimpses we got were nothing short of spectacular.

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2025-06-21 00:41