If extravagant fictitious action movies were a system of rule, then the Star Wars franchise would be top dog. The newest addition to this scintillating ensemble is the masterpiece directed by JJ Abrams, ‘The Force Awakens’. Now, much like most Star Wars movies, two things are true about ‘The Force Awakens’: it is instantly engaging, yet at the same time conventional.

   If you’re the type of person who wants an intellectually stimulating movie that challenges your knowledge, then ‘The Force Awakens’ is not for you. On the contrary, if you happen to love movies full of action, classic quotes, laugh-out-loud moments and the occasional sprinkling of romance then this film is ideal. Perhaps no movie so far exemplifies the same carefully crafted nuances as this one.

  That said, while certain parodies may be more original than this movie, it is a must watch for dedicated Star Wars fans and newcomers alike. And therein lies the true magic of The Force Awakens and other movies of its ilk; both retro and post modern in their self-awareness. Throughout ‘The Force Awakens’ that radiates through in the energy of the music, and the engagement of the cast not to mention the iconically well done special effects. The Millennium Falcon scene is the perfect example.  Sand plumes into the air as gunshots are fired, but the partnership of authentic acting and light humour featuring laser noises and explosions will have you referencing the scene for weeks. This trend continues in every scene, combining the formulaic hero’s journey with modern effects to create a film that you will inevitably enjoying.

  Ultimately, I appreciate how Abrams has carefully crafted every aspect of this legacy, and the result is outstanding. The jury in charge of awarding Oscars had rightfully so put this movie on the nominee list, yet even though ‘The Force Awakens’ did not win an award, this movie has risen above all expectations to deliver a message that we all know and love, and make all of the past.

  Though the movie is very mimetic it’s predecessors, being part of a series does not mean that the movie is epigonic; it’s just the superlative equivalent of the Fast and the Furious. Sometimes, it is ok to set aside complex thrillers and indulge yourself in a repetitive series highlighting montages of propensity. You wouldn’t have gone to the theatre to see an avant-garde film. Similarly, sometimes you need to ignore the more ingenious side of the film industry, sit down with your popcorn and enjoy one hundred and thirty five minutes of laughter, lasers and Han Solo yelling “Punch it Chewy!”