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Gemini AI: Star Wars Episode 8 Boldly Exposes The Force

By Dan Salem

Posted on March 18, 2025

Star Wars Episode 8 is bold and divisive, serving up controversy with thrilling and ultimately memorable battles. This movie is perfectly Star Wars.

Gemini AI reviews the best movies of all time. Today it looks at the follow up to an all-time classic, Star Wars Episode 8 – The Last Jedi.

Star Wars Episode 8 – The Last Jedi, released in 2017, arrived with the weight of immense expectations, tasked with continuing the story established in The Force Awakens and further exploring the new characters and conflicts. Director Rian Johnson delivered a film that boldly challenged conventions, subverted expectations, and ultimately divided the Star Wars fanbase. While its narrative choices and thematic explorations sparked intense debate, The Last Jedi undeniably stands as one of the most daring and thought-provoking entries in the entire saga.

Get the Movie: Click To Buy ‘Star Wars Episode 8’ on Blu-ray (Only $9.99!)

Picking up immediately after the events of The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi finds the Resistance on the run, desperately fleeing the relentless pursuit of the First Order. Rey, meanwhile, travels to the remote planet of Ahch-To to seek training from the reclusive Luke Skywalker. She hopes to learn the ways of the Force and find her place in the galaxy. Finn and Rose Tico embark on a desperate mission to disable the First Order’s hyperspace tracking system, while Poe Dameron grapples with the strategic decisions of the Resistance leadership.

One of the film’s most striking features is its willingness to subvert expectations. Johnson challenges established Star Wars tropes, dismantling the myth of the infallible hero and exploring the complexities of the Force. Luke Skywalker, once a symbol of hope and heroism, is portrayed as a disillusioned and flawed figure, grappling with the weight of his past failures. Rey’s journey is not a straightforward path to becoming a Jedi Master. She confronts her own inner demons and grapples with the ambiguity of the Force.

The film also delves into the themes of failure, disillusionment, and the cyclical nature of conflict. The Resistance, despite its valiant efforts, faces overwhelming odds and suffers devastating losses. Opposing them is the First Order, who despite its apparent power, is plagued by internal conflicts and power struggles. The film suggests that the struggle between the light and dark sides of the Force is not a simple matter of good versus evil, but a complex and ongoing battle that transcends generations.

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The Last Jedi excels in its visual storytelling. It’s cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and grandeur of the Star Wars universe. The action sequences are visually impressive and emotionally impactful, showcasing the skills and bravery of the characters. One of its finest moments is the lightsaber duel in Snoke’s throne room. This is a masterclass in visual storytelling, combining breathtaking choreography with emotional intensity.

The performances in Star Wars Episode 8 are exceptional. Daisy Ridley delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Rey, capturing her internal struggles and her growing understanding of the Force. Mark Hamill delivers a tour-de-force performance as Luke Skywalker, portraying him as a complex and flawed figure with depth and vulnerability. Adam Driver continues to impress as Kylo Ren, showcasing his emotional instability and his internal conflict. Carrie Fisher delivers a poignant and memorable final performance as General Leia Organa.

The film also introduces several new characters who add depth and complexity to the Star Wars universe. Rose Tico, portrayed by Kelly Marie Tran, is a relatable and inspiring character who embodies the spirit of the Resistance. Vice Admiral Holdo, portrayed by Laura Dern, is a complex and enigmatic figure who challenges Poe Dameron’s leadership.

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However, The Last Jedi is not without its criticisms. The film’s narrative choices, particularly its handling of Luke Skywalker and Snoke, sparked intense debate among fans. Some viewers felt that the film disrespected the legacy of the original trilogy, while others praised its bold and innovative approach.

The film’s pacing can also feel uneven at times. Some scenes feel rushed, while others linger for too long. The subplot involving Finn and Rose on Canto Bight was particularly divisive. Some viewers found it unnecessary and detracting from the main narrative.

Despite these criticisms, The Last Jedi undeniably stands as a bold and thought-provoking entry in the Star Wars saga. It’s a film that challenges conventions, subverts expectations, and explores complex themes. It’s a film that sparks debate and discussion, prompting viewers to reconsider their understanding of the Star Wars universe.

Get the Movie: Click To Buy ‘Star Wars Episode 8’ on Blu-ray (Only $9.99!)

The movie’s legacy is still being debated, but its impact on the Star Wars franchise is undeniable. It’s a film that dared to take risks, challenge its characters, and explore deeper themes. It’s a film that reminds us that the Star Wars saga is not just about nostalgia and spectacle, but about storytelling, character development, and thematic exploration. Star Wars episode 8 is a bold stroke, a challenge to the status quo, and a film that forces us to confront the complexities of the Force and the enduring struggle between light and darkness.

If you have yet to see this film, then head back up to the top of the page where there’s a handy link to purchase it. Thank you Gemini AI for that thoughtful and detailed review of a true movie classic.