I was invited to a free screening to facilitate this review. All opinions are mine alone. #TheLastJedi

I *know* I’m not the only one who’s been on the edge of their seat waiting for the new Star Wars movie to come out, or the only one who’s rewatched the trailers multiple times, trying to find hints or clues as to what we’ll be seeing. I was practically bouncing in my theater seat, waiting for the screen to pop up with that familiar text and theme song! Once that hit, I couldn’t take my eyes away from the screen, afraid I’d miss even a second of the incredible story. Now, I won’t give any spoilers in this review, because NOTHING could do it justice other than experiencing it for yourself – but let me tell you why I think The Last Jedi is Bringing Star Wars to a Whole New Level!

You know from the trailers that we still have many of the same cast and characters that we all love (or hate – at least outwardly), but there’s also newcomers who bring quite the variety, adventure and twists to the story. From the seemingly indestructible Captain Phasma (Gwendoline Christie) who we had the ‘pleasure’ of meeting in the previous film, to the confident and beautiful Vice Admiral Amilyn Holdo (Laura Dern), it’s a whole crew of personalities!

Finn is finally awake (if you happen to miss practically every trailer so this was a shock, sorry), and teaming up with Rose, who has her own past reasons for fighting so hard against the First Order. Together, they embark on a mission to save what little remains of the resistance, and risk paying the ultimate price for their actions.

I was a huge fan of Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) in The Force Awakens, but love him even more as we get more of a feel for his no fear, ‘jump in a ship and blow things up’ character. While this can be a huge benefit during a war, there’s the risk he’ll push too far, costing the resistance too much. Despite his ‘trouble maker’ attitude (though not his intent), it’s really sweet his full respect and admiration he has for Leia.

While Star Wars has always been fabulous at including new species/creatures, it seems they put even more into it for The Last Jedi – not just flashes in the background, but a feel for some of the creatures in this universe and some of their cute, proud or down-right beautiful characteristics.

Most of us had major questions about Rey after seeing The Force Awakens – her history, her parentage, and if she’d follow in Kylo Ren’s footsteps and give in to the dark side. It’s no doubt she’s incredibly powerful with the force, but you can still see the doubt and loneliness fighting inside of her. She came to Luke for help, but can he give her what she really needs?

I love that The Last Jedi answered some of our burning questions in regards to Rey, and built up on her character even more than before – showing how brave and strong she really is, as well as tossing us some surprising twists. That being said, though, there’s still so many directions her future, and that of the Star Wars Galaxy, can head in the final film that we’ll see in 2019!

Star Wars has also been known for wonderful, epic battles – on land and in space – but The Last Jedi blew me away with the advancements they showed. Not only knew ships or advanced AT-ATs that I never knew were possible, but how the wars are fought and won (or lost) were visually stunning and tactically astonishing.

You can still rely on good ol’ BB-8 for some funny antics and faithfulness to his people – whether Poe or Finn. I love this little ball, and so glad he’s still part of the adventure in The Last Jedi!

I said no spoilers, and I’m sticking with that so don’t dare even hint at certain things. One obvious thing is – seeing Carrie Fisher (Leia) during the movie was very emotional, especially for all of us who grew up with her as a role model, and such an amazing woman. Knowing she passed away, it was very difficult. In The Last Jedi, she’s even more admirable, strong and dedicated than ever – although possibly more patient than she was in the earlier films 🙂 I’m sure Carrie’s watching us all enjoy her work from Heaven, and proud of all she helped contribute to us Star Wars fans. We love and miss you Carrie!

One thing the trailers kept hinting at was Kylo’s struggles – but not exactly WHAT he was struggling with. There’s so much turmoil inside him – fear that he’s not strong enough, anger at not being who he wants to be, possibly even guilt at killing his father, Han Solo. Then with some strange connections to Rey, his past is brought back to mind and he has to deal with not only his current struggles, but his previous ones as well. Again, no spoilers – but oh my goodness, you won’t be able to prepare for what’s to come with Kylo Ren and the twists this plot will take!

Luke has definitely changed since the original movies, which loss, guilt and fear can do to a person. While he use to be a symbol of hope to the galaxy, he has none himself. Will he be able to overcome his own troubled past and history with Ben Solo/Kylo Ren, or will his belief that the Jedi should end stay true? You’ll have to catch the movie to find out – and I hope you’re as amazed at the surprises in store as I am!

With battles more epic than ever, characters you feel drawn to with their well developed histories and personalities, questions answer – and more left to wonder on – as well as more plot twists and comedy than ever before, I believe The Last Jedi is bringing Star Wars to a whole new level, and absolutely cannot wait until the final installment in 2019!!!

Star Wars The Last Jedi hits theaters December 15th – nab your tickets now & don’t miss out!

There’s absolutely no doubt that my family consists of die-hard Star Wars fans. It was a big part of my childhood, as well as hubby’s, and we’ve now ingrained it into our children’s lives as well. They both love and fear Darth Vader, are perfecting their lightsaber skills and wish they could have BB-8 for a sibling. Needless to say, we’ve been anxiously awaiting Rogue One, yet wondering how well it would fit into this intergalactic world. I’m thrilled to say that Rogue One is a perfect piece in the Star Wars Universe, and while it would be great on it’s own, also fits in seamlessly.

As I sat with my friend Finding Debra excitedly waiting for the movie to begin, you could tell it was kind of like waiting for Christmas morning for us both. The screen lit up to start, and the whole theater of bloggers and critics went completely silent – it was like everyone was holding their breath for that first moment! Right from the start, you’re pulled into Rogue One with strong, brave characters and a mysterious – yet obviously evil – plan.

Don’t worry, there’s NO SPOILERS here – just a few of my thoughts and some big reasons you HAVE to run and see Rogue One when it hits theaters this week! 

Probably the Most Laugh-Out-Loud Star Wars Film

You read that correct, I think Rogue One had more laugh-out-loud comedy in it than any of the other Star Wars Films. The whole theater was busting at the seams with the rather chatty droid K-2S0 (voiced by Alan Tudyk) who had a tendency to speak his very calculating mind.

As if his comedic remarks weren’t enough, we also thoroughly enjoyed two partners-in-mischief, Chirrut Îmwe – who’s blind, yet a remarkable fighter with a strong tie with the force – and his buddy Baze Malbus, who’s a gruffy ol’ teddy bear with one heck of a gun!

Flashbacks to the Other Star Wars Films

I guess you could say flashbacks AND a peak into the future. From random appearances of characters from the other movies, and some of the talk that hints for things we know are to come, there’s a lot of fun parts where you just feel right at home tying Rogue One to the other films.

Strong Characters – Female AND Male

I was thrilled that Star Wars was including more female leads, showing their strength, determination, and ability to lead men into battle. It started with Rey, who we still have much to see from in future films. With Rogue One, it’s Jyn Erso, a rebellious girl who shocks everyone with her ability to make such a difference to a cause she wanted nothing to do with.

By her side is Captain Cassian Andor, who has a bit more to his past than we originally think, and has a strong commitment to the rebellion he’s long been a part of. Along with other things, he learns that trust has to go both ways if this unlikely bunch is going to attempt the impossible and succeed.

Emotions are High – and You’re Likely to Cry at Least Once

For those that know the basic story – or at least the outcome – of Rogue One from the other Star Wars films, you can expect that there will be many tears. Tears of loss, tears of hope and tears simply of touching moments between characters. Like I said, I won’t do any spoilers – but I cried a few times in this movie. Take tissues, just in case 🙂

Darth Vader

I wasn’t sure what type or how big of a role Darth Vader would play in Rogue One. He’s in it more than I thought, but still not very much – but where they included him was PERFECT. He still demands attention and fear when he enters a room, and despite all we’ve seen, he still shocks us with his skill and mere presence. And what’s great is that James Earl Jones was back to do that iconic voice!!!

I absolutely LOVED this film, and can’t wait to take my whole family soon. Yes, I believe it’s fine for kids who’ve seen the other films – there’s action and fighting, but no more so than the others. I already know their favorite character will be that spunky droid K-2SO, but I’m curious who my hubby will pick. They’re all incredible, with such a well-made cast.

Head out and nab your tickets for Rogue One so you can see it when it hits theaters this week!!!