Guys, I love Star Wars. My hubby loves Star Wars and my kids are eagerly following suite. We’re fans at the core! As such, here are My 5 Favorite Things about Star Wars: The Force Awakens!

First of all, let me tell you WHY I have such a love for Star Wars. In a nutshell, it was my childhood! Growing up, Sunday afternoons, when my dad wasn’t at the station, were spent relaxing on our couch watching our favorite shows. Things like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Indiana Jones were frequent repeats, but none more so than Star Wars. So when I say my enjoyment of the whole Star Wars universe, products, shows and stories goes deep, it’s no exaggeration. Needless to say we’ve been counting down to Episode VII hitting theaters since it was announced!

Note: there may be spoilers in here, as I feel there’s been plenty of time for most people to either have seen it, or read about it anyway.

#1: BB-8

Guys, I LOVE this droid! I learned from this interview that the first idea of making BB-8 what he is came from JJ Abrams himself! The way he rolls around, the emotion shown from his half-sphere top, and just the spunky personality coming from the little guy really makes you fall in love with him. One of my twins, Iron Man, is head-over-heels with BB-8 and says he’s going to build himself one when he’s older because he’s ‘awesome and orange’!

#2: Strong Female Characters

First of all, you’ve got GENERAL Leia Organa (played by Carrie Fisher). I’ve ALWAYS loved her – the character AND the actor! In the originals, she wasn’t some damsel in distress – yes, they rescued her, but who was it that was shooting more of the storm troopers and fighting right along the ‘big boys’ to escape? She was my hero! Now she’s back, and even more graceful and admirable than ever. What a strong woman to go from a princess up to a General – that’s leadership! I also notice that in the control room, there’s not may women besides Leia taking the lead, working right along the guys to save the universe. What a great role model!

Now to the newcomer Rey, played by actor Daisy Ridley. If I thought Leia was a great woman for my daughter to look up to, then this feisty, independent girl from the desert MUST be included, as well! Being on her own for however long, surviving in such a harsh world, and braving amazing feats (Would YOU be hanging by a rope super high in the air to grab parts from a crashed Star Destroyer? Me either!) she sure has proven her determination. When Finn runs to rescue her from a fight, only to watch as she kicks butt all by herself, the look on his impressed face is priceless! And goodness, she doesn’t need him holding her hand! LOL

Another thing I absolutely LOVE about Rey is that, despite being independent and strong, plus an excellent fighter, she’s also soft and kind hearted. She rescues BB-8, won’t sell him despite the hunger she must suffer, and yearns for the family that’s still a mystery. I could go on and on about her, but just watch the movie and you’ll see 🙂

#3: The Affects

I’ve watched this in 3D and 2D, and I can tell you that the 3D is completely worth it! So natural-looking and beautiful, it really brings you into that world. They did amazing with the visuals – so many scenes that just capture your eyes and soul! I’ve always been a fan of the music, and Episode VII did NOT disappoint! One of my favorites is during the scene above when the weapon is revealed – talk about emotional!

The battle and action scenes were MUCH better done than in Episodes 1-3, in my opinion. I think in those it was a bit TOO much, too unreal. These were totally believable and got your heart racing as if you were right there with them.

Along with the visuals and music, I was so impressed with how they tied things together – to show you what I mean, let’s look at this example above of Kylo Ren. He’s a hot mess, powerful but not in control of his anger at all! He has a few hissy fits – such as the hilarious part where 2 storm troopers slowly back away as Ren trashes a room with his saber. His LIGHTSABER reflects his lack of control – it’s not completely contained, spatters a bit along the edges like it’s barely holding itself together. Such a perfect combination and reflection of Ren!

#4: The Mysteries

I’ve heard many people complaining that too much was left unanswered – well, there’s 2 more movies coming out, so of course they need to leave you wondering! As much as I’m dying to know about some things, I’m eager to see how it all gets shown in the coming movies. Is Rey the daughter of Luke, or perhaps she’s Kylo Ren’s sister? Who was the old man at the beginning of the movie giving Po the map, saying he needs to make up for the past? These and more have kept my Hubby and I up late discussing the possibilities, and curious for the answers. So to me, I love the mystery….even though I look forward to the answer, too!

#5: Harrison Ford AKA: Han Solo

Confession Time: I have a crush on Harrison Ford – always have, since his films were such a big part of my childhood! He’s such a gifted actor, as well as an all-around good human being. When he walked into the scene for the first time in this movie, I couldn’t help but squeal (yes, I’m sure I got many weird looks from other theater guests, but I really don’t care)! The humor Han Solo brings, without necessarily trying, just adds a whole other dimension to the films. This movie brought all sorts of new emotional turmoil into his life, trying to save his son, which was a new side to the Solo I remember – but I love him even more because of it!

If you haven’t seen Star Wars: The Force Awakens yet, you’ve GOT to go. Now – like RIGHT NOW! In 3D, because remember – it’s so worth it!

Enjoy, and May the Force Be With You!