Star Wars (1977)

Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017)

 

Rey develops her newly discovered abilities with the guidance of Luke Skywalker, who is unsettled by the strength of her powers. Meanwhile, the Resistance prepares for battle with the First Order.

Competently produced and highly entertaining continuation of the Star Wars saga, again proof that the recent productions are superior to the previous trilogies concerning characters and character development, - and diversity; Daisy Ridley's Rey is arguably the series' most agreeable hero.

On rewatching:  Although visually stunning in some sequences, this episode is in fact more generic and less entertaining on a second watch.

Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019)

The surviving members of the resistance face the First Order once again, and the legendary conflict between the Jedi and the Sith reaches its peak bringing the Skywalker saga to its end.

This final Star Wars episode  has a heavy load wrapping the whole saga up in feature length and unfortunately packs too much in to make this a thoroughly enjoyable sci-fi adventure; however, along its convoluted way, there are lots of sets of breathtaking visual appeal.

New acquisition: Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019)

Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)

After three years of fighting in the Clone Wars, Anakin Skywalker concludes his journey towards the Dark Side of the Force, putting his friendship with Obi Wan Kenobi and his marriage at risk.

The birth of Darth Vader concludes the trilogy as a bombastic interstellar opera.

On renewed viewing I still think that Anakin Skywalker's metamorphosis to Darth Vader a bit unconvincing; much of the fun comes from the supporting characters and diverse aliens.

Maltin***: "Long, uneven, but meticulously crafted entry...has some of the same faults as its immediate predecessors, but delivers an emotional wallop as it brings the prequel trilogy" to a conclusion. Yoda dominates every scene he is in - and gives the best performance in the film!"

Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

During an adventure into the criminal underworld, Han Solo meets his future co-pilot Chewbacca and encounters Lando Calrissian years before joining the Rebellion.

Solid Star Wars spin-off with the usual good effects and effective action and a competent cast for the task; Alden Ehrenreich, especially, does an excellent job emulating the young Han Solo.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017)

Rey develops her newly discovered abilities with the guidance of Luke Skywalker, who is unsettled by the strength of her powers. Meanwhile, the Resistance prepares for battle with the First Order.

Competently produced and highly entertaining continuation of the Star Wars saga, again proof that the recent productions are superior to the previous trilogies concerning characters and character development, - and diversity; Daisy Ridley's Rey is arguably the series' most agreeable hero.

Rogue One (2016)

The Rebel Alliance makes a risky move to steal the plans for the Death Star, setting up the epic saga to follow.

A Star Wars subplot expertly produced with all the usual ingredients and update deffects offers a lot of lively action, but doesn't offer much more than that.