Showing posts with label Fantasy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fantasy. Show all posts

Saturday, May 10, 2025

Monkey (TV Series 1978-1980)

King Monkey is summoned to heaven by the Jade Emperor. However, his mischievous tendencies lead him to eat all the heavenly peaches, gaining immortality. Expelled to Earth, alongside two of the Emperor's disgraced officials, Monkey is encased in a mountain as punishment by Buddha, whilst one official is made a pig spirit (Pigsy) and the other a water spirit (Sandy). Years later, the Buddhist boy priest, Tripitaka, frees Monkey and recruits him alongside the other two as his disciples. Their journey is to reach India from China to fetch the Buddhist scriptures to bring peace to the people of the world. Monkey is a Japanese program that adapts from the Chinese novel 'Journey to the West' by Wu Cheng'en, which received an English dub for release in the UK, which the show is probably most known for. I was introduced to the show by my Mum and a co-worker, who equally believed it to be right up my street as a fan of strange cult classics. Naturally, they were absolutely right. Nothing could be more peculiar than a stone ape born from an egg on a mountaintop who battles demons, and I was all for it. I was an instant fan from the first episode, which alone was unlike anything I had experienced before. Equally, as a whole, the series astounded me with a whole plethora of attributes that made the programme feel uniquely special. The overflowing care and work put into the project is ever present, featured through outstanding ambitious special effects, flashy and exceedingly well-choreographed action and a stellar cast of energetic actors. Undoubtedly, my favourite member of the group is Monkey, the Great Sage and Equal of Heaven. His mischievous nature always makes him a delight to watch, using his cheek on both his friends and foes. He is equipped with a great many skills, knowing every magic trick under the sun, though his coolest abilities consisted of his magic wishing staff that could grow and shrink, along with his iconic skill of summoning his pink cloud to ride on. Some of his magic is quite bizarre, however, like turning into a wasp and turning his chest hair into an army of monkeys. Monkey, also partakes in countless fights (usually starting them), which show off his impressive techniques and the exquisite choreography that never ceases to get you pumped with adrenaline. Sandy, once commander of the heavenly host, now turned cannibal water spirit, brings a lot of knowledge and wit to the group delivering probably some of the funniest quips in the show. Pigsy, once marshal of the heavenly host turned pig spirit, is frequently fixated on eating, being lazy and looking for women, though when it counts, he's a helpful asset. Tripitaka is the boy priest sent on the holy pilgrimage who is kindhearted, always doing what's right and keeping the group in check. Finally, there is also the dragon/horse/man, Yu Lung, which is a peculiar statement, sure to confuse nonviewers. Whilst perhaps a somewhat straightforward story of travelling from point A to B, this journey is riddled with countless and widely varying stories that challenge our intrepid travellers. Waves of demons cause a whole manner of problems for our group, coming in all sorts of forms with special powers. Each requires different approaches from some being fought and thwarted to others reconciled and redeemed. Whilst there is a great deal of action and ecstatic comedy, the show holds an equal amount of heart, which is acted tremendously by the superb cast. The show would also not nearly be as popular if it wasn't for the phenomenal soundtrack by Godiego, who brings such lively tracks to the vigorous fight scenes, especially the theme song 'Monkey Magic' which is unnaturally catchy. Interestingly 13 episodes were never originally dubbed, being deemed too dark, featuring very mature themes, though eventually receiving a dub in 2004, making all episodes available. Overall, I had a blast with Monkey. I truthfully didn't expect to be so engrossed in it that once I'd started, I couldn't stop. I adored the effects, which were so spectacular for its time, to the unbelievable action and fantastic delivery of the actors and dubbing voice actors. An extraordinary cult classic deserving of far more recognition.

Seasons & Episodes: 2 Seasons - 52 Episodes
Creators: Wu Cheng'en, Hirokazu Fuse, Motomu Furuta, James Miki ...
Genre: Action / Adventure / Comedy / Fantasy

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Thursday, February 13, 2025

Robin of Sherwood (TV Series 1984-1986)

Robin of Loxley is chosen by the mystical Herne the Hunter to become his 'son' and champion the oppressed. Gathering a band of comrades around him he fights a guerilla campaign against their Norman dictators, particularly the Sheriff of Nottingham and his deputy, Guy of Gisburne. Robin of Sherwood is a show that takes the classic tale we all know and reimagines it, interweaving it with atmospheric mysticism. At its core, it holds a much more supernatural presence when compared with other interpretations of the myth. I was certainly intrigued by this choice, which only grew exponentially with each episode that delved into it further. It was undoubtedly a superb idea to incorporate it within such a rich story, whilst managing to equally share in historical accuracy. Alongside the magical aspects of the show, I was equally invested in the focus on developing intricate backstories for its characters. Naturally, being a series would give each member of the loveable outlaw group the time to grow and be thoroughly explored over its hour-long episodic adventures. Of course, we know the characters from the tale, but I really appreciated that this show gave us deeper looks into these already beloved figures, allowing us to grow closer to these versions. I would go as far as to say that this variation of the group of outlaws is my favourite of any Robin Hood adaptation. Michael Praed was a true stand-out as the titular rebel leader Robin, who was perfectly cast alongside Judi Trott's Marion, who is stunningly beautiful and becomes a skilled fighter upon joining the band. The rest of the crew, of course, features Little John a once-bewitched giant who loves to show off his strength and have a laugh, Will Scarlet is the grumpy fighter who loves nothing more than to get in the thick of the action, Friar Tuck watches out for the Lady Marion and holds the team together through their darkest moments, Much is Robin's foster brother a bumbling fighter and lookout and finally, Nasir a Saracen professional assassin freed from an equal spell like John. These depictions of the classic and new characters were fantastically acted by their respective actors and I loved seeing the formation of this unlikely unity of outsiders as well as their later adventures. Guiding them on their quests, is Herne the Hunter, the mystical forest-dwelling spirit who instructs Robin in leading his group in favour of returning peace to the land. The third and final season saw the replacement of Praed's Robin with Jason Connery as Robin of Huntington, though brief, his performance was not remotely on par with Praed and wasn't as favoured by fans. Opposing our heroic band is the Sherrif of Nottingham, Robert De Rainault a ruthless and harsh ruler who seeks the ultimate demise of Robin and his band, caring only for further power and riches. He commands Sir Guy of Gisburne who equally shares his sentiment of the rebels and is frequently pinned against Robin on countless episodes though always failing to capture the outlaw. The Sherrif and Gisburne were easily the highlight of the series and utterly phenomenal villains. You can't help but love them. I am sent to hysterical laughter whenever the Sherrif loses his temper with Gisburne as his performance takes on a theatre-like presence. Another highlight of the series was the action. There are some envigorating duels scattered throughout the show with so many flashy sword fights (mainly delivered by Nasir) to bow and arrow standoffs. There is plenty of exciting action to captivate viewers over the countless breathtaking on-location sets like the towering lush green forests. The final component to this shows magnificence is the music by Clannad. Their mixture of folk-based sounds, harmonies and synth make for a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that is inimitable, which fits the series perfectly as the equal mixture of old and 'modern'. Overall, Robin of Sherwood is my absolute favourite depiction of the Robin Hood legend. It has so many exceptional qualities from the cast, characters, music, action and stories that make it such a delight. It has received a steady fan base who revere it extensively. I heartedly recommend this to all fantasy and Robin Hood enthusiasts. 

Seasons & Episodes: 3 Seasons - 24 Episodes
Creator: Richard Carpenter
Genre: Action / Drama / Fantasy

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Thursday, October 31, 2024

Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970)

Three middle-aged distinguished gentlemen search for some excitement in their boring bourgeois lives and are approached by Lord Courtley who offers them an experience like no other. They don't yet fully realise he is one of Count Dracula's servants. They perform a ritual that goes awry resulting in the three men killing Courtley. However, the Count is successfully resurrected and now seeks revenge on each man for his servant's death. Following on from Dracula Has Risen From the Grave (1968), we open to the scene of Dracula's demise, however, this time featuring a new angle. Travelling businessman, Weller is thrown from his carriage and alerted by horrifying screams, leading him to the frightful sight. Witnessing the body turn to dust, Weller collects the robe, jewellery and a vial of blood for good measure (as any sane person would). We are then introduced to three gentlemen: William Hargood, Samuel Paxton and Jonathon Secker who are deemed 'respectable' figures in the community, devoted to charity work. But, in actuality, they head to brothels leading a secret life in an attempt to escape their dull lives. Upon our initial meeting of the group, I was quite shocked to see the true nature of their so-called work. Admittedly, it was an interesting aspect to explore the double life led by supposed upholding citizens. These men are certainly unlikable, which the actors did a phenomenal job at portraying as they revel in their ingenuity. Of the three men, I found Hargood the most disagreeable. His actions were horrendous, like his punishing of his daughter, Alice, when drunk for no good reason. Still dissatisfied in their lives, they meet Lord Courtley, a man known for partaking in acts such as a Black Mass. Intrigued by what he offers, they follow him to Weller's store to purchase Dracula's items and powdered blood. Meeting at an abandoned church, they begin the ritual, which entails (you guessed it) drinking the blood of Dracula. It is a pretty disgusting scene though likely nothing extreme by Hammer's standards but by all accounts, it was still a sick concept to witness. Although, when they each back out, Courtley drinks alone, falling to the floor in pain, begging for help. The frightened men instead beat him to death putting him out of his misery and flee the scene moments before Courtley's body morphs into none other than Dracula. Now risen a fourth time, he seeks revenge once more this time on those who killed his servant. It is interesting to note, that the original script featured no Dracula at all. There were difficulties in getting Christopher Lee to return and Courtley's character would've been a generic vampire upon his death, for the antagonist. Lee later agreed to star in the production and yet analysing the film closely it appears Dracula has less to do in the story and acts as more of an observer to the events, likely since he wasn't in the script, having to be worked in. Dracula's plan for revenge here is certainly a twisted one. Controlling and possessing the children of the gentlemen and using them towards each's demise is a very dark concept that explores the pure evil cunning of our Count. One by one, he gets a hold of the offspring of each perpetrator and sets in motion the means to their deaths. Whilst never acting upon the individuals himself, he commands the children to deal the blows, ultimately committing the deed and counting them off at a time in his bone-chilling voice, "The First", "The Second" and "The Third". Despite his triumph, Dracula is unaware Paxton's son Paul (not to be confused with the last film) is informed of the whole ordeal by Secker by letter and now sets in motion his defeat. Though we don't spend much time with Paul, his scenes towards the end are great with the de-sanctification of the derelict church and battle with the overwhelmed Dracula by the sights and cross. Overall, Taste the Blood is personally one of my lesser favourites mainly due to not being as memorable. I still enjoyed many aspects, especially Dracula's vendetta and the final confrontation plus, Lee is outstanding, alongside the fellow cast members. It's still a worthy watch in the series. For more, see the unconnected sequel Scars of Dracula (1970).

 
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director: Peter Sasdy
Genre: Drama / Fantasy / Horror / Romance / Thriller

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Sunday, October 27, 2024

Dracula Has Risen from the Grave (1968)

One year after the destruction of Dracula, Monsignor Ernest Mueller visits the village to ensure that all is well. He learns that the locals no longer attend mass because the shadow of Dracula's castle touches the church. They feel the castle still contains evil. To alleviate their fears, the Monsignor performs an exorcism of the castle to rid it of all evil. The local village priest, however, accidentally reawakens the frozen Dracula, who now seeks revenge on Monsignor Mueller, targeting his niece Maria. Risen from the Grave is the fourth instalment in the Hammer Dracula franchise, set a year after the events of Dracula: Prince of Darkness (1966). The movie begins, however, with a short segment acting as a flashback, although never actually put across as such. The scene shows one of Dracula's victims' fate, which plays heavily into the later reasoning for the villager's abandonment of the church. We are introduced to our semi-protagonist, the Monsignor, who is shocked to discover the attitude shared towards the church and the power the castle still holds over them. There are many parallels here with Prince of Darkness, even the part where he knows Dracula is no longer there despite everybody still believing so and he shames them all. The Monsignor puts in motion a plan to exorcise the castle in hopes of alleviating their fears, taking a large golden cross with him, accompanied by the local priest. Whilst the Monsignor performs the act, the priest (yes, that's all he's called) accidentally falls during an immense storm, where he comes face to face with the frozen Dracula. The resurrection scene is always a fascinating sequence, as we await to see how he will return, though I found this one to be somewhat far-fetched, personally. Nevertheless, our badly dubbed priest has unwillingly brought back Dracula, and Christopher Lee again but this time, with a new notable difference. He talks! Not only do we finally, get to hear the masterful voice of Lee, but it's the most he has spoken so far, even featuring some lines during his beast-like state. Taking hold of the priest, Dracula makes him his servant in a revenge-centered mission he hunts the man who barred him from his home. Whilst Dracula regains his strength, we meet our main protagonist, Paul, a baker at the pub who happens to be the boyfriend of Maria, the Monsignor's niece. The pair share some great chemistry and likely hold the place as one of my favourite couples we encounter in this series. It is this very night Maria plans to introduce Paul to her family, which doesn't go completely as planned as Paul's habit of telling the truth causes him to admit he is an atheist, displeasing the Monsignor. Whilst this could be overlooked as a throwaway scene, albeit a fantastic one, this plays well into the theme and focus of the film, religion. Dracula's existence has always been an attack on religion and this movie thoroughly explored this, especially on a physical level with him attacking the Monsignor, turning the priest into his servant, desecrating the church and so forth. It was equally fascinating to see his main adversary be an atheist who is sent into the turmoil of figuring out his own beliefs, shown tremendously in the staking sequence. It is a highly regarded scene among fans, where due to his lack of religion, the act doesn't quite go as you would expect, exploring a whole new aspect to the staking scenes. Dracula is phenomenal in this film, continuing to deliver an imposing presence aided by the creative lens shots of director Francis. There are a tons of brilliant moments from Dracula who leaps across rooftops and crashes through windows. Equally notable are his biting scenes, like his first victim and later follower, waitress Zena, to his attempts at getting Maria. However, Paul does all he can to prevent Maria's taking, culminating in a frantic battle, resulting in a truly astounding demise. Overall, Risen from the Grave is another superb sequel in the series that so aptly named, rises the Count once more for a frightful vengeance-driven endeavour, battling religion whilst being fought by a non-beliver. I truly loved how creative this film's story was, making for a notable entry. See the next production, Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970)

 
Runtime: 1h 32m
Director: Freddie Francis
Genre: Drama / Fantasy / Horror / Romance

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Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Star Wars: The Bad Batch (TV Series 2021-2024)

The end of the Clone Wars marks the rise of the oppressive Empire. Amid the chaos, an elite unit of unusual clone troopers defies its orders and chooses to go on the run. Joined by a young clone named Omega, the so-called Bad Batch struggles to evade the constant pursuit of its enemies. Following the highly praised and extensive show that is Star Wars: The Clone Wars (TV Series 2008-2020), we are allowed to see the immediate shift of the galaxy as the Empire begins to form. I was ecstatic at the chance to see such an intriguing period of the Star Wars galaxy get fully delved into. Especially since this magnitude of change between eras had rarely been shown, particularly not from the direct moment things flipped in the aftermath of Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005). The best part about it is the fact we follow a group of clones who, because of their defective nature, didn't follow through with the treacherous Order 66 like the rest of the clones. Their genetic mutations made them resistant to the effects of the order and allowed them to see for themselves the truth about the Empire. The Bad Batch's explosive introduction in the Clone Wars was simply fantastic giving us an insight into the highly skilled unit and their enhanced abilities. The group and their mutations are as follows: Hunter the leader exceptional tracker, Wrecker the muscle and demolition expert, Tech the brains with a heightened mental capacity and Crosshair the sniper with a keen marksman eyesight. The group also includes Echo, once a regular clone, experimented on by the enemy, and left with cybernetic modifications, which he now brings to Clone Force 99. Each member is individually entertaining and only becomes more enjoyable as they play off of one another. They almost feel like a space equivalent of The A-Team (TV Series 1983-1987), and I was all for it. This squad is a formidable team that never fails to get the job done, be it in their unique way. I do wish we had gotten to see more of their Clone Wars stories (since we know episodes were partially made before cancellation) but I can't deny that getting a whole show dedicated to them isn't a bad compromise. I was immediately hooked by the opening episode that saw the beginning of the galaxy-wide shift and how each member of the crew handled the experience. The confusion, distrust, scepticism and conflict was a captivating lead into the show and witness the lead to their cutting ties with the Republic turned Empire. The crew are aided in their escape by another genetically modified clone, a young girl called Omega, the only female variant. They take her with them, away from their changing homeworld of Kamino in search of somewhere safe, now as fugitives. I truly adore this group, they have such a special bond and each has a lot to learn out in a galaxy where the only life they had known was being a soldier. Clone Force 99 develops across each season as a whole and individually as the group take on the form of mercenaries. Of all the members, I felt the most captivated by Crosshair who underwent the most growth and was a truly fascinating aspect of the series. On their countless missions, we see many familiar faces from both Clone Wars and Rebels, with plenty of incredible references and nods to enjoy. This squad goes against just as many foes as friends with Imperials, bounty hunters and varying threats on the planets they encounter up against them. Whilst the show may feature the occasional 'filler' episode, I felt that the show mainly consisted of quality content with some exceptional stories throughout. It is full of planet skipping, enthralling missions, character growth, action and heart. What more could you want from an episodic sci-fi adventure serial? Overall, I absolutely love The Bad Batch just as much as Clone Wars. Whilst I may prefer the other, I think this is the perfect sequel. Each season is outstanding and ups the stakes, pushing the squad to their limits in plenty of thrilling ways. With a phenomenal cast and an abundance of space-hopping journeys, it is certainly worth its entertainment value. For more animated shows, check out Star Wars: Rebels (TV Series 2014-2018).

Seasons & Episodes: 3 Seasons - 47 Episodes
Creators: Jennifer Corbett, Dave Filoni
Genre: Action / Adventure / Animation / Drama / Fantasy / Sci-fi

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Friday, June 7, 2024

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

While the First Order continues to ravage the galaxy, Rey finalizes her training as a Jedi. But danger suddenly rises from the ashes as the evil Emperor Palpatine mysteriously returns from the dead. While working with Finn and Poe to fulfil a new mission, Rey will not only face Kylo Ren but will finally discover the truth about her parents as well as a deadly secret that could determine her future and the fate of the ultimate showdown that is to come. The Rise of Skywalker is the final entry in the sequel trilogy that aims to conclude not only the story of these characters but, essentially, the franchise as a whole. Like the previous entries, I saw this in theatres with my Dad, and it was definitely a mixed bag. In all honesty, this film doesn't truly feel like a rewarding final entry to the greatest sci-fi series of all time. Nor does it seem like a triumphant end to the story of this trilogy, which isn't saying much with how divisive it has been with plenty of ups and downs. Now, this trilogy has suffered from a lack of cohesive narrative planning, and it is just as painfully obvious here as it was in The Last Jedi. Dissecting what plays out in this movie almost felt like watching a fan fiction production with a million-dollar budget. Following the inharmonious Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi (2017), Episode IX had a hard time ahead with plenty of hurdles to overcome. There was a requirement to appease and get on board as many fans as possible after the polarising last film, finishing both the story of these characters and the entire franchise whilst further delivering an exciting adventure. It was certainly an uphill battle and with directors being fired and stories getting scrapped, things were looking rough. Finally settling on director J. J. Abrams once again, it was possible for an equal level production to his last, but that was not to be. Some of the choices made are, quite frankly, outlandish, with the grandest being the idea of bringing back Palpatine after his 'presumed' death in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983). I was initially intrigued by the notion when revealed in the trailer but was equally weary as his return would undermine the entire saga and Anakin's redemption arc. His appearance and contribution is ultimately underwhelming, so much so that I wish they had left him dead. They don't even do that good a job of explaining how, although it's implied he is a clone, even though that is practically an idea deemed impossible in all previous content. I wouldn't have had a problem with his inclusion if it wasn't left to the last movie as an afterthought. The remaining cast is equally a mixture. There is obvious effort being provided by the cast, but with little to do or weak material to work with, they continue to fall flat. We spend the majority of our time with Rey, Finn, Poe, Chewie, C-3PO and BB-8 on their mission to uncover a way to the hidden planet Exegol, where Palpatine is supposedly residing alongside a fleet of planet-killing Star Destroyers. Kylo Ren continues to hunt Rey after discovering Palpatine first and learning the truth, temporarily aligning with him with the promise of owning the fleet. Once again, Kylo Ren steals the show with some phenomenal moments, many of which were on an emotional hitting performance. Leia's contribution was handled well under the circumstances of Carrie Fisher's passing, with unused footage being worked well enough into the story. There was plenty of action present throughout even if most was again lacklustre, like the fantastic setting of a fight on the Death Star II ruins, which was treated to clunky choreography. The Exegol sequences were interesting to a degree but could've been so much better. The effects naturally are spectacular, but there needs to be more substance in writing quality than effect quantity. Overall, The Rise of Skywalker is not remotely the successful climactic end to a grand franchise. It sadly delivers a deflated final product to finish off the trilogy that tries too much whilst not trying enough. Like in each movie, there are elements to take from or give some entertainment, but, as a whole, it is still weak. A disappointing end to what should have been a blockbuster hit trilogy. I will personally be sticking to the main six.

Runtime: 2h 22m
Director: J. J. Abrams
Genre: Action / Adventure / Fantasy / Sci-fi

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Tuesday, June 4, 2024

Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi (2017)

Luke Skywalker's peaceful and solitary existence gets upended when he encounters Rey, a young woman who shows strong signs of the Force. Her desire to learn the ways of the Jedi forces Luke to make a decision that changes their lives forever. Meanwhile, Kylo Ren and General Hux lead the First Order in an all-out assault against Leia and the Resistance for supremacy of the galaxy. The Last Jedi is the second entry in the sequel trilogy and is considered one of the most divisive movies in the history of the Star Wars franchise. It was so divisive to the point where it completely split the fandom in two. My initial reaction when I saw it in theatres with my Dad was it was fine. I didn't really think more about any more till the DVD finally came out and I saw it again. I began to notice a lot of issues I had and ultimately concluded it is my least favourite Star Wars movie of all time. Funnily enough, I wasn't the only one, as many other fans found themselves in the same position. For me, there are simply far too many flaws and glaring problems that make this film feel so unenjoyable, which isn't good when your film is the longest in the series. The story follows very swiftly after the triumphant victory over the First Order in Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015), with little to no time jump that is present in every other movie of the saga, making the opening crawl redundant. Here we see a split between two narratives, the first being the First Order's pursuit and battle with the retreating, battered Resistance. The second consists of Rey's trial to gain the help of the now-hermit Jedi, Luke. Both of these separate stories held a collection of faults that are present over a plethora of areas. A main one would be the use of characters who in terms of older, returning figures are mistreated, misused and completely unrecognisable. Whilst new characters, make bizarre choices that make no sense, hinder the mission or dampen the acts of other characters. The most disappointing of them all would have to be the use of Luke Skywalker. Whilst I can see some of the interesting potentials of a secluded and pensive Luke in hiding, it all comes crashing down with the discovery of why and how which fundamentally ruins him and everything he stood for. Equally, characters introduced in the last film like Rey, Finn, Poe, Kylo Ren, Snoke, Hux, Phasma, etc... undergo similar treatment, being truly wasted, humiliated or thrown aside. It is extremely ridiculous and unforgiving to see the amount of potential be flipped or dropped in favour of subverting viewer expectations. New characters introduced like Rose, Holdo and DJ, were difficult to put up with. They are simply annoying and make stupid decisions that seriously get on my nerves. For example, Holdo choosing to keep her plans to herself instead of informing everyone, which leads to a pointless mutiny and detour mission with Rose and Finn on a waste of time caper to a casino planet with space horses is so bad. One of the saving graces was easily Kylo Ren and his force connection with Rey, which was fascinating. Their scenes are probably the best moments of the film and the duel against the guards was pretty awesome (that is until you realise how many mistakes and disappearing weapons make the fight dumb). In terms of praise, this film gets from me, it would have to be the visuals. I cannot deny it is the most beautiful of the sequels. John Williams is as fantastic as ever, although I found fewer songs standing out in this production. The sequel's grandest issue is realised here with the lack of a cohesive story not being drawn out from the beginning. It becomes such a mess with directors having conflicting ideas, wanting to do their own thing instead of making one whole project like George Lucas did. Overall, The Last Jedi was one of the biggest disappointments for me as a fan and has cemented itself in history as one of the most problematic in the franchise. Sadly, I'd have to say, in my opinion, this doesn't feel like Star Wars and is not worth it. But what do you think? Do you like it, hate it or think it's just meh? See the final entry of the sequels in Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019), which also split the fandom.

Runtime: 2h 32m
Director: Rian Johnson
Genre: Action / Adventure / Fantasy / Sci-fi

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