Star Wars The Last Jedi: 7-Year Retrospective

Seven years ago, on December 15, 2017, "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" premiered, marking a pivotal moment in the storied franchise. Directed by Rian Johnson, the film broke from traditional Star Wars narratives, sparking a maelstrom of opinions that still reverberates through the fan community today.

Critical Reception: A Love-Hate Relationship

Critics generally embraced "The Last Jedi" for its bold storytelling and unexpected twists. The film was lauded for its visual aesthetics, character development, and the innovative ways it played with the established Star Wars lore. Many critics appreciated how Johnson subverted expectations; for instance, Luke Skywalker's portrayal as a jaded hermit was seen by some as a refreshing take on a character beloved for his optimism in the original trilogy. The film scored a 91% on Rotten Tomatoes, with praise for its "emotional depth and narrative risks" ().

However, not all critics were on board. Some felt it strayed too far from the established Star Wars ethos, arguing that the plot was disjointed and that certain character arcs, particularly Luke's, were mishandled. The subplot involving Finn and Rose in Canto Bight was a particular point of contention, seen by some as an unnecessary diversion that didn't add much to the overarching plot ().

From the audience's perspective, "The Last Jedi" was divisive. While some fans adored the film's departure from the conventional, others felt betrayed by the changes to beloved characters and the saga's mythology. The audience score on Rotten Tomatoes was significantly lower, hovering around 43%, showcasing a stark divide between professional critics and fans ().

Fan Discussions and Current Sentiment

Seven years on, the conversation has evolved. Some fans who initially disliked the film have come to appreciate its nuances, seeing it as a commentary on the cyclical nature of heroism and legacy (). Others remain steadfast, viewing it as a misstep in the franchise's history. The film's attempt to address themes like failure, the burden of legacy, and the need to forge new paths has led to a polarizing discourse about what "Star Wars" should represent.

The Future of Star Wars Movies

Looking forward, the landscape of "Star Wars" is changing. After a notable hiatus from cinema following "The Rise of Skywalker," Lucasfilm has announced a return to the big screen with "The Mandalorian & Grogu" slated for May 2026, marking a significant seven-year gap (). This long interlude reflects a strategic recalibration by Disney and Lucasfilm, focusing more on streaming content via Disney+ to expand the universe through series like "The Mandalorian," "Andor," and "Ahsoka.

The future films promise a blend of new directions and revisiting beloved elements. Daisy Ridley is set to return as Rey in a new "Jedi Order" movie, suggesting a continuation of the saga with fresh narratives. Taika Waititi and Patty Jenkins are also attached to direct new entries, hinting at a diverse range of storytelling approaches.

However, the legacy of "The Last Jedi" has left a clear imprint on the franchise's direction. There's a cautious approach to storytelling now, balancing innovation with fan service. The backlash and subsequent discussions have taught Lucasfilm the value of managing expectations while still daring to innovate. The narrative of letting go of the past to embrace the future, a core theme of "The Last Jedi," seems to permeate the planning for future films, albeit with a more delicate touch.

"The Last Jedi" remains a landmark film in the "Star Wars" saga, celebrated for its bravery in storytelling yet criticized for its deviations. As the franchise moves forward, it carries the lessons from its past, aiming to weave new tales that respect the legacy while pushing boundaries, ensuring "Star Wars" remains a saga for all generations.