In Ireland and across the galaxy there has been a disturbance in the force as people queued to be the first to see ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ and fans have breathed a sigh of relief at just how good it is.
The general consensus is that it is as much fun as the originals. It was a big gamble for Disney who bought the franchise from George Lucas but it seems it has delivered.
The way is clear now for the sequels and for the expanded universe of films that will kick off with ‘Rogue One’ next year.
It has a 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes and on the site it is stated that: “the consensus for the film is that it is packed with action and populated by both familiar faces and fresh blood, The Force Awakens successfully recalls the series’ former glory while injecting it with renewed energy.”
Fans were delighted to see the old stars of the 80’s movies on screen once more. Reprising their roles from the original trilogy are Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker); Harrison Ford (Han Solo); Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia); Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca); Kenny Baker (R2-D2) and Anthony Daniels (C-3P0).
The film is set three decades after the defeat of the Galactic Empire and a new threat has risen. The First Order attempts to rule the galaxy and only a rag-tag group of heroes can stop them, along with the help of the Resistance.
The hugely anticipated movie is expected to smash box office records across the world. Newcomers John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, both 23, take on lead roles duties and have been trust into fame already.
The film is blasting its way through any doubts over its existence and fans are flocking to see it in on the big screen. Many children this Christmas will be unwrapping Star Wars toys as will many adults.
JJ Abrams is the director, having taken over from creator of the franchise George Lucas. It seems the student has become the master!