'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker' first reactions see critics praise it for being a fitting end to the iconic film franchise

Critics at the UK premiere of 'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker' are revealing their first impressions online, and they have high praise for the film.
UPDATED DEC 17, 2019
'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker' poster (Lucasfilm)
'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker' poster (Lucasfilm)

With one of history's most iconic franchises bringing an end to its long-running saga with 'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,' the anticipation has never been higher. Fans eager to know just how good the movie is might just gain new hope from the critics, who speak of a powerful experience that's a worthy end to the nine episode film series. 

"THE RISE OF SKYWALKER is everything I wanted it to be — because there’s never been a STAR WARS movie like this before. It’s dark and scary, but hopeful and beautiful. It ends the trilogy while also ending the saga as a whole. I know I’m rambling — but I worship this movie" said a user on Twitter. Another said "Tweeting through tears - #TheRiseofSkywalker isn’t the best Star Wars film, but it is the ULTIMATE Star Wars film. A truly stunning finale to a nine film saga."

Most critics seem to think that the movie is far from perfect, but is definitely an enjoyable experience well worth the price of admission. "It isn’t a perfect movie and I’m sure I’ll find plenty to nitpick in the days and weeks ahead but right now I’m grinning from ear to ear," says one critic. Some critics make note of the fact that the movie is very dense - which is unsurprising, as a film that seeks to end a nine-film saga isn't going to be light viewing. "The Rise of Skywalker has a ton of content packed into one movie as well and wastes no time. It’s like two Star Wars movies in one. Lots of fan service bonuses too," notes one tweet

The denseness of the film did not sit well with all critics. Some felt the the movie bowed down too far to appease the fans who hated 'The Last Jedi.' "I’ve seen #StarWarsTheRiseofSkywalker. It’s... a lot. There’s a lot I like and some I loved but overall my feelings are pretty mixed. It felt like an apology for The Last Jedi in some ways and a sequel to The Force Awakens in many, which I found frustrating" said a user. CinemaBlend said, "Well... #TheRiseOfSkywalker is a drastic departure from TLJ, but also not as invigorating as TFA. It is a movie packed with action (it’s seriously nonstop), but also jammed with fan service. @starwarsfans - brace for the debates." 

'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker' releases in cinemas on December 20.

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