Returning in force with impressive, record setting results the dynamic space drama “Star Wars” is back with the seventh film in the series main installment, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” “The Force Awakens” proves itself as one of the years great films with its immersive story, interesting characters, impressive effects, and numerous easter eggs for “Star Wars” fans.

Set 30 years following the destruction of the second Death Star and the defeat of the Galactic Empire in “The Return of the Jedi,” Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) has disappeared, and the remains of the Galactic Empire have formed the First Order, a rogue batch of Stormtroopers lead by Sith leader Supreme Leader Snoke (Andy Serkis) and his apprentice Kylo Ren (Adam Driver). The First Order is combatted by the Resistance. Soon, however, the First Order captures Resistance pilot Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) to extract vital information at their secret base, but sympathetic Stormtrooper Finn (John Boyega) soon liberates Poe. Soon what follows is that duo work with local scavenger Rey (Daisy Ridley) to retrieve Poe’s droid BB-88 which contains the sensitive data while on the run from First Order troopers. They soon cross paths with past characters including Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher), and Chewbacca (Peter Mahew).

“The Force Awakens” is extremely dynamic with fast paced, exciting action as well as a balanced helping of heartfelt drama and comedy. Action scenes are extremely thrilling and are consistently enjoyable.

Where “The Force Awakens” shines over the prequel trilogy is a lack of overly hammy dialogue and less of a reliance on computer-generated effects. Practical effects are well used and it’s a blast to watch.

“The Force Awakens” is unique in the sense of “Star Wars” as it has extremely funny dialogue with good timing that’s appropriate for any audience.

An extremely fun activity throughout the film is recognizing characters and events that are frequently mentioned throughout the film. Small details such as this are thoroughly enjoyable and help make “The Force Awakens” a great sequel. However, for those first diving into “Star Wars,” it is really hard to enjoy “The Force Awakens” due to the film frequently calling back to previous installments of the series could be potentially hard to understand for the uninformed.

“The Force Awakens” is a must see for fans of “Star Wars,” young and old, and is a highly enjoyable film. It would be a shame to miss “The Force Awakens,” and it has me waiting for the next sequel in the new                                                                                                                  trilogy.

Cole Cloyd

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January 12, 2016 (2)