When I tell you that most of the emotional oomph comes from our prior knowledge of, and emotional connection to, the first three films, you might not read that as a criticism. As the first new Star WarsВ film in 10В years and the first non-prequel since 1983, the primary objective for Walt DisneyвЂ™s initial shot is getting fans back onboard and excited for whatever comes next.

It is perhaps unfair to condemn Star Wars: The Force AwakensВ for being an exercise in fan service when that is the primary goal of the picture. Considering what a precedent-setting franchise the original Star WarsВ was, it is not a little disheartening thatВ this new installment does not blaze its own path, but rather rehashes its former glories for our approval. It also omits or neglects vital connective tissue and merely hints at a far more interesting story than the one we get. The film follows the structure of A New HopeВ to such a significant degree that I spent much of the first act wondering if I was watching the Star WarsВ equivalent of Gus Van SantвЂ™s Psycho.

In that sense, it is worth seeing on the biggest IMAX screen possible, if you have any interest at all in this kind of picture. Star Wars: The Force Awakens is a breathlessly paced, relatively amusing and action-filled sci-fi adventure with top-tier production values and a strong sense of scale and scope. Spoiler Warning: There will be nothing concrete discussed below beyond the opening reel, although I canвЂ™t promise that you wonвЂ™t be able to read between the lines here and there.

Star wars the force awakens