7.7/10
93% Critics / 84% Audience
Star Wars: The Force Awakens, released in December 2015, marked the long-awaited return of the Star Wars saga to the big screen after more than a decade. Directed by J.J. Abrams, the film serves as the seventh episode in the Skywalker Saga and the beginning of the sequel trilogy. Set thirty years after Return of the Jedi, the story introduces a new generation of characters—Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron—while reuniting audiences with fan-favorites like Han Solo, Leia Organa, and Luke Skywalker.
With Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm in 2012, this entry was the first Star Wars film created without significant involvement from George Lucas. Despite that, it managed to strike a balance between nostalgic callbacks and fresh characters, aiming to both honor the original trilogy and set the stage for a new era.
The Force Awakens – Official Trailer
What Is The Force Awakens About?
The film is set in a galaxy struggling with the rise of the First Order, a military regime built from the ashes of the Galactic Empire. Opposing them is the Resistance, led by General Leia Organa, who is also searching for her missing brother, Luke Skywalker, the last Jedi.
On the desert planet Jakku, Resistance pilot Poe Dameron acquires a map to Luke’s location. After he’s captured, his droid BB-8 escapes with the map and eventually meets Rey, a scavenger. Meanwhile, a disillusioned stormtrooper named FN-2187, later called Finn, helps Poe escape from captivity. Their journey intertwines with Han Solo, Chewbacca, and later the Resistance as the galaxy’s fate hangs in the balance.
The story escalates when the First Order uses its deadly weapon, Starkiller Base, to wipe out the New Republic. Rey is captured but resists interrogation, discovers her Force sensitivity, and escapes. In a tragic and pivotal moment, Kylo Ren—Han and Leia’s son—murders Han Solo. The film culminates in a dramatic lightsaber duel between Rey and Kylo, and ends with Rey finding Luke Skywalker on a remote island, holding out his lightsaber.
Is The Force Awakens Worth Watching?
Yes—especially for long-time Star Wars fans and newcomers alike. The film successfully reintroduces the universe with a modern cinematic feel, emotional stakes, and updated visuals, while also tapping into the nostalgia of the original trilogy.
Rey’s journey, Finn’s redemption arc, and Kylo Ren’s inner conflict create strong new anchors for the saga. While some critics felt it leaned too heavily on familiar plot points from A New Hope, others saw this as a respectful homage. The emotional beats and character-driven focus made it an engaging starting point for the sequel trilogy.
Watch Order
To fully enjoy The Force Awakens in context, here’s how you can watch the main entries:
Chronological Skywalker Saga Order:
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- Episode I – The Phantom Menace
- Episode II – Attack of the Clones
- Episode III – Revenge of the Sith
- Episode IV – A New Hope
- Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back
- Episode VI – Return of the Jedi
- Episode VII – The Force Awakens
- Episode VIII – The Last Jedi
- Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker
Expanded Viewing Order (with TV Shows):
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- Episode I
- Episode II
- The Clone Wars (series)
- Episode III
- The Bad Batch
- Solo: A Star Wars Story
- Rebels
- Obi-Wan Kenobi
- Andor
- Episode IV
- Episode V
- Episode VI
- The Mandalorian
- The Book of Boba Fett
- Ahsoka
- Episode VII – The Force Awakens
- Episode VIII
- Episode IX
- Resistance
The Force Awakens Frequently Asked Questions
Why did George Lucas criticize The Force Awakens?
Lucas expressed disappointment that the film relied too heavily on old ideas and had a “retro feel.” He wanted more innovation in planets and visuals, though he later apologized for his harsh remarks.
Was the movie successful financially?
Yes, incredibly so. It grossed over $2 billion worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film of 2015 and, at the time, the third-highest-grossing film ever.
Who is Rey?
Rey is a scavenger from Jakku who discovers she is Force-sensitive. Her mysterious past and strong connection to the Force become central themes in the sequel trilogy.
Why did Kylo Ren kill Han Solo?
Kylo believed that killing his father would help him sever emotional ties and fully embrace the dark side. However, the act leaves him more conflicted.
Did the film receive any awards?
It was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Original Score and Best Visual Effects, and received numerous other accolades.
Conclusion
Star Wars: The Force Awakens opened the door to a new era in the galaxy far, far away. It revived the franchise with heartfelt moments, thrilling action, and a mix of familiar and new characters. While some saw it as too safe and derivative, others praised it for reigniting excitement and broadening the story for a new generation.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or watching Star Wars for the first time, Episode VII is a fast-paced, emotional journey that successfully bridges old and new—setting the stage for the conflicts, discoveries, and destinies that unfold in the sequels.
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