The Force Awakens Review -- Guest Post

Let me introduce Kristopher Swanson, one of my dearest and geekiest friends. Kris loves Star Wars more than anyone I know, and when he sent me this after I saw The Force Awakens, I knew I had to post it. It should be noted that the rest of this post is absolutely overrun with spoilers and theories, so if you haven't yet seen the Force Awakens, you should probably close this. Now.
Without farther ado, I hand it over to Kris.
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STAR WARS Episode VII - The Force Awakens
Post-Premiere Thoughts

Okay, let’s be honest. I don’t think that I’m the only fan whose reaction to Disney buying Star Wars and announcing the making of Episode VII was disappointed at best. I also don’t think that I’m the only fan who has been at least slightly annoyed with all these new Star Wars “fans” that just popped up out of hyperspace. Apparently it’s okay to call yourself a fan right before the movie comes out an think you’re cool by going to the premiere. Excuse me “fan,” how many times have you seen each of the Star Wars movies? Have you dueled with plastic lightsabers before or undergone Jedi reflex training using Nerf guns? Have you ever erected a homemade fort and watched Star Wars episodes countless times on a six-inch VHS TV? I’m sorry reader; I’ll stop ranting now.  Star Wars is a lifestyle, an integral part of my childhood, life today, and my heart. So when Disney announced this, of course I denounced the notion, saying things like, “They are going to ruin Star Wars!” “I am never going to see it!” and “Does this make Leia a Disney Princess?” I was so disturbed by this that I discredited the movie altogether. It was only until everything started becoming so real that I started to open my heart to this concept; the original actors all started to announce their return, trailers were made, and behind the scenes footage leaked. I finally started to let these things stir in the jawa juice of my heart, and then, the premiere happened…

Before I begin, let me get this straight. No movies will ever surpass the original Star Wars sequels in the cellblock of my heart. Star Wars (or Episode IV "A New Hope") will always be the movie at the top of my list, regardless of any other productions, even another Star Wars movie. This is closely followed by Episode V “The Empire Strikes Back” and then of course Episode VI “The Return of the Jedi.” No movie will ever trump one belonging to the original trilogy for me, and that is just how it is. So, if you’re getting any crazy ideas, no, this is not my favorite movie, and no, this is not my favorite Star Wars movie. Period. These aren’t the droids you’re looking for…

That all being said, I was absolutely blown away by Episode VII “The Force Awakens.” Yes, the standing in line for hours upon end with hordes of other nerds in costume probably helped. Yes, it being my first IMAX movie also probably helped. But seriously, I am very impressed with Episode VII. I cannot imagine the weight J. J. Abrams had on his shoulders in directing this film. Nothing much, just around 4.4 billion dollars and the hopes and dreams of millions of fans. I am here to tell you that I am thoroughly impressed with what Abrams has done. Props to you J.J. You have done the unthinkable and followed up the prequels to the greatest movies on planet earth.

First, Episode VII “The Force Awakens” felt like Star Wars. Well thanks, Captain Obvious (or Captain Phasma in this case). But, yes, I do mean what I just said. Star Wars has a certain feel. The way the action and the effects and the music and the plot twists and everything draws you in and suspends you in a state of galactic gaping is real. This movie had it. These very things are what make Star Wars Star Wars. The combination of camera pans, jokes, duels, space battles, snarky comments, cantina scenes, and everything in between bring the movie to life. The banner at the beginning almost pixilated and low quality? Completely intentional. Bless you J.J. The original Star Wars was revolutionary. The only film of its kind. This it still is and will always be. I’m going to try and systematically arrange all these, but it is 3:00 in the morning, so we’ll see how that goes.

Second, the parallelism between the original Star Wars and VII was ingenious. I am still in awe. References filled the movie! The trash compactor and 12 parsecs! Then the Death Star and planet comparisons, small jet fighters and their miraculous victory, the trenches of the planet in the space battle, the holographic chess board, Luke’s training droid, the come-from-nothing home on desert planet with Rey’s background. When this comes out on DVD I am seriously going to buy it and make a list of parallel situations and references. These were just some of the few I caught.

Third, the action was impeccable. This is the year 2015, and graphics are great. So, this is sort of a given, but Abrams made a point to keep things classic. The space battles and low-flying action made my blood roar like a Rancor. And the lightsaber duel between Kylo and Rey was stunning. The intensity was to the next level.

Fourth, the music was sensational. John Williams cannot stop writing perfect music, and his tunes did it yet again. I can’t really say much for this topic, because a lot of my appreciation will come with listening to the soundtrack all by itself. This is absolutely necessary for, when in the midst of the movie, you are drawn in by the culmination of every masterpiece, music or non. It was Star Wars music. Blended with effects to achieve the perfect soundtrack.

Fifth, and a huge one on my list, the casting was sensational! Not only were the classic characters appropriately incorporated but also the nobodies, the new rising stars, were perfectly blended for a mixture of young and old blood. Each original actor was not simply thrown in for good measure, but they were all intricately woven into the plot. And then, where to begin with the new characters, but it has to be Kylo Ren. In all honesty, I was more than suspicious about the casting of Adam Driver. Pictures of him in Star Wars apparel juxtaposed with his typical comedy movie aura was not doing it for me. And then, the movie happened…Holy Chewbacca! He killed it! Literally. Hands down my favorite character in the movie. The complexity of his character always kept me on edge. I love complex characters! His voice with and without the mask was perfect; you could hear hints of masked Kylo in his plain speech, and this voice is iconic to the movie. His obsession with Darth Vader is also another aspect I am excited to see continued in the next few. I could see the fire in his eyes, and his anger management and destructive tendencies delivered the Sith I had been waiting to see. Sith thrive off anger and hatred, and his character unleashed that. Not to mention, his lightsaber and mask are pretty dang cool. I am ecstatic to see where his tale goes from here, and I cannot wait to continue to view the path of his villainy and darkness! Rey and Finn were also sensational, and their bond seemed to spill off the screen. And shout out to BB-8, who I dismissed as some random soccer ball droid. Wow. Boy was I ever wrong. Droid personalities. Bless you again J.J.

Sixth, the humor was up a notch. I found myself laughing countless times. BB-8’s thumbs up was pretty memorable, and who can’t love Han’s sass and constant comments?

Seventh, I was super nervous about the script writing crew having to throw in cuss words just because it is the year 2015. This is such garbage. Throw that idea down in the trash compactor too! Star Wars has never been like that, and I was really nervous that this would happen. They simply don’t fit, so I was very much impressed by what was used. I was only able to pick out the use of “damn” once and “hell” twice, and by gosh, that sure is good for 2015. Why has it come to this? Star Wars got it right. No one needs cussing in order to make a funny movie.

Eighth, the plot twists were on point. My suspicions did correctly confirm Kylo Ren to be Han and Leia’s son, but that was pretty much all I figured out. I think everyone thought Finn would be the next Jedi. Wrong. I think everyone thought Poe was dead. Wrong. I think everyone thought Rey was a nobody. Wrong.  And, it pains me to mention this, cutting to the deepest recesses of my heart, but Han…Han…Han Solo…He’s…Dead…D-D-Dead…WHAT? Talk about getting your audience’s attention! Everyone’s favorite space cowboy and beloved character was just betrayed by his own son, Kylo Ren, after the most dramatic of words and watering eyes, and slaughtered on a shining bridge over a span of nothingness, only to fall into the darkness of death. R.I.P. J.J, can I cry on your shoulder until the next Clone Wars? AH! At least the death was meaningful and about the best way I can imagine Han dying: Sacrifice of self (considering his earlier movie motives were highly focused on self). Still haven’t recovered. Never will.

Ninth, the stormtroopers were great. I think they actually might have shot something, or was that just my imagination? The new look works really well, and I am still trying to process the weaponry.

Tenth, VII ended leaving me captivated for the next one. There are so many unsolved mysteries, and I love how Abrams leaves many things to the imagination of the viewer. Of course, everyone is wondering about the mysterious Supreme Leader, and it seems that the idea of the “Eternal Emperor” is the best solution I have (thanks Jacob!). Star Wars is dualism at its core, so one side will never completely destroy the other. Good and evil, the Jedi and the Sith, they will most likely be duking it out until the end. The Emperor is essentially an essence, and he uses bodies as vessels. His life comes by draining life from the universe around him. The strangely distorted character was a hologram, so his large size is probably not a thing. Also, I propose that he looks this way because right now he has a broken body. A lot of his strength was captured when he was betrayed by Vader in Episode VI. Anyway, I know this is speculation, but it completely makes sense in the context of the movie, and it is a super cool idea. He thrives off sucking life out of people and places, misleads people, uses people, searches for a powerful vessel, and tries to regain control. In addition, can I make a crazy prediction and say that Rey is Han and Leia’s daughter? This makes her and Kylo Ren brother and sister and adds even more meaning a whole new element to the snow woods duel! And what would follow? Another meeting, duel, and attempt by Rey to bring back Kylo? The possibilities are endless. Bless you a third time J.J. Did I forget to say that after every one? Good.

Anyhow, VII captivated me beyond measure, and I was enlightsaberened in the same way that I have been with all the others. Though it will never be held to the same standard of nostalgic euphoria as the original Star Wars (Episode IV), it will always hold a special place in my heart along with all the other Star Wars movies, those which cannot be displaced. The best of the best. The greatest in the galaxy. I think I better go to bed. It is 4:11 and I am in this dream-like trance of Star Wars high yet extremely exhausted. This should be fun to read in the morning… I have a bad feeling about this…
May The Force Be With You, Always.

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There you have it. I agree with Kris on almost everything (I don't think Rey is Han and Leia's daughter, though I am inclined to believe she is related to them. I think she's Luke's daughter.) I though he covered everything wonderful about the movie quite well, and I'm very grateful he let me post this. :)

Washington Is The Best State: Road Trip Diaries -- Part Three

July 14, 2015
Day 12
Hours on the Road: 5
States Traversed: Washington

We explored a fort. And it was amazing.
We drove to Whidbey Island, which included a ferry ride, and then spent the day running all over an abandoned WWI fort. There was super intense hide and seek, role playing Star Wars, exploration of pitch-black corridors, and climbing on rooftops.
It was wonderful.
Eventually we wanted to go to the beach, so we went behind the fort and ta-da! ocean.
The water was freezing, again. Sigh.
But there was loads and loads of driftwood, so instead of swimming/wading, we built our own fort. Someone had started it, we just cleared it out and expanded. A lot. We gave it at least twice the area, and probably added a foot of height.
It was so legit, and I am very proud of that fort.
This day was probably the best day of the entire summer.
Like, running around, climbing over driftwood, exploring, just being a kid... My soul needed it. Wow it was good. Wind and salt and pebbles in your shoes and echoes in ghostly corridors and scrapes on your knees... That is so good for you.

July 15, 2015
Day 13
Hours on the Road: 3, I think?
States Traversed: Washington

Into Seattle!
We hit up Pike's Place today. You know, where the original Starbucks was (which we didn't go to, because there was a stupidly long line and a local coffee shop like, right around the corner).
There were so. many. people.
Here's the thing, I liked Pike's Place Market, quite a lot, but I think I would have liked it better without the five younger children. I adore my younger siblings and cousins, but a very crowded outdoor market in the summer is not the best place for them.
That being said, it's a wonderful, thrilling place. Art and flowers and coffee and bakeries and people and food and bookstores and fish and more flowers and wow it is cool.
I would looove to go back and spend loads of money on those flowers. They were so pretty. And there was a whole store full of maps!! It was amazing!! Maps everywhere!! Vintage maps, new maps, maps of cities and countries and oceans and everything and I loved it. I could have bought so much there.
It's probably good I had no money, because between the map store and the bookstore and the flowers, I would be broke.
But yeah, I would love to just sit in one of those coffee shops and people watch for hours. There were street musicians (the ones in San Francisco were better, just saying) and some of the most hipster people I have ever seen, and girls in loooots of One Direction garb, and tourists from loads of countries and cute boys and so many people with stories and lives and thoughts and to-do lists. It was crazy and overwhelming and beautiful.
I love Washington state. I love Seattle, I love outside of Seattle. The trees and coffee shops and fresh fruit and the beach (even though it's freezing), the places to explore, the vibes of Washington in general, my cousins... I don't even know, I just love this state a lot. It's wonderful and interesting and beautiful and exciting and I love it.

July 16, 2015
Day 14
Hours on the Road: Yeah, I have literally no clue.
States Traversed: Washington, Idaho

Um. I read fanfiction. All day.
I have no shame. :) Also, Idaho has Cheesecake Factory and suuuper cool hotels. Ours had like, a loft and it was awesome. I would love an apartment that looked just like that hotel room.
That and driving was all that happened. :/

July 17, 2015
Day 15
Hours on the Road: A lot, I presume
States Traversed: Idaho, Utah

Idaho has a Barnes and Noble. That's really all I remember about this day.
I bought Go Set A Watchman. And cried. I'm still not 100% sure about how I felt about that book. I liked it, but I also... I don't know. It didn't connect to To Kill a Mockingbird quite as much as I wanted it to, but I think that's okay? Because the whole process (from what I've heard) of publishing this book was complicated and it wasn't supposed to be published and... I don't know. I still love Scout/Jean Louise and think she's one of the best fictional characters ever. I'm reallyyyyyyyy bitter that Jem wasn't in the book. Same with Dill. And Atticus... Yeah, there was some very personal betrayal there. But I adored reading about Jean Louise dealing with everything and growing up. Even though it didn't go the way I wanted it to, I really loved the part when she stands up to Atticus and becomes her own person, I suppose. There was something super sad and super powerful about it.
So, yeah. It was really interesting, and I think I liked it overall.
I believe this was the day we stopped in Salt Lake City.
And it was probably the sketchiest city I've ever been in. Maybe it was just the evening and next morning that we were there, but there was something distinctly... off about it. Some strange, creepy vibe that had me on edge the whole time.
However, there was a real good pizza and gelato place there. So it wasn't awful. Just weird and creepy.
So if you've had a great experience in Salt Lake City, let me know. Because my gut was saying "Something isn't right, get out," especially the next morning. Was that just me? Is there something universally uncomfortable about Salt Lake City? I have no idea.

July 18, 2015
Day 16
Hours on the Road: All day. Aaaaall day.
States Traversed: Utah, Colorado, Kansas

Um, I read more of Go Set a Watchman. And cried. And ate leftover pizza. And slept. And was really excited to get out of that car. And tweeted about Go Set a Watchman. That's really about it. It was a lot of driving and lounging and everyone being ready to be home.

Coming home after a trip is bittersweet. It's sad because it's an adventure ending, but the comfort of driving under stars you know and streets you have memorized is so beautiful. Even though I am someone who loves traveling and honestly wants to leave for college and spend years of my life in different places and cities and countries, I think Wichita will always be home. I have so much history and love invested in this city. In late nights and sunrises and adventures and doughnut shops and theatres and soccer games and churches and Wal-Marts. In my Grandma's backyard, in the house where Kensi and Mac were born, in Trinity and CYT and the library. That moment when we get to the tollbooth right before Kellogg, when we exit off 35... every time we come home, that moment makes me feel safe and peaceful and at home, in a way that no where else can emulate. And I love that.

My Heart Is Breaking

Oh God.

Terrible, horrible things have happened today.

Paris. Lebanon. Baghdad.

I'm currently sitting in a hotel closet in order to not wake up Holly and Kensi and I'm just crying and typing.

And praying.

Assuming my math is right and the news is correct -- and I pray that this number is too high -- two hundred and fifteen people were murdered tonight, between Paris, Lebanon, and Baghdad.

Two hundred and fifteen.

I'm not naive. Well, okay, maybe a little. I am, however, an optimist of the highest degree.

But this? This is... Horrific. Appalling. Sickening, disgusting, tragic.

I'm full of all this rage and fear and grief and.... And I don't know what to do.

Why must it be like this? Why can't people be nice and love each other and realize how beautiful other people can be?

This breaks my optimistic heart. This makes me question hope and sunshine and the fact that people can be good and kind and loving and heroic. This is ugly and shitty and dark and it makes me so, so, sad and helpless and furious and guilty about things like sitting in a closet doing nothing when people have just lost friends and family members and lovers and...

Sometimes this world absolutely sucks.

And I hate that.

I'm just praying that good will come out of this, I guess. That the people in Paris and Lebanon and Baghdad will find love and comfort and help and support. I pray that somehow the death count is far higher than it should be. I pray that no one is left to deal with this alone.

I pray that someone will remember to turn on a light.

Because it has been a very, very dark day.