Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker

THE GIST: A rumor is growing across the galaxy that Emperor Palpatine, the Sith Lord of old, still lives. This troubles both the Resistance, for obvious reasons, and Kylo Ren, who doesn't like the threat posed to his rule by the potential return of Palpatine. The latter though has amassed an unstoppable army, capable of subjugating the whole galaxy. Meanwhile, Rey has now completed her Jedi training, and is therefore ready to take on any enemy.

Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker represents the final chapter in the sequel trilogy of the Star Wars saga and the end of the line for the Skywalker bloodline.

The stakes are higher than ever, with the return of Luke and Leia's archenemy, and yet the final product left me a bit cold. I remember when I left the theater feeling a bit underwhelmed.

Perhaps it was all the hype around the movie being the last stand of the Skywalker dynasty and the last chapter of the saga started decades ago by visionary George Lucas. I don't know.

Visually the movie is certainly a treat, and the cast as a whole does an excellent job.

THE BOTTOM LINE: The Rise of Skywalker is certainly worth the time for any fan of the Star Wars universe, since it's supposedly the last time we'll ever see any of the original trilogy's famed cast members and their indelible characters. As for the movie itself, it's not bad, but it's unlikely to enthuse anyone.

Grade: 6