The Star Wars franchise finds itself in an identity crisis. More than five years have passed since the last film release, and ironically, the root of the problem lies in what is arguably the best instalment since Disney took over the saga: Star Wars: The Last Jedi. This visually stunning blockbuster, which recently aired on television, is also available for streaming.
The Plot of Star Wars: The Last Jedi
As the First Order relentlessly hunts down the remaining rebels led by Leia Organa, Rey embarks on a journey to find the missing Jedi Master, Luke Skywalker, in an attempt to convince him to return. However, Luke is deeply conflicted about his past.
Meanwhile, Kylo Ren (played by Adam Driver) remains on the dark side, facing immense pressure from the sinister Supreme Leader Snoke. Despite their opposing allegiances, Kylo and Rey form an unexpected connection. As the Resistance’s situation becomes increasingly desperate, the choices made by Rey and Kylo could determine the fate of the galaxy.
A Box Office Success with Lasting Consequences
In pure box office terms, The Last Jedi ranks as the second-highest-grossing Star Wars film, unadjusted for inflation. According to industry figures, the film earned $1.3 billion worldwide, surpassed only by its predecessor, The Force Awakens, which amassed $2 billion.
While this was a strong performance, it did not quite reach the heights expected. The film’s mixed reception within the fan community prompted Disney to rethink its approach to the franchise—a decision that continues to shape Star Wars today.
A Divisive Film That Split the Fanbase
Unlike The Force Awakens, directed by J.J. Abrams, which embraced nostalgia after a decade-long Star Wars hiatus, The Last Jedi took a bold and unconventional approach under director Rian Johnson. The Knives Out filmmaker stripped the saga of much of its nostalgic baggage, aiming to tell a fresh and innovative Jedi story.
“I want to be challenged as a fan when I go to the cinema,” Johnson once remarked about his vision for the film. True to his words, The Last Jedi became the most daring, surprising, and visually striking chapter of the new trilogy.
However, this creative direction sparked controversy. J.J. Abrams returned to direct The Rise of Skywalker and largely overturned Johnson’s changes, bringing the saga back to its nostalgic roots. In the end, traditionalist fans prevailed, and Star Wars projects have since continued to rely on familiar characters and storylines.
Where to Watch The Last Jedi
For those who missed its recent broadcast, Star Wars: The Last Jedi aired on Monday at 8:15 PM on Kabel 1. The film is also available for streaming as part of Disney+’s permanent catalogue.
