Is an 88 second trailer really worth reviewing? When it comes to Star Wars, absolutely.
If you haven’t yet heard, the first glimpse of JJ Abrams’ bold new take on Star Wars was released in theaters and online last Friday. The trailer unquestionably succeeds in hyping the upcoming film, but after the initial excitement wore off, certain questions remained regarding Abrams’ influence on the long-standing franchise.
(Warning: contains spoilers of a trailer … if that’s possible.)
1. Where the hell was Han?
I’m aware of the fact that Harrison Ford is getting on in years, but Abrams has to acknowledge what the fans want to see. One of the main reasons Star Wars fans are so excited for the new movies is largely because of the original cast’s return. Instead of glimpses of what of Luke, Han and Leia might be doing after all these years, all the viewer gets are the shocked expressions of newcomers Daisey Ridley and John Boyega gawking into the camera. Not to say I’m not looking forward to their performances, but it’s not what I want to see right now.
2. What’s up with the soccer droid?
The fact that J.J. Abrams chose to include a droid in the trailer that wasn’t R2 or C3PO concerns me. If this little rolling abomination is meant to replace everyone’s favorite pair of comedic robots, consider my sensitive Star Wars sensibilities offended. Maybe Abrams is just trying to highlight some of the new visuals or effects of the movies, but after the nightmare that was Jar Jar Binks, I think I’m allowed to be a little skeptical.
3. Is that another new lightsaber?
Is it just me, or does it seem like every subsequent Star Wars film needs a new lightsaber just to keep things fresh? First, we had Darth Maul’s double sword (admittedly awesome), then a curved sword in “Attack of the Clones” (admittedly lame), and now a lightsaber with a cross guard? While I admit the shock effect was noteworthy, I can’t help but feel like it’s overkill at this point. Stop relying on gimmicks to excite fans for the films. Do it with content.
4. The return of the Millenium Falcon.
Alright, this one’s not a question, I just had to include it in the list. As soon as the Falcon came swooping over the sands against that classic screech of pursuing tie-fighters, I felt shivers run the length of my spine. For all my gripes, I’ve honestly never felt so reassured as when that majestic ship came flying out of the screen and back into my heart.
Star Wars is back, and I couldn’t be happier.
