Star Wars: The Last Jedi

Writer-director Rian Johnson’s expansion of George Lucas’s galactic adventure franchise begins where J.J. Abrams’s 2015 The Force Awakens left off. The totalitarian First Order under Supreme Leader Snoke (Andy Serkis) is still trying to obliterate Resistance forces, who are led by wry General Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher) and steely Vice-Admiral Amilyn Holdo (Laura Dern). Desperate for help, courageous warrior Rey (Daisy Ridley) is dispatched on the Millennium Falcon with Chewbacca to try to convince reclusive Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) to not only return but also train Rey as a Jedi. Despite detecting Rey’s extraordinary aptitude, Luke is adamant about not leaving his craggy island sanctuary, particularly when he senses dangerous mind-melding similarities between Rey and Kylo Ren (Adam Driver), who has gone to the dark side. Meanwhile, hotshot Rebel Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) takes off in an X-wing to recklessly taunt and then engage contemptuous General Hux (Domhnall Gleeson). In a subplot, Finn (John Boyega), plucky newcomer Rose (Kelly Marie Tran), and the shifty mercenary DJ (Benicio del Toro) embark on an espionage mission to the hedonistic casino city Canto Bight (a riff on previous Star Wars cantinas with bizarre clientele). Principal photography was completed before Fisher’s death at age 60 in December 2016; her daughter Billie Lourd plays Lieutenant Connix. Cheeky and fun, The Last Jedi effectively continues the familiar narrative, epitomized by idealism, self-sacrifice, and Eastern mysticism. Highly recommended. Editor’s Choice [Note: Blu-ray extras include audio commentary by director Rian Johnson, “The Director and the Jedi” making-of documentary (95 min.), three scene breakdowns (33 min.), deleted scenes (23 min.), a “Balance of the Force” behind-the-scenes featurette (10 min.), an “Andy Serkis Live! (One Night Only)” pre-SFX segment with the costar (6 min.), and a bonus digital copy of the film. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a fine entry in the Star Wars franchise.] (S. Granger)