Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker; Checks all the expected boxes without offering much in the way of surprises or innovative elements. Enjoyable fan service but filmatically staid. Humorous elements welcome in an over serious narrative obligated to wrap up three trilogies; B

The Empire Strikes Back: Special Edition

Directed by:  Irvin Kershner
Starring:  Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams
Running Time:  2h 07min

This has always been my favourite installment of the Star Wars trilogy.  The amazing locales and new characters that are introduced are one of a kind.  Yoda, the series' best character gets the most screen time in this one, as well as Boba Fett.  (Fett doesn't really do all that much.  I think I made his figurine do a hell of a lot more!)  The planet Hoth, the cloud city of Bespin, and the swamp Degobah give the characters refreshing situations, as well as a new friend, Lando Carissean.  I think I love this one the most because I could do the most with the toys that were produced from it.  The dark ending is a first, where the good guys don't really win, they just survive.  No need to re-do this one, its basic elements are all that's needed.

Grade: A