Part 8/9:
The Empire Strikes Back demonstrates how failure, when woven into the narrative with care, can elevate a story. It pushes characters to their limits, fosters growth, and makes success more meaningful. The iconic "I am your father" reveal is not just shocking but emotionally resonant because it is built upon numerous moments of struggle, loss, and reflection.
By contrast, The Last Jedi's mishandling of failure turns it into a gimmick—something tossed around without real narrative purpose or weight. It treats failure as a superficial theme rather than a core element that shapes characters and storylines.