Part 12/14:
The Final Outcome: Satisfying Closure vs. Hollow Spectacle
The conclusion of Return of the Jedi feels earned and satisfying because it ties together character arcs and storylines established over multiple films. Luke’s moral choice to resist darkness, Vader’s redemption, and the defeat of the Empire resonate because of their strong emotional foundations.
The Rise of Skywalker attempts to conclude its trilogy with grand set pieces and fan service, but it sacrifices emotional depth for spectacle. Palpatine’s sudden return and Rey’s important lineage reveal seem forced, serving more as plot devices than meaningful developments. The result is a superficial victory that lacks genuine emotional payoff, leaving audiences feeling unfulfilled.