Is the Sequel Trilogy Just Remaking the Original Star Wars?

As the discussion around the Last Jedi, The Force Awakens, and ultimately The Rise of Skywalker heats up, critics and fans alike have debated whether the modern Sequel Trilogy is just a rehash of the beloved Original Trilogy.

The Sequel Trilogy and the Original Trilogy: A Comparison of Plots

Ben, a genuine enthusiast of the Star Wars saga, recently offered an in-depth analysis of the plots in both the Original Trilogy (OT) and the Sequel Trilogy (ST). While some might argue that the modern films are original works, Ben draws a surprising parallel between the plot elements of the The Force Awakens (TFA) and The Last Jedi (TLJ).

Ben's analysis points to a striking similarity between the plot of TFA and TLJ. Here is a detailed summary of the plot elements shared between these films:

TFA and TLJ: A Plot Summary

A resistance group is fighting against a totalitarian government. A high-ranking member of the resistance is on a desert planet with their droid and important technical data. The totalitarian government follows and captures the resistance group member. The resistance group member gives the data to the droid before being captured, and the droid escapes.

A Force-sensitive orphan living on a desert planet finds the droid. They then meet up with a rogue who rescued the resistance member. Meanwhile, the totalitarian government uses a planet-killing super-weapon to destroy an important planet. The resistance group, using X-Wings, manages to destroy the super-weapon.

This summary accurately depicts the plot of both TFA and TLJ. However, the later part of TLJ ventures into the realm of old The Empire Strikes Back (ESB) territory, rehashing iconic scenes from the original trilogy.

The Similarity with ESB

The bad guys attack the good guy's secret base, and the good guys are relentlessly pursued by the bad guys. The Jedi and the rogue are separated. The Jedi goes to a Jedi master’s remote hideout to learn to be a Jedi, but the master is reluctant. Meanwhile, the other good guys go to a glitzy city and are captured, only to escape later. AT-ATs attack the resistance group's base, and they win.

In the throne room sequence, the scenes are taken directly from Return of the Jedi (ROTJ). This rehashing of classic scenes fuels the debate that the modern trilogy is just a take on the original saga.

The Premise of The Rise of Skywalker

The Premise of The Rise of Skywalker (ROS) and Dark Empire are eerily similar. Both depict Palpatine returning from the dead, amassing superweapons, and attacking the galaxy. This premise is nearly identical, leaving no doubt that ROS is deeply influenced by the comic series.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Sequel Trilogy does borrow a lot from other media, including both the Original Trilogy and comic books such as Dark Empire. Whether this rehashing is seen as a strength or a weakness is subjective and open to interpretation. Fans and critics alike have different opinions, and it ultimately comes down to personal taste and nostalgia.

Resource Links

The Last Jedi The Force Awakens The Rise of Skywalker Last Jedi Review Force Awakens Review Rise of Skywalker Review

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