5 Ways ‘Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

When ‘Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker’ hit theaters in 2019, it carried the weight of wrapping up a saga that spanned over four decades. As the final chapter of the sequel trilogy, it aimed to tie together threads from ‘The Force Awakens’ (2015) and ‘The Last Jedi’ (2017), while honoring the legacy of the Skywalker family.

Now, years later, I’ve revisited the film to see how it holds up. Some elements feel dated or out of step, while others shine as timeless additions to the Star Wars universe. Below, I explore five ways the movie hasn’t aged well and five ways it still captivates.

Aged Poorly: Emperor Palpatine’s Return Feels Forced

Bringing back Emperor Palpatine as the main villain was a bold choice that doesn’t quite land today. His resurrection, revealed in the opening crawl with little explanation, feels like a convenient way to raise the stakes after his absence in the prior two films. The lack of buildup makes his presence jarring, and it sidelines Kylo Ren’s arc as the central antagonist. For a saga so rooted in lore, this move feels more like fan service than a natural story progression.

Aged Masterfully: Kylo Ren’s Redemption Arc Delivers Emotional Depth

Adam Driver’s portrayal of Kylo Ren, torn between light and dark, remains a highlight. His journey from Supreme Leader to Ben Solo’s redemption is heartfelt, especially in his quiet moments of reflection, like communing with his father’s memory. The emotional payoff of his sacrifice for Rey resonates deeply, offering a fresh take on the Skywalker legacy that feels earned and moving.

Aged Poorly: Rey’s Lineage Reveal Undermines Her Journey

Revealing Rey as Palpatine’s granddaughter feels like a misstep that doesn’t hold up. Her arc in ‘The Last Jedi’ celebrated her as a nobody who could still be a hero, which was empowering. Tying her to a major villain undercuts that message, making her strength feel inherited rather than self-made. It’s a twist that feels more like a plot device than a meaningful addition.

Aged Masterfully: The Force Dyad Between Rey and Kylo Shines

The Force connection between Rey and Kylo Ren is a standout that gets better with time. Their telepathic bond, shown through intense scenes of communication across the galaxy, adds a new layer to the Force’s mythology. Daisy Ridley and Adam Driver’s chemistry makes their dynamic compelling, blending conflict and connection in a way that feels innovative for Star Wars.

Aged Poorly: Overstuffed Plot Dilutes Key Moments

The film tries to juggle too many characters and storylines, which feels chaotic now. From new faces like Jannah to sidelined ones like Rose Tico, the crowded narrative leaves little room for depth. Key moments, like Leia’s death or Finn’s hinted Force sensitivity, get rushed, making them less impactful. A tighter focus would have let these beats breathe.

Aged Masterfully: Leia’s Role Honors Carrie Fisher’s Legacy

Using archival footage, the film crafts a meaningful role for Leia Organa, played by the late Carrie Fisher. Her scenes as Rey’s mentor and Resistance leader carry emotional weight, blending strength and warmth. The care taken to integrate her feels like a heartfelt tribute, making her final bow a touching farewell that still moves me.

Aged Poorly: The Final Order’s Scale Feels Unbelievable

The introduction of the Final Order, a massive Sith fleet hidden on Exegol, stretches believability. The idea that Palpatine built this armada in secret, complete with planet-destroying ships, feels like a plot contrivance. It lacks the grounded menace of the Empire or First Order, making the stakes feel inflated and hard to buy into today.

Aged Masterfully: The Jedi Voices Sequence Inspires

The moment when Rey hears the voices of past Jedi, like Obi-Wan Kenobi, Yoda, and Anakin Skywalker, is a powerful nod to the saga’s history. This scene, where she draws strength from their guidance to face Palpatine, feels like a celebration of the Jedi’s enduring spirit. It’s a chills-inducing moment that ties the trilogy together beautifully.

Aged Poorly: Rose Tico’s Reduced Role Disappoints

Rose Tico, a fan-favorite from ‘The Last Jedi’, gets barely any screen time, which feels like a missed opportunity. Her sidelining, after being a bold addition to the saga, seems like a reaction to fan backlash rather than a story-driven choice. It diminishes the film’s inclusivity and leaves her arc unfinished, which stings on rewatch.

Aged Masterfully: The Visual Spectacle Holds Up

The film’s visuals, from the stormy seas of Kef Bir to the eerie Sith Citadel on Exegol, remain stunning. The lightsaber duels, especially Rey and Kylo’s clash amidst crashing waves, are gripping and beautifully shot. These striking images keep the movie feeling grand and immersive, proving Star Wars’ knack for unforgettable settings.

What’s your take on ‘The Rise of Skywalker’—which moments still hit home, or which ones fall flat? Share your thoughts in the comments!