10 Scenes From ‘Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker’ That Shocked Everyone

The final chapter of the Skywalker saga, ‘Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker’ (2019), delivered a whirlwind of action, emotion, and surprises. Directed by J.J. Abrams, this epic space opera tied up decades of storytelling with bold choices that left audiences stunned.

From unexpected character returns to game-changing revelations, the film packed in moments that sparked heated debates and gasps in theaters. Below, I dive into ten scenes that shocked everyone, starting with the least surprising and building to the most unforgettable.

10. Chewbacca Finally Gets His Medal

Chewbacca, the loyal Wookiee, has been a fan favorite since ‘Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope’ (1977). In that film, he was famously snubbed during the medal ceremony, while Luke and Han got theirs.

In ‘The Rise of Skywalker’, Maz Kanata hands Chewie a medal in a quiet, heartfelt moment. It’s a nod to long-time fans, correcting a decades-old oversight, and it hit me right in the feels.

9. The Sinking Fields Quicksand Trap

Rey, Finn, Poe, and the crew crash-land on Pasaana and stumble into a dangerous black sand pit known as the sinking fields. As they sink, Finn shouts something to Rey he never gets to finish, leaving me curious.

The group falls into underground tunnels, revealing a hidden network and a serpentine creature Rey heals with the Force. The practical effects and the tense setup made this a surprising highlight.

8. Han Solo’s Emotional Return

Han Solo, played by Harrison Ford, died in ‘Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens’ (2015), so his appearance here was a gut punch. He shows up as a memory to his son, Kylo Ren, in a poignant scene.

Their conversation mirrors their last one, but this time, it’s about redemption. Ford’s presence felt so real, and I was floored by how it anchored Kylo’s arc.

7. Luke Skywalker Lifts His X-Wing

Luke Skywalker, now a Force ghost, makes a grand move on Ahch-To. Rey tries to toss his lightsaber, but Luke catches it, then raises his old X-Wing, Red Five, from the ocean.

This callback to ‘Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back’ (1980) and Yoda’s teachings was thrilling. It showed Luke’s growth and gave Rey a ship to join the fight, leaving me cheering.

6. Rey’s Dark Side Lightning

During a tense tug-of-war with Kylo Ren over a First Order transport ship, Rey unleashes Force lightning by accident. This dark-side power, usually tied to Sith like Palpatine, stunned me.

The moment hints at Rey’s inner struggle and her mysterious heritage. Daisy Ridley’s raw performance made it clear Rey was as shocked as I was, raising the stakes for her journey.

5. The Resistance’s Massive Fleet Arrives

In the climactic Battle of Exegol, the Resistance seems doomed against Palpatine’s Final Order fleet. Then Lando Calrissian arrives with thousands of ships from across the galaxy.

This overwhelming show of unity, after the Resistance’s calls went unanswered in ‘Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi’ (2017), gave me chills. It was a visual spectacle of hope triumphing.

4. C-3PO’s Memory Wipe Sacrifice

C-3PO, the fussy droid voiced by Anthony Daniels, faces a tough choice to translate a Sith artifact. Doing so requires wiping his memory, effectively erasing his identity.

His line, ‘Taking one last look at my friends,’ hit hard, and I wasn’t ready for the emotional weight. Though his memory is later restored, the moment felt like a brave goodbye.

3. Rey and Ben’s Lightsaber Relay

In the final showdown, Rey and Ben Solo share a Force connection that lets them pass a lightsaber across space. Ben pulls it out to fight the Knights of Ren, smirking like his father, Han.

Adam Driver’s swagger and the seamless choreography made this a standout. The Force bond’s new depth caught me off guard and added flair to their partnership.

2. The Jedi Voices Empower Rey

As Rey faces Palpatine alone on Exegol, she hears voices of past Jedi, including Yoda, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Anakin Skywalker. Their encouragement, channeled through the Force, gives her strength.

This scene tied the saga together, honoring its legacy. I was moved by how it showed Rey carrying the Jedi’s spirit, making her stand feel monumental.

1. Emperor Palpatine’s Return

Right from the opening crawl, the reveal that Emperor Palpatine is back shook me to my core. Thought dead since ‘Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi’ (1983), he’s alive on Exegol, pulling the strings.

Ian McDiarmid’s chilling performance and the creepy Snoke clone tanks set a wild tone. This twist reshaped the saga’s stakes and left me reeling from the start.

Which moment from ‘The Rise of Skywalker’ shocked you the most, or did I miss a scene that blew you away? Drop your thoughts in the comments!