Early ‘Star Wars’ Reviews: How Did Critics React To ‘The Rise Of Skywalker’?

With a new episode of “The Mandalorian” on Wednesday, in addition to the final chapter in the Skywalker saga with “Episode IX” releasing Friday, this week is one for the “Star Wars” fans all over the world. Monday's red carpet premiere featured nearly all “Rise of Skywalker” cast members and prior “Star Wars” personalities, including celebrities like Jon Favreau, Spike Lee, Damon Lindelof, and even Steven Spielberg. While “The Rise of Skywalker” review embargo doesn’t lift until Wednesday, critics in attendance of the “Star Wars” screening still offered their views and takeaways from the film on social media.

Many of the “Rise of Skywalker” reviews are mostly positive or mixed opinions about the final “Star Wars” movie in the Skywalker saga, despite Richard E. Grant’s expectations of a “Game of Thrones” style backlash.

ScreenRant’s Rob Keyes was moved by the new “Star Wars” outing, claiming it answers all of the burning questions from the sequel trilogy while rounding out the saga in an “immensely satisfying” way.

Vanity Fair’s Anthony Breznican praised “Episode IX,” noting how it drives audiences back into their childhood selves. As a generational close, it seems “Rise of Skywalker” touches the hearts of many varied audiences, those who grew up with the original three films, those who grew up with the prequels, and those who are now growing up with the sequel trilogy.

Joanna Robinson, also from Vanity Fair, called out “The Last Jedi,” reporting that fans who appreciated the eighth movie in the main “Star Wars” saga aren’t going home happy following “Episode IX.”

Chris Taylor of Mashable was overwhelmed by how the film wrapped up all nine installments into one conclusive film.

IGN’s Laura Prudom wasn’t as hyped as the other “Rise of Skywalker” reviewers, yet still expressed the multitude of emotion rooted in the new “Star Wars” adventure.

Adam B. Vary from Variety adds to the reception, telling of where its most impactful moments ring strong in the Force.

Uproxx’s Mike Ryan gives a rather gloomy look into “The Rise of Skywalker,” saying it’s “the most convoluted ‘Star Wars’” yet.

Journey to a galaxy far, far away this Friday with the release of “Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker.”