Duel of the Fates vs. The Rise of Skywalker: Which would have been a better Episode IX?

Having explored the details of Colin Trevorrow's "Duel of the Fates" script, it's hard not to feel a pang of what could have been. 

His version offers a darker, more consistent tone and gives characters like Finn and Rose their due, allowing them to shine in ways they didn't in "The Rise of Skywalker." Rey's character arc is more nuanced, and her double-bladed lightsaber is a fitting evolution of her weaponry and skills. Kylo Ren's journey is also more compelling, depicting him as a true, unrepentant villain haunted by Luke's ghost and seeking power from an ancient Sith master. Not a Romeo in the making that he became in the released version.

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A Plea for the Soul of Star Wars in the Age of Disney Simplification

Beghast's "STAR WARS De-Infantilized (It Works)" resonates deeply with many adult fans of Star Wars, myself included, as it captures so elegantly a sentiment of disenchantment with the franchise's direction in recent years. It articulates a shared experience: the magic and awe of the original and prequel trilogies give way to a sense of dissonance as the saga transitions into a realm that feels overly simplified, seemingly tailored more towards younger audiences than the broad demographic that has long cherished the galaxy far, far away.

This sense of oversimplification, where narratives feel like they're holding the viewer's hand too tightly, mirrors content designed for very young children, diminishing the saga's depth. Yet, hope shines through with the acknowledgment of "Rogue One" and "Andor" as standout examples within the new wave, praised for their complexity and mature themes. These entries demonstrate that the franchise can still offer stories that resonate with adult fans without compromising its universal appeal.