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Channel24, as part of a little social experiment, sent a clueless Star Wars virgin to go watch the Force Awakens. These are his thoughts on the whole experience. (We also had a Stars Wars veteran write a more in-depth review - read it here.)
Cape Town – For years I have resisted "The Force". I am probably one of the very few people who have not seen any of the Star Wars films.
I’ll be honest, it has been hard not to get swept up in the hype of the biggest movie of the year.
So I agreed to take part in a little social experiment with the help of Channel24. Can someone who has never watched Star Wars really appreciate The Force Awakens?
A blank slate
Besides knowing the basics of the saga I entered the cinema a blank slate.
From the moment the lights dimmed and that iconic theme music reverberated through the speakers I was enthralled.
I felt like a child experiencing cinema for the very first time. Everything about the movie works: the characters, the witty dialogue, the action scenes, the score, the themes explored all create a magical viewing experience.
There wasn’t one moment during watching the film that I felt lost. The plot is written in such a way that it gives enough background about the saga for someone watching it for the very first time.
The cast
I have to mention the acting.
First timer Daisy Ridley as Rey is phenomenal. She’s smart, she’s feisty and she has heart. Step aside Katniss Everdeen a new heroine has been born.
You’ll fall instantly inlike with John Boyega’s, Finn and Oscar Isaac’s, Poe Dameron.
By the time you’re knee-deep into the story you will feel like you know the older characters, General Leia (Carrie Fisher), Han Solo (Harrison Ford) and Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew), your entire life.
I left the cinema thinking that this is what the movies are meant to be, to capture all your attention to transport into a galaxy far from your everyday realm and to inspire you.
Some things find you later in life, and the force found me at the right time.
If you haven’t seen any of the Star Wars films you should definitely go see this one. In my opinion it is a standalone film.
But I warn you it will make you want to see the others. Guess what I’ll be doing this holiday.
Let's break it down:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Favourite character: Finn
One word summary: Fan-bloody-tastic
Could you see yourself becoming a Star Wars fan? Absolutely!
Can Star Wars virgins watch the movie and still enjoy it? Indeed
READ NEXT: Local film critic's in-depth review of Star Wars: The Force Awakens
