Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker *SPOILERS*

[MattG]

I think Vader's redemption was represented by the act of defiance against the Emperor, not the consequence (i.e., Palpatine's death) per se.

Having said that, I too am really hoping that EpIX ties all the movies together in an epic and satisfying way. It's a big ask, so I don't envy Abrams, but I remain optimistic.

[MattG]

The expected Annie Leibovitz photoshoots in Vanity Fair has hit the internet. Lots of articles, so surf around - https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/ph ... ive-photos

[AaroKin]

I think JJ must like 90s action movies because thats the Phantoms suit with the Rocketeers helmet lol

[MattG]

Yep, definitely thought Rocketeer, with the gold and the helmet fin.

[AaroKin]

It will be interesting to see how the new characters are worked into the plot because going by the past two films a good costume doesnt necessarily equal a good story arch.....Captain Phasma deserved much more

[MattG]

The D23 Expo Sizzle Reel is now online.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3n1T3HxHd7Y

We've put a full scene-by-scene gallery up on SWNZ here: http://www.swnz.co.nz/2019/08/27/episod ... zzle-reel/

[AaroKin]

I really like that trailer....it made it hit home that it's the end of the Skywalker family story.

I know Reys in a black cloak and ignites a red (Sith), doubled bladed lightsaber but with nothing really leading up to her turning to the Darkside in the earlier two films it would be a huge WTF moment for me (not in a good way) if it turns out that way now.

Mind you seeing 3PO with red eyes makes me think he was an Imperial plant the whole time....hey Anakin did make him hahahahaha

[AaroKin]

I just finished a some what heated discussion with a fellow Star Wars Enthusiast in the US who is adamant that Sith Rey is a Clone. While I'm not against this idea at all I did bring up that Kevin Smith said the end of Episode IX is 'mind melting' so how can it include Clones.....I'm pretty sure theres been one or two Clones pop up during the series and in the, now non-canon, Expanded Universe.

Clone Rey is OK but far from 'mind melting'......we didnt end up agreeing but at least its a positive debate lol we both love Star Wars but have polar opposite ideas on IX

[MattG]

...
Clone Rey is OK but far from 'mind melting'...

I agree... I actually think the clone explanation could be interesting, but is perhaps a little too easy.

[AaroKin]

The big thing I took out of it was seeing (I think) the Tantive IV back in action.

Its great to see but how would they have it after all these years?....I know JJ likes to include a lot of nods to the earlier films but if it actually is the Tantive IV its a bit of a stretch.

(I've stopped reading up on Episode IX so I can go in with an open mind so apologies if the ships already been named)