Has Rey Become a Good Jedi? An Analysis of Her Development Throughout the Sequel Films

Since her introduction in the last chapter of the original Star Wars saga, many have wondered about Rey's journey as a Jedi. The initial questions revolved around the potential of this new protagonist, but who knew that the sequel movies would be so impactful that they could have potentially killed any chance of exploring her path as a Jedi further?

Initial Potential and Missteps

Rey's potential was undeniably present from the start. Standing tall, with a galaxy-spanning fate awaiting her, her introduction was both intriguing and promising. However, it's not just the film's content, but also the creative decisions made by the directors and writers that have left many questioning her journey as a Jedi. The term 'Mary Sue' has been colloquially used to describe characters who are too perfect, having all the skills and traits needed for success without any flaws or weaknesses. Rey, in some respects, suffered from this.

The Impact of Unorthodox Adaptations

The writers of the sequel trilogy played a significant role in shaping Rey's arc. The concept of Rey's lightsaber having a 'koa,' or 'chosing its wielder,' is a departure from the established Star Wars canon. This clash between traditional Jedi lore and the modernization of the franchise has been a point of contention. It seems the writers were more concerned with modern storytelling techniques and less with maintaining consistency with the source material.

Directorial Influences: JJ Abrams and Kathleen Kennedy

When it comes to the execution of Rey's character evolution, her directors played a critical role. JJ Abrams, known for his work in the medium and the larger pop culture landscape, seemed to view Star Wars as just another project. His connection to the franchise was more symbolic than active, which arguably led to a lack of interest in fully exploring Rey's role as a Jedi. Abrams seems to have prioritized his own legacy, with the sequel trilogy becoming more of a stepping stone for his next ventures.

Kathleen Kennedy, on the other hand, brought a strong female perspective to the table. However, she seems to have had a more contentious relationship with the original fanbase of the franchise. There was a perceived effort to create a character who would appeal to the masses and prove that a female protagonist could be as compelling as a male one. Unfortunately, this approach sometimes came at the expense of nuance and the deep-rooted lore of the Star Wars universe.

Addressing Criticism and Legacy

The writers and directors of the sequel trilogy were not without opposition. Critics and fans alike took to social media and forums to express their disappointment and frustration. Some saw Rey's journey as a necessary narrative, while others felt it undermined the collective passion and nostalgia for the established Star Wars universe. This divide highlights the tension between modern storytelling and the preservation of beloved legacy.

Conclusion: Is Rey a Good Jedi?

So, where does that leave us with Rey as a Jedi? Her potential certainly exists, but the execution of her character arc has left many questioning her journey. As we look toward the future films and potential standalone stories, it remains to be seen if Rey will succeed in becoming a true Jedi, balancing her singular focus with the rich history of the universe.

Star Wars fans and critics alike will continue to debate the merits of Rey's development as a Jedi. Whether she will achieve true greatness in this role remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: her journey and the challenges posed along the way will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the franchise.