Unveiling Finn’s Intentions in Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker

As we delve into the intricate world of Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker, one of the most intriguing aspects revolves around the character of Finn and his interactions with Rey. Fans have long speculated about the precise message Finn was trying to convey to Rey. In this article, we explore the reasons behind Finn’s actions and his intentions in the film.

Political Sentiment and Community Involvement

Sources like Den of Geek and Star Wars Official Website have shed light on the behind-the-scenes discussions and decisions made during the filmmaking process. According to CinemaBlend, John Boyega, who plays Finn, mentioned that he was trying to tell Rey that he was also Force-sensitive. This detail was later confirmed in the novelization of the film.

Emotional Turmoil and Subtext

Another theory suggests that Finn was actually trying to tell Rey something else—the fact that he loved her. While some fans found this idea compelling, it was not explicitly stated. In the article by Slideroom, author Julien Boivin proposes that Finn wanted to tell Rey that he was force sensitive, possibly as a way to connect with her on a deeper level.

Character Development and Interaction

Finn’s journey in Rise of Skywalker was marked by significant personal growth and realizations. According to his performance notes, Finn was planning to reveal to Rey that he too was Force-sensitive. This revelation was intended to solidify their bond and highlight their shared potential in the Force. However, the screenplay had to be heavily edited to fit within the constraints of the film's runtime and narrative direction.

The editing process led to the omission of certain scenes, resulting in some plot elements being less developed. As Slideroom points out, much like the consequences of the "3 lessons" in The Last Jedi, parts of Finn's arc were not fully realized, leading to an underdeveloped love interest subplot. Finn interacted with multiple potential partners, but his relationship with Rey was central and perhaps overshadowed by the need for a cohesive storyline.

Canon and Sibling Sentiment

In an official interview, J.J. Abrams, the director of Rise of Skywalker, provided his interpretation of the scenes. He stated that Finn wanted to inform Rey that he shared her Force sensitivity, a sentiment that resonates with some viewers. However, this explanation is not without criticism. For many fans, it seems more intuitive that Finn would have expressed feelings of love towards Rey, given their on-screen chemistry and the emotional overtones of the character's experiences throughout the film.

While J.J.'s explanation is considered canon, it does not fully align with the emotional intensity and the shared experiences that viewers often attribute to the characters. The idea of love, as suggested by the physical proximity and mutual support in key scenes, might have been a deeper message that Finn was trying to convey. However, the film's pace and narrative decisions often circumvented this subtext, leading to a sense of unresolved tension and potential.

Despite the ambiguity, the core message from J.J. Abraham's explanation is clear: Finn was trying to tell Rey that he, too, was Force-sensitive. This revelation was meant to emphasize their shared destiny and potential as strong leaders within the Force. As Slideroom notes, this detail is significant and memorable, adding another layer of complexity to their relationship.

The legacy of Rise of Skywalker continues to be debated, with fans and critics weighing the merits of the film. Through the lens of Finn and Rey's interactions, we can see the blend of political sentiment, character development, and subtext. The film's lasting impact is a testament to its layered storytelling and the enduring love of the Star Wars franchise.

May the Force be with you!