What Is The Main Theme Of The Last Jedi

Ed Bradley

2 min read

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02-12-2024

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Star Wars: The Last Jedi, the eighth installment in the Skywalker saga, is a film rich in thematic layers. While many interpretations exist, several core themes consistently emerge as central to its narrative. Pinpointing the main theme is challenging, as Rian Johnson masterfully interweaves them. However, a strong argument can be made for letting go of the past and embracing the unknown as the overarching message.

Letting Go of Legacy and Embracing the Future

The film profoundly explores the burden of legacy and the cyclical nature of conflict. Luke Skywalker, once a symbol of hope, is grappling with the failures of his past and the potential for the Jedi Order to perpetuate a harmful cycle of violence. His journey, and ultimately, his decision to project himself as a decoy rather than directly confronting Kylo Ren, highlights the importance of moving beyond past mistakes and forging a new path, even if it's unconventional.

This theme extends beyond Luke. Rey's struggle to define herself outside the shadow of her predecessors (Luke and Kylo Ren) is paramount. She actively rejects the limitations of established Jedi teachings, forging her own style and embracing the power of the Force in a unique way. Similarly, Finn and Poe's contrasting leadership styles and subsequent reconciliation emphasize the need for collaboration and adaptation, rather than rigid adherence to tradition.

The Subversion of Expectations

The film deliberately subverts audience expectations and established Star Wars tropes. This subversion itself underscores the central theme of rejecting the familiar and embracing uncertainty. The film encourages viewers to question preconceived notions and consider alternative approaches to conflict resolution, emphasizing the importance of challenging the status quo.

Other Significant Themes

While letting go of the past is arguably the dominant theme, several other significant threads run throughout The Last Jedi:

• The Nature of Power: The film explores different facets of power—the corrupting influence of power, the responsibility that comes with power, and the potential for power to be used for good or evil. Kylo Ren’s embrace of the dark side represents the seductive allure of unchecked power, while Rey's journey reflects the struggle to wield power responsibly.

• Hope and Despair: The constant tension between hope and despair is palpable. The film doesn't shy away from portraying the grim realities of conflict and the possibility of defeat, yet it ultimately champions the enduring power of hope and resilience even in the darkest of circumstances.

• Resistance and Rebellion: The film delves into the nature of resistance and rebellion, questioning the methods and strategies employed in the fight against tyranny. It challenges viewers to consider the effectiveness and ethical implications of different approaches to achieving freedom.

In conclusion, while several compelling themes enrich The Last Jedi, the core message seems to center on the necessity of abandoning the weight of the past to forge a better future. This theme serves as the bedrock for the film's exploration of legacy, power, hope, and rebellion. The film encourages reflection on how we confront challenges, overcome adversity, and shape our destinies.