A big question on everyone’s mind as the months pass and we get closer to the premiere of ‘Star Wars: The Last Jedi’ is whether or not the film will be able to find a way to adequately send off the character of General Leia, and how exactly it will accomplish this since it was not in the original plan.
During a recent appearance on ‘Good Morning America,’ ‘The Last Jedi’ director Rian Johnson spoke on whether or not the film manages to successfully wrap up General Leia’s story now that Fisher has passed on:
“I think Carrie gives a really beautiful performance in the film and… we obviously didn’t make the movie to be her final film, final Star Wars movie. Given that though, I think there are scenes that she has that are going to mean a lot to people. There are scenes that we have with her where now, not having her around, I watch them and … I’m really thankful that we have that and we can that to people….Wraps up nicely? I don’t know. But emotionally gives some kind of catharsis, gives some kind of emotional satisfaction, I think so. I know for me it does.”
For a lot of fans, this will be a big sticking point, because Carrie Fisher was a huge part of ‘Star Wars,’ and her passing and exit from the series is an emotional moment. It will be important for the filmmakers to make sure to honor both the actress and the character she brought to life, as both meant a great deal to many people over the years. Still, you cannot help but feel for Rian Johnson in particular, who already has the stress of making a ‘Star Wars’ saga film, then has one of his principle actors die before the film comes out, a character whose story it is now essential to “wrap up” before the next movie. To make matters hardest of all, Johnson and Fisher had become friends, as it was said that before shooting Johnson would visit her home to discuss the script. But at least for us that means some of Carrie’s wit and humor most likely found their way into parts of the movie outside of her own character.
Do you think Lucasfilm, Johnson and company will be able to adequately send off the character of General Leia in ‘The Last Jedi’? If so, do you have any theories on how it might happen? Feel free to share your thoughts and theories in the comments below!
