Reexamining The Sequel Trilogy: The Rise of Skywalker (Season 7 Episode 21)
·34 min
Tatooine Sons (endorsed by Rian Johnson) begins re-examination of sequel trilogy with focus on The Rise of Skywalker. Hosts discuss trilogy's broader context: December releases (Force Awakens, Rogue One, Last Jedi), Solo's underperformance despite 100M+ opening weekend, Colin Trevorrow's replacement as episode 9 director after his film flopped. Leaked Duel of the Fates script showed darker, more political vision with Coruscant assault, stormtrooper rebellion, and aggressive Kylo Ren. JJ Abrams' return created tonal whiplash from Rian's mythology focus back to JJ's rebellion-vs-empire framing. Hosts examine how director vision clashes, Carrie Fisher's death disrupting Leia's planned primary role, and Chris Terrio's involvement shaped final product. Central question: was The Rise of Skywalker satisfying?
