Star Wars: The Last Jedi – A Legacy That Continues to Shape the Franchise
The Enduring Impact of a Divisive Chapter
Star Wars: Episode VIII–The Last Jedi arrived in 2017 as the bold middle chapter of the sequel trilogy, and nearly eight years later, it remains one of the most discussed entries in the franchise. Despite strong critical reviews, The Last Jedi became one of the most polarizing entries in the franchise’s history. The film’s willingness to challenge conventions has ensured its place in ongoing Star Wars conversations.
Recent Developments and Rian Johnson’s Future
In December 2025, significant news emerged about the franchise’s future. Recent news confirms that Lucasfilm has shelved Johnson’s project for a planned trilogy that was announced shortly after The Last Jedi’s release. The Last Jedi director Rian Johnson confirmed that he is “not actively working” on his Star Wars trilogy anymore, but insisted he is “still tight” with Lucasfilm and would be open to returning, stating that making The Last Jedi was the best experience of his life.
Expanding The Last Jedi’s Story
The film’s narrative continues to expand through new media. The last Jedi and her new Master will return in Star Wars: Legacy, exploring the characters’ relationship in the months between the events of Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. In the aftermath of losing Luke Skywalker and Kylo Ren’s refusal to return to the light, Rey and Ben Solo’s mother, Leia, join forces to repair the broken Skywalker lightsaber and the shattered legacy of the Jedi Order.
Critical Acclaim and Controversy
On Rotten Tomatoes, 91% of 482 critics’ reviews are positive, with Metacritic assigning the film a score of 84 out of 100, indicating “universal acclaim”. However, Much of the backlash stemmed from Johnson’s willingness to subvert established expectations, from revealing Rey’s parents as “nobodies” to reimagining Luke Skywalker as a disillusioned hermit, with fans debating these choices fiercely.
The Film’s Lasting Significance
Even years later, The Last Jedi stands as a divisive but undeniably influential chapter in the ongoing evolution of Star Wars storytelling. Whether celebrated for its bold creative choices or criticized for subverting expectations, the film has secured its place as a defining moment in Star Wars history, continuing to influence how creators approach storytelling in the galaxy far, far away.