Introduction
The journey of Rey, one of the central figures in the sequel trilogy of the Star Wars saga, is marked by significant character development. This article explores how Rey’s development is portrayed in the films The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi.
Rey’s Development in The Force Awakens
Introduction and Background
Rey is first introduced as a scavenger on the desert planet Jakku, struggling to survive in a harsh environment. She is characterized as resourceful, independent, and resilient. Having lost her family, Rey is driven by a sense of belonging and hope for a better future. Her initial setting is crucial in establishing her as a character who embodies perseverance and determination.
Discovery of Force Abilities
Through the film, Rey discovers her connection to the Force, particularly during her interaction with Kylo Ren, marking the beginning of her journey towards becoming a Jedi. This realization is pivotal in her character development, as it opens the door to new possibilities and challenges.
Relationships
Rey’s relationships, especially with Finn and Han Solo, are instrumental in her emotional growth. Her bond with Finn, in particular, highlights her empathy and willingness to fight for others. These relationships not only enrich her character but also provide her with support and guidance as she navigates her journey.
Rey’s Development in The Last Jedi
Training and Self-Discovery
Seeking training from Luke Skywalker, Rey embarks on a journey of introspection. She grapples with her identity and purpose, questioning what it means to be a Jedi. This period of self-discovery is crucial in her development, as she faces the challenge of finding her place within the Jedi Order.
Confronting the Past
Rey’s journey is also characterized by confronting her fears and the mystery of her parentage. Learning that her past does not define her is a crucial step in her development. This realization helps her move forward and embrace her future without being constrained by her past.
Moral Choices
Rey faces numerous moral dilemmas, particularly in her interactions with Kylo Ren. Her decisions reflect her growth as she learns to balance compassion with the harsh realities of the conflict. These choices are pivotal in shaping her character and defining her as a protagonist who can handle complex situations.
Challenges in Character Development
While Rey's development is admirable, certain aspects of her character could have been better explained. For instance, J.J. Abrams' handling of Rey's backstory and the impact of her interactions with BB-8 could have been clearer. J.J. is known for his struggles in writing for women in action movies, with Daisy Ridley describing it as an area where he "dropped the ball."
The depiction of characters like Unkar Plutt and Rey's early experiences, such as her work as a mechanic and courier for his criminal enterprise, could have been more prominent in the film. These aspects were only revealed through novels, such as Rey's Survival Guide and the novelizations of The Last Jedi.
J.J. Abrams' approach to montage scenes and the importance of on-screen visuals to explain complex concepts could have improved the clarity of Rey's development. The lack of such visuals in The Force Awakens contributed to the characters seeming "frothy" or underdeveloped.
Even the planet of Jakku, which plays a significant role in the story, received short shrift in the film. To fully appreciate its importance, viewers had to read the Aftermath book trilogy. This practice can alienate subsets of the fandom if the necessary context is not provided in the film.
Conclusion
The character of Rey undergoes significant development in both The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. While there are areas where the writing and directorial choices could have been improved, her journey remains compelling and deeply moving. The recent book adaptations and novelizations have helped to fill in some of the gaps left in the film narratives, contributing to a richer understanding of Rey's character.