Episode IX: Brilliant, but flawed

So jealous that Germans got to see it before Americans

This review contains no spoilers.

The Rise of Skywalker exceeds expectations on nearly every important front:

1. Working wonders with footage from the cutting room floor of Episodes VII & VIII, the filmmakers give Princess Leia the sendoff she deserves.
2. The characters of Rey and Kylo Ren — and their complex relationship — develop in fascinating, rewarding…