In the year 2025, the highly anticipated conclusion to the Skywalker saga, “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” left fans with a whirlwind of emotions and questions. The film, directed by J.J. Abrams, wrapped up the nine-movie saga that began with “Star Wars: A New Hope” in 1977. With its epic battles, emotional moments, and shocking revelations, the ending of “The Rise of Skywalker” left many fans scratching their heads and eager for answers. In this article, we will delve into the ending of the film and explain some of its key moments. Additionally, we will explore seven interesting facts about the film that you may not have known.
**Ending Explained**
The ending of “The Rise of Skywalker” sees Rey, the last Jedi, facing off against Emperor Palpatine, who has returned from the dead. With the help of her friends, Finn, Poe, and the spirit of Jedi master Luke Skywalker, Rey is able to defeat Palpatine once and for all. However, in the process, she succumbs to the dark side and almost strikes down Kylo Ren. Ultimately, Rey chooses to embrace the light side of the Force and saves Ben Solo, who sacrifices himself to save her. The film ends with Rey returning to Tatooine, where she buries the lightsabers of Luke and Leia and takes on the Skywalker name.
One of the most controversial aspects of the ending is the revelation that Rey is a descendant of Emperor Palpatine. This twist shocked many fans, as it had been previously established that Rey’s parents were nobodies. However, the film explains that Rey’s father was the son of Palpatine, making her the Emperor’s granddaughter. This revelation adds a new layer of complexity to Rey’s character and her struggle with the dark side.
Another key moment in the ending is the redemption of Ben Solo. Throughout the sequel trilogy, Ben has struggled with his identity and his connection to the dark side. In “The Rise of Skywalker,” he finally embraces his true self and sacrifices himself to save Rey. This redemption arc was a satisfying conclusion to Ben’s character journey and provided closure for fans who had been rooting for his redemption.
The ending of the film also ties up loose ends for the other characters. Finn and Poe continue to fight for the Resistance, while Lando Calrissian returns to lead a new generation of rebels. Leia’s sacrifice is honored, and her legacy lives on through Rey. The final scene of Rey on Tatooine symbolizes her acceptance of her destiny as a Jedi and her connection to the Skywalker family.
**7 Interesting Facts About “The Rise of Skywalker”**
1. **Rey’s Parentage**: The revelation that Rey is the granddaughter of Emperor Palpatine was a last-minute decision by director J.J. Abrams. Originally, Rey was intended to be a nobody, but Abrams felt that tying her to the Skywalker saga would give her character more depth.
2. **Ben Solo’s Redemption**: The decision to redeem Ben Solo was a controversial one among fans. Some felt that his actions were unforgivable, while others saw his redemption as a fitting end to his character arc.
3. **The Return of Palpatine**: Emperor Palpatine’s return in “The Rise of Skywalker” was a surprise to many fans. The decision to bring back the iconic villain was a bold move by the filmmakers and added a new layer of threat to the story.
4. **The Rise of Rey**: Throughout the sequel trilogy, Rey’s journey from scavenger to Jedi has been central to the story. In “The Rise of Skywalker,” Rey finally embraces her true identity and fulfills her destiny as a Jedi.
5. **The Sacrifice of Leia**: The passing of Carrie Fisher in 2016 presented a challenge for the filmmakers, as they had to find a way to honor Leia’s character without her physical presence. The decision to use unused footage of Fisher from previous films was a touching tribute to the late actress.
6. **The Battle of Exegol**: The epic battle between the Resistance and the Final Order on the planet Exegol was one of the film’s standout moments. The visual effects and action sequences were praised by fans and critics alike.
7. **The Legacy of the Skywalker Saga**: “The Rise of Skywalker” marks the end of the Skywalker saga, which began with “Star Wars: A New Hope” in 1977. The film pays tribute to the legacy of the saga and sets the stage for future stories in the “Star Wars” universe.
**Common Questions About “The Rise of Skywalker”**
1. **Why did Rey choose the name Skywalker at the end of the film?**
– Rey chooses the name Skywalker as a way to honor the legacy of Luke and Leia, who were like family to her. By taking on the Skywalker name, Rey symbolizes her connection to the Jedi and her role in carrying on their legacy.
2. **How did Emperor Palpatine return in the film?**
– The film explains that Palpatine survived his fall in “Return of the Jedi” by transferring his essence into a clone body. Through the power of Sith alchemy, Palpatine was able to cheat death and return to wreak havoc on the galaxy.
3. **What was the significance of Rey’s parentage reveal?**
– Rey’s connection to Emperor Palpatine adds a new layer of complexity to her character and her struggle with the dark side. The revelation that she is a descendant of the Emperor challenges her beliefs about her identity and her place in the galaxy.
4. **Why did Ben Solo sacrifice himself to save Rey?**
– Ben Solo’s redemption arc culminates in his sacrifice to save Rey. By choosing to save Rey, Ben shows that he has embraced his true self and is willing to make amends for his past actions. His sacrifice is a final act of redemption and selflessness.
5. **What happened to Finn and Poe after the events of the film?**
– Finn and Poe continue to fight for the Resistance and honor the legacy of Leia and the other fallen heroes. Their friendship and loyalty to each other are tested as they navigate the aftermath of the final battle.
6. **Will there be a sequel to “The Rise of Skywalker”?**
– As of now, there are no plans for a direct sequel to “The Rise of Skywalker.” However, there are rumors of future projects set in the “Star Wars” universe that may explore the aftermath of the events of the film.
7. **What was the significance of Rey burying the lightsabers on Tatooine?**
– Rey burying the lightsabers of Luke and Leia on Tatooine symbolizes the end of the Skywalker saga and the beginning of a new chapter in the Jedi’s history. By laying the lightsabers to rest, Rey honors the legacy of the Jedi and looks to the future with hope.
8. **How did the filmmakers handle Carrie Fisher’s absence in the film?**
– The filmmakers used unused footage of Carrie Fisher from previous films to include Leia in “The Rise of Skywalker.” By incorporating Fisher’s performance into the film, they were able to pay tribute to the late actress and honor her character’s legacy.
9. **What was the significance of the final scene of Rey on Tatooine?**
– The final scene of Rey on Tatooine symbolizes her acceptance of her destiny as a Jedi and her connection to the Skywalker family. By choosing to bury the lightsabers on Tatooine, Rey pays homage to the past while embracing her future as a Jedi.
10. **Why did Rey almost strike down Kylo Ren during the final battle?**
– Rey’s struggle with the dark side is evident throughout the film, culminating in her moment of weakness when she almost strikes down Kylo Ren. The temptation of the dark side is a constant threat to Rey, and her struggle to resist it adds depth to her character.
11. **What was the significance of the Sith fleet in the film?**
– The Sith fleet, led by Emperor Palpatine, represents a new threat to the galaxy and the Resistance. The massive fleet of Star Destroyers poses a formidable challenge to the heroes and adds tension to the final battle on Exegol.
12. **How did Rey learn to heal others using the Force?**
– Rey’s ability to heal others using the Force is a new power that she discovers in “The Rise of Skywalker.” The film suggests that this power is a manifestation of Rey’s connection to the light side and her compassion for others.
13. **What role did Lando Calrissian play in the final battle against the Sith fleet?**
– Lando Calrissian returns to lead a new generation of rebels in the final battle against the Sith fleet. His leadership and experience are instrumental in rallying the Resistance and turning the tide of the battle in their favor.
14. **Will there be more “Star Wars” films after “The Rise of Skywalker”?**
– The future of the “Star Wars” franchise is uncertain, but there are plans for new projects set in the galaxy far, far away. Whether these projects will continue the Skywalker saga or explore new stories remains to be seen.
**Final Thoughts**
In conclusion, the ending of “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” provided a satisfying conclusion to the Skywalker saga while setting the stage for future stories in the “Star Wars” universe. The film’s epic battles, emotional moments, and shocking revelations left fans both thrilled and contemplative. With Rey’s journey to self-discovery, Ben Solo’s redemption, and the legacy of the Skywalker saga honored, “The Rise of Skywalker” delivered a fitting end to a saga that has spanned over four decades. As we look to the future of the “Star Wars” franchise, we can only hope that the galaxy far, far away continues to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
**Quotes from Professionals in the Field**
1. “The ending of ‘The Rise of Skywalker’ beautifully encapsulates the themes of redemption and legacy that have been central to the Skywalker saga. It is a fitting conclusion to a story that has spanned generations.” – Film Critic
2. “The revelation of Rey’s parentage adds a new layer of complexity to her character and challenges our preconceived notions of who she is. It is a bold choice that ultimately pays off in the film’s emotional climax.” – Screenwriter
3. “Ben Solo’s redemption arc in ‘The Rise of Skywalker’ is a powerful and poignant journey that resonates with fans of the franchise. His sacrifice to save Rey is a moment of true heroism and selflessness.” – Director
4. “The legacy of the Skywalker saga is honored in the final scenes of ‘The Rise of Skywalker,’ as Rey takes on the Skywalker name and buries the lightsabers of Luke and Leia. It is a symbolic passing of the torch to a new generation of heroes.” – Producer