First, a quick tidbit about me. I’m 41, obviously a gigantic Star Wars fan, have been to all but two Star Wars celebrations, my fourth daughter is named Eisley, and I’ve been fortunate enough to watch the premiere of Revenge of the Sith with George.
Having said all of that, The Last Jedi left a really bad taste in my mouth. Yes, I’m one of the TLJ haters. I also don’t love R1 that much. I bring that up because I’d like to think I’m a person who loves Star Wars but doesn’t automatically give all of the canon an A+.
So, when I began reading negative reports about Galaxy’s Edge underwhelming people left and right, I began to worry a bit that perhaps Disney messed this whole thing up. Over and over again I heard how it was “unfinished” and “a mess in terms of its delivery.”
So when I walked into Disneyland yesterday, heading straight for Batuu, I was apprehensive and expected to be let down.
But let me tell all of you, Galaxy’s Edge is something to behold. The moment you turn the corner and see the life size X-Wing and other ships I won’t spoil, along with all of the aurebesh on the walls, signs and menus, you can’t help but feel overwhelmed with emotion because it’s the first time we will have seen what’s been on the screen for 42 years, in person.
The land is totally immersive, and there really isn’t anything (other than park goers) that take you out of that element. Seeing the Falcon docked in the bay, life size, is a moment I’ll never forget for the rest of my life. The only thing better than that moment was actually walking into the cockpit and piloting the Falcon itself. So, if the Falcon takes spots 1 and 2, then a very close third would be the experience of building your own lightsaber. Again, that’s all I will say about it because I don’t want to spoil anything for any of you.
Here’s the deal. I think Star Wars fans (and a lot of people, to an extent) have become jaded and nitpicky. But my argument to being nitpicky and jaded about Galaxy’s Edge is that Disneyland added a GIANT AREA DEDICATED TO STAR WARS, so can we please stop complaining?! Sure, maybe the imagineers need to add a few more elements to become the icing on the cake, but Batuu is incredible as it is, right NOW!
Disneyland was very crowded yesterday, but no line in Galaxy’s Edge felt too long. When you’re walking around in what feels like a movie set/another planet, the point is to take it all in and become part of it, not to pick it apart for what Disney didn’t add that in your opinion would make it better.
If you’ve been on the fence about going to Disneyland to see Galaxy’s Edge, I would strongly recommend you go as soon as possible. There is nothing like it. Don’t listen to the naysayers. Star Wars might not be perfect since Disney took it over, but Galaxy’s Edge is a huge achievement.
May the Force Be With You....
