Will Star Wars: Episode IX Satisfy Fans?

No. The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi have minimal connection at best. Tying Episode IX into these two films, or the entire saga, is an impossible task. If Episode IX embraces the past (The Last Jedi, TLJ), it will make TLJ feel like an anomaly. Conversely, if it embraces TLJ, The Force Awakens (TFA) will feel left out.

Satisfying the Fan Base

Such an interesting question! To understand whether Episode IX will be satisfying, we need to look back at some of J.J. Abrams' earlier works, focusing on his franchise sci-fi movies: Star Trek.

Star Trek: Rationale for Satisfaction

Star Trek's Star Trek received a 94/91 on Rotten Tomatoes, followed by Into Darkness, rated 84/89. These ratings show a relatively small change, with audience approval remaining strong. Personally, I find both films satisfying, as they honor the original cast while bringing fresh, fun elements not found in the Original Series (TOS) and most subsequent movies. However, online, many "purists" strongly dislike the Kelvin timeline, especially Into Darkness.

A similar pattern emerges with The Force Awakens, which scored 93/87 on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite some critique, it is personally deemed satisfying. This film delivers visual spectacle and emotional depth but lacks the lore continuity that some dedicated Star Wars fans desire. Haters of The Last Jedi should look to this film.

Episode IX: The Final Chapter

Unlike starting a storyline, ending it is more challenging. Episode IX may satisfy fans who enjoy a fun movie and well-executed visuals and character interactions. However, the film is unlikely to provide the traditional lore progression that many Star Wars fans expect. Some questions may remain unanswered, a situation similar to the Lost series, where many inquiries weren't resolved.

Conclusion: A Fabulous Time with Open Endings

Given Abrams' track record, I don't have confidence that he will wrap things up according to the way a traditional Star Wars fan would want. However, I still expect to have a fabulous time at the movies, enjoying the effects, pithy dialogue, and emotional arcs. The downside is the lack of comprehensive lore progression and the potential for lingering questions. The good news is that there will be future opportunities to fill in the gaps as other directors and writers explore the Star Wars universe.

TLDR: Episode IX will satisfy as a movie but may not fully please the traditional Star Wars fan base seeking consistent lore progression.