I saw the movie a second time today, in IMAX.
I still really like the movie. I'm glad I'm able to enjoy these movies for the fun rides that they are. I'm happy to critique where they fell short, but I don't focus on the negative. This movie is a lot of fun with some great moments. Seeing people continue to obsessively rant about The Last Jedi seems unhealthy to me.
I like the final shot of the heroes celebrating in the woods. So much better than the awful end shot in Return of the Jedi of the cast posing like they're having their family portrait taken.
I still wish there were more shots of the galaxy rising up. Three moments felt insufficient.
The final space battle could have been longer.
The arrival of the fleet and the theme kicking in is awesome. It's moments like these that let me overlook any flaws the movie has.
I missed some music cues the first time, like the reprise of Jedi's Luke/Vader battle. John Williams has elevated all of these movies far beyond what they would be otherwise. He's a legend. I've listened to the new score many times and it's fantastic.
I really like Richard Grant in this. He's a smarmy Imperial office but not quite cartoony the way Hux is.
Many people were unhappy that we never learn what Finn wanted to tell Rey. There are multiple moments in the film that hint he is force sensitive, so the consensus that this was what it was makes sense.
There has been talk about healing, and why didn't we see it before? Theory: healing is a dark side power, one of those unnatural abilities Palpatine speaks of. Rey healing the sand worm is the first hint she has dark powers in her, followed by the lighting. This is why the Jedi never healed anyone before. And yes, I'm aware of the implications this theory could have for another beloved Star Wars character.
I don't understand why Palpatine tells Rey that if she kills him, he will join her body and they will rule together. That's not a selling point.
My IMAX theater was a bit too loud. Also, whoever allowed thirty (thirty!) minutes of commercials and previews before the movie deserves a force lightning bolt to the chest.