Reevaluating Kylo Ren: A Critical Look at His Character Evolution in The Last Jedi

Kylo Ren, a complex and controversial character within the Star Wars franchise, has been subject to various interpretations and reevaluations since the release of The Force Awakens. Many fans, particularly following The Last Jedi (TLJ) in 2017, have expressed a change in sentiment toward him. This article delves into the reasons behind these changes, providing a critical analysis of Kylo Ren's character development and the impact of The Last Jedi.

The Initial Reception: Fan Reactions and Expectations

Initially, the character of Kylo Ren received a mixed reception from both fans and critics. The film’s departure from the established arc of his character, as portrayed in the earlier films, left many disappointed. For instance, his overhaul of being a young and rebellious figure in The Force Awakens to a more complex and morally ambiguous character in The Last Jedi, was not universally appreciated. Many fans felt that his arc contradicted his portrayal in previous installments, leading to widespread debate and discussions on social media and forums.

Ben Solo: A Character Reimagined

Despite the mixed reception, there are many who continue to harbor a deep affection for Ben Solo, Kylo Ren's former self. One of these advocates is a fan who calls him by his original name, reaffirming their belief in his potential for redemption. To this fan, Ben Solo's journey is as much about his internal struggles as it is about external conflict. This fan emphasizes that Ben's actions were often driven by the manipulation and abuse of Snoke, the Supreme Leader of the First Order.

The deleted scenes from The Last Jedi, which delve deeper into the emotional and physical abuse Ben Solo experienced from Snoke, provide a more nuanced understanding of his character. These scenes depict Snoke grooming and psychologically torturing Ben, highlighting the depth of the abuse he endured. This understanding is crucial for comprehending the complexity of Ben Solo's character and the reasons behind his actions.

Character Evolution and Reassessment

The evolution of Kylo Ren in The Last Jedi has sparked a significant reassessment of this character. While many fans found him less appealing in The Force Awakens, where he was more of a straightforward antagonist and a "manchild," the introduction of complexity in The Last Jedi brought a new dimension to his character. This complexity, however, was not without its controversies. Some fans felt that the narrative was lacking in a satisfactory conclusion, as the depiction of Canto Bight seemed to overshadow the character’s development.

Despite these shortcomings, the character of Kylo Ren in The Last Jedi did manage to capture the emotional depth that many had missed in the earlier films. His arc was more realistic and human, making him more relatable and sympathetic.

For some fans, such as the one who initially despised Kylo Ren but later became one of his biggest supporters, the change in perception demonstrates the power of a well-crafted character arc. This significant shift in sentiment from a fan who initially had strong negative feelings towards the character to someone who sees him as a critical element of the saga, underscores the potential for redemption within complex narratives.

Conclusion

The character of Kylo Ren continues to be a subject of discussion and debate within the Star Wars community. His arc in The Last Jedi, though imperfect, presents a compelling exploration of a character's journey towards redemption. The depiction of his abuse by Snoke and his subsequent transformation, despite the challenges in narrative execution, offers a nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal. For those who see him as Ben Solo, redemption seems a critical storyline for ensuring a peaceful resolution to the Skywalker saga.

Ultimately, the reevaluation of Kylo Ren's character highlights the importance of character development and the potential for complex, multi-faceted portrayals in blockbuster franchises.