From the first chords of the Star Wars continuation, Disney revives the same spirit that captivated audiences 38 years ago . “The Force Awakens” introduces the Star Wars galaxy to new audiences and breathes new life into a beloved classic, and is now out on demand and on DVD for those who missed it in theaters.

For everyone new to the galaxy far, far away, there are two trilogies that came before this. The first, which premiered in 1977, follows the story of hero Luke Skywalker and his friends who must defeat evil dictator Darth Vader as he attempts to rule the galaxy. The second trilogy is a set of prequels, released in 1999. “The Force Awakens” is the beginning of a new trilogy, set thirty years after the end of the original trilogy.

This movie’s director, J.J. Abrams, has taken over where director of the originals, George Lucas, left off, and he expertly captures everything that made the original movies so appealing. The awe of exploring new planets, the never ending struggle between good and evil, and the engaging characters will keep audiences in their seats.

The viewer is once again whisked along on an amazing adventure to find the missing Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) and save the galaxy from a new villain, Kylo Ren (Adam Driver). The film leaves the viewer wide-eyed and breathless until the last moment.

The movie seamlessly blends the new and the old. It brings back the original three heroes, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo, from the first set of movies.  It also introduces new protagonists, Poe Dameron (Oscar Issac), a pilot with the map to Luke, Finn (John Boyega), a former Stormtrooper for the evil Kylo Ren (Adam Driver), and Rey (Daisy Ridley), a desert scavenger with the powers of the force.

Ridley is an absolute standout. Fans could expect nothing more from their new hero. She has a masterful balance between her traits, being passionate and calm, optimistic and realistic, sweet and powerful.

This film maintains everything that made the originals a success- stellar acting, moving music, cutting edge effects, captivating characters and relationships- and also brings in new elements.

The music is powerful and iconic, bringing back Academy Award winning composer John Williams, and also featuring a song by director J.J. Abrams and the composer/star of the Broadway smash-hit Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda.

The plot follows the original Star Wars to a level almost similar to a remake. However, the freshness of the new film allows this to happen without feeling stale. From the wit and sarcasm of the new protagonists, to the cliffhanger ending, viewers will be desperately waiting two years for the next installment.

If you’re looking for a new fictional universe to explore, Star Wars provides plenty, and is definitely here to stay. It offers action-packed galactic battles, lovable and entertaining characters, but most importantly, it makes the audience feel deeply and explore important themes. Everyone has something to gain by watching this movie.

The force has truly awakened for a new generation of fans.