How Did Kylo Ren Come Back to the Light Side: An In-Depth Analysis

The journey of Kylo Ren, previously known as Ben Solo, from the dark side to the light side has been a topic of fascination for fans of the Star Wars franchise. In The Rise of Skywalker, viewers were left in awe as Kylo Ren seemingly abandoned his allegiance to the First Order and joined the Resistance. However, the path to the light was not a straightforward one, and the role of Leia Organa played a crucial part in this transformation. In this article, we will delve into the details of how Kylo Ren returned to the light side, the motivations behind his tragic journey, and why it wasn't done earlier in the series.

The Fate of Leia Organa

Leia Organa, a beloved character in the Star Wars saga, served as a symbol of hope and resilience. Her decision to sacrifice herself towards the end of The Rise of Skywalker was a significant plot point that added depth to the story and raised many questions among fans.

Leia's Final Act

Leia, deeply wounded and mortally ill, made the decision to sacrifice herself to bring Kylo Ren back to the light side. This selfless act was the culmination of her role as the moral compass of the Resistance and a loyal ally of the Jedi. It was clear that she was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the continuation of the Rebellion against the First Order.

Mumba-Jumbo and the Force

Fans often criticized the idea of "mumbo-jumbo" as a way to bring back a character, particularly one as central as Leia. This term was used to describe the combination of mysticism and ritualistic actions that were said to activate the power of the Force to bring someone back. However, it is important to note that the Force, as a spiritual and magical force within Star Wars, is not a science or religion as we understand it in the real world. It operates on principles of energy and emotion, often requiring the connection of two powerful individuals.

Why Earlier?

Some critics argued that bringing Kylo Ren back to the light side earlier in the series would have been a better narrative choice. From a storytelling perspective, it is understandable to want clear-cut resolutions that align with our expectations. However, the narrative in The Rise of Skywalker was designed to build up the emotional and psychological journey of Kylo Ren, weaving a complex web of personal and ethical dilemmas that ultimately led to his redemption.

By saving this climactic moment for the end of the series, the filmmakers were able to create a powerful and emotional conclusion that reflected the larger themes of the franchise: the struggle between good and evil, the power of redemption, and the importance of one's choices in shaping their destiny.

Leia's Motivations

Leia's motivation to bring Kylo Ren back to the light side was rooted in her love for her family and her determination to protect the future of the galaxy. She knew that Kylo Ren, when pictured in his childhood, had the potential to become a great Jedi. She saw the reflection of her own son, Ben Solo, in his eyes and felt the immense weight of his potential legacy.

Ultimately, Leia's decision was not just about saving Kylo Ren; it was about ensuring the survival and prosperity of the galaxy. She was willing to face the ultimate sacrifice because she believed that she could still reach out to her son, even if it meant losing herself in the process.

The Resurgence of Kylo Ren

The return of Kylo Ren to the light side was a pivotal moment in the film. It not only highlighted the power of redemption and the complexity of moral choices but also set the stage for the future of the Star Wars universe. In the closing scenes, Kylo Ren, now fully reintegrated into the light side, destroyed the Supremacy and took a step towards leadership, indicating the beginning of a new chapter.

His transformation was gradual, with moments of struggle, doubt, and clarity. The filmmakers strived to depict his journey as authentic, making his return to the light side a believable and moving experience for the audience.

Conclusion

The decision to have Leia bring Kylo Ren back to the light side was a significant narrative choice that added depth and complexity to the story. It was not a token ending, but rather a powerful demonstration of the themes of love, redemption, and the power of the Force. The fact that this culmination wasn't done earlier in the series highlights the contrast between the original intent and the actual narrative arc of the character.

Though the idea of "mumbo-jumbo" may have felt familiar to some, it was a crucial element that brought the series to a meaningful and emotionally satisfying end. The journey of Kylo Ren's transformation serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of hope and the potential for redemption, even in the darkest of times.