Are Conservatives More Likely to Hate 'The Last Jedi' Than Liberals?

In the context of the political divide surrounding 'The Last Jedi,' it's evident that more conservative individuals often criticize this installment of the Star Wars saga for its perceived liberal leanings. This article unfolds the reasons behind this sentiment, while also offering insights into the broader implications of political ideology within a cultural phenomenon.

The Release and Political Context

'The Last Jedi' made its debut as the United States was transitioning into a new presidential era with Donald Trump's ascension to power. The film offered a unique opportunity for those who opposed Trump and his administration to find a source of aggrievement. However, 'The Last Jedi' failed to fulfill this role, raising questions among both critics and fans regarding the film's themes, narrative, and reception.

Alt-Right and BLM

For a segment of the population classified under the alt-right, 'The Last Jedi' became a symbol of defiance against what they perceived as liberalism. The casting of a black man (John Boyega's Finn) and a woman (Daisy Ridley's Rey) in lead roles was seen as a direct challenge to traditional power dynamics. While this aspect might have been more prominent in other Star Wars content like 'Thrones and Patriots' (TFA), it played a significant role in the overall narrative critics perceived as antagonistic to traditional values.

A Social Justice Warrior's Perspective

As an unabashed left-leaning social justice warrior, my initial expectations were set to find the film aligning with progressive ideologies. However, my disappointment stemmed not only from the underpinned neoliberal ideologies but also from the blunt enforcement of social justice themes. The movie was criticized for its numerous instances where the characters and plotlines failed to add meaningful depth or coherent narrative. Critics argued that the film's social justice themes were superficial and could be seen as a disingenuous attempt to salvage a movie that otherwise lacked substance.

Neoliberal Fingerprints and Criticism

The criticism extended beyond the social justice rhetoric. 'The Last Jedi' has been lambasted for its perceived heavy-handed approach to progressive agendas, often referred to as 'neoliberal fingerprints.' This term encompasses the belief that the film's social justice elements were awkwardly inserted into a story devoid of genuine narrative structure and character development. This approach was seen as a compromise to appease a broad audience rather than a true reflection of the complex social issues it purported to address.

Storytelling and Continuity

The narrative of 'The Last Jedi' faced significant scrutiny, with critics arguing that it failed to maintain the continuity and coherence that fans have come to expect from the Star Wars franchise. The film's story was criticized for its haphazard plot development and lack of clear direction. This criticism extends to the overall narrative, which was seen as more disorganized and less engaging compared to its predecessors. Additionally, the film's plot was often perceived as a result of a rushed and superficial approach to storytelling, further diminishing its overall impact on viewers.

Creator Criticism and Fan Expectations

The lack of continuity and coherence in 'The Last Jedi' heightened fan disappointment. Fans of the franchise typically engage with the series deeply, watching multiple times, analyzing each scene, and discussing the story's progression. In contrast, Rian Johnson’s approach to storytelling seemed to prioritize social justice and progressive themes over traditional narrative techniques. This disparity in expectations resulted in a divided fanbase, with some appreciating the film's bold aesthetics and performances, while others felt betrayed by the lack of continuity and substance.

The Political Ideology Debate

The debate surrounding 'The Last Jedi' is not merely a matter of taste or personal preference. It encapsulates a broader discourse on the role of political ideology in popular culture. The film's controversial themes and narrative choices reflect the ongoing tensions between conservative and liberal perspectives. This cultural confrontation highlights the power of media to shape audience perception and reflect underlying societal values. The political divide within the Star Wars fanbase mirrors larger societal disagreements over the role of social justice in storytelling and entertainment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the political divide surrounding 'The Last Jedi' reveals the complexity of how cultural phenomena can reflect and influence societal values. While the film's critics from the conservative spectrum focused heavily on its perceived liberal leanings, the broader narrative and storytelling elements also contribute to its reception. 'The Last Jedi' stands as a testament to the enduring debate between ideology and storytelling, inviting further discussion on the role of politics in the entertainment industry.