An In-Depth Analysis: Who Gets More Screen Time in Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Rey or Finn?

The battle for screen time between Rey and Finn in Star Wars: The Force Awakens has been a topic of much debate among fans and analysts. According to the official data, Daisy Ridley, who plays Rey, gets 45:15 of screen time, while John Boyega, who portrays Finn, gets 35:25. However, this simple comparison may not give the full picture. To delve deeper, we need to analyze the roles, significance, and impact of each character throughout the film. This article explores the nuances of their respective screen time and their contributions to the overall narrative of The Force Awakens.

The Force Awakens: The Beginning of a New Jedi

The film picks up years after the events of The Return of the Jedi. The resistance against the First Order is at its lowest point, but a new hero, Rey (played by Daisy Ridley), rises to the challenge. Her journey is at the heart of the film, highlighting her training, growth, and eventual role in the resistance. Rey is introduced early in the film, and her screen time is quite substantial, as the narrative focuses on her awakening and mastering the force.

The Central Role of Rey

Rey, as the central character, is a pivotal figure in the story. She is not only the protagonist but also a driving force behind the narrative arc. Her screen time is significant because it is meant to develop her character and establish her as a powerful and resilient figure. Her interactions with key characters, such as Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) and Finn (played by John Boyega), are crucial to the plot. Rey's presence is felt even in the background, as she is often a focal point for the resistance's activities and missions. Her relationships with other characters and her own internal struggles form the emotional core of the film.

The film uses Rey's character arc to explore themes of destiny, self-discovery, and the inheritance of the force. Her journey is not just about discovering her abilities but also about finding a sense of belonging and purpose. This makes her screen time even more significant, as it provides the emotional depth and narrative momentum necessary for the story to move forward.

The Supporting Role of Finn

Finn, on the other hand, plays a more supporting role in the film. John Boyega's performance as Finn is memorable, and his character's arc is essential to the plot, but his screen time is less extensive than Rey's. Finn is introduced as a soldier who defects from the First Order, joining the resistance. His journey is about redemption, finding a new purpose, and eventually contributing to the resistance.

Finn's screen time is more focused on his actions and interactions with Rey. He serves as a bridge between Rey and the rest of the cast, particularly Po (Oscar Isaac) and Poe Dameron (Anthony Daniels). His role is to act as a guide for Rey, introducing her to the resistance and helping her understand the broader context of the conflict. This makes his screen time more integral to the story, but still, less extensive than Rey's.

Finn's character arc is about his journey from a First Order stormtrooper to a resistance hero. His internal conflicts, such as his feelings of guilt and betrayal, are explored in the film. However, his screen time is more about the mechanics of the story, such as his role in missions and battles, which are essential but less central to the emotional core of the film.

Comparing Screen Time and Character Impact

While Rey's screen time is more extensive, both characters are equally important to the narrative. Rey's role is more complex and central, while Finn's role is more supporting, but still essential. Both characters contribute to the emotional and action-driven parts of the film. However, when it comes to the overall impact on the film's narrative, Rey's presence and character arc are arguably more significant.

The comparison between Rey and Finn's screen time highlights the importance of each character within the film. While Rey serves as the central focus of the narrative, Finn plays an integral supporting role. Both characters are crucial to the story, but their roles and screen time are designed to enhance the overall impact and emotional depth of the film.

Conclusion

The debate about who gets more screen time in Star Wars: The Force Awakens between Rey and Finn may not have a clear-cut answer. While Rey's screen time is more extensive, both characters are equally important to the story. The central role of Rey and the supporting role of Finn contribute to the richness and complexity of the film's narrative. Ultimately, the film thrives on the interplay between these two strong characters, each bringing their unique strengths and perspectives to the story.