Rey and Kylo Ren: Beyond the Death and Rebirth in Star Wars
Spoiler Warning: This article contains detailed discussions of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (Episode IX). If you have not yet watched the film, proceed with caution.
The Climactic Battle and the Question of Ben Solo's Death
The climax of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker features an intense and poignant moment where Rey and Kylo Ren, also known as Ben Solo, share a profound journey. After Ben returns to the Light Side by forsaking the Kylo Ren persona, he embarks on a mission to Exegol to assist Rey in confronting Emperor Palpatine. However, when the final battle ensues, the outcome is not a simple victory but a complex interplay of forces.
During the confrontation, Palpatine critically damages both Rey and Ben. Rey, suffering from the force of Palpatine's lightning, takes a fatal hit. Ben, the sole remaining hero, attacks Palpatine and, in a desperate move, channels his remaining energy to save Rey. His sacrifice is significant, as he transfers his life energy into Rey, enabling her to be brought back to life.
A major question remains: is Ben Solo truly dead? Despite his heroic act, there is no Force Ghost of Ben at the film's conclusion, leading many, including myself, to believe that Ben survived the battle. This absence of a ghost raises intriguing questions about the nature of life and rebirth in the Star Wars universe.
A Rave Memory Play: A Personal Anecdote
For a moment, let's take a detour from the epic narrative of Star Wars and reflect on a personal memory. Imagine a scene where a young woman is at a rave, where she consumes ecstasy to the point of overdose. The ER at Burbank is called into action, and the doctors take measures to pump her stomach. Ultimately, the decision is made that she must either mature or leave Earth and move to the Bronx, symbolizing a critical turning point in her life.
Rey's Final Resurrection and the Shared Kiss
According to a fan theory, Rey's death was not the end of her journey. After blasting back Palpatine's lightning, Palpatine absorbed most of her life and energy. However, Ben, now fully transformed back into Ben Solo, climbs out of the massive hole in the ground. Using the power of the Force, he transfers his remaining life energy to Rey, reviving her. This act of self-sacrifice is marked by a quiet and profound kiss between the two.
With the transfer of energy complete and Ben's sacrifice successfully executed, the two share a moment of deep emotional connection. Ben ultimately dies, but the moment of their shared kiss becomes a symbol of their unbreakable bond and the power of the Force that sustained their journey.
A Happy Ending for the Resistance
The film concludes with a happy ending, as the Force brings balance to the galaxy. The Resistance, now rejuvenated by the spirit of Ben Solo, rises victorious. Rey, having received the force energy of Ben, is not only alive but infused with the power needed to continue the fight against the dark side. The narrative of Star Wars is continuously enriched with these moments of sacrifice and redemption, leaving a lasting impact on fans worldwide.
Conclusion
The story of Rey and Kylo Ren in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is a testament to the transformative power of the Force. Through sacrifice and resurrection, Ben Solo and Rey find a way to overcome their adversaries and bring balance to the galaxy. While the film leaves many questions unanswered, the shared moments between these characters create a rich tapestry of emotions and themes that continue to captivate audiences.