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All those humungous Star Destroyers pale in comparison to the most notorious “ship” in Star Wars, introduced by the Kylo Ren and Rey romance scenes.
The relationship between Rey and Kylo Ren, affectionately known as “Reylo,” has been a central focus of the Star Wars sequel trilogy, particularly for the final film. Their complex and intriguing romance has sparked both passionate support and criticism among fans.
We’ll explore this uncharted Outer Rim region with four good reasons and four bad reasons regarding the Kylo Ren and Rey romance scenes in Star Wars, drawing from two distinct perspectives because there are two prominent sides to the Force, and we want balance.
Good Reason: The Chemistry
In The Force Awakens, Kylo Ren’s interrogation of Rey provides the initial spark for their complex relationship. It’s a scene filled with tension and chemistry between Daisy Ridley and Adam Driver.
What makes this scene compelling is the shift in Kylo Ren’s demeanor when he removes his mask, revealing a handsome young man beneath (albeit with anger issues). His gentleness while probing Rey’s mind creates an intriguing dynamic between the two characters. This scene sets the stage for a captivating and unusual romance in the Star Wars universe.
Good Reason: Undeniable Force Connection
The Last Jedi further develops Rey and Kylo’s relationship by introducing the Force connection between them. This unique bond allowed them to communicate and understand each other, even when they were physically separated.
It went beyond a conventional romance, forcing them to confront their differences and potentially gain a deeper understanding of each other. Their interactions through the Force connection add depth and complexity to their characters, making their evolving relationship more engaging for viewers. At this point, all they had to do was reach out.
Good Reason: They Make a Good Team Against the Sith
One of the most awe-inspiring climaxes of The Last Jedi was when both Rey and Kylo Ren improvised an insurrection against Snoke and his Praetorian Guard. Never has there been a sudden alliance in Star Wars that worked as flawlessly as this scene, with the two Force-users even looking out for each other’s backs.
Their chemistry has already calcified at this point, and they’re practically frenemies who just need to admit their feelings for one another and make compromises for the romance to work. Never mind the fact that they took down a Sith unprepared.
Good Reason: One Heck of a Confession
The fight on Kef Bir in The Rise of Skywalker is the major turning point in Rey and Kylo’s relationship. It showcases Rey’s internal conflict as she realizes her feelings for Ben Solo, the person beneath the Kylo Ren persona.
This epic fight and what came after was more charged than a hyperdrive as Rey heals Kylo Ren’s wounds with the Force, and their bond further deepens to more than just allies. It allows the characters to express their true feelings and marks a significant spark in their journey, adding depth to their romance.
Bad Reason: Oversexualization (for some)
Some critics argued that the portrayal of Reylo in The Last Jedi leaned too heavily into sensuality, with Rey often soaked and Kylo Ren shirtless.
While this approach attempted to convey a passionate relation between the characters, it may have felt out of place in the Star Wars universe, which traditionally prioritizes action and adventure over overt sexuality. The use of erotic symbolism might have detracted (or distracted some viewers) from the story’s overall impact.
Bad Reason: ‘Forced’ Connection
Despite an overwhelming amount of redemption chemistry for Rey and Kylo Ren in the first film, it was still hard to imagine that the two would eventually end up together by the time The Rise of Skywalker concluded the trilogy. The two even shared some nemesis moments and at times, Kylo Ren’s actions felt irredeemable.
Some Star Wars purists might even consider Kylo Ren’s redemption as cheap since Rey immediately got into some kind of relationship with him rather than the typical, organic Star Wars method of making the villain realize their destructive Dark Side ways.
Bad Reason: Kylo’s War Crimes
Let’s not forget the obvious logic of why Rey’s involvement with Kylo might have been a little too toxic to begin with. The man has committed way too many crimes against humanity and practically just about any living being in Star Wars. He’s heavily complicit in the destruction of several planets, and Kylo even wiped out most of Rey’s comrades.
But sure, the kiss solves everything, supposedly. Besides, the romance might have been unnecessary since all Kylo needed to do to move the plot forward was to sacrifice himself to Force-heal Rey.
Vader was subjected to a similar redemption arc, but his was easier to digest since he’s Luke’s father. Kylo, meanwhile, is not really a relative of Rey, and forgiveness for him might not be warranted well enough.
Bad Reason: Fan Service
The Rise of Skywalker has faced criticism for its handling of the Kylo Ren and Rey romance scenes. Some argue that the movie prioritized fan service over organic storytelling, ultimately undermining the depth of Rey and Kylo’s relationship.
The decision to conclude their story with a kiss, followed by Ben Solo’s immediate death, left some fans unsatisfied. It felt rushed and did not allow their complex relationship to fully evolve or resolve in a satisfying manner. This contributed to mixed feelings about the final installment of the trilogy.
Needless to say, the Kylo Ren and Rey romance in the Star Wars sequel trilogy is a topic that generates both admiration and criticism. While some appreciate the unique and complex nature of their relationship, others find fault with certain aspects of its portrayal. Ultimately, the success of Reylo lies in the eye of the beholder, with fans holding differing opinions on the good and bad reasons behind their romantic scenes in the saga.
