But Luke did totally own Kylo Ren in a duel before dying…
And it was a most ingenious and satisfying victory for Luke. I don’t love everything about the movie, but I did love how this was handled.
I get that it may not have been the traditional sword fight you were looking for, but consider this. I once had a Kendo sensei teach me that you do not win a swordfight with the cut or strike. You beat your opponent in mind and spirit before you even begin the stroke. The striking of a winning blow is merely the confirmation of your victory.*
In this sense, I think Luke’s victory over kylo is actually the most poignant and intense victory he could have achieved and I found that immensely satisfying.
*it’s worth noting that I continued training regularly for many years after this lesson and found, through personal experience, it is absolutely true.
Okay scratch that part from the things that urked me now because the way you described made me love the fight now!
😄