Good thoughts. I agree that it’s still too confusing, and I had forgotten this little exchange:
‘How capable are your soldiers, General?’
‘I won’t have you question my methods.’
‘They’re obviously skilled at committing high treason.’
Since Kylo is placing the blame for this fully at Hux’s feet, the implication is that Kylo had no hand in selecting the soldiers for this mission. Of course he could be accusing in bad faith because of their rivalry, but it seems weird regardless.
Now I’m on the fence about this whole direction. More thought is needed, clearly.
So as for a general update, I’ve finished a few more changes throughout the film. I wasn’t totally happy with the cue for Rey noticing R2 since it felt too upbeat, so it is gone in favor of a cue from TLJ:
Password: fanedit
The crescendo timed for Rey looking at R2 hopefully communicates a more important connection. The beginning of the Jedi Steps has also been lengthened so the rhythm works better.
Incidentally, the new cue over these visuals and the beeping sound effect feels eerily similar to another movie scene. I’ll let you guess which one, but I swear it was unintentional.