Honestly, I don’t even know how, “No one’s ever really gone” would fit into the movie. Besides, I kinda think it would be gimmicky for Ben to say that to Rey after Luke says it to Leia in The Last Jedi. It worked with Leia saying “Never be afraid of who you are,” only for Rey’s Dark Side self to say that herself because the line was being repeated to the same character.
I think having Ben say things like, “Rey,” “I’m sorry,” “Please forgive me” under his breath when holding her could work.
I agree - I also think “No one’s ever really gone” would feel gimmicky. And I think it would undercut the new addition of Ghost Ben at the end, if we’ve already heard from him after he disappeared.
I like the idea of him repenting, honestly. Accepting blame. Maybe something like “This is my fault” as he’s holding her? Or maybe “Don’t die,” or “Don’t go”?
I also was considering having him call out to her “Rey…” before she “sees” him on Exegol. Or maybe he could say something when the Knights of Ren approach him? I dunno. We went from so few possibilities to potentially unlimited!
God, maybe he could even say a soft “No, Chewie…” when he thinks Rey blows him up in the desert. Remind him of his childhood, and give him a few more layers in the process. I’m spit-balling here!
Oh, and MR, I also think that shot looks really good! Did you have that misty effect the last time you shared that shot? It works brilliantly, imo.