Real nice write-up, RogueLeader! I agree that the best scenes in Star Wars are the ones where the characters are just laying out their motivations and inner conflicts, without any plot stuff to get in the way. Honestly, I actually think removing the exposition from the Force bond duel would make it a way better scene: there are some really great visuals there that get sort of ignored because the audience is focused on how stupid the new plot twists are.

Here’s a rough concept for some more character-focused dialogue in the first half of the Force bond scene:

KYLO: I pushed you in the desert because I wanted to see it. I wanted you to see it. Your true self. The dark side is in your nature… Rey.

REY: You’re lying.

KYLO: I’d never lie to you. I’ve seen it in your eyes. Ever since we first met, so long ago.

REY: Don’t!

KYLO: You were just like me. Alone, afraid.

REY: I don’t want this!

KYLO: And most of all, angry.

REY: NO!

They clash sabers, before separating.

KYLO: Back then, I remember thinking…

REY: Stop talking!

KYLO: “You would make an excellent Sith.”

I’ll try to post more later.