Sorry, it’s too abrupt for me. The last phase of the film is important to get to feel as unlike a fan edit as possible, given how much has been done to it.
Okay, on that note… I’ve been avoiding discussing it, since I think the answer will simply be “No”. But do you think there’s any chance you would consider not using the Padme Lives ending? I really appreciate it for how well it is done, creatively and technically. But,
It does stand out as a fan change. Though it is pulled off very well, I don’t think it looks like it’s from the same film.
It is really the only part in your entire trilogy that goes strongly against the original cut. I think it’s the kind of change you would expect to find in some of the more heavy handed edits. What’s great about your trilogy is that it shows how such small and thoughtful alterations in the editing stage could have made a substantial impact on the films. Whether one is pro/against the Padme scene, I think it’s not consistent in that sense.
Personally, I don’t think Leia’s Rotj line or two is worth all the fuss. Lucas had already been retconning or changing his story for two films at that point, and the whole conversation between Leia and Luke is a bit silly. We could imagine that Leia is not in fact remembering her real mother (how would she know?), or as a force sensitive infant was able to magically retain images/feelings of her mother (cringe).
I think the exposition with Obiwan looking after Luke is worth saving. You have proven beyond a doubt that it can’t be done with the current ending.
In the ‘new canon’ novels/comics there is discussion of Bail. Certainly not suggesting that your edit should be compatible with them, but it is slightly possible that your ending will be contradicted by something in Rogue One, etc.
Obviously, it’s not a deal-breaker for me. It’s great as-is, and I appreciate how clever the current strategy is. Just thought I would ask you to pause one last time and consider, since I believe it is literally my only remaining criticism for your trilogy.