This movie is a slow burner if there is one. For some it might feel like the biggest drag and one of the most boring movies they've seen. Not much seem to happen in the first half of the movie. It is important though, not only to set the tone, but to introduce and flesh out the characters. Also making it clear what our main character has to deal with. External and internal things tearing him apart.

All the while trying to maintain a certain attitude and not going over to the dark side (and all that without a Yoda by his side). Oscar Isaac gives a performance that is worthy of his first name. The mood the film creates (no fast edits/cuts, cinematography to fall in love with, even if it's more in the dark spectrum or because it is) is phenomenal. If you stick with it, it will be rewarding ...