Since 1977, people from across the globe have come together to be part of a fandom that bonds cultures, connects generations and even fuels rivalries. Spanning almost half a century and ten films (soon to be eleven), the “Star Wars” franchise has had a cultural impact like none other.

With a ninth piece of the series set to be added on Dec. 20, “Star Wars” is set to continue its reign as one of the most well-known and iconic film franchises ever released. However, many diehard fans were disappointed in the previous installment directed by Rian Johnson but remain hopeful with the return of J.J. Abrams to the directors chair.

It seems as if a common feeling is present among “Star Wars” fans. Social studies teacher Jeremy Hopping says he is “cautiously optimistic” about the final installment of the Skywalker story. 

This opinion is one similar to that of other fans. “I am tenuously excited for Rise of Skywalker,” chemistry teacher Bryan McLain said.  

Many fans felt that “The Last Jedi” failed to embody the values and follow the rules of a traditional “Star Wars” film. One of the most popular criticisms of the last installment was “a good movie, but not a good “Star Wars” movie.” This highlights the fans’ disdain for how the material was put to screen.

Unlike the other big franchises such as the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) and “Harry Potter,” the “Star Wars” films are completely original stories. 

“There’s no source material,” CEO of Lucasfilms Kathleen Kennedy in an interview with “Rolling Stone” said. “We don’t have comic books. We don’t have 800-page novels. We don’t have anything other than passionate storytellers who get together and talk about what’s the next iteration might be.”

For as long as there is “Star Wars,” there will be a fandom dedicated to figuring out what the series holds next.

“I want Rey to defeat Kylo Ren in a glorious Duel of the Fates experience. I want Rey to stab Kylo and say, ‘This is for Han,’ as she shoves him off of the destroyed Death Star.” McLain said. 

However, Henderson would be interested in seeing “another Rey and Kylo team up: their throne room scene from the last movie was so fun to watch.”

While Hopping wants to “learn why Rey was abandoned,” and wants to see “a resurrected Luke Skywalker defeat a resurrected Emperor Palpatine in the greatest lightsaber duel ever while a Force Ghost Yoda looks on laughing.”

This absence of knowledge on the future of the series leaves much of what will happen up for speculation. Despite no knowledge on the future of the series, fans clearly have no problem guessing.

“I am excited, but it is a tepid excitement,” English teacher Judith Henderson said. “I fear it won’t live up to these expectations.”