Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker director J.J. Abrams has revealed Episode IX features previously unknown Force powers that could potentially divide fans. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Abrams vocalised his reasoning for adding these new elements to the Star Wars saga, as he addressed the importance of evolving the franchise to stretch "beyond what you've seen before." "It was really important that we not just redo the things you've seen, but add new elements—which we knew will infuriate some people and thrill others,” Abrams explained, adding, "Among those things are not just new ways of doing sort of traditional, must-have sequences, whether it's chases or lightsaber battles, or what have you.