John Boyega brings Finn to life in the Star Wars sequel trilogy. Introduced in The Force Awakens, Finn’s journey is one of transformation, courage, and unexpected power. Once a loyal stormtrooper of the First Order, Finn’s path takes a drastic turn after a single defining moment on the battlefield. This decision leads to a new destiny, revealing strengths and abilities far greater than anyone, including Finn, could have foreseen.
Breaking Free from the First Order
FN-2187 was trained from childhood to serve the First Order. Years of conditioning turned young recruits into obedient soldiers. FN-2187 excelled in combat training, marksmanship, and survival tactics. A stormtrooper helmet and blaster were all the tools FN-2187 was taught to rely on.
The turning point came during the assault on the village of Tuanul. Witnessing the horrors of the First Order’s brutality triggered a moment of clarity. A choice to defy orders marked the beginning of Finn’s rebellion. With the aid of Resistance pilot Poe Dameron, FN-2187 escaped the grip of the First Order. From that moment on, the stormtrooper cast aside the FN-2187 designation and adopted the name “Finn.”
Mastering Combat Skills
Trained as a stormtrooper, Finn demonstrated advanced combat techniques. In The Force Awakens, Finn held his own against stormtrooper FN-2199 in melee combat using a Z6 baton. The battle showcased agility, quick thinking, and resilience.
Later, Finn wielded Luke Skywalker’s blue-bladed lightsaber during the confrontation with Kylo Ren. Despite no formal lightsaber training, Finn fought with remarkable bravery. This moment hinted at untapped potential. The battle left Finn injured, but the resilience displayed solidified his resolve.
Alliance with the Resistance
Finn’s decision to join the Resistance highlighted loyalty and courage. The mission to destroy Starkiller Base proved pivotal. While infiltrating the base, Finn used insider knowledge of the First Order’s operations to help the Resistance. Operating alongside Han Solo and Chewbacca, Finn showcased strategic thinking and teamwork.
On Crait, Finn attempted a sacrificial maneuver to destroy the First Order’s battering ram cannon. The act revealed Finn’s growth, willingness to put the Resistance above personal safety, and a developing sense of purpose.
Navigating the Force
Throughout the sequel trilogy, subtle hints suggest a connection to the Force. Sensitivity to the Force became apparent in moments of intuition and awareness. Finn often sensed danger and made choices guided by instinct rather than logic.
In The Rise of Skywalker, Finn repeatedly sensed Rey’s presence through the Force. This bond indicated a deeper connection. Though never fully trained, Finn’s Force sensitivity added another layer to the character’s journey.
Leading with Purpose
Finn evolved into a Resistance leader. In The Rise of Skywalker, Finn led a ground assault on the Sith Eternal forces on Exegol. With determination and strategic thinking, Finn rallied Resistance fighters, guiding them to victory.
The growth from a reluctant defector to a confident leader demonstrated Finn’s adaptability and leadership qualities. The ability to inspire others became one of Finn’s greatest strengths.
Lightsaber and Weapons
Finn wielded two lightsabers during the trilogy. The first was Luke Skywalker’s blue lightsaber in The Force Awakens. The second was the yellow-bladed lightsaber briefly used in promotional materials but not prominently shown on-screen. Finn’s primary weapon remained the F-11D blaster rifle. The training received as a stormtrooper made Finn an expert marksman.
In hand-to-hand combat, Finn frequently improvised. The ability to adapt to different weapons and scenarios underscored versatility. Whether using a lightsaber, a blaster, or a baton, Finn’s fighting style combined raw determination with military precision.
Legacy
Finn’s story is one of transformation and purpose. From stormtrooper FN-2187 to Resistance leader, Finn’s journey symbolized hope and redemption. The discovery of Force sensitivity suggested a greater destiny beyond what was shown. Finn became a symbol of defiance against tyranny, proving that choice defines identity.
John Boyega’s portrayal gave life to a character whose evolution inspired the galaxy. Finn’s powers—combat skills, leadership, and connection to the Force—made a lasting impact on the Resistance and the Star Wars universe.
