While being arguably one of the best movies in the saga, The Last Jedi was not exactly the most universally-loved Star Wars movie among fans.

Many of the issues with Episode VIII stemmed from how it depicted some of the series' most beloved characters, though in amongst the ire of fans was some genuinely shocking racism and sexism levelled towards the movie's diversity.

And star Domhnall Gleeson (who plays General Hux) has a message for those critics – your opinion is invalid.

Lucasfilm

"Having a problem with a female lead or a diverse cast?" he told The Times. "That doesn't even cross my mind as being an issue, because if that's a problem for you, then your opinion doesn't matter to me.

"If you've paid the money, you've bought the right to an opinion. But, also, movies have to change."

Given the backlash, Gleeson was then asked whether upcoming movie Episode IX will try to appease some of those fans left with a bitter taste in their mouth by The Last Jedi.

"Well, this is where my eagerness not to cause waves probably perks up, but I've not been aware of any corrective measures," he continued. "It just feels like the third part of a trilogy."

In another interview, the Hux actor also hit back at those trolls that targeted co-star Kelly Marie Tran (Rose Tico), telling HeyUGuys: "People having an opinion about the film is absolutely fine. You pay your money, and you're allowed to have an opinion.

Kevork Djansezian Getty Images

"The stuff with Kelly was bullshit. That's a different thing altogether, so those people are just morons. Those people are just assholes. It's a different level of stuff.

"You don't buy that when you buy your tickets. I thought the piece she wrote was amazing and I've got huge respect for her. I thought she dealt with it as classily as an unclassy situation can call for."

Star Wars Episode IX will be released on December 20, 2019.

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