STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER released Friday, and concludes the franchise's third trilogy in 40 years.

Generations of people in Rochester and across the world have an emotional connection with the franchise. After all, the movies have spanned a lifetime.

 “I grew up having lightsaber battles in my backyard with my friends and my brother,” Henry Dean of Rochester said.

It’s a franchise that’s created generations of fans, like the students of the Norman Howard School in Rochester.

“The kids were talking about it on the bus, and they’re having a good time having their pictures taken with the characters,” teacher Leigh Rader said.

Those characters are from the 501^st  legion, an international Star Wars costuming club that helps with fundraising, does hospital and school visits, and of course, conventions.

“We’re not going to miss celebrating the new Star Wars movie,” said Nicky Blum, the legion’s event organizer.

The local Garrison Excelsior chapter was at the Regal Henrietta opening night, taking pictures with kids and raising money for the theater’s Stars of Hope charity- which benefits local philanthropies.

“It’s something they do every holiday season, and it’s their signature charity,” Blum said.

Blum has now seen the Rise of Skywalker three times, including first at the Hollywood Premiere Monday.

“My second viewing last night was just as enjoyable," Blum said. "I didn’t think I’d cry again at the same parts I cried the first time, but I still cried again.”