Saw it finally, and enjoyed it immensely.
Definitely a heavier experience than that of previous films in the franchise, but that only means that a second viewing is in order. Somewhat reminiscent to how The Two Towers made me feel.
I don’t really understand where all the hate is coming from; I suppose a lot are hyperbolizing and nitpicking over where the story/ characters were taken (fair enough), but, in spite of its flaws, you’d really have to be a moof-milker to not recognize the film as a worthy addition to the saga, IMO.
Before Ep. IX comes out, I look forward to seeing what kind of reception the “fans” have in store for Shenmue 3 ;)