J.J. Abrams was chosen to be the first director to bring back the Star Wars universe to the big screen, and with that came massive expectation. Abrams would have a great impact on the film, as he along with Lawrence Kasdan would team up to write Episode XII after Michael Arndt stepped aside. Abrams was very specific to use plot elements from previous Star Wars films in order to re-familiarize the audience with the world, which The Hollywood Reporter noted Abrams saying.
Abrams use of photography in the film allows for the story to be experienced through his lens. Some examples include Poe's shot being stopped mid-air by Kylo Ren early in the film. We see the blue streak from Poe's gun being suspended mid-flight by Ren's power. This shot in itself reveals to us how strong the First Order is. Another shot is Kylo Ren torturing Poe with his mind. Abrams twists his camera as it pushes in on Kylo Ren's mask. The camera move reveals how twisted internally Ren is and how he is making Poe feel as well.
Finally, Abrams is able to balance the universe exploration with drama, comedy, and the appearance of Han Solo, Princess (now General) Leia, and Luke in a way that doesn't detract from the story and where the franchise is heading. Instead, he adds great value; each character and tone choice, scene by scene, builds towards Rey meeting Skywalker. Today, the series is well on its way to establishing itself as a force that must be reckoned with for years to come.
