It really just depends on how they go about it. I'm not even sure how to explain it myself, but I don't want to watch a movie about the former heroes turned senior citizens, but at the same time, I don't want them to just be gimmicky sages for the new heroes. There has to be some kind of balance, but I can't even begin to explain it or understand it. I just know that I'll know it when I see it.
Completely agree with you. If they do this right, it could really redeem Star Wars in a lot of eyes. If done poorly, it could seriously hurt the series.
This movie doesn't have the benefit of being a sequel, it HAS to deal with these iconic characters the original Star Wars fans grew up with, and if they don't do them justice...it could turn ugly. In this reguard I think it's a good thing that Lucas is not in charge anymore. I also think that Abrams is smart enough to realize the importance of making sure Luke, Leia, and Han are dealt with properly.