Actually the marketing is why I think it did work. I expected a Vader 2.0, but instead it all becomes clear when he removes his helmet and it's revealed he's a perfectly handsome guy underneath. There is nothing actually wrong with him and this is all a try hard act. When it's made clear that he's Han and Leia's child, I only become more intrigued by why he got to this point.
Yet, the story makes it clear from the beginning(he held the laser) that he is clearly powerful, but obviously not focused(the anger at losing Rey).
He's a pretty interesting character and probably the best part of TFA.
