Star Wars was a big part of my childhood, not as big as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, but it did play a significant role. I remember my brother doing Darth Vader and Yoda impressions. When I went camping at Silver Falls, in Oregon, I pretended I was on the forest moon of Endor; my bike was my speeder. I even remember eating Kraft macaroni and cheese that was shaped like various Star Wars characters.
In 1999, Star Wars Episode I The Phantom Menace came out. Like the rest of the country I anxiously awaited a new Star Wars movie, the beginning of the saga I loved. This was the story of where it all started. I thought I would see the same world George Lucas created, but a little newer, a little shinier. I thought I would see the same aliens, the same planets, perhaps I would see a crude version of an x-wing, or the Millennium Falcon. Instead I was left with a galaxy that wasn't familiar; Gungans replaced Wookies, battle droids replaced Storm Troopers, and memorable villains were replaced by the likes of Count Dooku, and General Grievous. In many ways the special effects were impressive (most impressive), but the lack of practical effects made the movies feel like a video game. Simply put, episodes I, II, & III were a huge disappointment.
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| Everything wrong with the prequals |
Fast forward to 2015. Disney and JJ Abrams have the opportunity to right the ship and give new life to Star Wars. From the trailers, the posters, and all the chatter surrounding the movie, it looks and sounds like there will be a new generation of great Star Wars movies. This time I am cautiously optimistic, but like the rest of the country, I again, anxiously await the new film.
Mr. Abrams and Disney, may the force be with you.
