“When they started other ones after I sold the company, a lot of the ideas that were in [the original] sort of got lost. But that’s the way it is. You give it up, you give it up.”
In a heartfelt reflection, George Lucas shared his thoughts on the Star Wars saga since he sold Lucasfilm to Disney in 2012. Speaking to the French publication Brut at the Cannes Film Festival, the creator of the iconic space opera opened up about how he sees the evolution of the franchise. “I was the one who really knew what Star Wars was,” Lucas candidly remarked. He emphasized that crucial elements, such as The Force, have sometimes been misunderstood since the handover.
Lucasfilm’s acquisition by Disney for $4.05 billion back in 2012 marked a significant shift, with 20th Century Fox having been the original distributor of the first six Star Wars movies. In 2019, Disney further consolidated its control over the galaxy far, far away by purchasing 21st Century Fox. This colossal merger expanded Disney’s vast storytelling empire, yet for Lucas, it also meant watching his brainchild grow in unexpected directions.
Since the acquisition, Disney has launched a series of new Star Wars films and live-action TV shows that have captivated audiences worldwide. The theatrical releases include hits like “The Force Awakens,” “Rogue One,” “The Last Jedi,” “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” and “The Rise of Skywalker.” On the small screen, Disney has produced beloved series such as “The Mandalorian,” “The Book of Boba Fett,” “Obi-Wan Kenobi,” “Andor,” and “Ahsoka.” With upcoming projects like “The Acolyte” and “Skeleton Crew” set to debut in 2024, Disney shows no signs of slowing down.
Interestingly, Lucas has expressed particular fondness for “Obi-Wan Kenobi,” reportedly resonating with elements he celebrated in his prequels. Lucasfilm’s creative executive Pablo Hidalgo noted that Lucas appreciates how the series brings forward and honors aspects from his earlier films.
It’s clear that the galaxy George Lucas created continues to evolve under Disney’s stewardship. What do you think, dear readers? Has the magic of the original Star Wars series been preserved or transformed in a way that enhances the legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to engage with fellow fans about the ongoing journey of this legendary saga!
For more Star Wars updates and upcoming releases, check out our comprehensive list of all the forthcoming movies and shows.
[Original Source: GamesRadar+]