The Hopes of a Long Suffering 'Star Wars' Fan

Lady of the Mists Tue, Sep 16, 2008 at 06:39 AM EST

I was born in the late 80's. We didn't own the Star Wars movies on VHS. But we did have parts of Hope and all of Jedi taped. Later in when the Sp. Eds were released my mom bought them and for the first, that I can remember, I watched all three movies all the way though.
When I was ten my dad took my younger brother, and two younger sister to see the Phantom Menece ( my mom stayed home with my three year old sist and ten month old brother). I enjoyed watching it! When it came out we pestered our mom to get it. She bought it on a wedesday night and we wanted to watch it the moment we got home (it would have been about eleven pm when we got done). I don't hate Jar Jar, in fact kids used to make fun of me when I was little because I had glasses, was smaller and sometimes repeated myself.

There are those who feel a fan should take over. I laugh at you. A fan would ruin the Star Wars saga.

Oh and by the way those Ewoks are way better the the new care bears.

Kevin Mon, Sep 15, 2008 at 07:28 PM EST

"Skywalking" is a 25 year old book that George hates probably more than the Star Wars Christmas special, so I'd probably take whatever you read in that with more than a few grains of salt.

adam seely Mon, Sep 15, 2008 at 04:42 PM EST

George Lucas told the greatest story ever with his Star Wars saga. Name another filmmaker who enthralled us with an epic story written directly for the silver screen over 30 years. Everyone who wrote in on this comment list saw each of the prequels opening weekend, and they know it, and suddenly, they're bad movies? And, Peter Jackson directing Star Wars??? Are you crazy? I don't need an Episode VII that is 4 and a half hours long with multiple endings and every character looking like they're gonna s@# their pants every second of the film. George is the master storyteller and editor when it comes to Star Wars because it's pure cinema. Star Wars is what movies are all about. Star Wars is Forever. Those who don't like it, don't get it. Sorry, your loss...Shakespeare would be bowing at the altar of George Lucas if he alive today...

May the Force Be With Those That Get It. Those that don't, stay out of the theatre when they're re-released. More popcorn for me...

kory Mon, Sep 15, 2008 at 03:13 PM EST

all this crap about star wars not living up to fans expectaions no more is a pointless waste of time. it's george work, he can do what ever he wants, and only three people in world cares about star wars and he decides to to make movies for those three people, then so be it. he's not caring about anybodies gripes and hangups about what he does and nobody else is either. you don't like the franchise, then don't watch it plain and simple. and let the people that still like star wars enjoy it.

Sun, Aug 31, 2008 at 06:16 PM EST

I apologize for the spelling errors, I sort of rushed the comment. *laughs*

Mike Sun, Aug 31, 2008 at 06:15 PM EST

Well, Clone wars was an immense disappointment. The only thing i ever go back to watch in the newer trilogy are the choreography of that battles, which isn't that bad, and rather impressive when it comes to the Emperor V. Yoda. As has been said before, where are so many story lines to chose from that are considered canon that ignoring those and sticking with such a small time frame seems foolish. Lucas had his run, and messed it up at the end. It's time to progress or to watch the series lose momentum and fall into mere memory. I'm sure ther are a few people who could take a book and make a decent movie, and I'm sure there are people who can make a totally new idea or direction for the SW Universe and renew the franchise and more than a marketing ploy. The original trilogy didn't need odd plot twists, and nor did it need and overplayed out and forbidden romance, it just needed a solid storyline, and good hero and villain, and a Force that was more mythical than scientific.

Richard Sat, Aug 23, 2008 at 09:27 PM EST

Like many on this board, I found this movie extremely disappointing. In my review (http://www.thisishowyoudoit.com/blog/star-wars-the-clone-wars-movie-review/ ), I refer to it as a Reel Disaster. What happened to the great Star Wars movies of yesteryear?

Fri, Aug 22, 2008 at 03:56 PM EST

The three "Star Wars" prequels were all awful. And all directed by George Lucas. So does the franchise need some fresh creative perspective? Let me think about that one...

munesh2 Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 08:44 PM EST

I believe the point of the series and probable others is to get new blood involved. Lucas will move on when he has chosen his padawans. And the SW universe is filled with other writers in novels and comics. The only concern for Lucas was to tell the Skywalker storylinee (including the Clone Wars), because he is very interested in how wars start and change societies and people.
As for the idiot" STATE YOUR NAME HERE"..(too much of a coward to give his real name)..hey buddy...everyone has an opinion.It fine to voice them what ever you think of Star Wars...but your statment of death is desturbing. You are like Mark Chapman who who thought another icon should die..are you mentaly insane? Keep it clean. That in not a respectible debate. You are a coward!

elena Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 05:30 PM EST

Alright, so Pegg's sadness at Phantom Menace and beyond is no secret. If he's anything like his Spaced character Tim Bisley, that is (and I think he is very much like his character).
He's a brilliant comedy guy, and a huge star wars fan, and if he wrote a new star wars film I'd be the first in line. Lucas needs (DESPERATELY) to get some new blood into his star wars franchise if he even wants to consider continuing it...

Dave Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 02:21 PM EST

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYUcw4OQids

Fickey Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 02:11 PM EST

http://livingboy.wordpress.com/2008/08/14/clone-wars-director-gets-revenge-on-lucas/

antmansbigxmas Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 01:02 PM EST

Personally, I'm sick of Star Wars milking the "prequel" thing, and I say this as a lifelong fan. Just how many times can "The untold story between Episodes X and X" be told? I never found the Clone Wars too interesting to begin with, and it seems to me that after ROTS, it's all about Jedi in hiding and watching the original heroes in diapers. Why not adapt some of the literally hundreds of expanded universe novels to the screen in some form? The New Jedi Order is an epic series about a gritty war that is much darker in tone than Lucas' movies; I'd willingly pay to watch that story play out onscreen. But I refuse to pay for the new Clone Wars movie, because it is a cheap marketing ploy, I already know how it ends, and its story is basically irrelevant (introducing characters like Anakin's apprentice that have no bearing on future films).

Ro Ro Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 11:26 AM EST

George is the Man! When it comes to Starwars he is the Alpha and the Omega. No one and I mean No one is going to give the attention to detail and story line like George. He must be involved. Everyone else is his employee.

I must agree with Tom Strong when it comes to people bad mouthin SW and Lucas. STFU.

One thing I don't get is this whole thing about SW fans always being Virgins. I love SW and I love chicks and get plenty of both.

Hey Dan, you're a Dingle Berry.

Tom Strong Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 10:53 AM EST

State Your Name Here needs to STFU

Tom Strong Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 10:53 AM EST

State Your Name Here needs to STFU

State Your Name Here Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:13 PM EST

Lucas needs to die.

Ricky Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:26 PM EST

To all of you complaining that the animation isn't at PIXAR level quality...well DUH! This is intended for television and so it was made on a far smaller budget. Ratatouille cost 150 million to make for 110 minutes of animation. Or 30 million per 22 minutes. The standard length of a half-hour tv episode. Not even George Lucas can afford to spend 30 million for one episode. An entire 20+ episode season would cost over half a billion dollars to produce. Lucas is making Clone Wars at a fraction of the cost of a PIXAR release and I feel they have done an excellent job for what is essentially a low budget series.

NoobKiller29 Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 06:24 PM EST

I SAW IT!!!!!!!!!! They (aka anakien and his padawen) have to save Jobba The Huts' son so the huts and the republic can hav a treaty so they r allowed to pass through his territory w/ out battles.

Lucas Got Lucky Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 06:22 PM EST

And rode that horse HARRD. He is a visionary special effects guy, with a knack for a good storyline now and then. but he is a lazy scriptwriter, a mediocre director, and a bit of an egoist. He should have known to hand over the chores of writing and directing long long ago. But it's his trillion dollar sandbox, so deal with it.

Re: Invalid Name Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 05:43 PM EST

You wish!

Sorry Star Wars rules, and with the exception of Buffy everything you list is both derivative, pointless (see Galactica Season 3), and completely outclassed by that galaxy far, far away.

Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 05:42 PM EST

He should allow Peter Jackson to make Star Wars Episode VII... Now that would be an epic movie.

Tom Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 05:40 PM EST

Being given creative control in the SW universe is not something that happens lightly. There are die-hard fans out there - I'm not talking about Simon Pegg, I'm talking about folks who live and breathe SW - who could do a brilliant job expanding the universe but who will never be given the chance because of the strictures imposed by LFL. The series needs new life, but the licensing/authorship requirements make it impossible to bring IN new life. That is the reality of this over-hyped, over-litigated, over-wrought mess of a sandbox Uncle George has been playing in for the past thirty years. I loved everything about SW right up to the point that I worked for a while on one of their licensed products. Much like sausage and law, if you enjoy SW, try to stay as ignorant as you can of how it gets made.

invalidname Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 05:27 PM EST

All the time and space spent previewing, reviewing, and complaining about new Star Wars projects and their increasingly dwindling returns is time not spent watching new stuff that's, you know, actually good. The stuff that Star Wars inspired now outclasses it in terms of fun, charm, emotion, excitement, etc. (feel free to make a "now the cycle is complete, Obi-Wan" reference). The things I liked in the original trilogy were absent in the prequels... but I found them again in "Final Fantasy VII" and "Fullmetal Alchemist". Your genre mileage may vary... think "Heroes", "Buffy", "Battlestar Galactica", "Lord of the Rings", "Harry Potter", etc. In fact, I'm kind of ticked that they messed up "Soul Calibur IV" by adding Star Wars characters... the Soul Edge is much more ominous and compelling than the Dark Side of the Force.

Muy-Muy Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 05:02 PM EST

Natalie Portman is a terrible actress.

Re: I Hate Clueless Talkbackers Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 05:01 PM EST

Is he so clueless - when a blogger mourns Lucas not giving others creative control due to a new film where Lucas HAS given creative control to someone else I think he raises a valid point. And you are an idiot as well for not seeing this!

Tate Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 04:57 PM EST

Actually, I am in my 30's. While I prefer the original trilogy, I completely acknowledge that it has flaws - lots of them. There is just something about the prequels that I can't get into. Hayden as Anakin doesn't work for me, Natalie Portman - a little better. Sorry if that pisses of the diehards, because I am a fan.

I hate clueless talkbackers Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 04:42 PM EST

The idiot below me wonders if the blogger knows Lucas didn't direct it. I guess he didn't make it past the 2nd line of the review because the 3rd lne clearly states "...director Dave Filoni..."

So please, oh clueless one, tell what else you hate about bloggers... sigh. Dimwit.

Oh, he's witty! Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 04:38 PM EST

Hey everybody, want a shortcut for determining a person's IQ? If they claim that those who use the word "hater" have an IQ under 5, you have someone with an IQ equal to a cockroach. What a pathetic idiot

I hate clueless bloggers Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 04:36 PM EST

Does the idiot that wrote this blog even realize that Lucas did NOT direct this?

Do some research - god, EW just keeps on getting worse and worse every week.

mike Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 04:34 PM EST

"Hater" has to be the dumbest word i've ever heard in my life. Hey everybody, want a shortcut for determining a person's IQ? If they use the word "hater" their IQ is under 5. And there are absolutely no exceptions to this rule. If you use the word "hater" you are among the dumbest imbecilles on Earth. Have a nice day.

Darth Nihilus Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 04:34 PM EST

M A Weyer wrote: I remember Kevin Smith doing an article in Rolling Stone when Ep III came out and had a great bit for all the fans bashing the prequals: "Have any of you actually WATCHED the original trilogy lately? Flat acting, bad dialogue, plot holes, it's all in there too, just on a chepater budget."

You and kevin are right on the money, the 30 Plus crowd just cannot accept that the original films have flaws as well, as they have placed them on a pedastal that no one can reach. It's sad, but they are not needed to continue the appeal of Star Wars. There is no more critic-proof property in the world today - which I love as I am sure it infuriates the critics.

And ditto on the Frank Miller being responsible for the true re-invention of Batman. "The Dark Knight" borrowed heavily from Miller's "The Dark Knight Returns", and if any of these dorks that think Nolan is the second coming had any true geek-cred they would know this.

J. Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 04:21 PM EST

Give the series to Christopher Nolan to re-tool. I knew Lucas had lost his touch when the Ewoks showed up in ROTJ. Way to kill a franchise, George!

M A Weyer Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 04:16 PM EST

I remember Kevin Smith doing an article in Rolling Stone when Ep III came out and had a great bit for all the fans bashing the prequals: "Have any of you actually WATCHED the original trilogy lately? Flat acting, bad dialogue, plot holes, it's all in there too, just on a chepater budget."

He's got a point. Everyone mocks Vader's "NOOOOOO!" but Luke's cry when he finds out Vader's his dad is a bit over the top too. Look, I'm a HUGE SW fan, always have been but I appreciate the whole saga, not just the ones that appealed to me as a kid.

More importantly, remember, there's an entire generation who have never experienced these in the theaters (my nephews weren't born when EP I came out and both are huge fans of the whole saga). Maybe in 30 years, folks can appreciate the whole thing as a whole more and give Lucas a bit more respect.

WookieFan Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 03:36 PM EST

I get so tired of people bashing episodes I (Phantom Menace), II, and III (Sith).

I was a kid when the first Star Wars films -episodes IV (A New Hope), V (Empire), and VI (Jedi)- were released, and while I remain nostalgic for those, I don't try to compare I, II, and III to them.

Initially, I did not care for films I, II, and III, but have grown to appreciate and enjoy them after repeated viewings (in spite of the fact that I still have problems with aspects of I, II and III).

Only die-hard Star Wars snobs age 35 and up continue to bash the newer films because they will continue to place films IV, V, and VI upon a pedestal.

carol Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 03:24 PM EST

I agree with you Carl. I remember the original 77 movie in high school. In my opinion the actors of the first three films were more mature and those films were more emotionally and thematically satisfying whereas the prequels were shallow.
Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia was a kick@ss and timely heroine, ready with a comeback and toting a gun same as the guys.
Also the more mature actors were well used in the original films; Billy Dee Williams and Harrison Ford were all a bit older than teeny bopper idols, and both well used. Whereas in the prequels they were not; Liam Neeson or Samuel Jackson's characters were cardboard characters in comparison.

t3hdow Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 03:16 PM EST

To Eric Friedmann:
For once, I agree with you. It's clear we can't have an open discussion about Star Wars without the diehard fans playing a d!ck comparison contest with the more casual/former fans about their hardcore knowledge. Speaking of which...
To Pathetic:
HAHAHAHAHA. Oh wait, you're serious? Oy. You're even worse than a Kanye West fan in his blog. Btw, I DID enjoy all six movies, even the first two underwheming prequels. You're so blinded by fanboy rage, you missed that detail in my original post. Ditto with my opinion on Star Wars as a whole. I can never despise Star Wars or George Lucas, because both are influential in many ways, but like humanity in general, they're imperfect. Not everything Star Wars touched turned golden (Christmas Special, anyone?) and George Lucas has gotten greedy and uncreative in recent years (not to mention Indy 4 kind of sucked).
If you want to see this, knock yourself out, but it looks average to me.

M A Weyer Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 02:23 PM EST

Keep in mind, Lucas has to give the okay to all these book and comics and even stuff like the Family Guy and Robot Chicken paradoies. Personally, Ep IV is my favorite, I think Return of the Jedi is better than Empire Strikes Back and the prequals were nowhere near as bad as folks say they are.

But yeah, may be time to break off a bit from the established film continuity as there's lots of potential. The current "Legacy" comic book does a great job showing what that universe is like 125 years after the films while "Knights of the Old Republic" is THE best SW video game, set 4000 years before the movies and a great ride. But as pointed out, it's the man's vision that gave us this in the first place, hard to knock him totally for that.

So it gets away from him a bit, so what? Happens to a lot of big creators with thier stuff (just look at Tolkien's problems chronicling Middle-Earth beyond LOTR). Me, I'm seeing it this weekend and ready to love that universe all over again.

virgil Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 02:20 PM EST

Lucas should have gotten out of the way for the prequels. They were terrible, and killed my interest in the whole Star Wars universe as a result. If you want to see something really good in this genre see Firefly and Serenity (sadly killed in its infancy) and Battlestar Galactica (reimagined of course). The prequels could have been legendary, but George Lucas blew it.

Carl Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 02:19 PM EST

Sorry Jack, but I think you got it wrong, wrong, wrong. I think to try now to write these films off as kids' movies is just fans' way of dealing with/trying to put a salve on our disappointment over the prequels. The original trilogy had characters we truly cared about, mythological themes, good acting and great action, all rolled into an innovative, clever and satisfying package. I was around in '77 when the original came out, and the people who made it the biggest box office money maker EVER at the time weren't a bunch of 11 year olds with tons of disposable income, they were adults and kids alike. EVERBODY loved these movies. While I don't HATE the prequels, the prequels lacked all those qualities (except maybe Ep. III). They were like eating popcorn without salt or butter. Despite the space battles and lightsabers and John Williams music, a big chunk of the "Star Wars-ishness" was missing. And don't get me started on Hayden Christensen. Give me 10 Jake Lloyds over him any day.

Jetcharger Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 02:14 PM EST

I agree completely with the article above. I do want to add, if someone else is to continue the Star Wars story other than Lucas, please...PLEASE...enough with the prequel stuff already. Let's follow "Return of the Jedi" and make it Live action not animation.

RSP Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 02:14 PM EST

Some nice points, but I'm not sure anyone who thinks it was Cris Nolan rather than Frank Miller who gave The Batman the necessary/welcome 'overhaul' should be commenting at all.

Salacious Crumb Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 01:56 PM EST

Stop the hate on George already. Without him we wouldn't have the greatest trilogy ever! (in your face LOTR!) True, TPM and AOTC did kind of suck but ROTS was pretty good. I am looking forward to seeing the Clone Wars - good, bad or meh, at least I'll be able to see the SW universe where it belongs, up on the big screen.
I've always thought Heir To The Empire would make a gnarly trilogy, of course, since it pertains to Han,Luke & Leia etc, they'd have to recast the lot of them and I don't think I could see someone else playing these chracters.
Star Wars will always rule and George Lucas will always be the king of kings.
Ok - SW rant is over

Waitress!! Where's my damned Mojito?!?!?!

harry Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 01:47 PM EST

this article has shown me the light. I now have tears in my eyes. Star Wars needs to reclaim its throne!!!

Chad Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 01:37 PM EST

This article nailed it.
Lucas is surrounded by people that will not tell him when an idea is bad.
We all need someone to keep us in check, including Mr. Lucas.

P.S. Please do not excuse the prequels by saying that there are “kid films”. All Pixar films are “kid films” but they manage not to suck.

EC Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 01:29 PM EST

Ouch - EW gave the new "movie" an F. I didn't think they gave any movie an F.

Corran Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 01:24 PM EST

Sometimes I really wonder if these columnists know all their stuff. Many of these books and video games are from Lucasarts and Lucas books. George Lucas does let other people do things in his universe a lot and he also checks them. W/O George Lucas there would be no Star Wars! So you can complain how much you want. Point being, Star Wars is NOT dead. It never will be. Star Trek tho most likely is! I think its great how Lucas is involved in something he loves. Its like his child. You cant blame him for it!

Jennifer Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:36 PM EST

I like the SW movies as is. Sure, some of the dialogue is hocky, but the characters and universe Lucas has created is a fun world to step into. And it's so different than anything else out there. Also, if people didn't like it they wouldn't complain about it.

Anyway, Lucas is bringing fresh blood to the table with Dave Filoni who is the director of the Clone Wars, and is apparently a biog SW fan since childhood.

Munesh2 Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:31 PM EST

Just because you can spell Kurosawa does not mean you understand him and his art, nor do you understand cinema and what i am talking about. In 20 year people will be calling all 6 films Classic. Ill bet money on it. No one in cinema today..except a few like the Wachowski brothers and Alex Proyas (Dark City) can create anything straight out of their imagination. Most sifi or action films today are from other sources: The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, even Nolan's Batman for example. It takes a very keen imagination to create Star Wars. Thank you Lucas. You have created a series that will out live us all like Tolkien's series.

Eric Friedmann Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:20 PM EST

Note to the EW staff - Stop bringing up STAR WARS as a Popwatch Blog! It brings out the idiot in too many people!

Tate Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:14 PM EST

In all fairness, Jack, my nephew (who was raised on IV - VI on VHS) was nine when I took him to see Episode I. He thought it sucked, too.

Personally, I wouldn't have slit my wrists over how bad I - III were. But you have to admit that they weren't as good as IV - VI.

I think Lucas actually put out a better product when he didn't have tons of money for budget. The model makers had to be more resourceful, and he didn't have to waste tons of money on the "hot, up-and-coming" actors of the day.

Tate Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:08 PM EST

Jedi had me - until the damn Ewoks. It had the darker feel, especially when Luke started slipping to the dark side. The speeders and outfits on Endor's moon, I liked. The whole Jabba-sequence was cool. It was just the Ewoks that ruined it.

Jack Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:07 PM EST

You should remember that Star Wars is for 11 year olds not 45 year olds living in their mother's basement. Lucas hasn't changed you have. The 11 year olds that saw the prequels didn't complain about it. Take the movies for what they are. They aren't oscar movies and they never will be.

Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:04 PM EST

M. Levesque,

You seem to have quite an opinion on you there but this is an entertainment forum, not political...and it's Vive le Québec...not la Québec...This did make me chuckle. If you are going to make this political, get it right!! Are you even a francophone?

spennerhead Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 12:02 PM EST

IDIOT ALERT

*** IDIOCY BEGINS ***
LucasMolestedMyInnerChild Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:35 AM EST
Empire was released 25 YEARS before Sith, pinhead. It was a surprise to most of us.
*** IDIOCY ENDS ***

Martinello reeled you in hook line & sinker.

jessica Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:54 AM EST

You're right in saying that asking someone else to take the helm for Star Wars would be tantamount to having someone else pen future Harry Potters, except that Harry Potter didn't fall apart at any point in time. The first three movies (pre-quels) are a joke (frankly, so was return of the jedi). It just amazes me that no one has said to Lucas, "Put that pen down and come out with your arms up". Just because you start something doesn't mean you have the capacity to follow it through. His recent arrogance has led to what will surely be one of the worst movies ever. Will someone in his studio stop him??! Not everything is better with ILM!

Jean Guy Levesque Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:46 AM EST

Anyone who is still a fan of this trashy lousy money grubbing lucas franchise deserve to be ripped off. These loser fans keep dreaming of great films that lucas can't make. Vive la Quebec!!!

Tate Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:46 AM EST

Thank you, LucasMolestedMyInnerChild. I read that post, but I wasn't going to comment. Nevermind the fact that I was like 10 when Darth revealed that nugget of info. I wasn't even aware that Freddie Mercury was gay back then...

LucasMolestedMyInnerChild Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:35 AM EST

IDIOT ALERT

*** IDIOCY BEGINS ***

***Michael Martinello Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:58 AM EST***

I hated The Empire Strikes Back, I don't know why everyone loves that movie so much. It was incredibly predictable after watching Revenge of the Sith that Anakin/Darth was Luke Skywalker's Dad. LUKE, I AM YOUR FATHER! Nonsense! It wasn't that big of a surprise....

*** IDIOCY ENDS ***

Empire was released 25 YEARS before Sith, pinhead. It was a surprise to most of us.

To be fair Vader=Father in Dutch... not too much of a surprise for some.

Midichlorians, Jar-Jar Binks, that cheesy Diner scene with Mel AND Flo, and the whiny adolescent Annakin...

George Lucas, please stop making movies!!!

Tony Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:26 AM EST

Peter Jackson is now the King of Trilogies. TLOTR blows Star Wars out of the water. But, I will give Tolkien all the credit for that.

Wedge Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:25 AM EST

I was 14 when the original Star Wars came out. I loved it! I loved Empire even more. Return... well it was okay. The ewoks were the beginning of the end. Still I anxiously awaited The Phantom Menace. I was so disappointed. It COULD have been so good! I went to the other two and was increasingly disappointed with Lucas. I felt betrayed.
This summer, after seeing Indiana Jones I vowed never to see anything Lucas had written again. He is killing the things I loved so much. He should not write. Produce, sure. Give some input, okay. But he should neither write nor direct again.
I do not plan to see the Clone Wars. I doubt I'll even rent it later.
And just for the record... Han shot first!

TrueFan Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:24 AM EST

I am a huge Star Wars fan, but I have to make ad admission. Let's be honest. Star Wars as we know it...is dead. It died when its producer lost sight of what made good movies. Jedi was the downslope, Ewoks, were the first sign of the apocalypse. The first moveis were good because people could talk sense to Lucas. Lucas has lost touch with us, he has stolen countless dollars from our pockets and left us wanting. After the recent movie: "Indiana Jones, and the Search for my 10 Dollars", I finally have decided to turn my back on he (Lucas) who has turned his back on us years ago. Lucas is out of touch and power/money hungry. I wash my hands of him. I will always have Star Wars(New Hope/Empire/Jedi), and he can't take that away from me if I just refuse to see anymore of his mindless filler.

Jurgen Vanker Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:21 AM EST

Munesh2,

You must be a porn director to appreciate Star Wars so much; that's all the story and dialogue and acting of EPs 1-3 were good for: cheap porn, not big-budget action. I give Lucas a 10 for vision and a 3 for execution. He should be confined to his ranch and not allowed to touch a computer or typewriter or camera the rest of his life.

And Kurosawa may be influential, but influential doesn't mean great, you pompous pissant.

nina Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:09 AM EST

I read with horror an article that Lucas wants to take the original trilogy and run it through a 3D process.

George: We don't need another edition of the three good SW movies.

I know that the TV Xmas special was horrible - maybe because he didn't have control of it

But he needs to let that go and open up the universe for others who love it - as opposed to didn't get it hacks wanting to make money off it and slamming out a crappy special

It's okay to relive your glory days, just stop reinventing them

Jonathan Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:02 AM EST

Man, i feel the same way about the movies. i mean, they're great because it's all we really get as far as new motion pictures go in the Star Wars universe (or.. galaxy far, far away), but by the standards set by IV-VI ("adjust for inflation") and other science fiction that has come since then... it isn't that good. Even Ep. III was really just effects covering up excess cheese.

There is so much in the extended universe that could be used for a TV show or movie that it's just ridiculous. The Zahn trilogy. The X-Wing series. The Dark Empire series. Video games. A ton of lore. It'd be hard to get the tone right, I guess, but as long as you keep the traditional Star Wars swiping scene transitions or whatever...

It does seem a bit stubborn for Lucas to hold on so tightly to his creative control, but he needs to let loose more like he did with the extended universe before he decided to pinch everyone's nuts since he was doing the prequels. Anyway, guess we'll see how it goes.

Dee Dee Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:01 AM EST

Of course other people should write it. George Lucas has great vision and story outlines, but he is not a good screenplay writer. Even in the old franchise, V and VI were better then IV because he had help with the writing of the actual screenplays. The ideas for I, II, and III were good, but execution of the stories were confusing and the dialog was awful. I had read up II on wiki just to figure out what was going on!

Kayde_Lyn Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 11:00 AM EST

In most ways, I totally agree that Lucas should involve more new blood in the Star Wars universe. There are many, many talented people that would stay true to his vision, while furthering the story.
My main gripe about the prequels was one Hayden Christensen. The WORST actor I have ever seen on screen, who was (as far as I know) hand picked by Lucas. I agree that he didn't have much to work with as far as a script, but still...I remember laughing out loud in the theatre during one of his scenes...
I agree that Lucas may be too close to what he created, and can't see what a fan wants. Much like Stephenie Meyer with Breaking Dawn *shudder.*
I believe the first poster said something along the lines of, "Hollywood doesn't just need new people, it needs something NEW." I'm sick of sequels, prequels, remakes, etc, even though some are entertaining. What wast he last original movie you saw, based on nothing but the writers imagination?

Michael Martinello Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:58 AM EST

I hated The Empire Strikes Back, I don't know why everyone loves that movie so much. It was incredibly predictable after watching Revenge of the Sith that Anakin/Darth was Luke Skywalker's Dad. LUKE, I AM YOUR FATHER! Nonsense! It wasn't that big of a surprise....

John Verco Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:57 AM EST

I know why the Star Wars franchise has gone down-hill...But I'm not going to tell you why.

Bet let it be known, Star Wars 1,2 & 3 (including this crap CGI flick "Clone Wars") sucks.

Vale Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:55 AM EST

"The Whines of an Overly Emo 'Star Wars' Fan" would have been a better title.

jleu Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:53 AM EST

hope someone will make the thrawn trilogy into movies, that would totally kick ass.

Got Star Wars? Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:46 AM EST

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Pathetic, Whiny Haters Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:39 AM EST

Star Wars rules, and haters are becoming a tiresome bore.

And "t3hdow" Ohhh - you are a "real" fan because you can complain about Star Wars, and the other fans are blinded by our loyalty - spare me, a hater is a hater, and you just need to move onto other franchises - but you can't, can you? you'll be back every time someone even mentions Star Wars just so you can get in your little 2 cents worth of hate and prove that, as another poster so eloquently noted, "that you cannot move on from your ex-boyfriend". Get a life and a job, dork.

Do the prequels have flaws? Yes. Does the Original Trilogy have flaws? Yes. That is where you and the unbiased fans differ - we see the original films as what they were, homages to old sci-fi "B" serials that had fantastic effects, yet average acting - just like the prequels. Stop putting the OT on a pedastal - ALL 6 films are merely great B movies, and I don't recall the originals winning any oscars for acting or best picture. Haters are tools.

Tate Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:30 AM EST

I, for one, did fall victim to the merchandising back in the 70's/early 80's. And I have no problem with the amount of merchandising today. I just don't think the prequels were all they could be. If it's Lucas' doing, if it's the acting, if it's the story itself - whatever. They weren't good movies, and I, like t3hdow, don't need my "Star Wars" cred called into question simply because I didn't read/watch/buy every single thing that ever came out on the subject. The future of the franchise is not the sole responsibility of nerds that live and breathe it. We are obviously all fans, or we wouldn't be posting.

obiwen Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:26 AM EST

The battered wife comparison is me (note the name). Still, I am not looking forward to "Clone Wars," but my 10-year-old wants to see it, so we'll be there. I love the idea of "Star Wars," and always will. I love the OT. I have been Celebrations III and IV. I dress as Leia on Halloween. But the Q&A was so enlightening. "The Empire Strikes Back" is the best one. Hands down. The prequels should have been directed by someone else.

onethousandpieces Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:22 AM EST

Lucas really doesn't have a choice. At this point he's already outlived Jim Henson at 52 years old, and Walt Disney at 66 years old, but he can't live forever, and so far he hasn't appointed an "Apprentice Jedi" to continue after he becomes one with The Force. This is one little detail that he better pay attention to, or it will be utter chaos in the future. It took Walt Disney from 1966 to 1984 to recover from the loss of their founder, and the folks at Jim Henson still don't have their act together. May the Force be with him.

Tony Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:08 AM EST

Someone please send this article and comments to George Lucas. Yes. Star Wars is the greatest Sci-fi epic ever. But, honestly when I want to get my SW fix. I watch the Clone Wars animated DVDs. Darth Maul in my opinion was the greatest villian George ever created and he killed him off. Anakin never got a chance to fight him. But Ewoks. And Jar Jar are unforgivable. You know what is kid friendly..light sabers, Emperial Walkers, Star Destroyers, the Death Star. I could write a Star Wars novel or script. A Potter fan could continue the novels. We all become part of the universe when we inject our minds into the world they created and we live there.

Joey Jo Jo Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 10:03 AM EST

My best friend had always feared that she would die before Episodes 1-3 came out. Now she just hopes that when Lucas dies, his kids will hand over the epic to someone else. As for me, I would have loved to seen Joss Whedon write 1-3 while Peter Jackson directed. Whedon knows story and Jackson knows epics. Plus I think both would have the appropriate reverence for the Star Wars galaxy that we once fantasized about.

t3hdow Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:58 AM EST

Mesa, I was born in mid 80s and watched Star Wars with VHS tapes, so no, I didn't fall for the merchandising back in the 70s/80s. The only time I watched them in theaters is when they were rereleased during the '90s. I also loved several videogames based on it from the SNES to the Xbox 360, because Star Wars is a great enough universe to interact with. I'm not disliking this version of Clone Wars because I'm jaded. I just don't think a spliced together CG retelling a story already done well by Gendy T should exist.
And munesh2, your 'BOW DOWN TO MY STAR WARS CRED!!!' stance is getting annoying. I also knew about the Akira Kurosawa influence because people like you won't stop cramming it down our throats. Just because you know more about the series doesn't make our opinions any less valid or true.
Bottom line, real fans aren't afraid to criticize the series when they sense something is wrong with the thing they cherish. Fanboys like you two lambaste everyone else as haters.

MalibuMe Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:57 AM EST

I have to echo your comment about Knights of the Old Republic. Bioware got it right. It certainly looks these days like the greater distance Lucas has from a project set in his universe, the better it will turn out. I don't think he understands what his own universe is really about, what inspired all this rabid devotion in the first place.

However, I am not interested in the least about Clone Wars. I wouldn't see it if it was written by Joss Whedon and directed by Christopher Nolan (no, wait, I'd probably see it then).

Tate Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:43 AM EST

And, to echo someone's earlier points, it's not like the original cast was getting Oscar nominations for their acting. I'm pretty sure critics panned Episodes 4 -6, too. And let's be honest, the Ewoks - they were created to make the films more "kid friendly". Looking back, they were the worst part of the original three - and part of what made Jedi my least favorite.

Tate Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:38 AM EST

It's such a tough call for me. There is a part of me - the 6 year old that got the original four action figures via mail order promotion - that thinks nobody but Lucas should be anywhere near the franchise. But there is no denying that he laid goose eggs with the prequels - Episode 3 probably being the best.

I didn't hate Zahn's books when I read them in the 90's. I don't remember who wrote the books on Han/Leia's twins, but that was okay, too. I don't know, I'm torn.

Smuggler Han Solo Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:30 AM EST

LooL361!

MARK Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:29 AM EST

Where is the movie "review"?

Smuggler Han Solo Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:29 AM EST

I've seen a lot of strange stuff, but I've never seen anything to make me believe there's one all-powerful beard controlling everything. There's no mystical flannel field controls my destiny.

Ex Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:26 AM EST

I really tried to like the last 3 movies...trust me. Unfortunately they were crap, no matter how you look at them. The last one was better but too little too late.
I am not sure what they are trying to do. I think they're past the part where they try to produce good movies, or make fans happy. They're simply a merchandising machine now. Pump out new movies at any quality and have the kids buy the toys, games etc.The only way to get a taste of the old/real star wars universe is by playing a game or watching the old movies. From technology that looks nothing like a logical de-evolution from the original trilogy to stand-up comedian driods and wing commander 3-like computer generated sets the new trilogy has nothing in common with the old movies.
Also, a cartoon like animation at the movies? It would be good for a Sunday special on Cartoon Network. WTH is Lucas thinking (or whoever is responsible)...

munesh2 Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:21 AM EST

As a perfect example of the fan that has changed and not the film..take Eric's comment a few comments below this one. He is in his 30 and clamed that Episode 4 inspired him to draw and such and that the new films do not inspire. Well here Eric you are wrong. Ask how may kids are inspired by the new films to draw and write. How many love Doug Chang and others. And how many have used the computers to make special effects and create Star Wars shorts themselves with effects in After Effects or someother program. I can go on bu will stop here.

Good, non-"Lucas raped my childhood" review of CW Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:19 AM EST

Spoiler-free and devoid of the bias so inherent in most critics with regards to Star Wars these days - acknowledges flaws, but celebrates the purity:

http://darthmojo.wordpress.com/2008/08/14/movie-review-clone-wars/

TomServo Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:18 AM EST

I think it is vanity that keeps George in the directors chair with his writers cap on... The clone wars cartoons gave me the same charge as a 40 year old that I got as a kid in the 70's probably because someone else was at the wheel. George should have taken his cue from comedians like Steve Martin or bands like Heart: They had two or three good hours of material and after they were spent, they hired writers who job it is to sculpt words into something meaningful.
I still hold up my poster of Princess Leia in her Gold Bikini with my non-dominant hand fairly often...

The Power of Nostalgia Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:16 AM EST

I can also remember that there was a point when the original episodes 4-6 was seen as comic book crap or "B movies" by most people and critics as well - it's funny how time and nostalgia put things on pedastals.

How is "but I was going to Tosche station to pick up some power converters" any better than the dialog in the prequels. The ex-fans grew up (or lost touch with their inner child), the movies did not.

You haters just need to let go. Go watch Harry Potter, go watch Sam loves Frodo, what-EVER you frakkin' tools!

munesh2 Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:09 AM EST

Again i see that the comments tht follow my take on the fan are correct. For one...Lucas did write Empire Strike Back. After Leigh Brackett died and only completed 20 percent of the script, Lucas took over. Lucas did not take a screenwriting credit (he didn't take a credit on Body Heat either..but he was the Executive Producer) Lawrence Kasdan polished off the script in the end, like Tom Stoppard for Revenge of the Sith( Tom didn't take a credit either. Star Wars has always been the same, its you guys that have changed. There was a point when episode 4-6 was seen a comic book crap by most people except some fans. I REMEMBER. Now they are called classics. As to the comment about graphic novels..ha..you show your lack of understanding even with that. Most of you dont understand the films as "cinema". I have studied cinema for many years and am a director. I am quite certain that you guys would not understand any Akira Kurosawa film. All of Star Wars is inspired by his films. All!

Re: I "suffered" through the prequels Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:09 AM EST

no one cares - please continue suffering through life...

Tony Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:08 AM EST

It's actually quite simple. The clone Wars short animated series showcased what the force is really supposed to be like. Especially episode 13 when MAce windu took down almost and entire battalion of droids without his lightsaber. That is the advantage of animation, you can show the force for the power that Yoda described in Empire Strikes Back.

I'll check this one out with an open mind. I don't like the simplified graphics scheme of the character design, but the potential for a good movie is still there.

Stupid Popwatch Blogger Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:07 AM EST

Funny that this absurd post is about how Lucas needs to give creative control to others, yet in the case of Clone Wars he has, as the director is Dave Filoni. Guess a little research would have helped here, huh? Sad.

CT Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:05 AM EST

"Like many a recovering Star Wars fan, I await the premiere this Friday of Star Wars: The Clone Wars with a mix of excitement and dread."

I think most of us are actually barely acknowledging that Clone Wars exists and is coming out. Or maybe that's just me, but this mess doesn't even look Netflixable. I suffered through the prequels. Enough of what happened "before" the original trilogy. I'm not intersted. And I don't think I'm alone in that feeling.

"Waaah - George Lucas raped my childhood" Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:04 AM EST

If all you had was Star Wars it was a pretty bad childhood to begin with. You prequel-haters are clueless.

and, Lucas created the story for "Empire" - someone else merely wrote the screenplay.

And Lucas had to direct the prequels because he is not part of the director's guild due to the fallout over the way he prefers to list director credits only at the end of a movie. After the director of "Empire" got fined $250K buy the director's Guild of America ("greedy" Lucas paid the fine), Lucas had to use directors outside of the guild, hence Welsh director Marquand for Jedi and Lucas himself for the prequels.

You haters are complete idiots - if you don't like Star Wars then move on - your whining is like a broken record.

reybeast Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 09:02 AM EST

All I can say is read the books. Much better than the clone wars, especially the Legacy of the Force series. Very good stuff.

m.l. Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:57 AM EST

i saw it at a pre-screening. it was basically three episodes of the clone wars tv show in one movie. but what i noticed the most was not the number of avid star wars fans, like myself, it was the number of small children that the star wars franchise has grown on. that is the intention. do you honestly think the original star wars movies would hold water today, with kids the way they are? look at it from the perspective of a 10 year old. all i saw in their eyes was pure fascination. as for the story, it wasn't half bad. i wasn't entirely impressed,, but i wasn't disappointed.

JDog Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:57 AM EST

I've got a great,thought on all this: Who cares?

Eric Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:47 AM EST

Well, for me Star Wars is with real characters, not animation.
Even the clone wars animated series didnt get me.
all i hope is that the series between ep3 and 4 will be good.
I was 10 yrs old when i first saw Star Wars ep4, at that moment i wanted to be in the movie, make me dream, make drawing, got all star wars stuff.
with the magic of computer now 30yrs later a make my dream come true, be in the movie, so for my own pleasure i made this one, episode 4 revisited.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYUcw4OQids
In french but just enjoy the video.
So i wish george can bring back that dream in me like he did it 31yrs ago!

Tommy Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:43 AM EST

Don turned gay when he hit puberty?:

"Move out mommy and daddies basement and quit masurbating to Princess Leia in the gold bikini allready. I grew out of this phase as soon as I hit puberty for gods sake."

David Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:43 AM EST

It's a good kid's movie but not a great Star Wars movie. The plot was too simple for adult tastes and the animation in the first 15 minutes left something to be desired. Take the kids or wait for the DVD.

bill Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:42 AM EST

you guys take star wars pretty seriously

Westin Hatch Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:42 AM EST

George Lucas has a style of directing that is very distinct. The Phantom Menace has a plot and character development very similar to A New Hope. The problem is that A New Hope was fresh and the first. People don't want that any more. The series needed to progress beyond the development stage and that is where Irvin Kershner and Richard Marquand took it. They brought out acting, suspense, psychological twists, etc. while Lucas sat back at the producers chair. This worked extremely well to complete the first trilogy. Now, I don't know what the studio was thinking when they decided the George Lucas should direct the latest films to come out. He hadn't directed in years and really didn't direct much of the other trilogy. George has great ideas but he needs to give them as a producer and have them refined by people who know the trade. His trade is special effects and that is what we got in the latest trilogy.

Eric Friedmann Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:41 AM EST

Anybody want to talk about CITIZEN KANE now? Geez, look who I'm asking!

Jerry Price Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:40 AM EST

QUOTE from don -

I disagree with don's hilarious comment. I still enjoy my private moments with Leia. Long live the original trilogy. =)

2cents Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:26 AM EST

Look, the new trilogy sucked. They were just lousy movies. In the original series you liked Luke, Leia, Han, and even the robots. There was character development; story development. It had a certain feel to it. Almost as if you could smell it and feel the wind. None of that existed in the new trilogy. How many you felt bad when Qui-gon was killed? Yeah, me either. And hey, Darth?? Take out that annoying little squirt Anakin while you’re at it. The only thing you could smell in the new trilogy was the putrification of the franchise. Hell yes, let someone else write the stories and direct. Lucas had 3 chances to get it right and messed up everyone. He’s become like the musician who knows all the write notes to play but has none of the feeling that makes a good piece great. Actually, I may be giving Lucas too much credit here. Those last three movies were just crap. Hey, I hear Phantom Menace is on TBS this weekend. Anyone gonna watch it? No. Didn’t think so.

adamu Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:24 AM EST

Interplay between real people and creatures from the realms of imagination is part of the magic in Star Wars that makes the original 3 movies the best and the later episodes passable. I can't see how I am going to enjoy a pure cartoon spectacle.Cartoon characters have no physical limitations and they can't dance reggae!

sean Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:22 AM EST

lol @ don .fantastic.

Squeek Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:20 AM EST

There is a reason Empire is considered the best movie in the original trilogy, Lucas didn't write it. Lucas is good at creating imaginary universes that encompass broad themes. Lucas sucks at writing characters that act in believable and interesting ways.

Let Lucas do that at which he is best, creating a sci-fi universe. Then let him hire somebody else to fill out the details.

don Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:03 AM EST

Are you people seriously grown adults? Move out mommy and daddies basement and quit masurbating to Princess Leia in the gold bikini allready. I grew out of this phase as soon as I hit puberty for gods sake.

GrimJesta Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 08:02 AM EST

Star Wars was over the second being a Jedi was the equivalent to having an STD.

"Oh man, I think I have midichlorian syndrome. Maybe I need blood work..."

I'm not cynical, nor do I think Star Wars "left me behind" or any of these silly accusations. No, I just recognize bad movies when I see them. The new trilogy was terrible. Ewan MacGregor was one of the few saving graces since he could actually act. Beyond him, save a few exceptions, they were dumb. Not "made for kids", just dumb. And I don't just means Jar Jar either.

An overabundance of special effects doesn't make a movie good.

-=Grim=-

Dude in the shadows Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 07:51 AM EST

Lucas only. But he best hurry up, the actors are old, Lucas is getting old, soon he won't be around to finish it. Episodes 7-9 best be getting done or it will never be what it should have been. Brilliant. Mr. Lucas, have a redbull, get some wings, and get the party started. Nuff said.

Mesa hatin' hater scum Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 07:02 AM EST

If anyone is "pretentious" it's posters like the one beneath me who accuse George Lucas of "greed" and selling out.

How is he "greedy" now, compared to the 70's and 80's - when the original trilogy was just as merchandised as Star Wars is today? You were buying the merchandise back then just like everyone else, but now for some reason it's "greed" to offer more Star Wars product - Star Wars for me, but not for thee, apparently.

You are only "disenchanted" because you are older and forgot that Star Wars was intended to be a new adventure for a younger generation that had no real heroes or mythology to embrace, and also a homage to the old serials such as Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers that Lucas loved as a kid himself.

The absurdity of your statement about "graphic novels" is also pretentious - graphic novels are usually comic books collected into a single volume - but are still COMICS at the end of the day - "it's not based on a comic, it's based on a graphic novel". Pretentious.

Mesa hatin' hater scum Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 06:46 AM EST

If anyone is "pretentious" it's posters like the one beneath me who accuse George Lucas of "greed" and selling out.

How is he "greedy" now, compared to the 70's and 80's - when the original trilogy was just as merchandised as Star Wars is today? You were buying the merchandise back then just like everyone else, but now for some reason it's "greed" to offer more Star Wars product - Star Wars for me, but not for thee, apparently.

You are only "disenchanted" because you are older and forgot that Star Wars was intended to be a new adventure for a younger generation that had no real heroes or mythology to embrace, and also a homage to the old serials such as Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers that Lucas loved as a kid himself.

The absurdity of your statement about "graphic novels" is also pretentious - graphic novels are usually comic books collected into a single volume - but are still COMICS at the end of the day - "it's not based on a comic, it's based on a graphic novel". Pretentious.

t3hdow Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 05:36 AM EST

Oh great. Now here come the pretentious fans that think the rest of us are idiots because we, quote-on-quote, don't understand Star Wars or turned into hardened cynics that don't know how to enjoy Star Wars anymore. So with your mindset, I suppose everyone who watched The Dark Knight doesn't get graphic novels either. I knew about the 'rise and fall of one man' premise behind Episodes 1-6, but even if we didn't, that shouldn't determine how much we like the film or the 'legitimacy' of our opinions. I loved the original trilogy and stuck up for the prequels more times than I can count. I'm not trying to start an anti-Lucas/Star Wars debate, even if he's turned greedy with his franchise. I just don't think this film looks good AND since a Clone Wars cartoon was already made, it's not really needed at all. If you want to watch it and are excited to, have at it, but that doesn't mean you have to act like pricks towards the rest of us who might feel disenchanted with Star Wars.

Moomin Papa Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 05:07 AM EST

Call me when he releases something that has less slapstick than a Harold Lloyd flick. Seriously, farting robots and aliens that fall over more than Charlie Chaplin do not a good film make.

munesh2 Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 11:46 PM EST

I read all the comments and am stunned how many people here alone in this popwatch comment Do Not understand Star Wars. OMG. Not even Blauvelt! And if Simon Pegg was such am amazing person who understands film...what the hell was "Run Fatboy Run"? A complete predictable yarn that should of been a tv movie.
Everyone here also has forgoton that this is a tv cartoon (the Clone Wars) it is just that Lucas decided to give fans a chance to see it on the big screen. The idea of having box office gold is not the point of this film, but an introduction to a 3 to possibly 4 year series...then its finished. It is done like the old Flash Gordon serial. It is episodic.

I use to think that Star Trek fans were crazy. But Star Wars fans are cynics who live in the past and want the old Star Wars back. Well watch the damn dvd, thats what they are there for. As for the tv series, have fun enjoy like kids.
The films are about the rise and fall of a man and a republic and how they both lost their way.

Directed by...Dave Filoni. Not George Lucas Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 09:50 PM EST

This movie is directed by...Dave Filoni.

That's Dave. Filoni.

NOT George Lucas.

Am I the only one to see the complete lack of intelligence in this popwatch topic and the majority of the postings in response to it?

Lowest Common Denominators never cease to amaze me...

Waahh! I want Star Wars MY way! Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 09:42 PM EST

You morons - George Lucas already gave up creative control on this movie - produced it, but DID NOT direct it.

All this is is the same pathetic Lucas-bashing from dorks who just cannot stand that fact that Star Wars is going on without them - they are like old girlfriends who broke up with a boyfriend yet are unable to move on and stop judging. If you do not like it then it's your prerogative, but the constant whining is pathetic, especially since none of you has actually even seen the movie at this stage. Go see the Dark Knight or something - maybe move out of your parent's basements perhaps?

Just let go and move on - Star Wars will do just fine without you, and the target audience, such as my 11-year old nephew, cannot wait to see it.

Pathetic.

ed5 Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 09:09 PM EST

Everything that has gone wrong with Star Wars can be summed up in but a single word: MIDICHLORIANS.

R.D. Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 08:47 PM EST

I'm most disappointed in the quality (or lack thereof) of the animation I've seen for "Clone Wars". To me it looks like bad, cheap "Saturday Morning" cartoons. Compare that to Pixar, Shrek, et al. Given the current state of the art in animation, I find this crap inexcusable regardless of the high quality of plot, character, etc.

johnny ro Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 07:43 PM EST

Star Wars = Dead Dog.
Lucas, why do you continue to beat a dead dog? Oh yea, because you lost your creativity back in the 80's. All Lucas has left is Star Wars. And since no more real Star Wars movies will be made, he has to resort to animated movies and tv shows. Meanwhile I'll be in the theater watching the brand new Star Trek movie.

Rob Grizzly Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 06:38 PM EST

I don't follow the fan fiction. It's just sci-fi tales with the Star Wars trademarks slapped on.

I'm in the camp that feels "true" Star Wars is Lucas' Star Wars. But unfortunately, that means this.

George, just stop. Please. You've stretched 6 films out of one movie. But as long as the people keep coming, he'll keep doing it. So it's simple: don't go see it.
He'll get the message eventually.

Movie-going is like voting. We're the one's putting these people in office, so to speak

Connor Clark Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 05:47 PM EST

I don't know if the comparison to Rowling holds water. She demonstrated her depth of talent by having her series grow in plot depth and maturity as her (originally child) fans grew up. Lucas doesn't seem up to that.

In fact, Lucas has done pretty much the opposite. At this point I can't tell if he wants to tell stories or make money.

If he wants to tell Star Wars stories, then by all means he should keep charge of them himself, even if he alienates some (many?) fans.

If he wants to make money, he should probably let people with talent branch the franchise into new directions, like Knights of the Old Republic did (I am going to except most of the Star Wars novels here, for obvious reasons). It seems like most fans want this...

As for the argument that these films have always been for children, I loved Star Wars when I was a kid, and I was 11 when Ep. 1 came out. When I got home from seeing it, I literally cried from disappointment. So something was wrong there.

tyler Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 05:28 PM EST

star wars is over.

lucas made it, and he killed it.

enjoy what exists already and forget the rest.

Daniel Noa Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 05:17 PM EST

Well I don't think its fair to insist that any creator, be they a novelist or a playwright or a filmmaker, give up control over his own creation. Star Wars is not Batman or Star Trek, neither of those have a single person responsible for shepherding them and overseeing them for years (and both creators are, notably, dead).
I know Lucas will hire writers and directors for his new series (like he did on TCW and on Young Indy in the 90s, to great effect I might add). I was 13 when Phantom Menace came out, loved it, and still love all 6 Star Wars movies. Jeff is right, most of the people who sat in that first dark theatre have become to cynical to really enjoy what star wars is: a fairy tale.

In his intro to the first Narnia book, C.S. Lewis put it best when he said "I had not realized girls grow quicker than books." Most people outgrow fairy tales. But I remember my grandfather, being less than a year before his own death, absolutely falling in love with "The Phantom Menace."

Eric Friedmann Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 04:23 PM EST

Believe it or not, I liked the prequels a lot. They were certainly better than RETURN OF THE JEDI; one of the worst acted and worst dialogue films I've ever seen! It just sickens me to see George Lucas act like a child who refuses to give up his favorite toy and move on! After SITH, he repeatedly stated how he was looking forward to making smaller, independent-type films like he did with THX-1138, and I looked forward to that prospect. But now...who knows.

I no longer consider George Lucas to be a true filmmaker. He is nothing more than a wealthy CEO of a huge empire! Big f*cking deal!

jeff Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 04:14 PM EST

I know it's cool to trash Lucas right now, and declare the prequals the worst films ever made (until this movie is released that is). But as the father of a Star Wars-obsessed five year old who is looking forward to this movie like it was Christmas morning, and who will no doubt love every second of it, believe me when I say there's still some magic in Star Wars -- it's just that you grew up and grew sarcastic and cynical, and these movies are no longer for, or about, you.

Sad Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 03:56 PM EST

I'm sad that the creativity of George Lucas dried up over 20 years ago.

t3hdow Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 03:47 PM EST

To dan:
The prequels were flawed, though I won't go so far and consider them turds. The first two contained a few memorable scenes and Revenge of the Sith was at least on par with the original trilogy. I do agree this film didn't need to exist, especially after Gendy Tartakovsky's cartoon did well enough to tell the story (and Grievous in Clone Wars compared to Sith's caricature is like night and day...he's much cooler in Clone Wars). However, I'm not convinced that most Star Wars will go see this over Tropic Thunder or another helping of The Dark Knight. Even I - who somewhat enjoyed the prequels - found this completely unappealing. You really think the reception for Clone Wars will be big enough to make monster profits? I'd wait until Sunday before making that claim.

Eric Friedmann Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 03:33 PM EST

Amen, Dan! Hard to believe this is the (supposedly) same George Lucas that was such a revolutionary filmmaker in the '70s. Makes me yearn for THX-1138 and AMERICAN GRAFFITTI all over again!

PIMPING out "bargain basement garbage" is how I'd put it. And those who are actually stupid enough to hand over their hard-earned time and money to see badly recycled material like this are nothing short of Lucas' WHORES!

EP Sato Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 03:28 PM EST

Blauvelt, you're new here, so I'll be nice. You report about a rumor that Simon Pegg wants to pen some of the new series episodes, but backed out because he's spooked the Lucas people don't like him because he's made fun of Phantom Menace. I've gotta say that rumor can not be in any way true.

As I've previously noted in Popwatch, Simon Pegg once said that all odd numbered Star Trek movies are "Sh-t". Yet, he's going to be starring in one. So I doubt he'd worry about getting dissed by Lucas' people for hating on Phantom Menace.

Also, one of Pegg's homeboys from "Spaced" PLAYED Darth Maul, which I've personally heard Simon Pegg brag about in public appearances. So clearly, Pegg is a Star Wars fan who's not easily intimidated.

Agreed that the best Star Wars stories didn't involve Lucas, but I'm bummed that you gave no mention to the Marvel Comics Star Wars series, which lasted 20 issues past the battle of Endor and proved just how vast the Star Wars Universe is.

dan Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 03:23 PM EST

The prequels were turds. Lucas is creatively bankrupt. And this "movie" (I use the scare quotes because it's actually 3 episodes of the tv show pressed together) is a waste. It's because of Star Wars fanatics like Mr. Blauvelt that Lucas has been able to continue pumpin out bargain basement garbage and reap huge profits. Now, if those people would just grow some taste and stop paying to see obvious crap (like this cartoon movie) maybe Lucas would finally be forced to hand the franchise over to someone with... you know... talent.

Snarf Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 03:09 PM EST

I pick the later. Instead of fanwank fiction, these people should create their own worlds. Someone is bound to produce the next big thing.