Star Wars, What More Can I Say?

I realize as of late that this blog as sort of become about how I like certain movies but hey I believe in giving credit where credit is due. Every so often I get into a Star Wars mode. When this happens I will start watching one if not both of the trilogies. I find it to be such a good story to get sucked into. I realize that to some it may be nerdy but I really don't care, there just too damn good. Since it's spring break I've got nothing but time so I decided to jaunt into the world of Jedis, Lightsabers, and the Force. I decided to watch the original trilogy (Episodes IV, V, VI). Every time I watch them I have to stop and reflect about how truly amazing these movies are. In 1977, Star Wars broke open the world of special effects and created a whole new level of effects and film making in general. Aside from the effects, I believe the saga of Star Wars to be one of the best stories ever told. It's got the archetypes of heroes, villains, sidekicks, and mentors. The stories are all intertwined to tell an amazing story about a galaxy far far away. Most people think that it takes place in the future but in fact it takes place in the past, "A long time ago in a galaxy far, far, away". All 6 of the episodes are actually about the rise, fall, and redemption of Anakin Skywalker aka. Darth Vader. It really a beautiful and tragically spun story. To see someone with limitless potential, squander it by falling victim to the "dark side", is one of these most tragic things in life, something I think most anyone can agree with. Fortunately there is Luke who is the "new hope" which represents the human spirit which can prevail and triumph evil regardless of the odds. I really don't think liking these movies makes one "nerdy" because they are just so great and a benchmark of the limitless possibilities of film. After watching the trilogy I watched a supplemental documentary "Empire of Dreams" which recounts the production of the original trilogy. It is so nice to hear first-hand accounts of what it was like to produce such a unique piece of work. At first it was a little depressing watching this because I feel like "I could never do that", but after thinking about it, the case is quite the opposite. As an aspiring filmmaker I find this documentary, and the films in general, as motivation to further my career into the world of film. In fact George Lucas bankrolled all these movies himself which aside from making him very rich, also allowed him to open Lucas Film LTD, Skywalker Sound THX, and Industrial Light & Magic, all of which are the pinnacle of special effects and film making in the realm of cinema. I could literally talk about these movies for ever, the canon of information is that large. There are so many spin-offs and sub stories from these movies it is truly astonishing. The prequel trilogy is also very good but the cream of the crop still lies in the original 3 movies. The movies speak for themselves, and if you don't believe me then check them out. I highly suggest anyone check out any of these films, my personal favorite is the Empire Strikes Back.