Note: Before starting this review, there are multiple revisions made from the original Star Wars movie that George Lucas made. The actual theatrical version cannot be found anywhere . This review focuses on Despecialized Edition, a version that made by the fans to be able to try and recreate the original version that was released from theaters.
Back in 1977, the original Star Wars was only screened in a few cinemas in the United States. Even its director George Lucas was not sure of its success when it premiered he went on a vacation and not knowing it would become the household name it is now. Even those people who have not watched as single movie could be quoting it without knowing so. Let us then revisit on why this movie is so great and iconic.
Star Wars’s story is that of good and evil with a rebellion trying that fight a tyrannical galactic empire. Luke Skywalker (played by Mark Hamill) a simple farm who faith lies more than just being in a planet in the farthest end of the galaxy. When two droids, R2-D2 and C-3PO arrive in his doorstep, his destiny awaits him. The story is one inspired heavily by Joseph Campbell concept of the Hero’s Journey. A very fair story structure to anyone who has seen a few movies that deal with adventure and heroics. This does not mean though that it would just be your typical movie. The film distinguishes itself from the crowd with memorable characters and an even more memorable score.
The two standouts in the cast would be Han Solo (played by Harrison Ford) and Darth Vader (voice by James Earl Jones). Han Solo might be one of the coolest characters ever you could ever meet. He gives the reluctant hero new light. He has his own style and won’t easily be persuaded (unless you have large amounts of credits). The only other character that could standout even more than Han Solo is one of the main villains, Darth Vader. A villain whose presence can be felt every time he is on-screen with one of the coolest sci-fi suits I have ever since and seemingly an unstoppable force. It is also kinda funny that its lead character is the one that least standouts; it may just be a testament to how greatly made Han Solo and Darth Vader were.
The only thing that could compete for your attention in the film would be its score; a musical score composed by the legendary John Williams who also made music for both Jaws and Indiana Jones. His composition give weight to the space opera that ensues before your eyes. Starting with an epic horns to start the opening credits, to the great melodies of a Binary Sunset, to a score that screams victory and hope.
Overall, 40 years after its release, Star Wars is still a great film. A timeless story of adventure and the destinies that awaits us. A film that would just been ‘another’ adventure flick become something more; Turning it over its head with a sense of style, an epic score, and a fully-realized world filled with endearing characters. What else could you ask from this classic space opera?
Nas Velasco 