Empire of Dreams: The Story of the Star Wars Trilogy (2004)

This most comprehensive look at the making of the original Star Wars trilogy ever produced examines the early concepts, the deals, the production hell and then the eventual success of George Lucas' space opera. With commentaries from the cast and crew and stories about how a little movie that was looked upon as an impending box office disaster became a cultural phenomenon. Empire of Dreams is one of my favourite documentaries of all time that takes an extensive dive into Star Wars' success and George Lucas' genius. We are allowed to see the structures that formed the most influential movies in cinematic history laid out piece by piece. I have been a huge Star Wars fan for as long as I can remember. They entertained me, captivated me and simply blew my mind. I was fascinated in every way by this behemoth of a franchise and was utterly thrilled to see an extensive look behind its making as I put in my copy of the Bonus Material DVD. A chance to see the inner workings of Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977), Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983) in all their glory felt like a must for any fan. As well as with Star Wars, I have equally been a long-time enthusiast of seeing the behind-the-scenes construction of the filmmaking process, the implementation and workings of practical special effects plus the build-up to every piece of the jigsaw come together with the final product. It is truly eye-opening and not only shows the grand display of imagination and creativity at play but it equally awakens that spark of potential within ourselves. We begin with a look into George Lucas' early years with his study of filmmaking alongside other soon-to-be greats like Steven Spielberg and how his obvious talent led to the opportunity to create films such as his hit, American Graffiti (1973). Lucas was becoming more noticeable as an up-and-coming director. He now felt he could focus on a project he had been working on in the background, a science fiction epic. Lucas began planning out the story for what would become Star Wars, which he was inspired by 1930s Flash Gordon serials, old Japanese samurai movies and other products. Whilst a science fiction at face value, Lucas opted for an equal mythological approach bringing a mysticism element. Almost like a fairy tale adventure but in space. This is apparent with the young eager adventurer, the old wise 'wizard', a swashbuckler and a damsel, but even then it is given a sweeping breath of fresh air. Science fiction movies at the time of the early 70s were not so popular and considered a bad investment however 20th Century Fox gave Lucas the chance. The majority of the documentary is spent covering the creation of the first film, simply titled, Star Wars. Since it is the first entry there was plenty to uncover from the initial casting tapes, set building, concept art, marketing, composing the score, sound design and my favourite, the forming of ILM the special effects crew. I loved hearing the interviews with the actors and crew accompanied by older footage giving further insight into those moments like auditions and off-screen banter. I also adored seeing how the effects came together with the use of models, the strange locations and origins of the 'futuristic' sounds, John William's composing of beautiful pieces and seeing the faces of some lesser-seen actors. We all know the rough journey it took in making the movie with the amount of difficulties endured that equally caused Lucas many problems. Despite it all, the film was finished, released and feared to be a huge flop but, was instead, a renowned success, allowing Lucas to continue the story. We see further in-depth looks into Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi with their accomplishments, hardships and formations. Overall, Empire of Dreams is a phenomenal guide to the original trilogy's creation that extensively breaks apart its development, showering us with engrossing knowledge. I found myself beaming with joy throughout making me feel proud to be a Star Wars fan. A definitive documentary for any enthusiast. Also, check out Light & Magic (TV Series 2022) for a deeper look into ILM's story. 

Runtime: 2h 31m

Directors: Edith Becker, Kevin Burns

Genre: Documentary / History / Sci-fi

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Star Wars: The Bad Batch (TV Series 2021-2024)

The end of the Clone Wars marks the rise of the oppressive Empire. Amid the chaos, an elite unit of unusual clone troopers defies its orders and chooses to go on the run. Joined by a young clone named Omega, the so-called Bad Batch struggles to evade the constant pursuit of its enemies. Following the highly praised and extensive show that is Star Wars: The Clone Wars (TV Series 2008-2020), we are allowed to see the immediate shift of the galaxy as the Empire begins to form. I was ecstatic at the chance to see such an intriguing period of the Star Wars galaxy get fully delved into. Especially since this magnitude of change between eras had rarely been shown, particularly not from the direct moment things flipped in the aftermath of Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005). The best part about it is the fact we follow a group of clones who, because of their defective nature, didn't follow through with the treacherous Order 66 like the rest of the clones. Their genetic mutations made them resistant to the effects of the order and allowed them to see for themselves the truth about the Empire. The Bad Batch's explosive introduction in the Clone Wars was simply fantastic giving us an insight into the highly skilled unit and their enhanced abilities. The group and their mutations are as follows: Hunter the leader exceptional tracker, Wrecker the muscle and demolition expert, Tech the brains with a heightened mental capacity and Crosshair the sniper with a keen marksman eyesight. The group also includes Echo, once a regular clone, experimented on by the enemy, and left with cybernetic modifications, which he now brings to Clone Force 99. Each member is individually entertaining and only becomes more enjoyable as they play off of one another. They almost feel like a space equivalent of The A-Team (TV Series 1983-1987), and I was all for it. This squad is a formidable team that never fails to get the job done, be it in their unique way. I do wish we had gotten to see more of their Clone Wars stories (since we know episodes were partially made before cancellation) but I can't deny that getting a whole show dedicated to them isn't a bad compromise. I was immediately hooked by the opening episode that saw the beginning of the galaxy-wide shift and how each member of the crew handled the experience. The confusion, distrust, scepticism and conflict was a captivating lead into the show as witness the lead to their cutting ties with the Republic turned Empire. The crew are aided in their escape by another genetically modified clone, a young girl called Omega, the only female variant. They take her with them, away from their changing homeworld of Kamino in search of somewhere safe, now as fugitives. I truly adore this group, they have such a special bond and each has a lot to learn out in a galaxy where the only life they had known was being a soldier. Clone Force 99 develops across each season as a whole and individually as the group take on the form of mercenaries. Of all the members, I felt the most captivated by Crosshair who underwent the most growth and was a truly fascinating aspect of the series. On their countless missions, we see many familiar faces from both Clone Wars and Rebels, with plenty of incredible references and nods to enjoy. This squad goes against just as many foes as friends with Imperials, bounty hunters and varying threats on the planets they encounter up against them. Whilst the show may feature the occasional 'filler' episode, I felt that the show mainly consisted of quality content with some exceptional stories throughout. It is full of planet skipping, enthralling missions, character growth, action and heart. What more could you want from an episodic sci-fi adventure serial? Overall, I absolutely love The Bad Batch just as much as Clone Wars. Whilst I may prefer the other, I think this is the perfect sequel. Each season is outstanding and ups the stakes, pushing the squad to their limits in plenty of thrilling ways. With a phenomenal cast and an abundance of space-hopping journeys, it is certainly worth its entertainment value. For more animated shows, check out Star Wars: Rebels (TV Series 2014-2018).

Seasons & Episodes: 3 Seasons - 47 Episodes

Creators: Jennifer Corbett, Dave Filoni

Genre: Action / Adventure / Animation / Drama / Fantasy / Sci-fi

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Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019)

While the First Order continues to ravage the galaxy, Rey finalizes her training as a Jedi. But danger suddenly rises from the ashes as the evil Emperor Palpatine mysteriously returns from the dead. While working with Finn and Poe to fulfil a new mission, Rey will not only face Kylo Ren but will finally discover the truth about her parents as well as a deadly secret that could determine her future and the fate of the ultimate showdown that is to come. The Rise of Skywalker is the final entry in the sequel trilogy that aims to conclude not only the story of these characters but, essentially, the franchise as a whole. Like the previous entries, I saw this in theatres with my Dad, and it was definitely a mixed bag. In all honesty, this film doesn't truly feel like a rewarding final entry to the greatest sci-fi series of all time. Nor does it seem like a triumphant end to the story of this trilogy, which isn't saying much with how divisive it has been with plenty of ups and downs. Now, this trilogy has suffered from a lack of cohesive narrative planning, and it is just as painfully obvious here as it was in The Last Jedi. Dissecting what plays out in this movie almost felt like watching a fan fiction production with a million-dollar budget. Following the inharmonious Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi (2017), Episode IX had a hard time ahead with plenty of hurdles to overcome. There was a requirement to appease and get on board as many fans as possible after the polarising last film, finishing both the story of these characters and the entire franchise whilst further delivering an exciting adventure. It was certainly an uphill battle and with directors being fired and stories getting scrapped, things were looking rough. Finally settling on director J. J. Abrams once again, it was possible for an equal level production to his last, but that was not to be. Some of the choices made are, quite frankly, outlandish, with the grandest being the idea of bringing back Palpatine after his 'presumed' death in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983). I was initially intrigued by the notion when revealed in the trailer but was equally weary as his return would undermine the entire saga and Anakin's redemption arc. His appearance and contribution is ultimately underwhelming, so much so that I wish they had left him dead. They don't even do that good a job of explaining how, although it's implied he is a clone, even though that is practically an idea deemed impossible in all previous content. I wouldn't have had a problem with his inclusion if it wasn't left to the last movie as an afterthought. The remaining cast is equally a mixture. There is obvious effort being provided by the cast, but with little to do or weak material to work with, they continue to fall flat. We spend the majority of our time with Rey, Finn, Poe, Chewie, C-3PO and BB-8 on their mission to uncover a way to the hidden planet Exegol, where Palpatine is supposedly residing alongside a fleet of planet-killing Star Destroyers. Kylo Ren continues to hunt Rey after discovering Palpatine first and learning the truth, temporarily aligning with him with the promise of owning the fleet. Once again, Kylo Ren steals the show with some phenomenal moments, many of which were on an emotional hitting performance. Leia's contribution was handled well under the circumstances of Carrie Fisher's passing, with unused footage being worked well enough into the story. There was plenty of action present throughout even if most was again lacklustre, like the fantastic setting of a fight on the Death Star II ruins, which was treated to clunky choreography. The Exegol sequences were interesting to a degree but could've been so much better. The effects naturally are spectacular, but there needs to be more substance in writing quality than effect quantity. Overall, The Rise of Skywalker is not remotely the successful climactic end to a grand franchise. It sadly delivers a deflated final product to finish off the trilogy that tries too much whilst not trying enough. Like in each movie, there are elements to take from or give some entertainment, but, as a whole, it is still weak. A disappointing end to what should have been a blockbuster hit trilogy. I will personally be sticking to the main six.

Runtime: 2h 22m

Director: J. J. Abrams

Genre: Action / Adventure / Fantasy / Sci-fi

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Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi (2017)

Luke Skywalker's peaceful and solitary existence gets upended when he encounters Rey, a young woman who shows strong signs of the Force. Her desire to learn the ways of the Jedi forces Luke to make a decision that changes their lives forever. Meanwhile, Kylo Ren and General Hux lead the First Order in an all-out assault against Leia and the Resistance for supremacy of the galaxy. The Last Jedi is the second entry in the sequel trilogy and is considered one of the most divisive movies in the history of the Star Wars franchise. It was so divisive to the point where it completely split the fandom in two. My initial reaction when I saw it in theatres with my Dad was it was fine. I didn't really think more about any more till the DVD finally came out and I saw it again. I began to notice a lot of issues I had and ultimately concluded it is my least favourite Star Wars movie of all time. Funnily enough, I wasn't the only one, as many other fans found themselves in the same position. For me, there are simply far too many flaws and glaring problems that make this film feel so unenjoyable, which isn't good when your film is the longest in the series. The story follows very swiftly after the triumphant victory over the First Order in Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015), with little to no time jump that is present in every other movie of the saga, making the opening crawl redundant. Here we see a split between two narratives, the first being the First Order's pursuit and battle with the retreating, battered Resistance. The second consists of Rey's trial to gain the help of the now-hermit Jedi, Luke. Both of these separate stories held a collection of faults that are present over a plethora of areas. A main one would be the use of characters who in terms of older, returning figures are mistreated, misused and completely unrecognisable. Whilst new characters, make bizarre choices that make no sense, hinder the mission or dampen the acts of other characters. The most disappointing of them all would have to be the use of Luke Skywalker. Whilst I can see some of the interesting potentials of a secluded and pensive Luke in hiding, it all comes crashing down with the discovery of why and how which fundamentally ruins him and everything he stood for. Equally, characters introduced in the last film like Rey, Finn, Poe, Kylo Ren, Snoke, Hux, Phasma, etc... undergo similar treatment, being truly wasted, humiliated or thrown aside. It is extremely ridiculous and unforgiving to see the amount of potential be flipped or dropped in favour of subverting viewer expectations. New characters introduced like Rose, Holdo and DJ, were difficult to put up with. They are simply annoying and make stupid decisions that seriously get on my nerves. For example, Holdo choosing to keep her plans to herself instead of informing everyone, which leads to a pointless mutiny and detour mission with Rose and Finn on a waste of time caper to a casino planet with space horses is so bad. One of the saving graces was easily Kylo Ren and his force connection with Rey, which was fascinating. Their scenes are probably the best moments of the film and the duel against the guards was pretty awesome (that is until you realise how many mistakes and disappearing weapons make the fight dumb). In terms of praise, this film gets from me, it would have to be the visuals. I cannot deny it is the most beautiful of the sequels. John Williams is as fantastic as ever, although I found fewer songs standing out in this production. The sequel's grandest issue is realised here with the lack of a cohesive story not being drawn out from the beginning. It becomes such a mess with directors having conflicting ideas, wanting to do their own thing instead of making one whole project like George Lucas did. Overall, The Last Jedi was one of the biggest disappointments for me as a fan and has cemented itself in history as one of the most problematic in the franchise. Sadly, I'd have to say, in my opinion, this doesn't feel like Star Wars and is not worth it. But what do you think? Do you like it, hate it or think it's just meh? See the final entry of the sequels in Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019), which also split the fandom.

Runtime: 2h 32m

Director: Rian Johnson

Genre: Action / Adventure / Fantasy / Sci-fi

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