2/ EPISODE IV – A NEW HOPE. 1977. DIR: GEORGE LUCAS.

The one that started it all. The Empire has captured the rebel princess, Leia. But the droids R2-D2 and C-3PO have escaped with the Death Star plans. They find a young farm boy named Luke who, thanks to Obi-Wan Kenobi, learns that his father was a Jedi and that he may be the only hope for the galaxy. Teamed up with Han Solo and Chewbacca, Luke and the team must save Princess Leia from the evil Darth Vader and help the rebels destroy the Death Star.

What can I say about Star Wars that hasn’t already been said before. From the first shot of the pursuing Star Destroyer, we are hooked and in awe. We know from the first minute that we are in for something special. The story is simple and yet works on so many levels. It’s near perfect. The pace and tone, the world and the mythology behind it all are so well handled. Obi-Wan and Darth Vader are among the most compelling of the characters. Obi-Wan was as perfect a mentor character as we have ever seen.

The characters are not at their best in the film, but they’re so likable and charismatic that you can’t help but love them. The Empire’s oppression is so masterfully and subtly done that we feel threatened by them. When the climactic battle happens, it feels rewarding. Star Wars certainly pushed the boundaries of special effects – some of which look dated now, but most are still impressive. But that is not how it changed cinema forever. Star Wars speaks to all – children and adults. It’s simplistic yet deep storytelling and world building are what have inspired so many generations of people around the world. To this day it remains among the most important, most inspirational and most beloved films of all time.

Does that mean it’s perfect? Nope! Lucas’ struggle at writing characters and dialogue do haunt the film. It is also obvious that, while he was unparalleled as a visual storyteller, he was less than talented as a director. Because of this the acting feels very silly or stilted. Not surprising given the lines they have to say. In the words of Harrison Ford, ‘You can write this shit, but you can’t say it!’ But that’s not what Star Wars is about. Star Wars is the story, the themes and above all, the fun. In that, it succeeds with flying colours.