This was really well done James, as a huge fan I went into this like, "here we go, another person trying to do this thing again," but I was surprised and impressed, thanks!
I've heard that Lucas wanted to make a series of straight up Flash Gordon film adaptations, but couldn't get the license. Star Wars was his way of implementing his ideas for that concept.
everything in the star wars movies feels very organic and fits together very well. it's well made. small things like the aliens speaking different languages and small nods to plots happening in the background (like greedo and han solo) make it feel authentic. all the effort put into them make them special.
Believe it or not, Legendary film critics Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert did a special in 1983 about the original Star Wars trilogy. Most of James' analysis is similar to Siskel and Ebert's. It's a mixture of old storytelling and then-new special effects. That's what's great about the original trilogy. Reply
Star Wars stands the test of time because at its base it is a story that has been told a million times. A struggling farm boy with dreams to make something more of his life gathers a ragtag group and fights evil that is much bigger than them and through teamwork and pure will pull it off. Everything is there, we had an old wise magician, a beautiful princess, the gruff but loyal anti hero and his loyal partner and comic relief.
Wow this was great. I never knew that David Prowse played along side Peter Cushing in previous movies and how much Vader is like Frankenstein's monster at the end of Revenge of the Sith. I always find something new to appreciate about Star Wars
My family and I have loved Star Wars since its inception. My mom loves it so much that she watched the making of The Force Awakens 10 times and she didn't stop talking about how much she hated a specific scene in that movie and how much she loves Harrison Ford. If I were to come into my parents living room and Empire Strike Back is on, you will have to wait until its over to to talk to them.
I think another major reason for the enduring popularity of the films, not mentioned by James, is the music score by John Williams. From a purely musical standpoint it is likely the greatest score ever written. The themes are iconic and memorable, but also fully developed just as a Mozart, Beethoven, or Wagner would develop themes for an Opera say. The music from the original films could well endure like the great operatic music of past centuries.
Here's something funny, when I was 4 in the late 2000s, Costco was actually selling the theatrical version of Star Wars episode 4. It also came with the special edition of it but because I was 4, I was confused why they made two versions of the movie. Thing is though, they were on DVD!
@@wchan39 I always loved the prequels but I do feel that it also could have been a different middle movie about the clone wars would been great. But we now have clone wars so it does not matter
Master Skywalker yea I agree I’d really wish attack of the clones was handled much better. I enjoy the prequels (almost entirely on nostalgia) but I don’t think they are great or even “good” movies by any means. I do think the trilogy would help a lot tho if aotc focused more on anakins relationship with obi wan and fixed up the time it had to make us care about padme. It’s hard to give a shit about a romantic story when your dialogue sounds like it’s being directed by a tone deaf old man. Also if obi wan and anakin showed some tough love instead of constantly nagging and acting like a divorced couple the whole move it wouldn’t feel so weird when they are like best friends in revenge of the sith.
wchan39 The Phantom Menace isn’t really necessary. I would’ve preferred Episode 1 to be Attack of the clones and introduce Anakin with episode II being the clones wars and episode III the same with revenge of the sith
I think it should be noted that George Lucas was heavily influenced by Joseph Campbell's book The Hero with a Thousand Faces, which is all about the monomyth. That all good myths follow a very specific formula that makes all myths basically the same story with different sets and characters, but same places (ordinary home and extraordinary destination) and same archetypes (hero, mentor,...).
Star Wars has always had a meaningful commentary on human nature without coming off preachy while keeping it relevant to the plot. The influences from various religions, mythologies cultural ideologies and just other movies give Star Wars such a vast perspective that speaks to people regardless of gender or cultural differences Star Wars is a a melting pot of perspectives and gives us a smart and accurate look into the human condition with a futuristic coating surrounding it
Marco Polo Just cuz they were badly executed films doesnt mean that there arent interesting concepts in it. Original trilogy was a fun watch but ideologically and thematically very traditional/orthodox. Prequels seeked to delve into the greyer areas more but had a hard time conveying it because they didnt handle their characters properly
DarthMohammed I actually prefer the score for the director's cut, which was by Jerry Goldsmith. The Tangerine Dream score of the theatrical cut was a nightmare.
@The Zaius I don't agree at all. The Tangerine Dream soundtrack totally fits the mood of that movie better in my opinion, and it seems most of that movies fans agree.
Can I just say that I felt very relived watching this? Like James, I thought I grew out of star wars for a while, yesterday I was watching a bunch of star wars videos (mainly from Nostalgia critic and Cinemasins) to try and figure out its appeal. Then this video shows up on my sub box which was EXACTLY what I was looking for! The reliving bit was that even James felt he grew out of Star Wars too, until he went back and gave it a fair chance. Thanks man! This video was GREAT and I'd love to see more about other movies in the future! :D
My favorite part about these movies are the effects. The wide range from stop motion, puppeteering, digital effects, practical creatures etc. Fantastic original trilogy.
I like the prequels a lot more than the originals. Every movie in the original and prequel trilogies was better than the one preceding it. I haven't seen Force Awakens yet, but I suspect it'll break the pattern.
Plex Winger Oh, I'm definitely going to watch it sometime. And having low expectations means I'm less disappointed if I think it sucks, and get to be positively surprised if I like it.
theuncalledfor I went to see it in the theaters back in December 16 2015. And it was AMAZING! The Force Awakens is my third favorite Star Wars movie. Right behind A New Hope and Empire Strikes Back
Plex Winger Well, seeing as those are my _least_ favourite Star Wars movies, it seems we're looking for different things in movies. I'll still give it a try, of course, though.
I'm really surprised you didn't touch on how Joseph Campbell's concept of the "Heroes Journey" influenced Lucas incredibly for writing the screenplay. It was directly cited by Lucas as something that identified themes of an epic journey that would be seen as universally familiar across cultures. Hell, even reprints of the book that the idea came from have a big ass picture of Luke Skywalker on the cover.
Can’t even lie James, I been dealing with much mental strain and existential boredom, but your videos keep me going. Thank u so much. Love the new content too
+Cykoru Episode 1 sucked the most. Not just me who thinks that. Most people's opinion is that episode 1 was the worst Star Wars film. The Star Wars Holiday Special doesn't count.
wow. one of your best videos yet James and Mike!! touche brothers! that was some expert analysis and made me think about these movies in terms I never had thought of before and likely wouldve never crossed my mind has you two not pointed them out. thanks for the entertainment and here's to many more decades of excellence from Cinemassacre!!
Who here is a STAR WARS fan, in which you enjoy all of the star wars productions, including the prequels, I'm sick of people nitpicking on the things I love. To me star wars is star wars and I wouldn't change anything about it.
***** I don't think so,maybe you should watch them again, make sure it's the 2012 remaster, if they made another prequel remaster that would be awesome.
No matter how many Star Wars films Disney wants to make, the Original Star Wars Trilogy will the still remain the definitive saga for generations to come.
One thing that, as a kid, made a big impression on me was the sci-fi technology portrayed in the movies. The speeder bikes, the 2-legged walker mechs (sort of how I imagined a Metal Gear would work, actually...), even the lightsabers; growing up in the 80's, kids had the whole notion of "the future" constantly rammed down our throats...so much so, that many of us came to believe that someday, we'd have such wonders in the real world. ...Yeah, we're still waiting.
Now I better understand why even though I had never seen any of the Star Wars movies before in complete, I was able to predict the plot of Episode 7 so easily.
I love your movie franchise breakdown videos. Please continue to do them when you find time. They are always so amazing to view for those of us that love film but never went so far into studying it.
" Star Wars - A New Hope " 1977 / Rated PG / 125 Mins. / A " Star Wars - The Empire Strikes Back " 1980 / Rated PG / 127 Mins. / A + " Star Wars - Return of the Jedi " 1983 / Rated PG / 135 Mins. / A -
There's an excellent documentary/analysis out there that I can't remember the name of, but it draws comparisons and parallels between the Star Wars franchise and biblical and just plain old historical tales. Star Wars really is a culmination of all these previous ideas into one. Inspired by biblical stories, fantasies, history, previous films, television, and so much more. It's really interesting how it all comes together. George Lucas may not have even realized he was drawing from sources outside of film and television, like the Bible or fantasy tales. Some of those things are just subconsciously intertwined within us, because we've heard these stories so many times, told in different ways... Keep up the great work! Love your videos!
You said it in the beginning: You were just at an age to somehow get whats going on, and that's how I experienced EP1 (and somewhat EP2). Thats why I think they are not as terrible as everyone makes them out to be, I connect childhood to them. I was absolutely amazed about that Droid-Army, Underwater City, especially the awesooooome Podrace.
The only terrible that the prequel has, is that Lucas, being the one with the original plot's idea, totally screwed how Anakin's downfall came to be. It contradicts several points in the original trilogy, and although in some way he made the connection between episodes 3 and 4, the plot could have been way better. The elements of storytelling, music, picture, inventing new worlds, species and vehicles, were totally spot on, unlike what we have now...
Goran, not from a certain point of view.... Anakin’s past is only referred to a few times in the original trilogy, and without much specificity. Although the prequels are far from perfect, I am still generally impressed and accepting of the Anakin prequel arc, especially as to how it used his mother and Padme as the hinges around which his force allegiance pivoted.
@@Keithustus the downfall was very clear, Palpatine manipulated his visions of Padmé dying when giving birth. Other past is irrelevant to that point, and I was referring about that. It wasn't necessary to use the "look how naive he was, that means he's not really bad" argument. He could've been ambitious, and yet being redeemed by his son. But everything's done now, no matter to dwell in the past.
Goran....did you post that into the correct comment thread? I didn’t see anyone making an argument about him being naive. My only point is that Anakin in episodes 2 and 3 is a gradual downfall based on his higher emotionality than what the Jedi council wants. His false visions from Palpatine are far from the whole story.
"It's so dense, every single frame has so many things going on." Wait, I have been pronouncing it soh-guh this entire time. Is sah-guh the correct way to say it?
I was 6 when Ep IV came out. It literally changed my life to be a life long geek. We all wanted to be Han Solo. Making snow forts in the winter and pretending we're fighting the Empire. Using our toys and making our OWN saga in the Star Wars galaxy. It was awesome. HOLY SHIT! I NEVER thought of the OZ connection! WOW!
I will circlejerk Revenge of the Sith until I die, that movie is one of those movies that ends up being better than the sum of its parts IMO. I will also circlejerk my dislike for the Force Awakens a lot, it felt very bare bones to me and devoid of anything that would stimulate my brain outside of "OOH that character" and "OOH that reference" and "OOH pretty colors". Btw its nice to see somebody reference the prequels without feeling the need to insult them for no other reason than to insult them. Good job James.
I love these videos! It's like taking a college course on film, and James is the professor. After watching this I'm craving to watch Star Wars all over again!
I'll watch anything where James talks about movies. It's really entertaining to watch him talk about a subject he's passionate about instead of trying to keep AVGN going. Here's hoping that these film reviews/retrospectives become more of a focus now that Monster Madness is over.
James, one of the best reviews I've seen about SW. I was lucky enough to see it in 1977, and I & my best friend saw it at least 20+ times back then, every week. When something grabs you that hard, it has to be good.
I just prefer the Special Editions myself. Really, except for the Jabba scene (which is redundant and contradicts the Greedo scene), I consider them improvements
Yep. As a hardcore Star Wars fan since 1994 (and long before that in childhood)...and being the exact same age...James summed it up perfectly. There is nothing in this video I didnt already know, but it's gratifying to hear him echo my own thoughts, and to realize that Star Wars really is Every Story Rolled Into One.
I always feel bad for not enjoying these movies as much as everybody else and I love science fiction. I watched them as a kid and I never felt any reason to watch them again on my own. I've seen them many more times since then with friends and all, but they never stuck with me.
Awesome awesome awesome video from the most awesome man. Great video and thanks for making it! Love all the respect and appreciation for the entire saga.
He's probably trying to create UA-cam versions of those videos, but changing them to not be the same exact thing, and honestly I like hearing James talk so I don't really care.
well thought out James and definitely well said. You really made me look at star wars a whole new way. I had no idea there were so many references within star wars.
Star Trek HQ because it wasnt an influence in star wars like the others. mike and James talk about trek all the time. if you think trek and wars are similar, you're not the trek fan you think you are.
Fair point. But what my point was that the practical effects of star trek influenced the original effects of a new hope (one example would be how they made the millennium falcon effects) In no way is the plot or feel of the movie the same.
I love Star Wars. When I went to see episode VII, i felt excitement that I hadn't felt with the prequels. This was my 6 year old me, finally getting the sequel of what happened to his favorite characters since he was young. That's why I love Star Wars, not other franchise has given me that feeling.
The old saying, “I can’t quite put my finger on it” applies to why I love Star Wars. You my friend, were able to put your finger on why I enjoy these movies so much after watching this video. Tip of the hat.
To the people who brag that they never seen Star Wars... nobody is impressed. Seriously, nobody cares that you went out of your way to not see Star Wars.
This was really well done James, as a huge fan I went into this like, "here we go, another person trying to do this thing again," but I was surprised and impressed, thanks!
same here
Do what thing?
@@johnmartin2436 Explain why people love Star Wars so much.
its almost line for line from his older star wars video
I've heard that Lucas wanted to make a series of straight up Flash Gordon film adaptations, but couldn't get the license. Star Wars was his way of implementing his ideas for that concept.
everything in the star wars movies feels very organic and fits together very well. it's well made. small things like the aliens speaking different languages and small nods to plots happening in the background (like greedo and han solo) make it feel authentic. all the effort put into them make them special.
@ClandestineOstrich Sabriel needs it too
Angry Video Game Nerd Season 9 Available now on DVD!
amzn.to/2h4ePme
Ive been watching AVGN since I was 12 or so and would have never gotten into NES games without you
Here's to 10 seasons James!
C-4567 since I was 9
+PENNY POLENDINA arent you supossed to be destroy
TheMasterVictory Um... no *hiccup*
Cinemassacre great analysis that was Amazing
Star Wars inspired so many movies, it's one of the most important series in the history of films. Keep these movie reviews going, they've been great.
Favorite it is of mine.
Believe it or not, Legendary film critics Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert did a special in 1983 about the original Star Wars trilogy. Most of James' analysis is similar to Siskel and Ebert's. It's a mixture of old storytelling and then-new special effects. That's what's great about the original trilogy.
Reply
TRY I WILL.
mason salt do or do not
There is no try
Lets watch the masterpiece "The Star Wars holiday Special"
Brilliant analysis, your understanding of film history and the influences of _Star Wars_ are spot on.
Great Video James.
RIP Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds
And Peter Mayhew
Edit: sigh... and now David Prowse.
@@SamuelG2000 and james earl jones
Star Wars stands the test of time because at its base it is a story that has been told a million times. A struggling farm boy with dreams to make something more of his life gathers a ragtag group and fights evil that is much bigger than them and through teamwork and pure will pull it off. Everything is there, we had an old wise magician, a beautiful princess, the gruff but loyal anti hero and his loyal partner and comic relief.
In other words...a hero with a thousand faces ;)
Cyberdemon1542 Exactly!
Star Wars is rooted more in Arthurian mythology than anything else.
@@evertonporter7887,remember Tao ism?
What?
Love these analysis videos from you.
You're not just an angry video game nerd, you're a SMART nerd!
Wow!
Micah Buzan well movies is his true nerd self not the video game side. the man know a scary amount of things about movies.
Shy Guy yeah, I see what you did there. "...scary amount." You. You're good you. (ESPECIALLY horror movies)
Couldn't say it better! Smart Nerd!
Okay I wanna see a cameo of calm smart James in an AVGN review
Wow this was great. I never knew that David Prowse played along side Peter Cushing in previous movies and how much Vader is like Frankenstein's monster at the end of Revenge of the Sith. I always find something new to appreciate about Star Wars
*and bodyguard to wheelchair guy on Clockwork Orange Too!*
Because: Lasers! Sword fights! Space battles! Robots! Adventures! Characters! Excitement!
+George Zhang "Space ships shoot lasers. Boom!"
George Zhang you need to watch cowboy bebop. or you are probably a fan or am I nuts?
Big scary animals, background galore, and men firing light from their hands.
And Incest!
Jar-Jar is the key to all of it.
The Star Wars series has great story lines and many amazing memorable characters.
The original trilogy was fantastic.
this video is basically a simplified updated version of 3 star wars videos he did like 7 years ago that got lost
They're not lost. They're still up on the Cinemassacre site. This is just a condensed version.
brandon henry Yeah that's what I was thinking because he says almost the exact same words and examples in the old one
That was 7 years ago!? fuck me
He's been repeating a lot of things in his videos in recent years, like he can't remember everything he's ever mentioned before.
Rocky, Godzilla, Ghostbusters, TMNT, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Terminator...
2:42 ....Did they also happen to break those boundaries?
oh god
how come this comment only has 10 likes
I would say yes
It just depends
Ayy boundary break man.
My family and I have loved Star Wars since its inception. My mom loves it so much that she watched the making of The Force Awakens 10 times and she didn't stop talking about how much she hated a specific scene in that movie and how much she loves Harrison Ford. If I were to come into my parents living room and Empire Strike Back is on, you will have to wait until its over to to talk to them.
The blue elephant's name is Max Rebo. You're welcome.
Japeth321 "Im not just a blue elephant"
Japeth321 fuck you
Japeth321 have you seen robot chicken Max rebo band?!
Also he officially does not have any arms. Those things he uses to play the piano are his feet.... and yes thats canon
Why thank you
I love Star Wars and this dude. ;)
Same
I have to say, I'm probably one of the biggest Star Wars fans out there. :P
Snickety Dews 🎃
+Bitterdragon even phantom menace?
Me too. :3
I think another major reason for the enduring popularity of the films, not mentioned by James, is the music score by John Williams. From a purely musical standpoint it is likely the greatest score ever written.
The themes are iconic and memorable, but also fully developed just as a Mozart, Beethoven, or Wagner would develop themes for an Opera say. The music from the original films could well endure like the great operatic music of past centuries.
Here's something funny, when I was 4 in the late 2000s, Costco was actually selling the theatrical version of Star Wars episode 4. It also came with the special edition of it but because I was 4, I was confused why they made two versions of the movie. Thing is though, they were on DVD!
"The three films form a continuous story, with a beginning, middle and end"
Something I would not say about the Disney sequels.
Hell, even the prequels managed to pull that off too.
@@wchan39 I always loved the prequels but I do feel that it also could have been a different middle movie about the clone wars would been great. But we now have clone wars so it does not matter
Master Skywalker yea I agree I’d really wish attack of the clones was handled much better. I enjoy the prequels (almost entirely on nostalgia) but I don’t think they are great or even “good” movies by any means. I do think the trilogy would help a lot tho if aotc focused more on anakins relationship with obi wan and fixed up the time it had to make us care about padme. It’s hard to give a shit about a romantic story when your dialogue sounds like it’s being directed by a tone deaf old man. Also if obi wan and anakin showed some tough love instead of constantly nagging and acting like a divorced couple the whole move it wouldn’t feel so weird when they are like best friends in revenge of the sith.
Does the sequel trilogy even have a story?
wchan39 The Phantom Menace isn’t really necessary. I would’ve preferred Episode 1 to be Attack of the clones and introduce Anakin with episode II being the clones wars and episode III the same with revenge of the sith
You can tell how genuinely passionate and knowledgeable he is about this stuff. Really gives you a new appreciation for all of it.
I think it should be noted that George Lucas was heavily influenced by Joseph Campbell's book The Hero with a Thousand Faces, which is all about the monomyth. That all good myths follow a very specific formula that makes all myths basically the same story with different sets and characters, but same places (ordinary home and extraordinary destination) and same archetypes (hero, mentor,...).
Growing up with Star wars is the the best thing.
Star Wars has always had a meaningful commentary on human nature without coming off preachy while keeping it relevant to the plot.
The influences from various religions, mythologies cultural ideologies and just other movies give Star Wars such a vast perspective that speaks to people regardless of gender or cultural differences
Star Wars is a a melting pot of perspectives and gives us a smart and accurate look into the human condition with a futuristic coating surrounding it
hghh Suck on THAT, Star Trek!
Marco Polo Just cuz they were badly executed films doesnt mean that there arent interesting concepts in it.
Original trilogy was a fun watch but ideologically and thematically very traditional/orthodox.
Prequels seeked to delve into the greyer areas more but had a hard time conveying it because they didnt handle their characters properly
Well said, thumbs up sir!
hghh fuck you
Rian Johnson didn’t read that before making LJ
You should've talked more about the music!
Yes, the music is a huge part of it.
The music is awsome
We owe a lot to John Williams.
DarthMohammed I actually prefer the score for the director's cut, which was by Jerry Goldsmith. The Tangerine Dream score of the theatrical cut was a nightmare.
@The Zaius I don't agree at all. The Tangerine Dream soundtrack totally fits the mood of that movie better in my opinion, and it seems most of that movies fans agree.
Can I just point out, the Cinemassacre logo is a work of mild genius?
Well said. That Blue Elephant is Max Rebo!
You don't get out much, do you?
Max Rebo is my favorite Star Wars Action Figure.
Don't feel bad, rebo is probably my second favorite, next to solacious crumb.
Did yall know the type of music they play is called Jizz?
KappaBara Got his original figure on my desk, he's a legend.
Can I just say that I felt very relived watching this? Like James, I thought I grew out of star wars for a while, yesterday I was watching a bunch of star wars videos (mainly from Nostalgia critic and Cinemasins) to try and figure out its appeal. Then this video shows up on my sub box which was EXACTLY what I was looking for! The reliving bit was that even James felt he grew out of Star Wars too, until he went back and gave it a fair chance.
Thanks man! This video was GREAT and I'd love to see more about other movies in the future! :D
My favorite part about these movies are the effects. The wide range from stop motion, puppeteering, digital effects, practical creatures etc. Fantastic original trilogy.
I LOVE STAR WARS!!! EVEN THE PREQUELS!!!
I like the prequels a lot more than the originals. Every movie in the original and prequel trilogies was better than the one preceding it. I haven't seen Force Awakens yet, but I suspect it'll break the pattern.
theuncalledfor
The Force Awakens is awesome. It's worth a watch
Plex Winger
Oh, I'm definitely going to watch it sometime. And having low expectations means I'm less disappointed if I think it sucks, and get to be positively surprised if I like it.
theuncalledfor
I went to see it in the theaters back in December 16 2015. And it was AMAZING! The Force Awakens is my third favorite Star Wars movie. Right behind A New Hope and Empire Strikes Back
Plex Winger
Well, seeing as those are my _least_ favourite Star Wars movies, it seems we're looking for different things in movies. I'll still give it a try, of course, though.
I'm really surprised you didn't touch on how Joseph Campbell's concept of the "Heroes Journey" influenced Lucas incredibly for writing the screenplay. It was directly cited by Lucas as something that identified themes of an epic journey that would be seen as universally familiar across cultures. Hell, even reprints of the book that the idea came from have a big ass picture of Luke Skywalker on the cover.
Can’t even lie James, I been dealing with much mental strain and existential boredom, but your videos keep me going. Thank u so much. Love the new content too
Damn James, this is on point.. Never would've seen these similarities/inspirations with Star Wars and other movies.. Awesome work
Beautifully put! The 6 Star Wars films are amazing and Lucas is a genius
Tareltonlives 6? I remember only 4 good star wars movies😂
+SuperSpamGuy I'm so sorry, a degrading memory can be a serious condition. :P
Cykoru 7 was a remaken of 4....
7 doesn't count
+Cykoru Episode 1 sucked the most. Not just me who thinks that. Most people's opinion is that episode 1 was the worst Star Wars film. The Star Wars Holiday Special doesn't count.
A James video and it's not Monday yet, hooray
You forgot to mention how Jabba the Hut was a hodgepodge homage to Marlon Brando, Dom Delouise, and Rosie O’Donnell
why the fuck is he posting this late at night on thursday, why am i up late at night on a thursday.
billy andrews cocaine is a helluva drug?
+hrbie84 I'm high on coke right now, James is very entertaining when you're high as fuck.
Have you ever edited videos? It can take a very long time and you can be up late at night.
Obi Wan Cannoli ...I can use a bump...😞
billy andrews Good question
wow. one of your best videos yet James and Mike!! touche brothers! that was some expert analysis and made me think about these movies in terms I never had thought of before and likely wouldve never crossed my mind has you two not pointed them out. thanks for the entertainment and here's to many more decades of excellence from Cinemassacre!!
Who here is a STAR WARS fan, in which you enjoy all of the star wars productions, including the prequels, I'm sick of people nitpicking on the things I love. To me star wars is star wars and I wouldn't change anything about it.
I'm a huge star Wars fan... But I only support Star Wars I-VI... that is THE END! :D
***** I don't think so,maybe you should watch them again, make sure it's the 2012 remaster, if they made another prequel remaster that would be awesome.
Amen to that.
Nelson Guerrero funny you reply, at this moment in watching episode 2
One of the greatest analysis videos I've ever seen about the Star Wars Franchise
No matter how many Star Wars films Disney wants to make, the Original Star Wars Trilogy will the still remain the definitive saga for generations to come.
*Mickey Mouse game*
What a thesis that was. James, you know your stuff and present it incredibly. Well done!
James, you've got the point at every detail. Well said >.>
This was done SO well! GREAT watch!!!!
I have From Star Wars to Jedi on VHS. Oh, and the blue elephant's name is Max Rebo.
Nathaniel Larkin treasure it if the original unedited versions.
Jozhster I was talking about the special effects documentary. 😂 But, yeah I also have the original trilogy on VHS.
*1997 Editions with glorious surround sound folks!*
One thing that, as a kid, made a big impression on me was the sci-fi technology portrayed in the movies. The speeder bikes, the 2-legged walker mechs (sort of how I imagined a Metal Gear would work, actually...), even the lightsabers; growing up in the 80's, kids had the whole notion of "the future" constantly rammed down our throats...so much so, that many of us came to believe that someday, we'd have such wonders in the real world.
...Yeah, we're still waiting.
A very nice and succinct way to explain the popularity behind the franchise :)
Now I better understand why even though I had never seen any of the Star Wars movies before in complete, I was able to predict the plot of Episode 7 so easily.
This video makes me love Star Wars on a completely new level, I keep coming back to watch your take every once in a while. Excellent work!
Great video and explanation. Very well laid out and entertaining.
I love your movie franchise breakdown videos. Please continue to do them when you find time. They are always so amazing to view for those of us that love film but never went so far into studying it.
4:30 Thats exactly what Spielberg did with the adventure serials and the Indiana Jones films.
Fantastic analysis. You effortlessly display your in-depth understanding and comprehension of the medium here James. Bravo
" Star Wars - A New Hope " 1977 / Rated PG / 125 Mins. / A
" Star Wars - The Empire Strikes Back " 1980 / Rated PG / 127 Mins. / A +
" Star Wars - Return of the Jedi " 1983 / Rated PG / 135 Mins. / A -
There's an excellent documentary/analysis out there that I can't remember the name of, but it draws comparisons and parallels between the Star Wars franchise and biblical and just plain old historical tales.
Star Wars really is a culmination of all these previous ideas into one. Inspired by biblical stories, fantasies, history, previous films, television, and so much more. It's really interesting how it all comes together.
George Lucas may not have even realized he was drawing from sources outside of film and television, like the Bible or fantasy tales. Some of those things are just subconsciously intertwined within us, because we've heard these stories so many times, told in different ways...
Keep up the great work! Love your videos!
You said it in the beginning: You were just at an age to somehow get whats going on, and that's how I experienced EP1 (and somewhat EP2). Thats why I think they are not as terrible as everyone makes them out to be, I connect childhood to them. I was absolutely amazed about that Droid-Army, Underwater City, especially the awesooooome Podrace.
The only terrible that the prequel has, is that Lucas, being the one with the original plot's idea, totally screwed how Anakin's downfall came to be. It contradicts several points in the original trilogy, and although in some way he made the connection between episodes 3 and 4, the plot could have been way better.
The elements of storytelling, music, picture, inventing new worlds, species and vehicles, were totally spot on, unlike what we have now...
Goran, not from a certain point of view....
Anakin’s past is only referred to a few times in the original trilogy, and without much specificity. Although the prequels are far from perfect, I am still generally impressed and accepting of the Anakin prequel arc, especially as to how it used his mother and Padme as the hinges around which his force allegiance pivoted.
@@Keithustus the downfall was very clear, Palpatine manipulated his visions of Padmé dying when giving birth. Other past is irrelevant to that point, and I was referring about that. It wasn't necessary to use the "look how naive he was, that means he's not really bad" argument. He could've been ambitious, and yet being redeemed by his son. But everything's done now, no matter to dwell in the past.
Goran....did you post that into the correct comment thread? I didn’t see anyone making an argument about him being naive. My only point is that Anakin in episodes 2 and 3 is a gradual downfall based on his higher emotionality than what the Jedi council wants. His false visions from Palpatine are far from the whole story.
probably the best review of any movie or franchise i have ever seen!
Great work James!!!!
"It's so dense, every single frame has so many things going on." Wait, I have been pronouncing it soh-guh this entire time. Is sah-guh the correct way to say it?
ziljin
It's because he's from Jersey. That's how people around and in NY speak
ziljin listen to how he speaks in general. I'm Californian and I speak noticeably different
Yeah, they also say stuff like "hahrrible (horrible), farrest (forest), and ahringe (orange). They're strange folk.
Pahk the cah in the yahd.
Nah, I lawst the cah in the hahrribly-ahringe fahrest.
Great video. Being a big fan of Star Wars, I wasn't sure if this video would give me anything new but it did. Thanks James.
Excellent analysis, I agree 100%. Nothing more to say, thank you.
I was 6 when Ep IV came out. It literally changed my life to be a life long geek. We all wanted to be Han Solo. Making snow forts in the winter and pretending we're fighting the Empire. Using our toys and making our OWN saga in the Star Wars galaxy. It was awesome.
HOLY SHIT! I NEVER thought of the OZ connection! WOW!
The fact George Lucas could create such a absolutely perfect story for the original trilogy still amazes me
Great description, James. Very well done.
I will circlejerk Revenge of the Sith until I die, that movie is one of those movies that ends up being better than the sum of its parts IMO. I will also circlejerk my dislike for the Force Awakens a lot, it felt very bare bones to me and devoid of anything that would stimulate my brain outside of "OOH that character" and "OOH that reference" and "OOH pretty colors".
Btw its nice to see somebody reference the prequels without feeling the need to insult them for no other reason than to insult them. Good job James.
Really enjoy your articulation of the ideas and notions that have held the star wars fan base together for the past 40 years. Thanks for the video.
"That blue elephant."
Please Max Rebo give him mercy for he knows not what he does.
I love these videos! It's like taking a college course on film, and James is the professor. After watching this I'm craving to watch Star Wars all over again!
I feel that also star wars is to sci-fi as middle Earth his to fantasy
@@GameyRaccoon It's space fantasy.
I really like these new videos, James. Thanks for taking the time to make them.
I'll watch anything where James talks about movies. It's really entertaining to watch him talk about a subject he's passionate about instead of trying to keep AVGN going. Here's hoping that these film reviews/retrospectives become more of a focus now that Monster Madness is over.
This is an excellent summation. Well done!
Damn seeing that VHS set brings back memories I had that exact box set
Me too.
I still have mine... somewhere.
James, one of the best reviews I've seen about SW. I was lucky enough to see it in 1977, and I & my best friend saw it at least 20+ times back then, every week. When something grabs you that hard, it has to be good.
gotta love those Kurosawa films
James talking about movies is like Attenborough talking about nature
Everyone that likes Star Wars, do yourself a favor and watch the "Despecialized Editions".
one hundred percent agree with this. Harmy's Despecialized Editions are far and away the best version to watch.
I own the theatrical cuts on DVD, so I'm already set.
I just prefer the Special Editions myself. Really, except for the Jabba scene (which is redundant and contradicts the Greedo scene), I consider them improvements
Turrican4D They are ultra rare though. Great collectors items, along with being the only time the theatrical cuts were released on disk officially.
GZilla2010 Yeah but they are shitty looking laserdisc scans tacked on as a bonus feature afterthought lol and the aspect ratios are all whacked out...
Yep. As a hardcore Star Wars fan since 1994 (and long before that in childhood)...and being the exact same age...James summed it up perfectly. There is nothing in this video I didnt already know, but it's gratifying to hear him echo my own thoughts, and to realize that Star Wars really is Every Story Rolled Into One.
I wanna see James make a video on The Mandelorian.
I always feel bad for not enjoying these movies as much as everybody else and I love science fiction. I watched them as a kid and I never felt any reason to watch them again on my own. I've seen them many more times since then with friends and all, but they never stuck with me.
Star Wars is the greatest story ever told.
Awesome awesome awesome video from the most awesome man. Great video and thanks for making it! Love all the respect and appreciation for the entire saga.
Man you fucking nailed it, great vid mate.
Jame's StarWars reviews on youtube are what lead me to cinnemassecre 7 years ago. It's good to see it come full circle.
This is just the Star Wars Review Part 1 on his website again. It's literally almost word for word.
+knight147fighte exactly what I'm saying lol
knight147fighte it's the special edition; complete with digitally enhanced ads!
It's stylistically designed to be that way.
Samuel Terry We can diminish the effects of it
You need to do more of these movie-related videos. They are so enjoyable.
He already said all this stuff in his reviews of the original films. Same with his Rocky reviews: same exact points as before.
He's probably trying to create UA-cam versions of those videos, but changing them to not be the same exact thing, and honestly I like hearing James talk so I don't really care.
The Rocky video wasn't the same as before.
More of these James! Love your opinions and presence on screen
Hey Mike...the blue elephant is called Max Rebo! He's the leader of the band in Jabba's Palace
actually he is James...
A little lapsus :P
And the guy with the tentacle wrapped around his head is Bib Fortuna...
Not anymore :(
well thought out James and definitely well said. You really made me look at star wars a whole new way. I had no idea there were so many references within star wars.
Dune influenced Star Wars very much too
InterHalfer not as much as Buck Rogers
You guys won't even bring up star trek. I guess I am truly forever alone
Star Trek HQ because it wasnt an influence in star wars like the others. mike and James talk about trek all the time. if you think trek and wars are similar, you're not the trek fan you think you are.
Fair point. But what my point was that the practical effects of star trek influenced the original effects of a new hope (one example would be how they made the millennium falcon effects) In no way is the plot or feel of the movie the same.
Dune was influenced by Darkover very much too
Fantastic video James. Star wars is my favourite film series of all time, and you really nailed all the point about what makes it so great. :)
Great thoughts and analysis on SW friend!, would really like it if you ever do a Lord of the Rings one.
I love Star Wars.
When I went to see episode VII, i felt excitement that I hadn't felt with the prequels.
This was my 6 year old me, finally getting the sequel of what happened to his favorite characters since he was young.
That's why I love Star Wars, not other franchise has given me that feeling.
James Rolfe is a genius!... I think he wants to be remembered for these reviews (which are awesome!) rather than his AVGN character!
I'm pretty sure he'd be okay with either or both.
The old saying, “I can’t quite put my finger on it” applies to why I love Star Wars. You my friend, were able to put your finger on why I enjoy these movies so much after watching this video. Tip of the hat.
To the people who brag that they never seen Star Wars...
nobody is impressed.
Seriously, nobody cares that you went out of your way to not see Star Wars.
This was incredibly well done! Loved it!
When my dad saw this he didn’t speak English so he didn’t know what was going on and he though it was all in real life.
Chris: "You want me to play a Count?"
George: "A Count with a red lazer sword"
Chris: "... very well"
You said it perfectly at 2:18, the original trilogy is a very satisfying story arch, there was no need to expand on that.
James, that was a great episode! Thanks!