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A LONG TIME AGO at a movie theater not so far away, I stood in line for 1 1/2 hours to see my first showing of Star Wars - a procedure I repeated more times than I care to admit. While the critics were merely luke warm, my sisters and I were completely enamored with the film and the handsome Mark Hamill. Becoming a runaway success, the epic spawned sequels and prequels in every star system. With another due next month, there's no time like the present to brush up on Stars Wars history.

In a galaxy-wide civil war, rebel spies from the Republic have stolen the blueprints to the wicked Galactic Empire's new Death Star -- a weapon of terrible, destructive power. Before dissident Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) is captured, she is able to store the plans in a droid and jettison it to a nearby desert planet. The perky robot is salvaged by the sandy inhabitants, sold to Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), and eventually finds its way to a former warrior, Obi-Wan Kenobi (Sir Alec Guinness).

Unfortunately Luke's aunt and uncle fall victim to the Empire's search for the missing piece of hardware. When the young man discovers their smoking skeletal remains (that some may find disturbing), all ties to his dusty world are broken. Free now to join Obi-Wan Kenobi, the new recruit determines to learn the ways of the Force (an ancient order) and battle the Empire.

In 1997, to celebrate the timeless adventure's 20th anniversary, writer/director George Lucas put more icing on his cake by re-releasing his masterpiece. No longer limited by cash or technology, the enhanced version is loaded with new special effects, without sacrificing any of its original charm (but it can only be seen on VHS). The Special Edition also includes interviews with the film's makers and actors.

Star Wars breathed life into the science fiction genre and imbedded itself in popular culture. Although some fighting scenes may be considered too violent for youngsters, this classic good versus evil tale remains a family favorite. Thank you Mr. Lucas for sharing your wonderful imagination and talent.

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Star Wars Trilogy - Episodes IV, V, and VI on VHS			Episode IV on VHS

Talk about the movie with your family...

Luke describes the Rebellion as being too far away to do anything about, even if he cared to. Does that reflect our attitude concerning many of today's world events? What could we do to become more proactive?

During a training exercise, Luke wears a visor that covers his eyes, forcing him to rely upon his other senses to perceive his situation. How does this help him to "see" more clearly? Could eliminating distractions be applied to the decision making process in your life? Do you believe there is a greater "force" you can learn to listen to?

Video alternatives...

We have also reviewed Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999). Looking for other space epics from the same era? Try Close Encounters Of The Third Kind or E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. If you'd rather embark on a real space adventure, check out The IMAX Space Collection.

Melanie Law

© 2002 One Voice Communications. All Rights Reserved.

Follow the link to Making The Grades for additional information on this film's content.