Hollywood’s next bidding war is about to erupt. “Eruption,” the much-discussed upcoming volcano disaster novel from the late Michael Crichton and James Patterson, is about to be brought to auction, attracting a large group of suitors keen on landing the sought-after film rights.
The auction, being conducted by Shane Salerno at the Story Factory and CAA, will begin within the next two weeks, and could kick off as early as next week, Variety can exclusively reveal.
The project has drawn interest from most major studios, streamers and networks, as well as high-profile directors who have shared that they’d leap at the chance to helm a Crichton project. Projects created by the author or adapted from his work include the “Jurassic Park” franchise, “Twister” and “Westworld.” Crichton was also the creator of “ER,” which Variety is told brought in over $3.2 billion for Warner Bros.
Several A-list actors have reached out regarding the novel,...
The auction, being conducted by Shane Salerno at the Story Factory and CAA, will begin within the next two weeks, and could kick off as early as next week, Variety can exclusively reveal.
The project has drawn interest from most major studios, streamers and networks, as well as high-profile directors who have shared that they’d leap at the chance to helm a Crichton project. Projects created by the author or adapted from his work include the “Jurassic Park” franchise, “Twister” and “Westworld.” Crichton was also the creator of “ER,” which Variety is told brought in over $3.2 billion for Warner Bros.
Several A-list actors have reached out regarding the novel,...
- 5/4/2024
- by Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
by Cláudio Alves
As the 77th Cannes Film Festival approaches, more news emerges from Thierry Frémaux's office. The latest story concerns the Honorary Palme d'Or. While a rare plaudit in its genesis, the award has become a mainstay of the most recent festivals, with each edition involving multiple winners. Still, the number of trophies usually stops at two per year. Not so in 2024, when Cannes will give three Honorary Palmes d'Or. The first winner announced was George Lucas, who'll be 80 this month, and then came Studio Ghibli as the first awarded collective. Finally, we have Meryl Streep, who'll be a guest of honor at the Opening Ceremony and receive one of the highest honors in the film world…...
As the 77th Cannes Film Festival approaches, more news emerges from Thierry Frémaux's office. The latest story concerns the Honorary Palme d'Or. While a rare plaudit in its genesis, the award has become a mainstay of the most recent festivals, with each edition involving multiple winners. Still, the number of trophies usually stops at two per year. Not so in 2024, when Cannes will give three Honorary Palmes d'Or. The first winner announced was George Lucas, who'll be 80 this month, and then came Studio Ghibli as the first awarded collective. Finally, we have Meryl Streep, who'll be a guest of honor at the Opening Ceremony and receive one of the highest honors in the film world…...
- 5/4/2024
- by Cláudio Alves
- FilmExperience
It's not surprising that many successful people have been inspired by the media they consumed in their youth. Behind every musician, there is surely an artist or band that shaped their taste in music. Behind every actor or director, there's a movie they couldn't stop watching as a kid.
And behind every successful scientist and businessman planning one intergalactic mission after another, there is a sci-fi franchise that captured their imagination and inspired them to explore space. Whether you share Elon Musk's views or not, it's curious to find out what that franchise meant to him.
What’s Elon Musk’s Favorite Movie?
While some people will find this answer quite simple, others would call it the classic. Star Wars, which was later retitled Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope, is the movie that many refer to as 'the original'. For many fans, it was their first...
And behind every successful scientist and businessman planning one intergalactic mission after another, there is a sci-fi franchise that captured their imagination and inspired them to explore space. Whether you share Elon Musk's views or not, it's curious to find out what that franchise meant to him.
What’s Elon Musk’s Favorite Movie?
While some people will find this answer quite simple, others would call it the classic. Star Wars, which was later retitled Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope, is the movie that many refer to as 'the original'. For many fans, it was their first...
- 5/3/2024
- by virginia-singh@startefacts.com (Virginia Singh)
- STartefacts.com
This year’s Star Wars day, aka May 4, 2024, marks the eve of The Phantom Menace‘s 25th anniversary. To celebrate the occasion, the film has also been re-released in select theaters. However, when the film was originally released back in 1999, it generated polarizing reactions among the fanbase, with many disliking the film for its characters, performances, and dialog.
The Phantom Menace will complete 25 years in 2024.
In an interview following the film’s release, director George Lucas spoke about the divisive reaction towards The Phantom Menace. Lucas gave an extremely blunt and stone-cold response when asked about fans disliking certain elements of the movie and throwing hate at it. Here is what Lucas had to say about the initial criticism aimed at The Phantom Menace.
George Lucas Hit Back At Haters Of The Phantom Menace With a Blunt Response
The Phantom Menace was released in theaters on May 19, 1999, and marked the...
The Phantom Menace will complete 25 years in 2024.
In an interview following the film’s release, director George Lucas spoke about the divisive reaction towards The Phantom Menace. Lucas gave an extremely blunt and stone-cold response when asked about fans disliking certain elements of the movie and throwing hate at it. Here is what Lucas had to say about the initial criticism aimed at The Phantom Menace.
George Lucas Hit Back At Haters Of The Phantom Menace With a Blunt Response
The Phantom Menace was released in theaters on May 19, 1999, and marked the...
- 5/3/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
You can watch all these movies on Prime Video.
10. The Shape of Things to Come (1979)
The Earth is uninhabitable and now, humanity lives on the Moon under domes. Things aren’t looking too bad until a madman known as the “robot master” declares he’ll destroy the remains of the civilization — and what do you know? Only three people and a robot can stop him and prevent the tragedy! Sounds familiar?
9. Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone (1983)
Spacehunter doesn’t directly borrow from Star Wars — except for its characters and locations, of course. In this movie, three women get stranded on an Earth-like planet, but there’s an issue: the planet is effectively ruled over by a mutant warlord, and now two bounty hunters race to save the women from his clutches before it’s too late.
8. The Humanoid (1979)
Planet Metropolis is ruled by a good-natured man. This would have...
10. The Shape of Things to Come (1979)
The Earth is uninhabitable and now, humanity lives on the Moon under domes. Things aren’t looking too bad until a madman known as the “robot master” declares he’ll destroy the remains of the civilization — and what do you know? Only three people and a robot can stop him and prevent the tragedy! Sounds familiar?
9. Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone (1983)
Spacehunter doesn’t directly borrow from Star Wars — except for its characters and locations, of course. In this movie, three women get stranded on an Earth-like planet, but there’s an issue: the planet is effectively ruled over by a mutant warlord, and now two bounty hunters race to save the women from his clutches before it’s too late.
8. The Humanoid (1979)
Planet Metropolis is ruled by a good-natured man. This would have...
- 5/3/2024
- by dean-black@startefacts.com (Dean Black)
- STartefacts.com
George Lucas, the rebel and the legend, created a living legacy in his lifetime with the Star Wars franchise that represents more human emotions than the species in itself. With each film representing one human emotion – from retribution to love – the franchise soon spawned into a global conglomerate, impossible to be controlled by any one man or be limited to his vision only.
George Lucas [Photo: Joey Gannon/Wikimedia Commons]But the resulting product was a marvel of creation and Star Wars was right to be recognized as such. The space saga that began with Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, and Han Solo, stretched into half a century’s worth of narrative arc with fans who still revisit the idiosyncratic characters and expansive tales that first originated from the imagination of George Lucas.
Star Wars Breeds Criticism After Breaking the Status Quo
The universe that holds the creations of George Lucas captive is indeed a blessed one.
George Lucas [Photo: Joey Gannon/Wikimedia Commons]But the resulting product was a marvel of creation and Star Wars was right to be recognized as such. The space saga that began with Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, and Han Solo, stretched into half a century’s worth of narrative arc with fans who still revisit the idiosyncratic characters and expansive tales that first originated from the imagination of George Lucas.
Star Wars Breeds Criticism After Breaking the Status Quo
The universe that holds the creations of George Lucas captive is indeed a blessed one.
- 5/3/2024
- by Diya Majumdar
- FandomWire
Did Barriss Offee Survive Order 66? How She's Alive in Tales of the Empire - Main Image
Did Barriss Offee Survive Order 66? This is one of the questions that fans have been wondering ever since it was revealed that the character is set to return in Star Wars: Tales of the Empire.
Following her last appearance in The Clone Wars, the character has not resurfaced again in any of the Star Wars series and fans will now finally be able to find out her next chapter.
Let's explore the character's journey below.
Also Read: Clone Wars Arcs You Must Watch before Star Wars: Tales of the Empire
Did Barriss Offee Survive Order 66?
While Barriss Offee perished during Order 66 in the Star Wars Legends canon, the character did survive the events in the official canon.
George Lucas was planning to include the character during the Order 66 sequence in Revenge of the Sith,...
Did Barriss Offee Survive Order 66? This is one of the questions that fans have been wondering ever since it was revealed that the character is set to return in Star Wars: Tales of the Empire.
Following her last appearance in The Clone Wars, the character has not resurfaced again in any of the Star Wars series and fans will now finally be able to find out her next chapter.
Let's explore the character's journey below.
Also Read: Clone Wars Arcs You Must Watch before Star Wars: Tales of the Empire
Did Barriss Offee Survive Order 66?
While Barriss Offee perished during Order 66 in the Star Wars Legends canon, the character did survive the events in the official canon.
George Lucas was planning to include the character during the Order 66 sequence in Revenge of the Sith,...
- 5/3/2024
- EpicStream
The Empire Strikes remains one of the most iconic films of all time, while many regard it as the best entry in the Star Wars franchise created by George Lucas. With Star Wars day around the corner, fans must be looking to revisit The Empire Strikes, known for its ground-breaking visuals, including one scene where Mark Hamill’s Luke Skywalker faces a deadly creature, Wampa.
Concept art for the Wampa from The Empire Strikes (Image via StarWars.com)
However, filming the Wampa scene was not as straightforward as it seems, because the creature was created practically without the use of CGI. Nonetheless, the original plan of action did not work, forcing the team to improvise and devise an inventive solution. Here is how the Wampa scene in The Empire Strikes was originally intended to be shot and why Lucas replaced it for the special edition.
Mark Hamill’s Wampa Scene...
Concept art for the Wampa from The Empire Strikes (Image via StarWars.com)
However, filming the Wampa scene was not as straightforward as it seems, because the creature was created practically without the use of CGI. Nonetheless, the original plan of action did not work, forcing the team to improvise and devise an inventive solution. Here is how the Wampa scene in The Empire Strikes was originally intended to be shot and why Lucas replaced it for the special edition.
Mark Hamill’s Wampa Scene...
- 5/3/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
Brian Blessed speaks – well, booms – to Empire about the formidable Gungan leader.
“It took your bloody head off!” bellows Brian Blessed down the phone line, as only he can. The legendarily bushy-bearded 87-year-old actor is recounting for Empire the first time he saw Star Wars: in 1977, having been made aware of the film from a “great big billboard at Snow Hill railway station in Birmingham”, Blessed sallied forth to the first cinema he could find. An avowed science-fiction nerd and keen space enthusiast — “I am actually a fully trained astronaut”, he notes several times during our conversation — he found himself transfixed. “Here was something totally, completely original. It was by far the finest science-fiction film I’d ever seen.”
Blessed hoped to be cast in the original trilogy, but suspects his iconic role in the similarly space- operatic Flash Gordon in 1980 may have gotten in the way. It wasn’t until the late ’90s,...
“It took your bloody head off!” bellows Brian Blessed down the phone line, as only he can. The legendarily bushy-bearded 87-year-old actor is recounting for Empire the first time he saw Star Wars: in 1977, having been made aware of the film from a “great big billboard at Snow Hill railway station in Birmingham”, Blessed sallied forth to the first cinema he could find. An avowed science-fiction nerd and keen space enthusiast — “I am actually a fully trained astronaut”, he notes several times during our conversation — he found himself transfixed. “Here was something totally, completely original. It was by far the finest science-fiction film I’d ever seen.”
Blessed hoped to be cast in the original trilogy, but suspects his iconic role in the similarly space- operatic Flash Gordon in 1980 may have gotten in the way. It wasn’t until the late ’90s,...
- 5/3/2024
- by John Nugent
- Empire - Movies
Top 5 Lightsaber Duels in Star Wars History - Main Image
The lightsaber, a weapon like no other, is a key element in the unique and captivating duels of Star Wars. These are not just battles with futuristic laser swords, but epic confrontations that evoke a range of emotions, from cheering to tears, and often warrant a rewind for an instant replay.
From fiery lava to being thrown from a cliff, any fan would know that it will be intense and graceful simultaneously once lightsabers are involved.
Check out our top 5 lightsaber duels from the Star Wars franchise.
5. Rey vs Kylo Ren on Kef Bir (The Rise of Skywalker)
This was a tense and emotionally charged lightsaber duel between Rey and Kylo Ren on the remnants of the second fallen Death Star during The Rise of Skywalker. The backdrop of the crashing waves and crumbling wreckage sets the stage for an epic confrontation.
The lightsaber, a weapon like no other, is a key element in the unique and captivating duels of Star Wars. These are not just battles with futuristic laser swords, but epic confrontations that evoke a range of emotions, from cheering to tears, and often warrant a rewind for an instant replay.
From fiery lava to being thrown from a cliff, any fan would know that it will be intense and graceful simultaneously once lightsabers are involved.
Check out our top 5 lightsaber duels from the Star Wars franchise.
5. Rey vs Kylo Ren on Kef Bir (The Rise of Skywalker)
This was a tense and emotionally charged lightsaber duel between Rey and Kylo Ren on the remnants of the second fallen Death Star during The Rise of Skywalker. The backdrop of the crashing waves and crumbling wreckage sets the stage for an epic confrontation.
- 5/3/2024
- EpicStream
The much-derided film returns to cinemas for its 25th anniversary. Once a rare blot on the galactic landscape, these days it’s far from the only stinker in the canon
Can it really be that there are Star Wars fans who see George Lucas’s Episode I – The Phantom Menace, once considered the emblem of everything that went wrong with the long-running space saga, as a bona fide classic ripe for rehabilitation 25 years on? As the much-derided 1999 film returns to cinemas this weekend, there are rumblings in the ether that millennials, and perhaps those even younger, are completely unaware of just how much of a disaster it was. Then again, perhaps those of us who remember its debut in cinemas should be prepared to listen to voices from a new generation. Was it really so bad after all?
Part of the problem is that where it was once a rare blot on the galactic landscape,...
Can it really be that there are Star Wars fans who see George Lucas’s Episode I – The Phantom Menace, once considered the emblem of everything that went wrong with the long-running space saga, as a bona fide classic ripe for rehabilitation 25 years on? As the much-derided 1999 film returns to cinemas this weekend, there are rumblings in the ether that millennials, and perhaps those even younger, are completely unaware of just how much of a disaster it was. Then again, perhaps those of us who remember its debut in cinemas should be prepared to listen to voices from a new generation. Was it really so bad after all?
Part of the problem is that where it was once a rare blot on the galactic landscape,...
- 5/3/2024
- by Ben Child
- The Guardian - Film News
It’s no secret that the most famous character of Steven Spielberg movies is, undoubtedly, Dr. Henry Walton Jones, more known as Indiana Jones. The witty and inventive nature of the fictional professor of archaeology was well-demonstrated by Harrison Ford, who portrayed the iconic hero in all of the franchise's movies.
However, almost nobody knows that this character, written by the Star Wars father and Spielberg’s close friend, George Lucas, took a lot from a little-known action hero from the 1964 French-Italian movie, giving a lot of inspiration to filmmakers.
It starts by presenting the determined Adrien (played by Jean-Paul Belmondo), who embarks on a trip with his fiancée Agnès (Françoise Dorléac), the archaeologist’s daughter, who knows the location of the stolen Amazonian statuette of great value.
This knowledge becomes the reason why Agnès gets kidnapped, and it forces Adrien to do his best not only to save her,...
However, almost nobody knows that this character, written by the Star Wars father and Spielberg’s close friend, George Lucas, took a lot from a little-known action hero from the 1964 French-Italian movie, giving a lot of inspiration to filmmakers.
It starts by presenting the determined Adrien (played by Jean-Paul Belmondo), who embarks on a trip with his fiancée Agnès (Françoise Dorléac), the archaeologist’s daughter, who knows the location of the stolen Amazonian statuette of great value.
This knowledge becomes the reason why Agnès gets kidnapped, and it forces Adrien to do his best not only to save her,...
- 5/2/2024
- by info@startefacts.com (Ava Raxa)
- STartefacts.com
Charlie Hunnam partially owes his prominence to some big sci-fi projects like Guillermo del Toro’s Pacific Rim or Netflix’s recent hit Rebel Moon directed by Zack Snyder, but it turns out that years ago he could’ve landed another iconic sci-fi role — and missed it out in the nick of time.
In his recent interview with Variety the actor revealed that back in the 2000s he was one of the finalists for the role of Anakin Skywalker in George Lucas’s epic space opera franchise Star Wars.
Hunnam had quite strong competitors as Lucas was aware of the significance of Anakin’s role in the movies and thus wanted to give it to someone who already proved himself in Hollywood.
In that case in particular, Charlie Hunnam had to beat Hollywood's main rising stars like Leonardo DiCaprio, Paul Walker, Ryan Philippe and many others to become an important...
In his recent interview with Variety the actor revealed that back in the 2000s he was one of the finalists for the role of Anakin Skywalker in George Lucas’s epic space opera franchise Star Wars.
Hunnam had quite strong competitors as Lucas was aware of the significance of Anakin’s role in the movies and thus wanted to give it to someone who already proved himself in Hollywood.
In that case in particular, Charlie Hunnam had to beat Hollywood's main rising stars like Leonardo DiCaprio, Paul Walker, Ryan Philippe and many others to become an important...
- 5/2/2024
- by benjamin-patel@startefacts.com (Benjamin Patel)
- STartefacts.com
Star Wars is a franchise that has been entertaining audiences since the late 1970s. Created by George Lucas, the first movie, Episode IV: A New Hope starring Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford in the lead, went on to gain massive success. The sci-fi genre found a new home in a galaxy far, far away, and fans clamored to their nearest theatres to enjoy an experience like never before.
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope
After the original trilogy, which ran from 1977 to 1983, Lucas came back with the prequel trilogy, which he wrote and directed himself after a 22-year hiatus.
It started with Episode I: The Phantom Menace, which came out in 1999, but this time with a different set of actors. Although the idea for the prequel trilogy had already formed in the creator’s mind before the trilogy was even released, he only revived it after the...
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope
After the original trilogy, which ran from 1977 to 1983, Lucas came back with the prequel trilogy, which he wrote and directed himself after a 22-year hiatus.
It started with Episode I: The Phantom Menace, which came out in 1999, but this time with a different set of actors. Although the idea for the prequel trilogy had already formed in the creator’s mind before the trilogy was even released, he only revived it after the...
- 5/2/2024
- by Swagata Das
- FandomWire
Even before Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace made its way to the theatre, Newsweek published an article bashing the film, whose criticisms were based on the trailer’s upbeat tone and rumors. Moreover, the piece also took shots at Jake Lloyd, who was 9 at the time, following the rumors surrounding his portrayal of young Anakin Skywalker.
Furious by the article, which targeted Lloyd without even seeing the film, The Da Vinci Code director Ron Howard wrote a letter in support of the child actor to the outlet.
Ron Howard Was Furious by the Scathing Piece Taking Jabs at Jake Lloyd
Ron Howard bashed the article, which targeted Jake Lloyd | Credit: Wikimedia Commons
In the section “The Kid Can’t Act”, the piece took shots at Jake Lloyd, stating that he’s “Mannequin Skywalker”. Furthermore, the criticisms regarding the Jingle All the Way star’s acting chops in...
Furious by the article, which targeted Lloyd without even seeing the film, The Da Vinci Code director Ron Howard wrote a letter in support of the child actor to the outlet.
Ron Howard Was Furious by the Scathing Piece Taking Jabs at Jake Lloyd
Ron Howard bashed the article, which targeted Jake Lloyd | Credit: Wikimedia Commons
In the section “The Kid Can’t Act”, the piece took shots at Jake Lloyd, stating that he’s “Mannequin Skywalker”. Furthermore, the criticisms regarding the Jingle All the Way star’s acting chops in...
- 5/2/2024
- by Santanu Roy
- FandomWire
Zendaya has been a part of some very successful projects. So much so, that every film that she seems to star in is getting more and more attention. The most recent addition to this list has been Challengers, which has taken the internet by storm. While the film was getting a lot of attention for some odd reasons when the trailer came out, that seems to have flipped since then.
Zendaya’s Challengers
It has become one of the most critically acclaimed films in the actress’s filmography, having an impressive, 7.8 out of 10 rating on IMDb. It would seem that this wasn’t only the case for her, as the movie just broke quite an impressive record.
Zendaya’s Challenges Meets New Highs
Challengers have become quite the talk of the town. The film has gotten excellent reviews from all sides, with audiences praising its ability to balance its racy...
Zendaya’s Challengers
It has become one of the most critically acclaimed films in the actress’s filmography, having an impressive, 7.8 out of 10 rating on IMDb. It would seem that this wasn’t only the case for her, as the movie just broke quite an impressive record.
Zendaya’s Challenges Meets New Highs
Challengers have become quite the talk of the town. The film has gotten excellent reviews from all sides, with audiences praising its ability to balance its racy...
- 5/2/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
Known for his work on several Star Wars projects, Dave Filoni has become a key figure in shaping the space opera. Starting with his work on animated projects such as The Clone Wars and Rebels, he has also ventured into live-action projects The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett, and has since assumed the role of chief creative officer at Lucasfilm.
The Mandalorian | Credit: Disney Plus
However, when he initially received a call with an offer to work with Lucasfilm Animation, Filoni’s skepticism nearly caused him to overlook the opportunity, as he refused to believe that Lucasfilm Animation even existed and that the offer was potentially a prank.
Dave Filoni Was Skeptical of the Existence of Lucasfilm Animation
After completing the prequel trilogy, George Lucas started working on further expanding the space opera with the animated series, The Clone Wars. One person he had on his mind to...
The Mandalorian | Credit: Disney Plus
However, when he initially received a call with an offer to work with Lucasfilm Animation, Filoni’s skepticism nearly caused him to overlook the opportunity, as he refused to believe that Lucasfilm Animation even existed and that the offer was potentially a prank.
Dave Filoni Was Skeptical of the Existence of Lucasfilm Animation
After completing the prequel trilogy, George Lucas started working on further expanding the space opera with the animated series, The Clone Wars. One person he had on his mind to...
- 5/2/2024
- by Laxmi Rajput
- FandomWire
The Star Wars series has become one of the most well-known and successful franchises of all time, and a huge part of this has to do with George Lucas. The filmmaker created the series from scratch and has been involved in almost every single project from the franchise in some way or another. The most recent addition to the story from galaxies away has been Star Wars: The Bad Batch.
The Bad Batch Logo
Recently, one of the actors in the series talked about filming the third season of the series. Interestingly enough, he believed it to be the final puzzle piece in Lucas’s legacy in the franchise, and many fans might get emotional with what he had to say.
The End of an Era
Recently, Dee Bradley Baker gave an interview with ScreenRant, where he talked about his experience working on Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars: The Bad Batch.
The Bad Batch Logo
Recently, one of the actors in the series talked about filming the third season of the series. Interestingly enough, he believed it to be the final puzzle piece in Lucas’s legacy in the franchise, and many fans might get emotional with what he had to say.
The End of an Era
Recently, Dee Bradley Baker gave an interview with ScreenRant, where he talked about his experience working on Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars: The Bad Batch.
- 5/2/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
Meryl Streep is set to receive the highest honor at the Cannes 2024 ceremony.
The Oscar winner has been announced to be feted with the honorary Palme d’Or on the opening night of the 77th annual festival; Variety first reported the news. Streep has not been to Cannes in exactly 35 years, since winning best actress for 1989’s “Evil Angels a Cry in the Dark” directed by Fred Schepisi.
Michael Douglas received the opening ceremony honorary Palme d’Or award in 2023.
Streep’s career has ranged from Academy Award-nominated turns in dramas such as “Sophie’s Choice” to musicals like “Into the Woods.” Streep’s rom-com efforts have marked collaborations with Nancy Meyers and other iconic filmmakers. She most recently starred in Hulu series “Only Murders in the Building,” following her former “Big Little Lies” TV role. Streep was recently honored by the Academy Museum Gala in 2023 for her career achievements.
As previously announced,...
The Oscar winner has been announced to be feted with the honorary Palme d’Or on the opening night of the 77th annual festival; Variety first reported the news. Streep has not been to Cannes in exactly 35 years, since winning best actress for 1989’s “Evil Angels a Cry in the Dark” directed by Fred Schepisi.
Michael Douglas received the opening ceremony honorary Palme d’Or award in 2023.
Streep’s career has ranged from Academy Award-nominated turns in dramas such as “Sophie’s Choice” to musicals like “Into the Woods.” Streep’s rom-com efforts have marked collaborations with Nancy Meyers and other iconic filmmakers. She most recently starred in Hulu series “Only Murders in the Building,” following her former “Big Little Lies” TV role. Streep was recently honored by the Academy Museum Gala in 2023 for her career achievements.
As previously announced,...
- 5/2/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Being as humongous and intricate as it is, the Star Wars franchise has had several plotholes that continue to confuse fans. From the Galaxy forgetting the Jedi to Palpatine’s secret horde of superweapons, there are several instances and events that remain unsolved. And one of the biggest plotholes is the relationship between Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker in the first film.
Leia and Luke in the original Star Wars trilogy
From their incestuous kiss to their alleged romantic trope, the misunderstanding of the two being romantically involved was also aided by John Williams’ romantic musical score. And the legendary composer solely blames George Lucas for his mistake.
John Williams’ Star Wars Mistake Was All Because of George Lucas
Star Wars’ composer, John Williams (Image: YouTube | Stephan Aubé)
George Lucas‘ first Star Wars movie was more of a gamble, with no expectations that it would even be a hit let...
Leia and Luke in the original Star Wars trilogy
From their incestuous kiss to their alleged romantic trope, the misunderstanding of the two being romantically involved was also aided by John Williams’ romantic musical score. And the legendary composer solely blames George Lucas for his mistake.
John Williams’ Star Wars Mistake Was All Because of George Lucas
Star Wars’ composer, John Williams (Image: YouTube | Stephan Aubé)
George Lucas‘ first Star Wars movie was more of a gamble, with no expectations that it would even be a hit let...
- 5/2/2024
- by Maria Sultan
- FandomWire
Meryl Streep will receive the honorary Palme d’Or on the opening night of the 77th edition of Cannes Film Festival, Variety has learned.
Luring the Oscar winner is yet another feat for this Cannes edition, which will bring together a flurry Hollywood legends. Notably, George Lucas will receive the honorary Palme d’Or during the closing ceremony; Francis Ford Coppola’s “Megalopolis” and Paul Schrader’s “Oh, Canada” are playing in competition; and George Miller‘s “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” and Kevin Costner’s Western epic “Horizon, an American Saga” are playing out of competition. Streep will be also in good company at the festival with “Barbie” director Greta Gerwig serving as jury president. The pair worked together on “Little Women.”
The honorary tribute will mark Streep’s long-awaited return to Cannes after decades. It appears that her last trip to the festival dates back to Fred Schepisi...
Luring the Oscar winner is yet another feat for this Cannes edition, which will bring together a flurry Hollywood legends. Notably, George Lucas will receive the honorary Palme d’Or during the closing ceremony; Francis Ford Coppola’s “Megalopolis” and Paul Schrader’s “Oh, Canada” are playing in competition; and George Miller‘s “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” and Kevin Costner’s Western epic “Horizon, an American Saga” are playing out of competition. Streep will be also in good company at the festival with “Barbie” director Greta Gerwig serving as jury president. The pair worked together on “Little Women.”
The honorary tribute will mark Streep’s long-awaited return to Cannes after decades. It appears that her last trip to the festival dates back to Fred Schepisi...
- 5/2/2024
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
There was no mention of it during Lucasfilm's splashy Star Wars Celebration last year, but The Mandalorian and Grogu will be the first Star Wars movie released theatrically since 2019's The Rise of Skywalker.
Arriving in place of The Mandalorian season 4, the hope is that Din Djarin and The Child can restore the franchise to its former glory on the big screen (with the Rey-led movie next up for Lucasfilm and James Mangold and Dave Filoni's efforts somewhere on the twin-sunned horizon).
We recently learned that The Mandalorian and Grogu will be released on May 22, 2026, and a shooting update has been shared today by Making Star Wars (via SFFGazette.com).
"I talked to two different cats, both believe that filming is actually going on in May for 'The Mandalorian and Grogu," they explain. "In May there will be filming done. I’m not saying it’s May 1st,...
Arriving in place of The Mandalorian season 4, the hope is that Din Djarin and The Child can restore the franchise to its former glory on the big screen (with the Rey-led movie next up for Lucasfilm and James Mangold and Dave Filoni's efforts somewhere on the twin-sunned horizon).
We recently learned that The Mandalorian and Grogu will be released on May 22, 2026, and a shooting update has been shared today by Making Star Wars (via SFFGazette.com).
"I talked to two different cats, both believe that filming is actually going on in May for 'The Mandalorian and Grogu," they explain. "In May there will be filming done. I’m not saying it’s May 1st,...
- 5/2/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
Return of the Jedi serves as the epic conclusion to George Lucas’ sacred original trilogy, which is revered for its cinematic brilliance even today. The film not only delivers the kind of visual spectacle one expects from a Star Wars film, but also provides a resolution to several plot threads and character arcs in a compelling fashion.
A deleted scene from Return of the Jedi shows Darth Vader reaching out to Luke through the Force.
However, all the fluency of the film could have been desecrated had Lucas decided to keep one scene that was thankfully deleted. The scene features a brief interaction between Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker, through the use of the Force. However, the context and placement of the scene would have almost disrupted everything that Return of the Jedi executes successfully, and here is why.
Return of the Jedi Nearly Featured Darth Vader Reaching Out to...
A deleted scene from Return of the Jedi shows Darth Vader reaching out to Luke through the Force.
However, all the fluency of the film could have been desecrated had Lucas decided to keep one scene that was thankfully deleted. The scene features a brief interaction between Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker, through the use of the Force. However, the context and placement of the scene would have almost disrupted everything that Return of the Jedi executes successfully, and here is why.
Return of the Jedi Nearly Featured Darth Vader Reaching Out to...
- 5/1/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
Star Wars: The Force Awakens reintroduced viewers to the galaxy far far away long after the time of Luke Skywalker and the rebel alliance’s fight against the Empire. The first installment in the sequel trilogy focuses on Daisy Ridley’s Rey, as she finds her calling through the lightsaber that once belonged to the Skywalker family.
The Skywalker lightsaber in a deleted scene from Star Wars: The Force Awakens
While Rey comes in contact with the lightsaber through Maz Kanata, how the latter got hold of it in the first place was never explained. Furthermore, a deleted scene that featured in the trailer but not in the final cut would have only added to the confusion behind it. Director J.J. Abrams addressed the deleted scene and explained why it would have created a narrative issue.
J.J. Abrams Explains Why One Star Wars: The Force Awakens Scene Was Deleted...
The Skywalker lightsaber in a deleted scene from Star Wars: The Force Awakens
While Rey comes in contact with the lightsaber through Maz Kanata, how the latter got hold of it in the first place was never explained. Furthermore, a deleted scene that featured in the trailer but not in the final cut would have only added to the confusion behind it. Director J.J. Abrams addressed the deleted scene and explained why it would have created a narrative issue.
J.J. Abrams Explains Why One Star Wars: The Force Awakens Scene Was Deleted...
- 5/1/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
The Star Wars franchise is probably one of the most influential and talked about series since its inception by George Lucas back in 1976. With Jon Favreau currently serving as the showrunner of The Mandalorian, there are bound to be differences in opinions.
With the popularity of Pedro Pascal’s The Mandalorian, several fans debated what exactly makes a person Mandalorian. To clear things up, Favreau had the perfect explanation for why Boba Fett (a popular bounty hunter) is not considered a Mandalorian even though he looks like a Mandalorian.
Pedro Pascal in a still from The Mandalorian
George Lucas Doesn’t Consider Boba Fett As a Mandalorian
Jengo Fatt was the most feared and the best bounty hunter in the galaxy during the final years of the Republic. He was also the chosen one who was cloned multiple times to create the clone army. During the cloning, Jango Fett had...
With the popularity of Pedro Pascal’s The Mandalorian, several fans debated what exactly makes a person Mandalorian. To clear things up, Favreau had the perfect explanation for why Boba Fett (a popular bounty hunter) is not considered a Mandalorian even though he looks like a Mandalorian.
Pedro Pascal in a still from The Mandalorian
George Lucas Doesn’t Consider Boba Fett As a Mandalorian
Jengo Fatt was the most feared and the best bounty hunter in the galaxy during the final years of the Republic. He was also the chosen one who was cloned multiple times to create the clone army. During the cloning, Jango Fett had...
- 5/1/2024
- by Visarg Acharya
- FandomWire
For years, Chris Hemsworth regaled audiences in the MCU as Thor and became synonymous with the character. The Australian star’s entertaining portrayal of the charismatic Avenger made him one of the most popular actors among a glittering cast of A-list stars led by the electric Robert Downey Jr.
Hollywood star Chris Hemsworth (image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
While his Marvel gig has been a significant reason for his superstardom, the actor recently revealed that his upcoming film Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga which he considered one of his favorite roles to date, gave him the opportunity to tap into a darker side of a character after a long time. He confessed that he felt a similar sensation many years ago while working on this acclaimed sports drama.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga Made Chris Hemsworth Have Déjà Vu About Another Favorite Role
Similar to his namesake George Lucas and his brainchild Star Wars,...
Hollywood star Chris Hemsworth (image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
While his Marvel gig has been a significant reason for his superstardom, the actor recently revealed that his upcoming film Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga which he considered one of his favorite roles to date, gave him the opportunity to tap into a darker side of a character after a long time. He confessed that he felt a similar sensation many years ago while working on this acclaimed sports drama.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga Made Chris Hemsworth Have Déjà Vu About Another Favorite Role
Similar to his namesake George Lucas and his brainchild Star Wars,...
- 5/1/2024
- by Sharanya Sankar
- FandomWire
The year was 1973; George Lucas had just finished writing the screenplay for what would be his hit coming-of-age story American Graffiti. A poster on a wall caught his eye, an image of a dream of the old serialized films he enjoyed as a child. Films such as Buck Rogers, Zorro’s Fighting Legion and Spy Smasher flashed through his brain as he had the idea of bringing that type of B-level hero to the big screen. He would take this idea and flesh out a story of a college professor who moonlit as an archeologist adventurer. Little did he know that simple idea would yield one of the greatest and most enduring franchises in movie history as his character Indiana Jones has gone on to appear in five feature films over the course of 42 years that have grossed nearly $2 billion at the worldwide box office. For many, any time the character graces the screen,...
- 5/1/2024
- by Brad Hamerly
- JoBlo.com
The original Star Wars films changed the landscape of sci-fi films, being a blockbuster franchise that contained sensible storytelling mixed with impressive sci-fi elements. George Lucas pushed the boundaries of the genre and narrated the lives of the relatable Rebels who fought against the totalitarian Empire that threatened their existence.
The iconic trio of the Star Wars franchise
Another master in the sci-fi- genre is none other than James Cameron, having made iconic sci-fi films such as Aliens and the Terminator franchise. When they came together to discuss the allegory behind the characters of the Star Wars world, they both connected on how the conflict between the Resistance and the Empire mirrors real-life wars including the Vietnam War.
George Lucas Based The Characters and Story of Star Wars on The Vietnam War
Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader’s fight in Empire Strikes Back is the ultimate Good vs Evil symbolism...
The iconic trio of the Star Wars franchise
Another master in the sci-fi- genre is none other than James Cameron, having made iconic sci-fi films such as Aliens and the Terminator franchise. When they came together to discuss the allegory behind the characters of the Star Wars world, they both connected on how the conflict between the Resistance and the Empire mirrors real-life wars including the Vietnam War.
George Lucas Based The Characters and Story of Star Wars on The Vietnam War
Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader’s fight in Empire Strikes Back is the ultimate Good vs Evil symbolism...
- 5/1/2024
- by Rahul Thokchom
- FandomWire
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace Comic Reveals Alternate Look at Anakin Skywalker's Future - Main Image
The upcoming anniversary comic of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace will offer fans an alternate look at Anakin Skywalker's future.
In celebration of the film's 25th anniversary, Lucasfilm is re-releasing the first installment in the prequel trilogy in theaters this week and will release a comic adaptation that offers a new take on the movie.
Some fans have been intrigued with what the comic has in store that the film has not covered and, as it turns out, it will feature a different future outcome for the future Darth Vader.
Also Read: Obi-Wan Kenobi: Hayden Christensen Reveals How He Filmed Bacta Tank Scene
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace Comic Showcases a Different Future for Anakin Skywalker
Recently, a first look at the comic adaptation of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace was released and...
The upcoming anniversary comic of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace will offer fans an alternate look at Anakin Skywalker's future.
In celebration of the film's 25th anniversary, Lucasfilm is re-releasing the first installment in the prequel trilogy in theaters this week and will release a comic adaptation that offers a new take on the movie.
Some fans have been intrigued with what the comic has in store that the film has not covered and, as it turns out, it will feature a different future outcome for the future Darth Vader.
Also Read: Obi-Wan Kenobi: Hayden Christensen Reveals How He Filmed Bacta Tank Scene
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace Comic Showcases a Different Future for Anakin Skywalker
Recently, a first look at the comic adaptation of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace was released and...
- 5/1/2024
- EpicStream
Steven Spielberg is known for directing the first four films in the globally popular Indiana Jones franchise. The action-adventure franchise started with 1981’s Raiders of the Lost Ark and continues to be revered for its action set-pieces, including the Well of Souls scene from the first installment.
Steven Spielberg directed Raiders of the Lost Ark (Image Credit: BBC)
In the infamous scene, Indiana Jones finds himself dealing with a crypt full of snakes, while trying to recover a mysterious artifact. The scene required the use of several real snakes, which quickly turned into a nightmare for director Steven Spielberg, who was caught yelling at a snake for messing up his shot, albeit jokingly. Here is why the Well of Souls scene was challenging for Steven Spielberg.
Steven Spielberg Blamed a Snake For Ruining the Well of Souls Scene in the First Indiana Jones Film
In Raiders of the Lost Ark,...
Steven Spielberg directed Raiders of the Lost Ark (Image Credit: BBC)
In the infamous scene, Indiana Jones finds himself dealing with a crypt full of snakes, while trying to recover a mysterious artifact. The scene required the use of several real snakes, which quickly turned into a nightmare for director Steven Spielberg, who was caught yelling at a snake for messing up his shot, albeit jokingly. Here is why the Well of Souls scene was challenging for Steven Spielberg.
Steven Spielberg Blamed a Snake For Ruining the Well of Souls Scene in the First Indiana Jones Film
In Raiders of the Lost Ark,...
- 4/30/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
Actor John Rhys-Davies is known for his role as Gimli, the dwarf warrior in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. The loud-mouthed elf hater is played to perfection by the Welsh actor in the fantasy-adventure films. Rhys-Davies was nominated along with the rest of the cast for the Screen Actors Guild Award and won for The Return of the King.
While the actor has played other roles in his career, he is also most well-known for playing Sallah, the Egyptian friend of Indiana Jones in Steven Spielberg’s Indiana Jones films. Rhys-Davies was reportedly not the first choice for the role and the description reportedly needed a much shorter person. However, Rhys-Davies’ remark reportedly led Spielberg to change the character to suit the actor.
John Rhys-Davies Was Not The First Choice To Play Sallah In Indiana Jones A still from Steven Spielberg’s Indiana Jones: Raiders of the...
While the actor has played other roles in his career, he is also most well-known for playing Sallah, the Egyptian friend of Indiana Jones in Steven Spielberg’s Indiana Jones films. Rhys-Davies was reportedly not the first choice for the role and the description reportedly needed a much shorter person. However, Rhys-Davies’ remark reportedly led Spielberg to change the character to suit the actor.
John Rhys-Davies Was Not The First Choice To Play Sallah In Indiana Jones A still from Steven Spielberg’s Indiana Jones: Raiders of the...
- 4/30/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
Christopher Lee graced the screens with his performances as menacing villains in several notable projects. The late actor delighted his fans when his career saw a resurgence after appearing as Saruman in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. Following that he also appeared as the villainous Count Dooku in Star Wars: Episode II- Attack of the Clones (2002).
Christopher Lee as Count Dooku
Lee’s performance as Count Dooku was one of the rarest positive elements in the much-criticized Prequel Trilogy. But the late actor did not seem to have a very good experience during the filming. Additionally, despite a good performance, a certain section of fans believe that Count Dooku is the most underutilized Star Wars villain.
Did the late Christopher Lee hate his time on Star Wars? Count Dooku in Star Wars: Episode II
George Lucas waited for a long time for...
Christopher Lee as Count Dooku
Lee’s performance as Count Dooku was one of the rarest positive elements in the much-criticized Prequel Trilogy. But the late actor did not seem to have a very good experience during the filming. Additionally, despite a good performance, a certain section of fans believe that Count Dooku is the most underutilized Star Wars villain.
Did the late Christopher Lee hate his time on Star Wars? Count Dooku in Star Wars: Episode II
George Lucas waited for a long time for...
- 4/29/2024
- by Subham Mandal
- FandomWire
The original trilogy of Star Wars films is known for its highly unique visual style and storytelling. The trilogy created by George Lucas has carved itself a special place in pop culture. Fans continue to enjoy discussing several aspects of the films, especially certain creative choices made by Lucas that did not sit well with them, such as the death of Boba Fett in Return of the Jedi.
Boba Fett was killed off in Return of the Jedi
During an interview, editor Duwayne Dunham revealed that he and other crew members protested against the creative choice during the production of Return of the Jedi. However, Lucas persisted with the choice, leading to the death of Boba Fett, something Lucas himself regretted later. Here is why the Return of the Jedi crew protested against George Lucas’ decision to kill off Boba Fett.
Star Wars Editor Duwayne Dunham Reveals Protest Against George...
Boba Fett was killed off in Return of the Jedi
During an interview, editor Duwayne Dunham revealed that he and other crew members protested against the creative choice during the production of Return of the Jedi. However, Lucas persisted with the choice, leading to the death of Boba Fett, something Lucas himself regretted later. Here is why the Return of the Jedi crew protested against George Lucas’ decision to kill off Boba Fett.
Star Wars Editor Duwayne Dunham Reveals Protest Against George...
- 4/29/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
1977’s Star Wars, directed by George Lucas, captivated audiences worldwide with many falling in love with the galaxy far far away. While Luke, Leia, and Han Solo became fan favorites, the deaths of Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Vader in the original trilogy moved fans because of their affection for the characters.
Darth Vader instructing Boba Fett in Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back
As a result, it must have been difficult for Lucas to pick the one death scene from the originals he regretted the most. However, according to Lucas’ statement, he failed to properly address the death of beloved bounty hunter Boba Fett in the original Star Wars trilogy. Here is why Lucas felt he dropped the ball with Boba Fett’s death and what he would have done differently in retrospect.
George Lucas Arguably Regrets Boba Fett’s Death Scene In Star Wars the Most...
Darth Vader instructing Boba Fett in Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back
As a result, it must have been difficult for Lucas to pick the one death scene from the originals he regretted the most. However, according to Lucas’ statement, he failed to properly address the death of beloved bounty hunter Boba Fett in the original Star Wars trilogy. Here is why Lucas felt he dropped the ball with Boba Fett’s death and what he would have done differently in retrospect.
George Lucas Arguably Regrets Boba Fett’s Death Scene In Star Wars the Most...
- 4/29/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
Batman is a versatile character. He has worn the faces of saviors and destroyers, been the Dark Knight in caped armor, the financial support of the Justice League, and occasionally, even a father figure. Despite this, there is one thing that has stayed constant through most of his versions; the bat does not kill.
Batman: The Animated Series starred Kevin Conroy
Kevin Conroy, who played the character for almost three decades, understood this fact about the character perfectly. He maintained a sort of consistency throughout all of the versions he played, and it seemed to be quite intentional. Specifically talking about the ‘no killing’ rule, it would seem that the voice actor upheld it almost as strictly as the Caped Crusader himself.
So much so, that he was upset with one of the most controversial decisions taken in the Snyderverse; Ben Affleck’s Batman killing people.
Kevin Conroy Enjoyed Consistency...
Batman: The Animated Series starred Kevin Conroy
Kevin Conroy, who played the character for almost three decades, understood this fact about the character perfectly. He maintained a sort of consistency throughout all of the versions he played, and it seemed to be quite intentional. Specifically talking about the ‘no killing’ rule, it would seem that the voice actor upheld it almost as strictly as the Caped Crusader himself.
So much so, that he was upset with one of the most controversial decisions taken in the Snyderverse; Ben Affleck’s Batman killing people.
Kevin Conroy Enjoyed Consistency...
- 4/29/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
George Lucas gave birth to one of the greatest pop culture phenomena when he made Star Wars in 1977. The space-opera feature smashed box office records and established a new unique franchise. However, after the conclusion of the Original Trilogy, when Lucas released the Prequel Trilogy, things did not play out well.
Hayden Christensen and Ewan McGregor in Star Wars prequel trilogy
While the Original Trilogy of Star Wars was widely appreciated and still loved by the fans, the departure from the traditional style was disliked by many in the Prequel stories. Interestingly, George Lucas played a massive gamble by financing the second Prequel film, Attack of the Clones, which does not have a good name among the fans. It generated a mixed to negative reception worldwide.
George Lucas gambled by financing Star Wars: Episode II
A still from Attack of the Clones
After George Lucas made the Original Trilogy with Mark Hamill‘s Luke Skywalker,...
Hayden Christensen and Ewan McGregor in Star Wars prequel trilogy
While the Original Trilogy of Star Wars was widely appreciated and still loved by the fans, the departure from the traditional style was disliked by many in the Prequel stories. Interestingly, George Lucas played a massive gamble by financing the second Prequel film, Attack of the Clones, which does not have a good name among the fans. It generated a mixed to negative reception worldwide.
George Lucas gambled by financing Star Wars: Episode II
A still from Attack of the Clones
After George Lucas made the Original Trilogy with Mark Hamill‘s Luke Skywalker,...
- 4/29/2024
- by Subham Mandal
- FandomWire
Star Wars has always had some of the most iconic characters of all time. From Darth Vader to Kylo Ren and General Palpatine, there has been a wide range of characters who perfectly contrast the heroes standing before them. Whether it is in front of Luke Skywalker or anyone else, their twisted mirror images become more and more interesting to watch as the franchise progresses.
Clint Eastwood’s Man with No Name became a big inspiration
One of the oldest of the lost, Boba Fett, who even George Lucas regards as one of the most significant, had been inspired by a legendary yet unexpected actor. Clint Eastwood, a respected actor and an even more skilled filmmaker became the real inspiration behind the antagonist. Especially Eastwood as the Man with No Name in the Dollars trilogy.
Clint Eastwood Inspired Boba Fett in Star Wars
George Lucas (via Cbr) expressed how Darth...
Clint Eastwood’s Man with No Name became a big inspiration
One of the oldest of the lost, Boba Fett, who even George Lucas regards as one of the most significant, had been inspired by a legendary yet unexpected actor. Clint Eastwood, a respected actor and an even more skilled filmmaker became the real inspiration behind the antagonist. Especially Eastwood as the Man with No Name in the Dollars trilogy.
Clint Eastwood Inspired Boba Fett in Star Wars
George Lucas (via Cbr) expressed how Darth...
- 4/29/2024
- by Adya Godboley
- FandomWire
If the Star Wars franchise is considered one of the greatest film series of all time in Hollywood, the credit goes to its creative mastermind, George Lucas. The visionary director pioneered a sci-fi revolution with the epic space saga that spanned multiple decades to become a cult classic that will continue to remain evergreen for years to come.
Hollywood filmmaker George Lucas (image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
After directing the cult prequel trilogy between 2002 and 2005, the filmmaker sold Lucasfilm to Disney in 2012. In an interview in 2002, he spoke about all things Star Wars, including his inspiring journey of how the films, which were very ahead of their time, were conceived and created. In the process, Lucas also debunked myths about certain characters in the film.
George Lucas Clarified A Long-Standing Myth About Jedi Knights Years Ago
The Star Wars prequel trilogy is considered one of the most iconic films in George Lucas’ repertoire.
Hollywood filmmaker George Lucas (image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
After directing the cult prequel trilogy between 2002 and 2005, the filmmaker sold Lucasfilm to Disney in 2012. In an interview in 2002, he spoke about all things Star Wars, including his inspiring journey of how the films, which were very ahead of their time, were conceived and created. In the process, Lucas also debunked myths about certain characters in the film.
George Lucas Clarified A Long-Standing Myth About Jedi Knights Years Ago
The Star Wars prequel trilogy is considered one of the most iconic films in George Lucas’ repertoire.
- 4/29/2024
- by Sharanya Sankar
- FandomWire
Zendaya has become a global icon with her portrayal of Mj in MCU’s Spider-Man movies. However, the actress has long been active in the industry due to her acting prowess, but that’s not her only talent. Along with her musical and dancing talent, she has amassed a strong fan following who are interested to explore more of her skills.
A still from Euphoria
Having released her self-titled debut studio album in 2013, fans are wondering about her musical comeback but the actress has one bone to pick about the music industry. However, that bone is surely a gain for Hollywood.
Zendaya Reveals What She Dislikes About Music Industry
In a recent appearance on Friday’s episode of The Jennifer Hudson Show, Zendaya revealed that she has been waiting for the “right timing” to make her comeback for her musical career.
SUGGESTEDThe Original Star Wars Draft Made Luke and Leia...
A still from Euphoria
Having released her self-titled debut studio album in 2013, fans are wondering about her musical comeback but the actress has one bone to pick about the music industry. However, that bone is surely a gain for Hollywood.
Zendaya Reveals What She Dislikes About Music Industry
In a recent appearance on Friday’s episode of The Jennifer Hudson Show, Zendaya revealed that she has been waiting for the “right timing” to make her comeback for her musical career.
SUGGESTEDThe Original Star Wars Draft Made Luke and Leia...
- 4/29/2024
- by Priya Sharma
- FandomWire
While we gloat over the achievements of Tinseltown, we should ask ourselves if Schindler’s List, Steven Spielberg’s 1993 moving historical drama, could have come to fruition without the support of any super alliance. The Ohio-born director, 77, himself expressed his deep appreciation for the decisive support he received from none other than, George Lucas, his loyal comrade.
Earlier this year, Spielberg discussed in detail the paramount role that Lucas had in the creation of Schindler’s List. Indeed, thanks to Lucas and Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy, who was in the US completing Jurassic Park’s sound mixing, Spielberg was able to work effectively on the moving and impactful Holocaust flick.
Steven Spielberg | Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Spielberg even remembered saying, “George, I am in trouble”, when he reached out to Lucas. That being said, both Schindler’s List and Jurassic Park became timeless masterpieces because of Lucas’ helping hands and generosity.
Steven Spielberg...
Earlier this year, Spielberg discussed in detail the paramount role that Lucas had in the creation of Schindler’s List. Indeed, thanks to Lucas and Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy, who was in the US completing Jurassic Park’s sound mixing, Spielberg was able to work effectively on the moving and impactful Holocaust flick.
Steven Spielberg | Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Spielberg even remembered saying, “George, I am in trouble”, when he reached out to Lucas. That being said, both Schindler’s List and Jurassic Park became timeless masterpieces because of Lucas’ helping hands and generosity.
Steven Spielberg...
- 4/29/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
The 2024 Cannes Film Festival has announced its all-star lineup of jurors to decide this year’s Palme d’Or.
As previously announced, “Barbie” director Greta Gerwig will serve as jury president. Fellow recent Oscar nominee Lily Gladstone is part of the jury, as well as writer/director J.A. Bayona, Eva Green, Omar Sy, Pierfrancisco Favino, director Kore-eda Hirokazu, screenwriter Nadine Labaki, and screenwriter and photographer Ebru Ceylan.
The 2024 Cannes Film Festival will take place May 14-25. The jury will have the honor of awarding the Palme d’Or to one of the 22 films in competition, with contenders including Francis Ford Coppola’s “Megalopolis,” Sean Baker’s “Anora,” David Cronenberg’s “The Shrouds,” Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Kinds of Kindness,” and Paul Schrader’s “Oh, Canada.”
New films from Paolo Sorrentino (“Parthenope”), Mohammad Rasoulof (“The Seed of the Sacred Fig”), Karim Aïnouz (“Motel Destino”), and Andrea Arnold (“Bird”) are also debuting in competition.
As previously announced, “Barbie” director Greta Gerwig will serve as jury president. Fellow recent Oscar nominee Lily Gladstone is part of the jury, as well as writer/director J.A. Bayona, Eva Green, Omar Sy, Pierfrancisco Favino, director Kore-eda Hirokazu, screenwriter Nadine Labaki, and screenwriter and photographer Ebru Ceylan.
The 2024 Cannes Film Festival will take place May 14-25. The jury will have the honor of awarding the Palme d’Or to one of the 22 films in competition, with contenders including Francis Ford Coppola’s “Megalopolis,” Sean Baker’s “Anora,” David Cronenberg’s “The Shrouds,” Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Kinds of Kindness,” and Paul Schrader’s “Oh, Canada.”
New films from Paolo Sorrentino (“Parthenope”), Mohammad Rasoulof (“The Seed of the Sacred Fig”), Karim Aïnouz (“Motel Destino”), and Andrea Arnold (“Bird”) are also debuting in competition.
- 4/29/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Love Triangles existed before they became a staple part of cinema. Whether it is Gone with the Wind or the Twilight saga, the classic trope has been a fan favorite, before Zendaya’s Challengers came around and made the trope even more pristine, to some extent at least.
Star Wars’ Luke and Leia in a still from the Star Wars franchise
While some might call it toxic, others outrageous, that is the turn that George Lucas’ Star Wars nearly took before Lucas went on to change it. If you remember the incest kiss between Luke and Leia and the horror that every fan faced after it was revealed they were siblings, it would be shocking yet somewhat calming to know that the duo weren’t supposed to be siblings originally.
Star Wars Luke and Leia Weren’t Supposed to be Siblings
Challengers (2024)
Challengers features Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O’Connor in an unlikely love trio,...
Star Wars’ Luke and Leia in a still from the Star Wars franchise
While some might call it toxic, others outrageous, that is the turn that George Lucas’ Star Wars nearly took before Lucas went on to change it. If you remember the incest kiss between Luke and Leia and the horror that every fan faced after it was revealed they were siblings, it would be shocking yet somewhat calming to know that the duo weren’t supposed to be siblings originally.
Star Wars Luke and Leia Weren’t Supposed to be Siblings
Challengers (2024)
Challengers features Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O’Connor in an unlikely love trio,...
- 4/28/2024
- by Maria Sultan
- FandomWire
Kathleen Kennedy has been regarded as one of the most hated people to be a part of the Star Wars franchise. Working as the president of Lucasfilm, it is as though every failure the franchise faces has been put on her back. Regardless of who is responsible for a project’s unfortunate performance, she is subjected to the brunt of the criticism from fans and critics alike.
Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy (via Wikipedia Commons)
Despite all of the hate that she gets, there is absolutely no doubt that she is good at what she does. Having started as a producer, she worked on an impressive number of highly successful projects, ultimately joining George Lucas’ side as co-chairman of Lucasfilm until she became president. Their dynamic took them to many places, making the Mark Hamill franchise as successful as it is today.
However, many might not know that Kennedy and Lucas...
Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy (via Wikipedia Commons)
Despite all of the hate that she gets, there is absolutely no doubt that she is good at what she does. Having started as a producer, she worked on an impressive number of highly successful projects, ultimately joining George Lucas’ side as co-chairman of Lucasfilm until she became president. Their dynamic took them to many places, making the Mark Hamill franchise as successful as it is today.
However, many might not know that Kennedy and Lucas...
- 4/28/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
Steven Spielberg and George Lucas are the two prominent Hollywood names that stand out above the rest. Having said that, with their inventive storytelling and huge hits, they have collectively transformed the movie business. Indeed, these visionaries have a profound impact on the cinematic universe, but when it comes to handling their beloved creations post-release, their paths diverge like a fork in the Yellow Brick Road.
Steven Spielberg | Credits: Wikimedia Commons
While both directors have created some of history’s most iconic flicks, Spielberg and Lucas take very different approaches when it comes to revisiting their earlier work. The former feels that his films should remain true to the era in which they were made, unlike Lucas, who is renowned for updating and improving his works digitally.
Steven Spielberg-George Lucas Dichotomy: What Sets These Directors Apart
When evaluating the best directors of profitable blockbusters, it is difficult to ignore Steven Spielberg and George Lucas.
Steven Spielberg | Credits: Wikimedia Commons
While both directors have created some of history’s most iconic flicks, Spielberg and Lucas take very different approaches when it comes to revisiting their earlier work. The former feels that his films should remain true to the era in which they were made, unlike Lucas, who is renowned for updating and improving his works digitally.
Steven Spielberg-George Lucas Dichotomy: What Sets These Directors Apart
When evaluating the best directors of profitable blockbusters, it is difficult to ignore Steven Spielberg and George Lucas.
- 4/28/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
The famous twist at the end of Irvin Kershner's 1980 sci-fi epic "The Empire Strikes Back" — that the evil Darth Vader (James Earl Jones/David Prowse) was actually the father of the heroic Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) — was shocking enough to send seismic ripples through the future of pop culture. Young prospective filmmakers reared in 1980 were so shocked by the famed "Empire" revelation that the "hero was secretly related to the villain this whole time" twist would eventually become a common screenwriting trope.
As many Starwoids will be able to tell you, the "I am your father" twist famously contradicts dialogue from George Lucas' "Star Wars" from three years earlier. In that film, the trustworthy Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness) revealed that he was friends with Luke's father, who was, by Obi-Wan's own description, definitely not Darth Vader. Indeed, Darth Vader was said to have murdered Luke's father. So when...
As many Starwoids will be able to tell you, the "I am your father" twist famously contradicts dialogue from George Lucas' "Star Wars" from three years earlier. In that film, the trustworthy Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness) revealed that he was friends with Luke's father, who was, by Obi-Wan's own description, definitely not Darth Vader. Indeed, Darth Vader was said to have murdered Luke's father. So when...
- 4/28/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Who says rules are always meant to be followed? As any die-hard Star Wars fan knows, George Lucas had strict guidelines for the colors of lightsabers in the iconic sci-fi franchise. Jedi was typically assigned blue or green lightsabers, while Sith was given red lightsabers.
However, Samuel L. Jackson, 75, who took on the role of Mace Windu in the prequel trilogy, chose to throw those rules out the window. For the unversed, Mace Windu is portrayed as a Jedi Master who serves on the High Council in the last years of the Galactic Republic in the Star Wars universe.
Samuel L. Jackson as Mace Windu in Star Wars
In a bold decision that enraptured fans and impressed Jackson himself, the actor requested a purple lightsaber for his character. This move not only broke Lucas’ long-standing rule but also introduced a new and aesthetically striking dimension to the Star Wars universe.
However, Samuel L. Jackson, 75, who took on the role of Mace Windu in the prequel trilogy, chose to throw those rules out the window. For the unversed, Mace Windu is portrayed as a Jedi Master who serves on the High Council in the last years of the Galactic Republic in the Star Wars universe.
Samuel L. Jackson as Mace Windu in Star Wars
In a bold decision that enraptured fans and impressed Jackson himself, the actor requested a purple lightsaber for his character. This move not only broke Lucas’ long-standing rule but also introduced a new and aesthetically striking dimension to the Star Wars universe.
- 4/28/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
The three trilogies that have been collectively called the Skywalker Saga are considered to be at the center of the Star Wars IP. All the material, be it anthology films or streaming shows, is placed in the timeline directly in relation to the events of the films.
Star War: The Empire Strikes Back
From the fall of Anakin Skywalker to the rise of the New Jedi Order with Rey Palpatine, all have been covered over the course of nine films. However, Geroge Lucas’s original plan for the core Star Wars saga was quite different compared to what we got as the final product. To begin with, the director had a 12-film saga in mind, instead of 9.
The original structure of the Star Wars films was very different
Star Wars: A New Hope
Star Wars was conceived with a very different structure as compared to what audiences saw on screen.
Star War: The Empire Strikes Back
From the fall of Anakin Skywalker to the rise of the New Jedi Order with Rey Palpatine, all have been covered over the course of nine films. However, Geroge Lucas’s original plan for the core Star Wars saga was quite different compared to what we got as the final product. To begin with, the director had a 12-film saga in mind, instead of 9.
The original structure of the Star Wars films was very different
Star Wars: A New Hope
Star Wars was conceived with a very different structure as compared to what audiences saw on screen.
- 4/27/2024
- by Anuraag Chatterjee
- FandomWire
While Steven Spielberg had already done 15 short films by the time he was 18, George Lucas’ Thx 1138, which was screened at the University of California, blew his filmography out of the water. Although Spielberg was left a little envious of the Star Wars director’s work, it didn’t take them long to see eye to eye, eventually developing a decades-long friendship,
Since then, the two have remained pretty supportive of each other, and are responsible for pioneering the blockbuster landscape back in the ’70s. But while Lucas helped out the Jaws director on numerous occasions, things went a little south when Spielberg decided to follow in the sci-fi auteur’s footsteps for one of his most beloved gems.
Steven Spielberg Messed up E.T. After Following in George Lucas’ Footsteps
Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope | 20th Century Studios
From assisting Spielberg in adding the finishing touches on Jurassic Park...
Since then, the two have remained pretty supportive of each other, and are responsible for pioneering the blockbuster landscape back in the ’70s. But while Lucas helped out the Jaws director on numerous occasions, things went a little south when Spielberg decided to follow in the sci-fi auteur’s footsteps for one of his most beloved gems.
Steven Spielberg Messed up E.T. After Following in George Lucas’ Footsteps
Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope | 20th Century Studios
From assisting Spielberg in adding the finishing touches on Jurassic Park...
- 4/27/2024
- by Santanu Roy
- FandomWire
Sometimes it’s hard to remember the days before Star Wars. Nowadays everybody knows about the Jedi and the Sith, and Han Solo and C-3Po. Even if you have no interest in the movies, you know who Darth Vader is and you know that he’s Luke’s father. The Star Wars universe is entrenched in the zeitgeist and it’s not going away any time soon.
There was, of course, a time when none of that was true. In 1977 A New Hope came out (not even affixed with the “Star Wars” part of the title yet), and an incredible amount of world-building took place. It’s impressive, actually, that for a movie that was intended to be a stand-alone it hasn’t been completely re-written by the sprawling Star Wars universe.
Having said that, there have been a few retcons to A New Hope, mostly for the better.
There was, of course, a time when none of that was true. In 1977 A New Hope came out (not even affixed with the “Star Wars” part of the title yet), and an incredible amount of world-building took place. It’s impressive, actually, that for a movie that was intended to be a stand-alone it hasn’t been completely re-written by the sprawling Star Wars universe.
Having said that, there have been a few retcons to A New Hope, mostly for the better.
- 4/27/2024
- by louise.everitt@startefacts.com (Louise Everitt)
- STartefacts.com
With The Acolyte expected to drastically alter the beloved franchise by departing from George Lucas’ original vision, fans of the film series have all the reason to be giddy with anticipation. The upcoming series will differ from all previous Star Wars stories, according to the showrunner, Leslye Headland. She also revealed that it will stray from one of Lucas’ central ideas regarding the ‘Force’.
A great deal of the Force’s mystery was maintained throughout the original Star Wars trilogy. Even so, a lot more is now understood about it than in the past, particularly with the introduction of midi-chlorians in The Phantom Menace. However, the idea offended some fans because they feel it takes away the Force’s mystical quality.
The Acolyte
Despite this, Lucas continued to allude to the mysterious life forms on several occasions. For the unversed, tiny creatures known as midi-chlorians are responsible for assessing a...
A great deal of the Force’s mystery was maintained throughout the original Star Wars trilogy. Even so, a lot more is now understood about it than in the past, particularly with the introduction of midi-chlorians in The Phantom Menace. However, the idea offended some fans because they feel it takes away the Force’s mystical quality.
The Acolyte
Despite this, Lucas continued to allude to the mysterious life forms on several occasions. For the unversed, tiny creatures known as midi-chlorians are responsible for assessing a...
- 4/27/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
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