As George Miller’s oil and blood-fuelled Furiosa hits the screens, we ponder what makes a great prequel.
Mild spoilers for The First Omen.
There are a lot of bad prequels. There are some good prequels, but a great prequel is a rare thing to come across. They’re like a rare animal, the unicorns of cinema. Some wonder if such a thing even exists, but when you do watch one, it’s really rather something.
George Miller’s Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga might just be one, a prequel which somehow manages to justify its existence and repeat the exhilarating sense of time and place as Mad Max: Fury Road. I’d be surprised if we saw another action film as handsomely made as Furiosa in 2024. Or 2025. Or 2026.
Prequels are an easy sell for studios, but a hard sell for audiences. For studios, they’re an easy way...
Mild spoilers for The First Omen.
There are a lot of bad prequels. There are some good prequels, but a great prequel is a rare thing to come across. They’re like a rare animal, the unicorns of cinema. Some wonder if such a thing even exists, but when you do watch one, it’s really rather something.
George Miller’s Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga might just be one, a prequel which somehow manages to justify its existence and repeat the exhilarating sense of time and place as Mad Max: Fury Road. I’d be surprised if we saw another action film as handsomely made as Furiosa in 2024. Or 2025. Or 2026.
Prequels are an easy sell for studios, but a hard sell for audiences. For studios, they’re an easy way...
- 5/29/2024
- by Maria Lattila
- Film Stories
Sith happened this evening at the Odeon Luxe in Leicester Square as The Acolyte, Disney+’s latest Star Wars series, had its UK Premiere. Led by Amandla Stenberg & Lee Jung-Jae, and creator Leslye Headland, the eight-episode series also stars Joonas Suotamo, Jodie Turner-Smith, Manny Jacinto, Carrie-Anne Moss, Dean-Charles Chapman, Margarita Levieva, Charlie Barnett and Rebecca Henderson.
Star Wars: The Acolyte Debuts Exclusively On Disney+ On 5 June, 2024.
Colin Hart and Linda Marric were on the red carpet, here are their interviews.
Star Wars: The Acolyte Premiere Interviews
Plot:
Set around fifty years before the events of ‘Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace’ and towards the end of the High Republic era, the live-action series follows a former Jedi Padawan and her one-time Master.
An investigation into a shocking crime spree pits a respected Jedi Master (Lee Jung-Jae) against a dangerous warrior from his past (Amandla Stenberg). As more clues emerge,...
Star Wars: The Acolyte Debuts Exclusively On Disney+ On 5 June, 2024.
Colin Hart and Linda Marric were on the red carpet, here are their interviews.
Star Wars: The Acolyte Premiere Interviews
Plot:
Set around fifty years before the events of ‘Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace’ and towards the end of the High Republic era, the live-action series follows a former Jedi Padawan and her one-time Master.
An investigation into a shocking crime spree pits a respected Jedi Master (Lee Jung-Jae) against a dangerous warrior from his past (Amandla Stenberg). As more clues emerge,...
- 5/28/2024
- by Jon Lyus
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Actor Ewan McGregor has become synonymous with the role of Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars universe. McGregor first donned the Jedi robes for the first installment of the prequel trilogy all the way back in 1999 when he was still an up-and-coming actor. Years later, McGregor reflected on being in two minds over accepting what became his most popular role.
Ewan McGregor played Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars prequels (Credit: Lucasfilm).
During an interview, McGregor spoke about his hesitance to accept the career-defining role of Obi-Wan Kenobi. The actor explained why he was unsure about accepting the part but was glad that he ultimately said yes. At the same time, McGregor also discussed his future as Obi-Wan Kenobi after starring in a solo series focusing on the character.
Ewan McGregor Reveals Why He Almost Turned Down the Obi-Wan Kenobi Role in Star Wars
Actor Ewan McGregor rose...
Ewan McGregor played Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars prequels (Credit: Lucasfilm).
During an interview, McGregor spoke about his hesitance to accept the career-defining role of Obi-Wan Kenobi. The actor explained why he was unsure about accepting the part but was glad that he ultimately said yes. At the same time, McGregor also discussed his future as Obi-Wan Kenobi after starring in a solo series focusing on the character.
Ewan McGregor Reveals Why He Almost Turned Down the Obi-Wan Kenobi Role in Star Wars
Actor Ewan McGregor rose...
- 5/28/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
George Lucas’ Star Wars is a vast and complex universe filled with its own mythos and artifacts. The filmmaker had reportedly crafted most elements while making the first film, while some of them were tweaked during subsequent sequels and prequels. One such element that has been debated is the way the Force works.
While the Force is something that someone trains to obtain control over, the prequel The Phantom Menace established the idea of midi-chlorians, a microorganism that every life form is made of. The concept was not impressive to many fans who felt it was more of a mystical element in the sci-fi films rather than having an actual scientific explanation.
What Are Midi-Chlorians And How Do They Affect The Force In Star Wars? A still from Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace | Credits: Lucasfilm Ltd.
The concept of the midi-chlorians is officially introduced in the prequel...
While the Force is something that someone trains to obtain control over, the prequel The Phantom Menace established the idea of midi-chlorians, a microorganism that every life form is made of. The concept was not impressive to many fans who felt it was more of a mystical element in the sci-fi films rather than having an actual scientific explanation.
What Are Midi-Chlorians And How Do They Affect The Force In Star Wars? A still from Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace | Credits: Lucasfilm Ltd.
The concept of the midi-chlorians is officially introduced in the prequel...
- 5/28/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
Carrie Fisher’s Star Wars movies made her a global star. The actor joined the franchise when she was just 19. Starring alongside Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford, Fisher’s Princess Leia has been one of the most iconic characters in the Star Wars universe. The creator of Star Wars, George Lucas, once fell victim to a friendly roast from Fisher at the AFI Life Achievement Award in her tribute to Lucas.
Carrie Fisher on the set of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. Credit: Sunset Boulevard/Corbis
Following Fisher’s legacy, MCU star Natalie Portman joined the franchise. She was 16 when the actor made her debut in the franchise with Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Fisher humorously referred to Portman in her joke about Lucas as he had once told her that there was no underwear in space.
Carrie Fisher Roasted Star Wars Creator George...
Carrie Fisher on the set of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. Credit: Sunset Boulevard/Corbis
Following Fisher’s legacy, MCU star Natalie Portman joined the franchise. She was 16 when the actor made her debut in the franchise with Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Fisher humorously referred to Portman in her joke about Lucas as he had once told her that there was no underwear in space.
Carrie Fisher Roasted Star Wars Creator George...
- 5/28/2024
- by Lachit Roy
- FandomWire
George Lucas’ original Star Wars trilogy introduced fans to Darth Vader and the character continues to provide fascinating avenues for storytelling even today. However, Lucas chose to finally tell Vader’s complete origin story in the Star Wars prequels, focusing on a young Anakin Skywalker before he fell to the dark side of the Force.
Darth Vader is arguably the most popular character in Star Wars (Image Credit: Lucasfilm).
However, Vader’s origin story did not turn out to be what fans were expecting from the epic space opera saga. During an interview, Lucas addressed what fans were demanding for Vader’s origins in the prequels and why he did not pay any heed to fan demand. Instead, Lucas crafted a different and more nuanced tale that ended up polarizing fans. Here is what George Lucas had to say about Vader’s origin story.
George Lucas Explains Why He Never...
Darth Vader is arguably the most popular character in Star Wars (Image Credit: Lucasfilm).
However, Vader’s origin story did not turn out to be what fans were expecting from the epic space opera saga. During an interview, Lucas addressed what fans were demanding for Vader’s origins in the prequels and why he did not pay any heed to fan demand. Instead, Lucas crafted a different and more nuanced tale that ended up polarizing fans. Here is what George Lucas had to say about Vader’s origin story.
George Lucas Explains Why He Never...
- 5/27/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
George Lucas Addresses Criticisms Against Star Wars Prequel Trilogy - Main Image
George Lucas recently addressed the criticisms made against the Star Wars prequel trilogy.
While all three films were box-office successes, they received polarizing responses from fans and critics, as certain elements were found to be too kid-friendly and the character of Jar Jar Binks also became a subject of ridicule.
However, it has also gained a strong following in the years after its release as some fans have defended it from the criticisms and argued that the films have good merits that are almost on par with the franchise's best.
George Lucas Defends Star Wars Prequel Trilogy
In a recent interview, Lucas opened up about the criticisms against the Star Wars prequel trilogy and iterated that the franchise has always been targeted at a younger audience.
"It was supposed to be a kid’s movie for 12-year-olds who were going through puberty,...
George Lucas recently addressed the criticisms made against the Star Wars prequel trilogy.
While all three films were box-office successes, they received polarizing responses from fans and critics, as certain elements were found to be too kid-friendly and the character of Jar Jar Binks also became a subject of ridicule.
However, it has also gained a strong following in the years after its release as some fans have defended it from the criticisms and argued that the films have good merits that are almost on par with the franchise's best.
George Lucas Defends Star Wars Prequel Trilogy
In a recent interview, Lucas opened up about the criticisms against the Star Wars prequel trilogy and iterated that the franchise has always been targeted at a younger audience.
"It was supposed to be a kid’s movie for 12-year-olds who were going through puberty,...
- 5/27/2024
- EpicStream
Nearly seven years after its release, one of the most controversial scenes in Rian Johnson’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi continues to be when Luke Skywalker, Jedi Master and veritable legend, tells the next generation about what the Jedi really represent. While training the franchise’s newest protagonist, Rey (Daisy Ridley), Mark Hamill’s now grizzled and ancient Luke intones, “The Jedi are romanticized, deified. But if you strip away the myth and look at their deeds, the legacy of the Jedi is failure; hypocrisy; hubris.”
The scene wasn’t taken well by some corners of the Star Wars fandom in 2017, and it’s not taken well now. Yet I’ve been thinking quite a bit about it in lieu of Disney+’s upcoming and hotly anticipated new Star Wars series, The Acolyte. Set many decades before the events which brought Rey and Luke Skywalker together, or for that...
The scene wasn’t taken well by some corners of the Star Wars fandom in 2017, and it’s not taken well now. Yet I’ve been thinking quite a bit about it in lieu of Disney+’s upcoming and hotly anticipated new Star Wars series, The Acolyte. Set many decades before the events which brought Rey and Luke Skywalker together, or for that...
- 5/27/2024
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
What Is the Sith Impostor Theory? What It Could Mean in The Acolyte Explained - Main Image
What is the Sith Impostor theory? Closing in on the release date of The Acolyte on Disney+, early reviews for the Star Wars series have fans wrapping their head around the possible existence of "Sith Pretenders."
With The Acolyte set 100 years before The Phantom Menace, the former Padawan Mae (played by Amandla Stenberg) is one of the top suspects of being part of the Dark Side after leaving her Jedi Master Sol (Lee Jung-Jae).
With this new theory in mind, what does this mean for the series?
What Are Sith Impostors? Explaining the Star Wars Theory
The main goal of the Sith is to destroy the Jedi and bring order to the galaxy, according to how they see fit.
However, Star Wars fans cannot forget Darth Bane's Rule of Two, in which there...
What is the Sith Impostor theory? Closing in on the release date of The Acolyte on Disney+, early reviews for the Star Wars series have fans wrapping their head around the possible existence of "Sith Pretenders."
With The Acolyte set 100 years before The Phantom Menace, the former Padawan Mae (played by Amandla Stenberg) is one of the top suspects of being part of the Dark Side after leaving her Jedi Master Sol (Lee Jung-Jae).
With this new theory in mind, what does this mean for the series?
What Are Sith Impostors? Explaining the Star Wars Theory
The main goal of the Sith is to destroy the Jedi and bring order to the galaxy, according to how they see fit.
However, Star Wars fans cannot forget Darth Bane's Rule of Two, in which there...
- 5/27/2024
- EpicStream
Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar will forever be hailed as one of cinema’s greatest achievements. Celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, the film remains as fresh and impactful as ever, continuing to captivate minds. Not only does the movie resonate deeply on a human level, but it also delves into the intricacies of the human mind and the quest for survival.
Jonathan Nolan speaking at the 2017 San Diego Comic-Con International, for Westworld” (via Gage Skidmore | Wikimedia Commons)
The beautifully crafted original story, to be honest, is unparalleled and cannot be surpassed. However, despite the tremendous success of the film and the position it holds, co-writer Jonathan Nolan is sad because of one reason.
Christopher Nolan’s Impressive Record with Interstellar Leaves Jonathan Nolan Sad for Hollywood
The Christopher Nolan movie Interstellar starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, and Matt Damon was a massive success, both critically and commercially. It grossed a...
Jonathan Nolan speaking at the 2017 San Diego Comic-Con International, for Westworld” (via Gage Skidmore | Wikimedia Commons)
The beautifully crafted original story, to be honest, is unparalleled and cannot be surpassed. However, despite the tremendous success of the film and the position it holds, co-writer Jonathan Nolan is sad because of one reason.
Christopher Nolan’s Impressive Record with Interstellar Leaves Jonathan Nolan Sad for Hollywood
The Christopher Nolan movie Interstellar starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, and Matt Damon was a massive success, both critically and commercially. It grossed a...
- 5/26/2024
- by Sampurna Banerjee
- FandomWire
Legendary Star Wars creator George Lucas spoke at the Cannes Film Festival ahead of receiving the honorary Palme d’Or later today, and the retired filmmaker shared his thoughts on how the iconic franchise has been performing under the Disney banner since he sold the rights to the franchise over a decade ago.
While a lot of fans have been critical of the new movies and Disney+ shows overseen by Lucasfilm's Kathleen Kennedy, Lucas believes the projects have “a lot of talent, great ideas and production,” although it sounds like he does miss being more directly involved in the creative process.
“I feel like they come from my children, and sometimes it hurts a little when they grow up and get away from you,” he tells elpais.com.
Lucas also spoke candidly about some of the criticisms the first six Star Wars movies, most of which he directed, have received over the years,...
While a lot of fans have been critical of the new movies and Disney+ shows overseen by Lucasfilm's Kathleen Kennedy, Lucas believes the projects have “a lot of talent, great ideas and production,” although it sounds like he does miss being more directly involved in the creative process.
“I feel like they come from my children, and sometimes it hurts a little when they grow up and get away from you,” he tells elpais.com.
Lucas also spoke candidly about some of the criticisms the first six Star Wars movies, most of which he directed, have received over the years,...
- 5/26/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
George Lucas has a very pointed message for “Star Wars” haters who mocked the franchise prequels and cancelled Jar Jar Binks: the movies aren’t for you.
“It was supposed to be a kid’s movie for 12-year-olds that were going through puberty, who don’t know what they’re doing, and are asking all the big questions: What should I be worried about? What’s important in life?,” Lucas said at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday, where he received an honorary Palme d’Or.
“And ‘Star Wars’ has all those things in there. They’re buried in there but you definitely get it, especially if you’re young,” he continued.
Of the ire that the character of Jar Jar Binks drew when he was introduced in “The Phantom Menace,” Lucas explained, “Everybody said the same thing about 3-po, that he was irritating and we should get rid of him.
“It was supposed to be a kid’s movie for 12-year-olds that were going through puberty, who don’t know what they’re doing, and are asking all the big questions: What should I be worried about? What’s important in life?,” Lucas said at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday, where he received an honorary Palme d’Or.
“And ‘Star Wars’ has all those things in there. They’re buried in there but you definitely get it, especially if you’re young,” he continued.
Of the ire that the character of Jar Jar Binks drew when he was introduced in “The Phantom Menace,” Lucas explained, “Everybody said the same thing about 3-po, that he was irritating and we should get rid of him.
- 5/25/2024
- by Stephanie Kaloi
- The Wrap
Since its inception in 1977 by creator George Lucas, the Star Wars universe has invited some of Hollywood’s biggest names to participate in telling stories from a galaxy far, far away. On that note, imagine having the chance to star in one of the most iconic film sagas of all time, only to walk away with an unpleasant memory that seemed like it’d never fade.
Can an experience alongside a cinematic legend like Lucas ever be, dare we say, “boring”? Well, for Terence Stamp, acclaimed for his chilling portrayal of the villainous General Zod in Richard Donner’s Superman, a discouraging stint on the set of Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace left an indelible mark.
A still from George Lucas’ Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace | Lucasfilm Ltd.
The London-born actor, 85, earlier detailed his less-than-satisfactory experience collaborating with Lucas during the 1999 epic space opera flick.
Can an experience alongside a cinematic legend like Lucas ever be, dare we say, “boring”? Well, for Terence Stamp, acclaimed for his chilling portrayal of the villainous General Zod in Richard Donner’s Superman, a discouraging stint on the set of Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace left an indelible mark.
A still from George Lucas’ Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace | Lucasfilm Ltd.
The London-born actor, 85, earlier detailed his less-than-satisfactory experience collaborating with Lucas during the 1999 epic space opera flick.
- 5/25/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
Filmmaker George Lucas’ Star Wars franchise has been one of the most popular works of fiction of all time. The space opera franchise features several unique, interesting, and borderline crazy ideas that have kept the fans of the galaxy far, far away on the edge of their seats for well over four decades.
George Lucas saved his craziest Star Wars idea for the Clone Wars (Image via BBC Newsnight).
Despite his penchant for executing risky ideas, one idea from Lucas almost proved too crazy and near impossible to work. While developing The Clone Wars animated series alongside Dave Filoni, Lucas instructed the former to revive one character who had met his definitive end in a previous installment. Here is what Lucas said to Filoni and why the idea should have never worked.
George Lucas Pushed Dave Filoni To Revive Darth Maul For Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Dave Filoni was...
George Lucas saved his craziest Star Wars idea for the Clone Wars (Image via BBC Newsnight).
Despite his penchant for executing risky ideas, one idea from Lucas almost proved too crazy and near impossible to work. While developing The Clone Wars animated series alongside Dave Filoni, Lucas instructed the former to revive one character who had met his definitive end in a previous installment. Here is what Lucas said to Filoni and why the idea should have never worked.
George Lucas Pushed Dave Filoni To Revive Darth Maul For Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Dave Filoni was...
- 5/25/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
Prior to 1999, the phrase "sixth sense" typically referred to a keen sense of intuition, often so powerful as to be considered a supernatural power. The definition, however, was broad, and people could be said to have "a sixth sense" about, say, predicting horse races. Since the release of M. Night Shyamalan's 1999 ghost story "The Sixth Sense," however, the phrase now more commonly refers to one's ability to see and communicate with the dead. The film was that popular. At any rate, that's the superpower possessed by the young Cole (Haley Joel Osment), something that causes a great deal of consternation to his psychologist Malcolm (Bruce Willis). How can one treat a child when mutilated ghosts are randomly appearing to him?
"The Sixth Sense" also boasted a notorious twist ending wherein it was revealed that [Redacted] was [Redacted]. It was a shocking twist that few might have predicted. Luckily, "The Sixth Sense...
"The Sixth Sense" also boasted a notorious twist ending wherein it was revealed that [Redacted] was [Redacted]. It was a shocking twist that few might have predicted. Luckily, "The Sixth Sense...
- 5/25/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
George Lucas’ original Star Wars films were a benchmark in the sci-fi genre introducing audiences to a fascinating new world full of exciting characters and world-building. The classic arc of good vs evil, with the former eventually triumphing over evil, worked big time with fans, making the original trilogy an iconic one.
Liam Neeson and Natalie Portman in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace | Lucasfilm
When Lucas continued to expand the world with the prequel trilogy, the fans did not respond to it as well as they did with the original trilogy. Lucas has now opened up about the criticism of the trilogy and pointed out how audiences have misunderstood the intentions of the film and confusion regarding its target audience.
George Lucas Defends The Prequel Trilogy And How It Was Intended For Younger Audiences
Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith is considered the best among the prequel trilogy | LucasfilmThe Star...
Liam Neeson and Natalie Portman in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace | Lucasfilm
When Lucas continued to expand the world with the prequel trilogy, the fans did not respond to it as well as they did with the original trilogy. Lucas has now opened up about the criticism of the trilogy and pointed out how audiences have misunderstood the intentions of the film and confusion regarding its target audience.
George Lucas Defends The Prequel Trilogy And How It Was Intended For Younger Audiences
Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith is considered the best among the prequel trilogy | LucasfilmThe Star...
- 5/25/2024
- by Rahul Thokchom
- FandomWire
Returning with another captivating tale, Star Wars continues to be the gift that keeps on giving with The Acolyte. Despite the mixed reviews and audience reactions surrounding the yet-to-be-released show, the anticipation surrounding it remains substantial.
Carrie-Anne Moss in Disney+’s The Acolyte / Lucasfilm
Recently, cast member Carrie-Anne Moss, who portrays the role of Jedi Master Indara, drew comparisons between the series and The Matrix, hinting at a potential game-changer in the making. Only time will tell how The Acolyte will hold up.
How Did Trinity from The Matrix Universe Help Carrie-Anne Bring This Star Wars Character to Life?
In the wild universe of Star Wars, Leslye Headland’s brainchild, The Acolyte, introduces the fans to Jedi Master Indara, a force to be reckoned with. She is someone who can described in one sentence- if Trinity from The Matrix had the Force with her. Well, this is true at a very core level.
Carrie-Anne Moss in Disney+’s The Acolyte / Lucasfilm
Recently, cast member Carrie-Anne Moss, who portrays the role of Jedi Master Indara, drew comparisons between the series and The Matrix, hinting at a potential game-changer in the making. Only time will tell how The Acolyte will hold up.
How Did Trinity from The Matrix Universe Help Carrie-Anne Bring This Star Wars Character to Life?
In the wild universe of Star Wars, Leslye Headland’s brainchild, The Acolyte, introduces the fans to Jedi Master Indara, a force to be reckoned with. She is someone who can described in one sentence- if Trinity from The Matrix had the Force with her. Well, this is true at a very core level.
- 5/25/2024
- by Sampurna Banerjee
- FandomWire
The Phantom Menace was a glorious success in terms of box office earnings but the movie that was included in the Star Wars prequel trilogy met with heavy criticism for one primary reason. The trilogy, unlike the sequel movie series, seemed juvenile as considered by fans and critics.
George Lucas. Credit: Joey Gannon/Creative Commons
Now, a few decades later, the creator of Star Wars, George Lucas came to defend the prequel trilogy. However, fans are not ready to accept the reasoning the legendary director provided. Star Wars is one of the biggest and most successful franchises in the history of entertainment and Lucas was the mastermind behind the visionary sci-fi world which still adds shows and movies in it.
George Lucas Defends Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace
A still from the Star Wars movie The Phantom Menace. Credit: 20th Century Studios.
George Lucas has finally responded...
George Lucas. Credit: Joey Gannon/Creative Commons
Now, a few decades later, the creator of Star Wars, George Lucas came to defend the prequel trilogy. However, fans are not ready to accept the reasoning the legendary director provided. Star Wars is one of the biggest and most successful franchises in the history of entertainment and Lucas was the mastermind behind the visionary sci-fi world which still adds shows and movies in it.
George Lucas Defends Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace
A still from the Star Wars movie The Phantom Menace. Credit: 20th Century Studios.
George Lucas has finally responded...
- 5/25/2024
- by Lachit Roy
- FandomWire
Amandla Stenberg is not just starring in new Star Wars series The Acolyte, but she has also tapped into her musical side to play some of the franchise’s iconic score.
Stenberg, who has been playing the violin since she was in the third grade, recently played John Williams’ famed Star Wars score in a promotional video for the series; Williams wrote a solo violin arrangement of it just for her.
At the Los Angeles premiere of The Acolyte on Thursday, the star spoke about the experience, noting it was “one of those opportunities that I will hold with me for the rest of my entire life.”
“I listened to the score so much when we were filming, and then when Disney came to me and said ‘Hey, we’d love for you to play it,’ I thought, ‘Ok, that’s terrifying.’ But then I worked on the sheet music...
Stenberg, who has been playing the violin since she was in the third grade, recently played John Williams’ famed Star Wars score in a promotional video for the series; Williams wrote a solo violin arrangement of it just for her.
At the Los Angeles premiere of The Acolyte on Thursday, the star spoke about the experience, noting it was “one of those opportunities that I will hold with me for the rest of my entire life.”
“I listened to the score so much when we were filming, and then when Disney came to me and said ‘Hey, we’d love for you to play it,’ I thought, ‘Ok, that’s terrifying.’ But then I worked on the sheet music...
- 5/24/2024
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 70s class of filmmakers who re-shaped cinema with their culture-defining works are seemingly getting some recognition recently. After Killers of the Flower Moon, Martin Scorsese’s stock is as high as ever. Steven Spielberg was recently announced to be revisiting a classic concept with him once again tackling a UFO film. Francis Ford Coppola is back in the spotlight with his ambitious passion project, Megalopolis. And George Lucas is getting honored at the Cannes Film Festival with a Palme d’Or for his contribution to cinema.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Lucas would offer some retrospective about his career while accepting the award. He felt nostalgic about attending Cannes, which is where he presented his first feature, Thx-1138, at the Directors’ Fortnight in 1971. He would also, of course, talk about the very film series that is synonymous with him — Star Wars. When speaking about Disney’s purchase of the brand,...
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Lucas would offer some retrospective about his career while accepting the award. He felt nostalgic about attending Cannes, which is where he presented his first feature, Thx-1138, at the Directors’ Fortnight in 1971. He would also, of course, talk about the very film series that is synonymous with him — Star Wars. When speaking about Disney’s purchase of the brand,...
- 5/24/2024
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
‘If you see one movie this summer, see Star Wars. If you see a second, see Austin Powers.’ Thus spake trailer-man, in the teaser for Mike Myers’s upcoming comedy sequel, and to a great extent, that’s exactly what happened in the summer of 1999. Well, almost.
The 20th century was running out of time and that summer was impatiently filled with as many tantalising prospects as any big movie season in recent memory. It appeared to be the summer of comebacks. Following Terrence Malick’s long-awaited return to directing in the recently-released The Thin Red Line, Summer ’99 would see not only George Lucas but Stanley Kubrick making their much-delayed encores – though we knew by then that this was actually Kubrick’s swan song.
An exercise in peak-nostalgia seemed inevitable, but the season proved to be full of surprises. None more so than the success of that second Austin Powers film,...
The 20th century was running out of time and that summer was impatiently filled with as many tantalising prospects as any big movie season in recent memory. It appeared to be the summer of comebacks. Following Terrence Malick’s long-awaited return to directing in the recently-released The Thin Red Line, Summer ’99 would see not only George Lucas but Stanley Kubrick making their much-delayed encores – though we knew by then that this was actually Kubrick’s swan song.
An exercise in peak-nostalgia seemed inevitable, but the season proved to be full of surprises. None more so than the success of that second Austin Powers film,...
- 5/24/2024
- by Cai Ross
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
The highly anticipated Star Wars series The Acolyte officially launches on Disney+ on June 4. Still, early viewers are already flocking to social media platforms to celebrate the dark, bold, and bound-to-be-divisive series. On Thursday evening, the cast and crew celebrated the show’s early arrival with a select crowd, and the first reactions to the murder mystery set in a galaxy far, far away are pouring in. The event shared the series’ first two episodes (some journos have seen the first four), and audiences have big feelings about what could be the grittiest Star Wars saga yet.
Many of the reactions to The Acolyte are overwhelmingly positive, with viewers praising the show’s stellar performances, nail-biting action, and intriguing murder mystery plot. In particular, audiences say Amandla Sternberg, Carrie-Anne Moss, and Lee Jung-jae are sensational additions to the Star Wars universe.
You can check out some of the first reactions...
Many of the reactions to The Acolyte are overwhelmingly positive, with viewers praising the show’s stellar performances, nail-biting action, and intriguing murder mystery plot. In particular, audiences say Amandla Sternberg, Carrie-Anne Moss, and Lee Jung-jae are sensational additions to the Star Wars universe.
You can check out some of the first reactions...
- 5/24/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Star Wars: The Acolyte premieres on Disney+ on June 4, and the first reactions from critics have started finding their way online (via SFFGazette.com).
These are made up of a mix of people who attended a splashy premiere for a screening of the two-part premiere and reviewers who were sent the first four instalments to view online. It's worth noting then that not everyone here will have been caught up in the excitement of yesterday evening's event, meaning these verdicts may hold more weight than usual.
Regardless, the reactions so far are overwhelmingly positive. It sounds like the mystery elements work well, as do The Acolyte's practical stunts and the new ways this series utilises the Force. The cast, and particularly Amandla Stenberg and Lee Jung-jae, is also praised.
Despite taking place long before the Skywalker Saga began in The Phantom Menace, many critics have pointed out how interesting it...
These are made up of a mix of people who attended a splashy premiere for a screening of the two-part premiere and reviewers who were sent the first four instalments to view online. It's worth noting then that not everyone here will have been caught up in the excitement of yesterday evening's event, meaning these verdicts may hold more weight than usual.
Regardless, the reactions so far are overwhelmingly positive. It sounds like the mystery elements work well, as do The Acolyte's practical stunts and the new ways this series utilises the Force. The cast, and particularly Amandla Stenberg and Lee Jung-jae, is also praised.
Despite taking place long before the Skywalker Saga began in The Phantom Menace, many critics have pointed out how interesting it...
- 5/24/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
The Acolyte series is yet to arrive on the small screen, but fans and critics who were lucky enough to watch the advanced screening continue to rave about the show. As one of the many spinoffs under the Star Wars franchise, The Acolyte has been shrouded in mystery.
Disney+’s The Acolyte / Lucasfilm
Of course, this tactic is to heighten fans’ anticipation for the series, and now with the early reviews out, the level of excitement keeps getting higher.
Carrie-Anne Moss On Playing A Jedi Master In The Acolyte
Disney+’s The Acolyte will give the audience a look at Carrie-Anne Moss’ Jedi Master Indara, a figure destined to introduce a unique blend of martial arts expertise to the High Republic Era. In an interview with Empire Magazine, showrunner Leslye Headland shared:
She is very much inspired by Trinity. I personally wanted to see someone who had the highest status...
Disney+’s The Acolyte / Lucasfilm
Of course, this tactic is to heighten fans’ anticipation for the series, and now with the early reviews out, the level of excitement keeps getting higher.
Carrie-Anne Moss On Playing A Jedi Master In The Acolyte
Disney+’s The Acolyte will give the audience a look at Carrie-Anne Moss’ Jedi Master Indara, a figure destined to introduce a unique blend of martial arts expertise to the High Republic Era. In an interview with Empire Magazine, showrunner Leslye Headland shared:
She is very much inspired by Trinity. I personally wanted to see someone who had the highest status...
- 5/24/2024
- by Ariane Cruz
- FandomWire
June is busting out all over, especially on streaming. Whether it’s hiding from the heat or taking a break from school and work, Disney+ and Hulu are here to satisfying your mid-year entertainment needs.
Disney+ will premiere the first new live-action Star Wars since 2023’s middling to “The Mandalorian” Season 3 and “Ahsoka” with “The Acolyte,” starring “Squid Game” breakout Lee Jung-jae. The series is set before the events of “The Phantom Menace” with a familiar master-padawan storyline but new characters and a new era where that dynamic unfolds. The streamer will also premiere various new options for kids and family-friendly programming, as well as new episodes of “Doctor Who” starring Ncuti Gatwa.
On Hulu, FX comes in hot for the summer, along with an adaptation of Candice Carty-Williams’s “Queenie,” the brat-pack documentary “Brats,” and yes — more “Love Island.” The TV and film library continues to shift with new and expiring titles,...
Disney+ will premiere the first new live-action Star Wars since 2023’s middling to “The Mandalorian” Season 3 and “Ahsoka” with “The Acolyte,” starring “Squid Game” breakout Lee Jung-jae. The series is set before the events of “The Phantom Menace” with a familiar master-padawan storyline but new characters and a new era where that dynamic unfolds. The streamer will also premiere various new options for kids and family-friendly programming, as well as new episodes of “Doctor Who” starring Ncuti Gatwa.
On Hulu, FX comes in hot for the summer, along with an adaptation of Candice Carty-Williams’s “Queenie,” the brat-pack documentary “Brats,” and yes — more “Love Island.” The TV and film library continues to shift with new and expiring titles,...
- 5/23/2024
- by Proma Khosla
- Indiewire
The Phantom Menace marks the start of the prequels era of the Star Wars franchise and the film recently completed 25 years. Despite its mixed reception, the film is remembered for its villains, particularly the Sith Lord Darth Maul, who eventually became a fan-favorite character through an expanded focus in the spin-off media.
Darth Maul was first introduced in The Phantom Menace (Image Credit: Lucasfilm).
During the early stages of the film’s development, actor Benicio del Toro was in talks to play the role of Darth Maul. However, del Toro had to eventually drop out, leading to Ray Park playing the role. As a result, fans must be curious to learn why del Toro exited the project, and here is everything you need to know about the casting choice for Darth Maul.
Marvel Star Benicio del Toro Almost Played Darth Maul in The Phantom Menace
Actor Benicio del Toro is...
Darth Maul was first introduced in The Phantom Menace (Image Credit: Lucasfilm).
During the early stages of the film’s development, actor Benicio del Toro was in talks to play the role of Darth Maul. However, del Toro had to eventually drop out, leading to Ray Park playing the role. As a result, fans must be curious to learn why del Toro exited the project, and here is everything you need to know about the casting choice for Darth Maul.
Marvel Star Benicio del Toro Almost Played Darth Maul in The Phantom Menace
Actor Benicio del Toro is...
- 5/23/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
At the heart of The Acolyte, the all-new Star Wars series on Disney+, there are myriad mysteries at play. Which masked figure is killing the Jedi? How does the peaceful High Republic era of the galaxy give way to the political turmoil of The Phantom Menace, 100 years down the line? And what’s the deal with Amandla Stenberg’s Mae, the enigmatic assassin seen doing serious damage to several Jedi Masters in the show’s action-packed trailers?
Empire sat down with Stenberg to tease out some early information about her part to play in the story, devised by series creator Leslye Headland – also discussing the unique way she was cast in the show, her ‘adorable’ martial arts master, and the time she teared up while meeting Lucasfilm legend Dave Filoni.
Empire: At Star Wars Celebration last year you cosplayed as Padmé. You're clearly a huge fan – where did your love of Star Wars begin?...
Empire sat down with Stenberg to tease out some early information about her part to play in the story, devised by series creator Leslye Headland – also discussing the unique way she was cast in the show, her ‘adorable’ martial arts master, and the time she teared up while meeting Lucasfilm legend Dave Filoni.
Empire: At Star Wars Celebration last year you cosplayed as Padmé. You're clearly a huge fan – where did your love of Star Wars begin?...
- 5/23/2024
- by Ben Travis
- Empire - TV
Yoda became a significant pop culture icon after his debut in 1980’s Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back. Despite the mysterious nature of the character, the audience became fascinated with it and he went on to be a significant figure among the fans.
Before the world got obsessed with Baby Yoda after the release of The Mandalorian, the Og Yoda got one of his most fan-favorite action sequences in the Prequel Trilogy. However, despite becoming a favorite, Yoda did not have an electrifying debut as an old Jedi Master in the Original Trilogy.
Yoda in Empire Strikes Back | Lucasfilm
It is reported that the Star Wars creator George Lucas always regretted how the fans never got a badass Yoda sequence due to the technical limitations in the Original Trilogy. But he made sure to deliver some of the most iconic Yoda sequences when he returned to the...
Before the world got obsessed with Baby Yoda after the release of The Mandalorian, the Og Yoda got one of his most fan-favorite action sequences in the Prequel Trilogy. However, despite becoming a favorite, Yoda did not have an electrifying debut as an old Jedi Master in the Original Trilogy.
Yoda in Empire Strikes Back | Lucasfilm
It is reported that the Star Wars creator George Lucas always regretted how the fans never got a badass Yoda sequence due to the technical limitations in the Original Trilogy. But he made sure to deliver some of the most iconic Yoda sequences when he returned to the...
- 5/22/2024
- by Subham Mandal
- FandomWire
This article appears in the new issue of Den Of Geek magazine. You can read all of our magazine stories here.
“At last, we will reveal ourselves to the Jedi. At last, we will have our revenge,” Darth Maul says to his shadowy Sith master in Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace. Twenty-five years after that prequel film set the stage for the rise of Emperor Palpatine and Darth Vader, the new live-action series The Acolyte will show us the origin of the Sith plan to destroy the Jedi once and for all. That story actually begins 100 years before the prequel trilogy, when the Sith were thought to be all but extinct.
Heading up the Disney+ show billed as a “mystery thriller”—a genre first for the space fantasy franchise in live action—is showrunner Lesyle Headland, the creator of the absolutely brilliant Netflix series Russian Doll, about a...
“At last, we will reveal ourselves to the Jedi. At last, we will have our revenge,” Darth Maul says to his shadowy Sith master in Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace. Twenty-five years after that prequel film set the stage for the rise of Emperor Palpatine and Darth Vader, the new live-action series The Acolyte will show us the origin of the Sith plan to destroy the Jedi once and for all. That story actually begins 100 years before the prequel trilogy, when the Sith were thought to be all but extinct.
Heading up the Disney+ show billed as a “mystery thriller”—a genre first for the space fantasy franchise in live action—is showrunner Lesyle Headland, the creator of the absolutely brilliant Netflix series Russian Doll, about a...
- 5/22/2024
- by John Saavedra
- Den of Geek
Star Wars: The Acolyte's Timeline Takes Us to Samurai-Like Era - Main Image
The upcoming Star Wars series The Acolyte's timeline is breaking new ground for the franchise. The series will be set in a time that has never been explored in any of the live-action shows.
We have become accustomed to seeing the Star Wars live-action projects explore various stories set in familiar eras, starting from the Fall of the Jedi in the prequel trilogy to the Rise of the First Order in the sequel trilogy.
Now, for the first time, Star Wars is tackling the High Republic in live-action, an era that was only previously explored in novels and comics and has no connection to the Skywalker Saga.
Also Read: New The Acolyte Teaser Seemingly Spoils Major Plot Twist
When is The Acolyte Taking Place? Timeline Explained
The Acolyte will take place around 100 years before the events of The Phantom Menace,...
The upcoming Star Wars series The Acolyte's timeline is breaking new ground for the franchise. The series will be set in a time that has never been explored in any of the live-action shows.
We have become accustomed to seeing the Star Wars live-action projects explore various stories set in familiar eras, starting from the Fall of the Jedi in the prequel trilogy to the Rise of the First Order in the sequel trilogy.
Now, for the first time, Star Wars is tackling the High Republic in live-action, an era that was only previously explored in novels and comics and has no connection to the Skywalker Saga.
Also Read: New The Acolyte Teaser Seemingly Spoils Major Plot Twist
When is The Acolyte Taking Place? Timeline Explained
The Acolyte will take place around 100 years before the events of The Phantom Menace,...
- 5/22/2024
- EpicStream
Sneak Peek actresss Natalie Portman (“Lady In The Lake”) posing for the May 2024 issue of “L’Officiel” magazine, wearing Dior, Armani, Stella McCartney and a whole lot more, photographed by Ellen von Unwerth:
Portman began her acting career at age twelve, when she starred in "Léon: The Professional" (1994).
While in high school, she made her Broadway debut in a 1998 production of "The Diary of a Young Girl" then gained international recognition starring as 'Padmé Amidala' in "Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace" (1999).
From 1999 to 2003, Portman attended Harvard University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in psychology, while continuing to act in the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy and in The Public Theater's 2001 revival of Anton Chekhov's play "The Seagull".
In 2004, Portman was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and won a Golden Globe Award for the romantic drama "Closer".
Portman's career progressed with her...
Portman began her acting career at age twelve, when she starred in "Léon: The Professional" (1994).
While in high school, she made her Broadway debut in a 1998 production of "The Diary of a Young Girl" then gained international recognition starring as 'Padmé Amidala' in "Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace" (1999).
From 1999 to 2003, Portman attended Harvard University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in psychology, while continuing to act in the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy and in The Public Theater's 2001 revival of Anton Chekhov's play "The Seagull".
In 2004, Portman was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and won a Golden Globe Award for the romantic drama "Closer".
Portman's career progressed with her...
- 5/22/2024
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
The trailer for Longlegs, Nicolas Cage’s new horror movie, makes it looks like a serial killer film. Interestingly, Cage compared the film to a character from Pinocchio. However, the film was directed by the son of a horror movie legend.
Nicolas Cage said ‘Longlegs’ is about ‘a possessed Geppetto’
Anthony Perkins was a talented actor who appeared in numerous films and television shows, but he will always be most remembered for playing Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. Bates was one of the first realistic serial killers to be portrayed onscreen in an American movie. Perkins would reprise the role in three sequels. His son, Oz Perkins, is now a horror director known for the offbeat films Gretel & Hansel and I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House. He also directed Cage’s upcoming film, Longlegs.
During a 2022 interview with Document, Cage had a lot...
Nicolas Cage said ‘Longlegs’ is about ‘a possessed Geppetto’
Anthony Perkins was a talented actor who appeared in numerous films and television shows, but he will always be most remembered for playing Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. Bates was one of the first realistic serial killers to be portrayed onscreen in an American movie. Perkins would reprise the role in three sequels. His son, Oz Perkins, is now a horror director known for the offbeat films Gretel & Hansel and I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House. He also directed Cage’s upcoming film, Longlegs.
During a 2022 interview with Document, Cage had a lot...
- 5/22/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
"You carry a Jedi weapon, but you are no Jedi." Disney+ has revealed a behind-the-scenes featurette for the Star Wars series called The Acolyte, which will start streaming in June. Showrun by Bachelorette and "Russian Doll" creator Leslye Headland. At the end of the High Republic era in a time of "shadowy secrets and emerging dark side powers", approximately 100 years before The Phantom Menace. A former Padawan reunites with her Jedi Master to investigate a series of crimes against Jedi, but the forces they confront are more sinister than they ever anticipated. This series stars Amandla Stenberg as Mae, Manny Jacinto, Dafne Keen, Jodie Turner-Smith, Rebecca Henderson, Charlie Barnett, Margarita Levieva, Dean-Charles Chapman, Carrie-Anne Moss as Jedi master Indara, and Joonas Suotamo as Wookiee Jedi master Kelnacca. This video focuses on talented Korean actor Lee Jung-jae as Jedi master Sol (who they all refer to as "JJ"). His appearance in...
- 5/22/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
The Star Wars franchise is known for its iconic characters, epic battles, and intricate storylines. But what if we told you that Tom Hanks and his son Colin Hanks almost had a place in that galaxy far, far away?
As the star-studded universe of Star Wars continues to draw in audiences through its galactic tales, isn’t it intriguing to imagine Tom Hanks, the embodiment of American cinema charm, donned the robes of Qui-Gon Jinn? Well, rumors have long circulated that the actor was considered for the role of Qui-Gon Jinn in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, before Liam Neeson eventually got the role.
Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump | The Tisch Company
And to add an even more interesting twist to the story, his son auditioned for the role of Anakin Skywalker in the prequel trilogy.
Unveiling the Untold Story: Tom Hanks’ Near-Star Wars Role?
Did you know that before...
As the star-studded universe of Star Wars continues to draw in audiences through its galactic tales, isn’t it intriguing to imagine Tom Hanks, the embodiment of American cinema charm, donned the robes of Qui-Gon Jinn? Well, rumors have long circulated that the actor was considered for the role of Qui-Gon Jinn in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, before Liam Neeson eventually got the role.
Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump | The Tisch Company
And to add an even more interesting twist to the story, his son auditioned for the role of Anakin Skywalker in the prequel trilogy.
Unveiling the Untold Story: Tom Hanks’ Near-Star Wars Role?
Did you know that before...
- 5/21/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
The first three Star Wars films are often cited as some of the best Hollywood movies of all time, while The Phantom Menace received far less glowing reviews. George Lucas reacted to the critical trashing, saying the reviews for The Phantom Menace were identical to those for the previous Star Wars films. Fans should not take him at his word.
George Lucas defended a controversial character from ‘The Phantom Menace’
During a 1999 interview with Empire Magazine, Lucas shrugged off the negative reviews of The Phantom Menace. “The critics pretty much hated the first three movies; they said the dialogue is bad, the acting’s wooden, no story, too many special effects, it’s a children’s film,” he said.
“That same review got moved to Empire Strikes Back, that same review got moved to Return of the Jedi, and that is the review that is getting reprinted now. You’d think that after a while,...
George Lucas defended a controversial character from ‘The Phantom Menace’
During a 1999 interview with Empire Magazine, Lucas shrugged off the negative reviews of The Phantom Menace. “The critics pretty much hated the first three movies; they said the dialogue is bad, the acting’s wooden, no story, too many special effects, it’s a children’s film,” he said.
“That same review got moved to Empire Strikes Back, that same review got moved to Return of the Jedi, and that is the review that is getting reprinted now. You’d think that after a while,...
- 5/21/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
There was a time when Star Wars was innovative. Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace was the moment George Lucas allowed the series to become a shell of its former self. While some fans feel that time has been kind to the movie, it’s only gotten worse with age.
25 years later, 2 elements of ‘The Phantom Menace’ are inexcusable
The Phantom Menace is a boring movie about political shenanigans starring a bunch of characters who rarely emote and a large orange lizard named Jar Jar Binks. If it was one of the many science fiction films made in the direct aftermath of the original Star Wars, like Message from Space or The Black Hole, no one would defend it. Because the movie has the phrase “Star Wars” in its title, it will always have defenders.
The movie was always bad, but age has made it worse for two reasons.
25 years later, 2 elements of ‘The Phantom Menace’ are inexcusable
The Phantom Menace is a boring movie about political shenanigans starring a bunch of characters who rarely emote and a large orange lizard named Jar Jar Binks. If it was one of the many science fiction films made in the direct aftermath of the original Star Wars, like Message from Space or The Black Hole, no one would defend it. Because the movie has the phrase “Star Wars” in its title, it will always have defenders.
The movie was always bad, but age has made it worse for two reasons.
- 5/21/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park came out way back in 1993, and was truly a landmark project due to a plethora of reasons. The classic story of what happens when human beings set out to play god came with some groundbreaking VFX and special effects, the kind that effectively brought increased the threshold of possibility when it came to how special effects could help filmmakers expand their horizons.
Generating a whopping $1.05 billion against a budget of $63 million, the movie not only sparked a franchise but also in some ways inspired a total of 3 further billion-dollar franchises. These include George Lucas’ Star Wars, James Cameron’s Avatar, and Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings, all trilogies.
How Jurassic Park inspired (at least) 3 billion-dollar franchises that came years later!
A still from Jurassic Park | Universal Pictures
George Lucas returned to direct The Phantom Menace after previously directing 1977’s original Star War film.
Generating a whopping $1.05 billion against a budget of $63 million, the movie not only sparked a franchise but also in some ways inspired a total of 3 further billion-dollar franchises. These include George Lucas’ Star Wars, James Cameron’s Avatar, and Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings, all trilogies.
How Jurassic Park inspired (at least) 3 billion-dollar franchises that came years later!
A still from Jurassic Park | Universal Pictures
George Lucas returned to direct The Phantom Menace after previously directing 1977’s original Star War film.
- 5/20/2024
- by Rishabh Bhatnagar
- FandomWire
Lucasfilm Unveils Star Wars: The Phantom Menace Digitally Remastered Trailer - Main Image
Lucasfilm has released the digitally remastered trailer of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace in celebration of the film's 25th anniversary.
This year, the first film in the Star Wars prequel trilogy is celebrating the silver anniversary of its monumental release in 1999. Despite the polarizing reception in its initial release, it has gained a strong following throughout the years as some fans have defended it.
It was recently re-released in theaters earlier this month where it had an impressive box office performance despite being widely available in home video and streaming.
Also Read: Daisy Ridley Expresses Hope to Reunite with John Boyega in New Star Wars Movie
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace Digitally Remastered Trailer Unveiled
The digitally remastered version of the first Star Wars: The Phantom Menace trailer was recently released on the official Star Wars social media accounts and YouTube channel.
Lucasfilm has released the digitally remastered trailer of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace in celebration of the film's 25th anniversary.
This year, the first film in the Star Wars prequel trilogy is celebrating the silver anniversary of its monumental release in 1999. Despite the polarizing reception in its initial release, it has gained a strong following throughout the years as some fans have defended it.
It was recently re-released in theaters earlier this month where it had an impressive box office performance despite being widely available in home video and streaming.
Also Read: Daisy Ridley Expresses Hope to Reunite with John Boyega in New Star Wars Movie
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace Digitally Remastered Trailer Unveiled
The digitally remastered version of the first Star Wars: The Phantom Menace trailer was recently released on the official Star Wars social media accounts and YouTube channel.
- 5/20/2024
- EpicStream
In case you hadn’t noticed, Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace is 25 this year. It’s been on the cover of Empire. There have been Episode I Lego sets ahoy. The film itself returned to cinemas for May The Fourth. But another treat has arrived to mark the occasion – Sunday 19 May was, officially, the anniversary; and so, as a little bonus, the good people at Lucasfilm uploaded a newly-remastered 4K version of the iconic Episode I trailer, re-scanned from the original 35mm negative. Give it a watch here:
Chances are, this is a trailer you’ve seen plenty of times. It is, in its own right, a piece of Star Wars history – the first glimpse fans had to George Lucas’ long-awaited prequel trilogy. The trailer’s arrival in cinemas had people flocking to the multiplexes; in the early days of the internet, those with the right bandwidth...
Chances are, this is a trailer you’ve seen plenty of times. It is, in its own right, a piece of Star Wars history – the first glimpse fans had to George Lucas’ long-awaited prequel trilogy. The trailer’s arrival in cinemas had people flocking to the multiplexes; in the early days of the internet, those with the right bandwidth...
- 5/20/2024
- by Ben Travis
- Empire - Movies
The Shawshank Redemption director Frank Darabont was once approached to write a Star Wars film for George Lucas. The Star Wars director was not the best at writing dialogue and tried seeking outside help for the same. However, Darabont couldn’t go through with the negotiations to write Lucas’ Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. The Green Mile director explained that he couldn’t affiliate himself with the project since it was a non-guild job.
A still from George Lucas’s Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace | Lucasfilm Ltd.
George Lucas exited the DGA, WGA, and MPA in 1980 after they fined his film The Empire Strikes Back for breaking the rules. During the prequel trilogy, Lucasfilm refused to become a signatory to any of these guilds, making it difficult for Darabont to accept the writing job.
The Shawshank Redemption Director Couldn’t Work For George Lucas...
A still from George Lucas’s Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace | Lucasfilm Ltd.
George Lucas exited the DGA, WGA, and MPA in 1980 after they fined his film The Empire Strikes Back for breaking the rules. During the prequel trilogy, Lucasfilm refused to become a signatory to any of these guilds, making it difficult for Darabont to accept the writing job.
The Shawshank Redemption Director Couldn’t Work For George Lucas...
- 5/20/2024
- by Hashim Asraff
- FandomWire
Steven Spielberg had a great run in the 80s and 90s churning out blockbusters while also venturing into compelling dramas. He entertained audiences with the Indiana Jones franchise that has since become a significant part of pop culture and also made audiences cry with emotionally driven films such as Empire of the Sun and The Color Purple.
George Lucas helped in the editing process of Jurassic Park for Steven Spielberg
The 90s saw some of the best works from the director and Spielberg managed to churn out two of the best films of the 90s in the same year Jurassic Park and Schindler’s List (both 1993). Star Wars creator George Lucas was instrumental in making that possible but when it came to Lucas needing help from Spielberg, the maverick turned it down for a very logical reason.
Steven Spielberg Turned Down the Offer to Direct One of the Star Wars Prequel...
George Lucas helped in the editing process of Jurassic Park for Steven Spielberg
The 90s saw some of the best works from the director and Spielberg managed to churn out two of the best films of the 90s in the same year Jurassic Park and Schindler’s List (both 1993). Star Wars creator George Lucas was instrumental in making that possible but when it came to Lucas needing help from Spielberg, the maverick turned it down for a very logical reason.
Steven Spielberg Turned Down the Offer to Direct One of the Star Wars Prequel...
- 5/20/2024
- by Rahul Thokchom
- FandomWire
Originally released on May 19, 1999, Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. Upon its initial release, George Lucas’ film was met with mixed reviews and was judged harshly by both critics and fans. While the visual effects for the film were appreciated, viewers weren’t too kind toward the characters or how the story played out.
Star Wars: Episode I: The Phantom Menace | Lucasfilm Ltd.
As a result, The Phantom Menace became the lowest-rated film of the entire Star Wars franchise with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 53%. However, it now looks like the fandom has evolved and so has their original opinion on the first prequel film starring Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, and more.
Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace Celebrates 25 Years
Ahmed Best’s Jar Jar Binks in a still from The Phantom Menace | Lucasfilm Ltd.
Back when The Phantom Menace was first released in theatres,...
Star Wars: Episode I: The Phantom Menace | Lucasfilm Ltd.
As a result, The Phantom Menace became the lowest-rated film of the entire Star Wars franchise with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 53%. However, it now looks like the fandom has evolved and so has their original opinion on the first prequel film starring Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, and more.
Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace Celebrates 25 Years
Ahmed Best’s Jar Jar Binks in a still from The Phantom Menace | Lucasfilm Ltd.
Back when The Phantom Menace was first released in theatres,...
- 5/20/2024
- by Mishkaat Khan
- FandomWire
Newcomer If managed to unseat Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes by just $9.0 million to claim the top spot of the box-office weekend.
In its first weekend of release, Paramount Pictures’ If took in $35.0 million, which was enough to wrestle the number one slot away from Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, which brought in $26.0 million over the weekend. Despite the slide to second place, the film has still taken in $101.2 million for 20th Century Studios over the last two weeks. Debuting in third place with $12.0 million was the Lionsgate Films offering The Strangers: Chapter 1. All of this pushed last weekend’s number two film, The Fall Guy, to fourth place where it added $8.5 million over the last three days to bring its three-week total to $63.0 million for Universal Pictures. Also falling two spots was Challengers, which landed in fifth place where it added $2.9 million to raise its...
In its first weekend of release, Paramount Pictures’ If took in $35.0 million, which was enough to wrestle the number one slot away from Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, which brought in $26.0 million over the weekend. Despite the slide to second place, the film has still taken in $101.2 million for 20th Century Studios over the last two weeks. Debuting in third place with $12.0 million was the Lionsgate Films offering The Strangers: Chapter 1. All of this pushed last weekend’s number two film, The Fall Guy, to fourth place where it added $8.5 million over the last three days to bring its three-week total to $63.0 million for Universal Pictures. Also falling two spots was Challengers, which landed in fifth place where it added $2.9 million to raise its...
- 5/20/2024
- by Mike Tyrkus
- CinemaNerdz
Actor Ray Park debuted as the menacing Sith apprentice Darth Maul in the first installment of the Star Wars prequel trilogy. However, Maul meets his untimely demise at the hands of Obi-Wan Kenobi at the end of The Phantom Menace. Given Maul’s interesting look and brief screen time, fans have clamored to see more of the character in the films.
Ray Park originated the role of Darth Maul in The Phantom Menace.
During an interview, Park admitted to being eager for a return to the galaxy far, far away. The primary reason for Park’s reinvigorated interest in reprising the role of Darth Maul was due to the new lightsaber design of Kylo Ren, which debuted in The Force Awakens. Here is what Park had to say about Kylo Ren’s lightsaber design and his desire to return to Star Wars.
Kylo Ren’s Lightsaber Design Made Darth Maul...
Ray Park originated the role of Darth Maul in The Phantom Menace.
During an interview, Park admitted to being eager for a return to the galaxy far, far away. The primary reason for Park’s reinvigorated interest in reprising the role of Darth Maul was due to the new lightsaber design of Kylo Ren, which debuted in The Force Awakens. Here is what Park had to say about Kylo Ren’s lightsaber design and his desire to return to Star Wars.
Kylo Ren’s Lightsaber Design Made Darth Maul...
- 5/19/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
George Lucas’ Star Wars prequel trilogy has often faced criticism for various elements, from the cast’s performances to the complex political narrative. After The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones did not fare well among the audience, fans had already lost hope for Episode III.
Episode III – Revenge of the Sith
While the movie defied expectations, with a positive box office and critical reception, it still faced criticism for aspects like Hayden Christensen’s performance and Lucas’s screenplay. However, as it celebrates its 19th anniversary, fans have gradually come to appreciate the film, recognizing it as an underrated gem in the franchise.
Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith Celebrates 19 Years
Following the events of The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones, Episode III in the Star Wars trilogy features Anakin Skywalker’s (Hayden Christensen) eventual turn to the dark side as he joins...
Episode III – Revenge of the Sith
While the movie defied expectations, with a positive box office and critical reception, it still faced criticism for aspects like Hayden Christensen’s performance and Lucas’s screenplay. However, as it celebrates its 19th anniversary, fans have gradually come to appreciate the film, recognizing it as an underrated gem in the franchise.
Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith Celebrates 19 Years
Following the events of The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones, Episode III in the Star Wars trilogy features Anakin Skywalker’s (Hayden Christensen) eventual turn to the dark side as he joins...
- 5/19/2024
- by Laxmi Rajput
- FandomWire
The "Star Wars" prequels constitute one of the biggest and most controversial set of movies of all time. Incredibly successful, both during its original theatrical run and in subsequent re-releases, "The Phantom Menace" was hugely anticipated by the summer of 1999, driving impossible-to-meet expectations. When the film was released, it made lots of money, but left some audiences cold. Over time, the image of "The Phantom Menace" as the beginning of the end for the franchise far, far away was cemented.
Except, that was 25 years ago. In the time since, kids who grew up on the prequels and additional material like "The Clone Wars" expanding the story and the characters have become more vocal online. It also helped that disappointment over the sequel trilogy has driven fans back to the prequels and George Lucas' unique and clear vision.
Rewatching "The Phantom Menace" during its 25th anniversary theatrical re-release, the movie's flaws are even more glaring,...
Except, that was 25 years ago. In the time since, kids who grew up on the prequels and additional material like "The Clone Wars" expanding the story and the characters have become more vocal online. It also helped that disappointment over the sequel trilogy has driven fans back to the prequels and George Lucas' unique and clear vision.
Rewatching "The Phantom Menace" during its 25th anniversary theatrical re-release, the movie's flaws are even more glaring,...
- 5/19/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
Geroge Lucas changed the face of the galaxy far, far away when the first installment in the prequel trilogy of Star Wars movies was released in 1999. The Phantom Menace introduced viewers to the character of Qui-Gon Jinn, played by Liam Neeson, who plays an integral role in the stories of both Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Liam Neeson’s Qui-Gon Jinn was not in George Lucas’ plans for The Phantom Menace.
However, according to reports, Lucas’ original plans for the film almost did not include Neeson’s character. Moreover, when Lucas did plan to incorporate the Qui-Gon Jinn character, the initial idea was so outrageous that it would have not only upset loyal fans of the franchise but it is hard to imagine Obi-Wan actor Ewan McGregor being on board with it. Here is everything you need to know about the original plan for Qui-Gon Jinn in The Phantom Menace.
Liam Neeson’s Qui-Gon Jinn was not in George Lucas’ plans for The Phantom Menace.
However, according to reports, Lucas’ original plans for the film almost did not include Neeson’s character. Moreover, when Lucas did plan to incorporate the Qui-Gon Jinn character, the initial idea was so outrageous that it would have not only upset loyal fans of the franchise but it is hard to imagine Obi-Wan actor Ewan McGregor being on board with it. Here is everything you need to know about the original plan for Qui-Gon Jinn in The Phantom Menace.
- 5/19/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
On May 19th, 1999, the world was taken back to a galaxy far, far away after a sixteen-year hiatus from the last film, Return of the Jedi. Ever since The Empire Strikes Back was dubbed “Episode V” this lead to many believing that we would one day see the origins of Darth Vader, the fall of the Jedi and the slow rise of the empire. And now that time had come.
The first episode in the prequel trilogy lets us see a young Anakin Skywalker (Jake Lloyd) being found by master Qui-Gon Jin (Liam Neeson) and his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) and freed from slavery to become a Jedi. He also meets his future wife, Padmé Amidala (Natalie Portman). Meanwhile, from the shadows Darth Sidious (Ian McDirmis), and his apprentice Darth Maul (Ray Park), manipulate the galactic republic by causing a war on the plane of Naboo in an attempt to seize power.
The first episode in the prequel trilogy lets us see a young Anakin Skywalker (Jake Lloyd) being found by master Qui-Gon Jin (Liam Neeson) and his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) and freed from slavery to become a Jedi. He also meets his future wife, Padmé Amidala (Natalie Portman). Meanwhile, from the shadows Darth Sidious (Ian McDirmis), and his apprentice Darth Maul (Ray Park), manipulate the galactic republic by causing a war on the plane of Naboo in an attempt to seize power.
- 5/19/2024
- by Mr. Milo
- Pirates & Princesses
Liam Neeson has been a part of many iconic projects throughout the span of his career. He has played many different characters in a variety of genres, establishing himself as one of the most respected and talented actors in the film industry. Despite all of its success, he cannot seem to outrun one of his most iconic works to date.
Liam Neeson in the Taken franchise [Credit: 20th Century Fox]The Taken franchise is beloved for many reasons, and one of the biggest has to be Neeson’s performance. The film got him into the limelight and helped him showcase his talent. With this, many fans would be surprised to know that the actor was embarrassed when his driver asked him one question about the first film.
Liam Neeson’s Driver Was Concerned
Liam Neeson’s character in Taken is certainly no saint. His appetite for violence is so well known...
Liam Neeson in the Taken franchise [Credit: 20th Century Fox]The Taken franchise is beloved for many reasons, and one of the biggest has to be Neeson’s performance. The film got him into the limelight and helped him showcase his talent. With this, many fans would be surprised to know that the actor was embarrassed when his driver asked him one question about the first film.
Liam Neeson’s Driver Was Concerned
Liam Neeson’s character in Taken is certainly no saint. His appetite for violence is so well known...
- 5/19/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
The "Star Wars" prequel trilogy kicked off 25 years ago with the release of "The Phantom Menace," aka Episode I. At the time, hype was off the charts for George Lucas' first new movie in a galaxy far, far away in more than a decade. Despite being a massive financial success, the movie's reputation, and the prequel trilogy's reputation for that matter, are complicated. Many people hated the movies in their day. While the narrative has changed a lot, Lucas had people warning him that the story he planned to tell of a young Anakin Skywalker becoming Darth Vader might ruin the franchise. He just didn't care to listen.
In a 2005 interview with Rolling Stone around the time that "Revenge of the Sith" was hitting theaters, Lucas explained that those around him at Lucasfilm were nervous about his plans for the prequels. Darth Vader had a scary mystique around him as...
In a 2005 interview with Rolling Stone around the time that "Revenge of the Sith" was hitting theaters, Lucas explained that those around him at Lucasfilm were nervous about his plans for the prequels. Darth Vader had a scary mystique around him as...
- 5/19/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
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