“Whoop-dee-do. What’s the big deal? It’s not like we don’t know what’s going to happen,” said a Bakersfield College professor in relation to the release of the new Star Wars film, “Star Wars Episode III: The Revenge of the Sith.”
Perhaps one of the most anticipated films since the original nearly 30 years ago, Episode III is set to release in theaters May 19 with fans tearing at the doors to get in.
All with good reason considering the fact that every magazine, newspaper and talk show has been buzzing with clips and pictures, giving moviegoers a look into the final Star Wars chapter.
So what is the big deal? We all know that Anakin Skywalker turns to the Dark Side of the Force and becomes Darth Vader. We know Vader kills off the Jedi Council and helps lead the Republic to supreme rule. And we know that Senator Padme gives birth to future heroes, Luke and Leia.
So why are people lining up for days to catch this already-known tale?
Perhaps, because, not only has this film promised to be more visually stunning and amazing than any other Star Wars film, but it is also the last Star Wars movie that will ever be made.
Several interviews with Star Wars creator George Lucas have confirmed that this will be the last Star Wars film he will ever make. The film franchise that has grossed billions of dollars and will still continue to make money long after Episode III’s release, has finally come to an end. The film series that has brought generations of fans together is calling it quits, leaving its mark in not only Sci-Fi history but America’s as well.
To say that Episode III is not a big deal is the same as saying the first Star Wars film was no big deal either. The original did not just spawn two films but five.
What other film has been able to produce five sequels, which have all been hits at the box office? Not to mention launch a huge line of toys, video games, books and other memorabilia.
So when people ask why this is a big deal, that’s the most belligerent question to ever be asked. When this generation grows old our grandchildren will ask us three questions for their history class: What did you think of Kurt Cobain’s suicide? Where were you when Sept. 11 happened? And how old were you when you saw the last Star Wars movie?
Everyone in America will see Episode III whether it is in the theater or in their own home, unless, of course, they don’t watch movies for religious reasons.
This isn’t just the final film, it is the end of a saga that has grown with us since we were first able to wave around a plastic light saber. Whether you are a hardcore Star Wars fan with Darth Maul toys still in the box or just your average moviegoer, this will be a film not to be missed. This will be a film to always remember.