Review of The People vs. George Lucas (2010) by Marilee A — 06 Nov 2011

Have you ever felt frustrated about George Lucas constant tinkering with the original trilogy? Then this is a documentary you shouldn't miss. Personally, I've always been a bit on both sides of the fence.

I like some of the changes Lucas has done, while despising others. My most recent grievance came with the recent Blu-ray release of the "complete saga". I don't mind if he adds an extra creature or two in the background of a scene, but when he inserts additional lines of dialogue, that sound completely misplaced, the angry nerd in me just can't take it anymore.

That's why this joyously insightful piece came at the perfect time for me; soothing some of that incessant bubbling in my blood. Including fascinating interviews with people like Neil Gaiman and David Prowse (whom I've had the great pleasure of meeting in real life), we follow the phenomenon from its early years when Lucas was a promising innovation artist, to the later which he has mostly spent destroying the things we love (along with nuking certain fridges).

Although stuffed with some great archival footage, both old and very recent, the one thing I miss from this semi-rant/semi-tribute, is a response on the matter from Lucas himself. I would have loved to hear him defend his actions - if only for a brief comment or two - but I'm guessing he wanted nothing to do with this film or its makers.

At any rate, it's still a must-see for all Star Wars fans, regardless if you're a purist or more of a casual viewer.