What did George Lucas think of Rogue One? The question has intrigued fans and critics alike since the release of the film in 2016. As the creator of the Star Wars franchise, Lucas’s opinions on the standalone prequel to the original trilogy carry significant weight. This article delves into Lucas’s thoughts on Rogue One, exploring his initial skepticism, his eventual approval, and the impact of the film on the Star Wars universe.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story was not initially part of George Lucas’s vision for the Star Wars franchise. When Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012, they expressed interest in expanding the Star Wars universe with new films. Lucas, who had stepped away from active involvement in the franchise after the prequel trilogy, was hesitant to support a standalone movie. He felt that the original trilogy had already told the story of a group of rebels coming together to defeat the Empire, and he was concerned that a new film might dilute the significance of that narrative.
However, Lucas was eventually convinced to let Rogue One proceed, largely due to the passion and vision of the film’s director, Gareth Edwards. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Lucas said, “I was skeptical at first, but Gareth made a great case for it. He said, ‘This is a story that’s never been told, and it’s important to the Star Wars saga.’ And he was right.” Lucas was impressed by Edwards’s commitment to the project and his desire to create a film that would resonate with fans and newcomers alike.
Despite his initial skepticism, Lucas ultimately approved of Rogue One and even expressed his pride in the film. In a statement released by Lucasfilm, he said, “Rogue One is a bold new direction for the Star Wars saga, and I’m excited to see it come to life. Gareth and his team have done a fantastic job of bringing this story to the screen, and I’m confident that audiences will be thrilled with the result.” Lucas’s approval of the film was a significant boost to its credibility and success.
Rogue One’s impact on the Star Wars universe cannot be overstated. The film served as a bridge between the prequel and original trilogies, providing essential context for the events that led to the Rebel Alliance’s victory in the original trilogy. It also introduced new characters and expanded the Star Wars universe in ways that Lucas himself had not anticipated. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Lucas said, “I didn’t expect Rogue One to have such a profound effect on the franchise. It’s a testament to Gareth and his team’s hard work and dedication.”
In conclusion, George Lucas’s initial skepticism about Rogue One gave way to approval and pride. The film, directed by Gareth Edwards, delivered a compelling story that expanded the Star Wars universe in meaningful ways. Lucas’s support for the project was crucial in its success, and Rogue One has since become an integral part of the Star Wars saga.
