Follow us on Google News
Get the latest updates directly in your Google News feed
Steven Spielberg is arguably one of the greatest filmmakers of all time, having directed some of the biggest franchises. Moreover, Spielberg is a close friend of George Lucas, the creator of theStar Warsfranchise. As a result, if anyone should be in pole position to direct an entry in the space opera saga it should be him and it is a surprise Spielberg hasn’t already helmed aStar Warsmovie.
During an interview, Spielberg spoke about his desire to direct a film in the franchise but revealed why Lucas did not allow him to make one. However, despite not getting a chance to helm an installment in the space-faring saga, Spielberg has still played a key role in shaping some of the most important movies in theStar Warsfranchise, and here is what you need to know in that regard.
Steven Spielberg revealed why George Lucas did not let him direct aStar Warsmovie
Some of the best movies inSteven Spielberg‘s career have come in collaboration with filmmakerGeorge Lucas. The two worked together on theIndiana Jonesfranchise, which proved to be a global box office phenomenon. However, Lucas never allowed Spielberg to direct a movie in his other popular franchiseStar Wars.
During a 2002 interview, Spielberg discussed his friendship with Lucas and his desire to direct a movie in the space opera franchise. However,the Academy Award-winning directoradmitted that Lucas hadn’t permitted him to make aStar Warsfilm.
I’ve asked [Lucas]. He won’t let me do one. I wanted to do one 15 years ago, and he didn’t want me to do it. I understand why – Star Wars is George’s baby.
Spielberg made the above statement (viaThe Guardian), describing the franchise as Lucas’ cottage industry with his fingerprints on it.
“Strip off the Star Wars motif and it makes no difference”: The Best Scene of ‘Andor’ Proved What Star Wars Has Been Doing Wrong for Years
Furthermore, Spielberg noted how hisJurassic Parkfranchise was akin to whatStar Warsmeant to Lucas and they already worked on one franchise together. As a result, Spielberg revealed that he understood why Lucas did not want him to direct aStar Warsmovie. Hence, it is safe to say Spielberg has no hard feelings over the matter.
Steven Spielberg had a hand in shaping the most importantStar Warsmovies
While Spielberg did not reveal whichStar Warsmovie he desired to make, it was likely during the original trilogy era since his aforementioned comments were made in 2002. As a result, Spielberg most likely wanted to directReturn of the Jedior an entirely new installment.
Despite never having a chance to direct an installment in the franchise, Spielberg helped shape two of the most importantStar Warsmovies. According to director Ron Howard (viaCollider), he, Robert Zemeckis, and Spielberg were among those approached by Lucas to helm the first installment in the prequel trilogy.
Natalie Portman Denied Reports of ‘Game of Thrones’ Style Ending to Anakin-Padmé’s Star Wars Story Despite Insider’s Claims
However, all three directors suggested Lucas himself directThe Phantom Menace, which had the pressure of launching the prequel trilogy. Similarly, Spielberg was the one who suggested director J.J. Abrams to Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy (viaThe Hollywood Reporter) for the first installment ofthe sequel trilogy. Thus, Spielberg arguably had a big hand in shaping both the prequel and sequel trilogy’s first movies.
Star Warsmovies and TV shows are streaming on Disney+.
Pratik Handore
Content Writer
Articles Published :1772
With a keen interest in comic book movies and blockbuster franchises, Pratik usually covers news and updates on the DCU, MCU, Star Wars, and more.A die-hard fan of George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, Pratik spends most of his time exploring different storytelling mediums that invoke a sense of wonder and adventure. Other filmmakers whose works have deeply influenced him include Alfred Hitchcock, James Gunn, and Guillermo del Toro.
