Is the Contempt for Star Wars Prequels Justified?

The extreme hatred for the Star Wars prequels has been a topic of much debate among fans. Some critics, including myself, feel that this intense dislike is better grounded than others may believe.

General Observations on Reboots

Attempting to reignite a franchise after a decade or so inevitably entails a loss of continuity. The style of storytelling, visual effects, and even the cast can shift significantly. This is particularly evident in prequels, where the original films look dated in comparison.

For instance, it’s not universally desired to delve into the childhoods of beloved characters. While some fans eagerly anticipate learning about the origins of Darth Vader, the idea of meeting his wife, a young Obi-Wan Kenobi, or featuring a clownish alien to tie everything together is often met with skepticism.

Comparing Originals to Reboots

Similar sentiments can be seen in other franchises, such as Star Trek’s Next Generation. The magic of a show created from scratch is often distinct from recreating elements of the past. It's like comparing a brand new character interaction to a replication of old dynamics.

The Director's Estrangement from Basics

Likewise, George Lucas seemed to have forgotten the fundamental principles of narrative and plot. For instance, the concept of a protagonist in The Force Awakens (TFM) becomes diluted. The Phantom Menace (AotC) uses a misleading documentary style that jumps around, forgetting the essential structure of a compelling story. The editing skills that were once superb with the help of Marsha (whom Lucas divorced) were not as evident during this period.

Lucas likely became too swayed by his own press clippings, believing himself to be a true visionary, capable of handling everything alone. This led to a decline in the quality of storytelling, with recurring issues such as childish humor, cute alien creatures, and an excessive reliance on visual effects overshadowing the narrative.

Personal Reflections

I, personally, will never again experience the magic of seeing A New Hope for the first time as a teenager. The nostalgia and excitement of that initial viewing are replaced with a sense of disappointment, especially after experiencing the disconnect of prequel storytelling.

Conclusion

While it is easy to dismiss the hate for the Star Wars prequels as mere nostalgia, there is a palpable frustration with the loss of quality and continuity that Lucas has brought to the table. It's not just about the characters or the plot; it's about the fundamental aspects of storytelling that got lost in the quest for cinematic spectacle.

The debate around these films continues, and whether the contempt for the prequels is justified is a matter of personal opinion. However, recognizing the context in which these movies were made can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of fan emotions and the importance of narrative integrity in film.