Show of Force
Our cover story on Revenge of the Sith, director George Lucas' final addition to the Star Wars saga, prompted readers to share their excitement about the new movie, their disappointment with Lucas' recent efforts and their happy memories of growing up with the space opera that changed popular culture
I was delighted that you put the highly anticipated third episode of Star Wars, Revenge of the Sith, on your cover [May 9]. It reminded readers that milestones in entertainment can be just as historic as the political news that swamps the media. Director George Lucas has conceived vivid characters that in many ways resemble some members of George Bush's Administration. The final installment in the Star Wars epic could prove to be quite an eye opener for moviegoers.
TENGBO LI
Brighton, Mich.
It is apparent that Lucas has totally lost touch with his creative genius. His embrace of special-effects technology over anything else has squashed the soul of the latest Star Wars films. His reliance on limitless digital technology allowed him to create his vision, but he fails to see that limitations inspire creativity. The original three Star Wars films are abundant proof of this. Lucas should realize that none of the special effects in the most recent trilogy look real. The lack of popular respect for these movies is a fitting fate for a failed idea.
DANIEL FETHERSTON
New York City
Richard Corliss wrote a great story on the new Star Wars movie. Revenge of the Sith looks like exciting summer entertainment and a real winner. I wasn't thrilled with the past two Star Wars movies in the prequel trilogy, but I'm looking forward to this one.
MEL MCCORMICK
Baltimore, Md.
Star Wars raised our boys, taught them how to read and do math, and put them on the fast track to an interest in computer science. Both are now young men and college graduates. I'm sure they will save this issue of TIME along with all their other Star Wars items. For Christmas, even after they grew up, we always gave our sons the latest Star Wars gadgets. But what will we do after this year, when there won't be any more new episodes in the series?
DALE HILL
Anadarko, Okla.
I saw the first Star Wars film when I was 14. I was blown away by the sheer scope of the film and the number of people who stood in long lines to see it. As a little person who stands just over 4 ft. tall, I've found strength in the depiction of Yoda. Before Star Wars, I had never seen anyone of such small stature portrayed as a hero with tremendous strength and dignity. Lucas brought Yoda to life, all 2 ft. of him, and created one of the greatest screen characters of all time. "Judge me by my size, do you?" That line from The Empire Strikes Back gave me courage as I was growing up and made me realize that strength is found within and is not measured by whether you are tall enough to slam-dunk a basketball! Yoda was a hero my size.
DAN MADSEN, FORMER PRESIDENT
THE OFFICIAL STAR WARS FAN CLUB
Aurora, Colo.