George Lucas' Involvement in Star Wars Today and His Relationship with Disney
George Lucas, the visionary behind the timeless Star Wars universe, continues to play a significant role in the franchise's ongoing success, albeit with a complex relationship with its current owner, Disney. This article explores his current involvement in making Star Wars films and his ongoing relationship with Disney, especially after selling the franchise to them.
Current Involvement in Star Wars Filmmaking
Despite a contentious relationship with Disney in recent years, George Lucas remains engaged with the Star Wars franchise. He notably made on-set visits for the series The Mandalorian and has been known to offer assistance when asked. His hands-on involvement demonstrates his enduring passion for the Star Wars universe and his desire to ensure its continued success in the eyes of fans around the world.
The Complex Relationship with Disney
The relationship between George Lucas and Disney has always been a bit of a rollercoaster. After selling the Star Wars franchise to Disney in 2012, George Lucas expressed some dissatisfaction with the direction the franchise has taken under Disney's control. In an interview, he famously compared Disney's actions to "white slavers," indicating his displeasure with certain aspects of the franchise's management and creative vision.
Key Points:
- Involvement: George Lucas has made visits to set for The Mandalorian and offered assistance.
- Dissatisfaction: His comparison of Disney to "white slavers" reflects his unambiguous displeasure with the franchise's direction.
Impact on Star Wars Filmmaking and Future Plans
The impact of George Lucas' involvement, or lack thereof, on Star Wars filmmaking can be seen in recent releases and upcoming projects. While Disney continues to produce films and content in the Star Wars universe, there is a noticeable contrast in the volatile release schedules and creative liberties taken in solo films compared to the rigorous approach under Lucasfilm's early leadership.
Current Projects:
Lucas continues to have a say in the ongoing The Mandalorian series, which has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. While he may not be directly involved in writing or directing Star Wars films, his influence can be seen in the way the series respects certain Star Wars storytelling traditions, despite the less formal budgets and constraints.
Future Plans:
The future of Star Wars remains uncertain. With Disney's interests in expanding the franchise through various media, including holograms and interactive experiences, there is a tension between these innovations and George Lucas' traditionalist approach. However, his influence in preserving the Star Wars legacy is evident in the franchise's continued success and the reverence shown by its audience.
Conclusion
George Lucas' involvement in the making of Star Wars films, despite his mixed feelings about Disney, is a testament to the enduring impact of his creation. As the Star Wars universe continues to grow, his presence, whether on set or in the background, remains a key factor in its storytelling and fan engagement. The relationship between Lucas and Disney stands as a fascinating case study of the challenges and successes that can arise from a long-standing ownership agreement in the film industry.
Note: It's worth noting that George Lucas passed away in October 2022, but his legacy and contributions to the Star Wars franchise remain significant and continue to influence the series' direction and content.