One thing that made the original Star Wars trilogy such a cultural phenomenon was beyond all its groundbreaking visuals, the story had heart. Similar was the case for the prequels and irrespective of one’s stance on them, most can agree that its characters and story felt deeply personal as it was driven by Lucas’ passion for the acclaimed franchise.
But under Disney, things have been less than thrilling, and even though fans have been urging for the return of the good old days, it seems unlikely, at least under Disney’s current formula.
Disney’s Attempt to Cater to Everyone Has Backfired for Star Wars
In the age of social media, where everything is overanalyzed, whether it be glaring plotholes or minor editing mishaps, one can’t win over everyone, especially when it’s the Star Wars fandom. Taking to X, one fan pointed out one editing flaw from Return of the Jedi, stressing that it’d have come under heavy scrutiny if it was released today, and it’s hard to argue against it.
Following this divisive nature of the huge fanbase, unlike George Lucas, who had no problem telling stories that he wanted to, things seem opposite under the Disney regime. From Pete Docter’s recent statements about Pixar, it’s evident that the studio execs prefer a story that appeals to everyone. Considering telling deeply personal stories, which often contribute to great characters, also risks alienating a part of the fanbase, it makes sense why Disney higher-ups seem to be going in the other direction.
Unlike Lucasfilm under Lucas, which was open to new ideas, under the Disney structure, in which studio execs control the flow, appeasing the fanbase appears to be the priority. This has led to them prioritizing what might sit well with the entire fandom as opposed to the actual lore, which hasn’t worked well for either.
However, there have been exceptions, like Rogue One, which not only was a departure from the traditional Star Wars storyline, it’s considered the best Star Wars film under Disney. On the streaming side of things, similar was the case with Andor, as being rated TV-14, the creators didn’t have to worry about everyone, which allowed them to tell a story they were passionate about.
George Lucas Didn’t Give Into Fans’ Demand When Criticized for Star Wars Special Edition
Although the divisive nature of the Star Wars fandom has been in the limelight following the constant mishaps from Disney, it isn’t exclusive to the IP under Disney. Back when Lucas released the Star Wars special edition, which incorporated some changes compared to the films that originally hit the screens, fans were pissed. Some even accused the filmmaker of ruining their childhood.
On the internet, all those same guys that are complaining I made a change are completely changing the movie
However, instead of taking the Disney way, Lucas stood beside his decision, stressing (via The Guardian), “Fine. But my movie, with my name on it, that says I did it, needs to be the way I want it.”
Following the ginormous size of the fandom, it’s safe to say whatever next comes from the Disney oven, not everyone will be pleased. So it’s high time Disney allowed filmmakers, passionate about the IP, to tell a story they’re passionate about to see more results like Rogue One and Andor.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Andor are available to stream on Disney Plus.
