Rating of
4/4
A cinematic sci fi epic
The Film Rebel - wrote on 04/22/10
The definitive science fiction film and one that revolutionized the art that is film making, George Lucas' masterpiece "Star
Wars: A New Hope"(once merely known as "Star Wars") is an visually stunning epice that has broke numerous grounds in film, started a cult following, and has been referenced just about everywhere. "Star Wars" borrows from the old "Flash Gordon" serials of the 1950s. Like "The Matrix" and "District 9", it is so original and yet its interesting to see what films it borrowed from or what concepts it takes. Its almost like a sci fi reimagining of "Wizard of Oz." We have one main character on a quest and he meets numerous other characters along the way.
The film focuses on a teenager named Luke Skywalker. He lives on the desolate planet of Tattooine. His boring life suddenly changes once he comes into the possesion of two droids. He finds a simulation of a young princess who seeks Obi Wan Kenobi, an old jedi knight and a friend of Luke's now deceased father. With the help of Han Solo and Chewbacca, they take off to rescue the princess and attempt to restore piece in the galaxy. But the evil Darth Vader does whatever he can to bring them down.
The special effects in this movie are absolutely phenomenal and even hold up today. The effects used on the starships, the droids, and the countless make up effects used on every kooky creature are just BRILLIANT. When you watch the behind the scenes specials on the DVD, its interesting to see how they did these incredible effects. The action is amazing. Its absolutely suspenseful and will have you at the edge of your seat.
The acting is pretty incredible. This and Raiders of the Lost Ark established Harrison Ford as a household name. James Earl Jones' deep and very demonic voice combined with David Prouse's towering stature is what makes Darth Vader one of the greatest cinematic villains ever. Mark Hamill is a dashing young hero and has a good screen presence as Luke Skywalker. The film also makes good use of some classic british actors, including Alec Guiness and Peter Cushing.
All in all, "Star Wars" is a film that everyone should see. Its an amazing movie you'd have to be crazy not to like. If I had to pick the greatest movie ever made, I'd probably go with this one.
