“The most elaborate, most expensive, most beautiful movie serial ever made … an apotheosis of Flash Gordon serials and a witty critique that makes associations with a variety of literature that is nothing if not eclectic. Quo Vadis? Buck Rogers, Ivanhoe, Superman, The Wizard Of Oz, The Gospel According To St. Matthew, The Legend Of King Arthur And Knights Of The Round Table.”
Who could ask for anything more?
1977. May 26. The New York Times film critic Vincent Canby wrote this sock-it-to-’em love letter during the openinig of George Lucas’ galaxy far, far away in Star Wars. Nearly four decades later, with sequel after sequel, George’s firmament continues to detonate with Star Wars fireworks, as evidenced last weekend with the volcanic explosion for Disney at the record-breaking global boxoffice. $526 million! The world has spoken in behalf of this best investment ever made by a studio chief, Mr. Bob Iger.
“One of Mr. Lucas’ particular achievements is the manner in which he is able to recall the tackiness of the old comic strips and serials without making a movie that is, itself, tacky,” assessed Mr. Canby in his review. “Star Wars is good enough to convince the most skeptical 8-year-old sci-fi buff, who is the toughest critic.”
Variety’s A. D. Murphy (Art) hailed Star Wars as “a magnificent film … George Lucas set out to make the biggest possible adventure fantasy about his memories of serials and older action epics, and he succeeded brilliantly.”
“Star Wars will undoubtedly emerge as one of the true classics in the genre of science fiction/fantasy films … thrilling audiences of all ages for a long, long time to come,” crystal-balled THR’s Ron Pennington in his 1977 review.
Yes, the galaxy dazzles forever and a day. Han Solo and Princess Leia and the Jedis and the glowing sabers carry on. As John Williams’ Oscar-winning operatic scores thunder on. Eternally!
Happiest Holidays To All!