The Dark Side. What is the Dark Side? Why can we all identify with it? For as long as I can remember, Star Wars has been a part of my life. I remember Hoth being the greatest battle I'd ever witnessed, as I prayed that the Rebels would be able to hold off those Imperial Walkers. I remember giggling Boba Fett yelp as he plunged into the depths of the Sarlacc. I remember cowering in fear as the Emperor tortured Luke. Why do I remember these things? Because Star Wars transcends any kind of time, class, or race barriers. It's a story of archetypes, and thus there is some kind of primal connection we all feel with the characters. Who didn't feel shock and sympathy for Luke when found out Vader was his father? Who didn't feel triumph as the rebels destroyed the Death Star, saving the planet of Yavin IV from imminent destruction? Who didn't feel sheer, giddy joy as the Ewoks picked apart the most structured military in the universe?
Now, I know many would argue that the dated visuals, camp, and prequels have ruined the Star Wars franchise. Not so. It is true that the visuals of the original Star Wars have aged a bit over time, but that is part of the inherent charm. Star Wars is a bit campy too, which is again part of the charm. It is also true that the prequels lacked a certain feeling found in the original films, but since they complete the mythology, they can be so powerful.
And Star Wars isn't just an action packed saga, there is a strong sense of moral commitment in the films as well, and it makes uncountable references to ancient legends and mythology. One cannot help but feel chills as they see the undeniable connection between Emperor Palpatine and Adolph Hitler.
Star Wars isn't a story. It's a universe. I know the names of dozens, if not hundreds, of characters, planets, creatures, weapons, races, and ships. Star Wars is beautiful. I love it. I love it, love it, love it. It is more than a film.
"I'm going to save you" "You already have Luke, you already have."
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