With the current surge of interest in fantasy and comic books, science fiction will enjoy a further rise in popularity after Disney’s purchase of Lucasfilm and the announced development of “Star Wars: Episode VII.” The news caused fans everywhere to put on their Wookie masks and roar — either in celebration or in fury.
Plans for the sequel trilogies dates back to as early as 1976 when George Lucas envisioned four trilogies while on the set of the first film. The plans never truly took hold, and uncertainty about their fate arose. More than 20 years later, with the planned release of “Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace,” Lucas confirmed these doubts by stating that he did not plan any films beyond the three prequels. It seemed as though the resolution of the Skywalker storyline represented the perfect ending.
A new hope surfaced in 2012 when rumors of Lucas’ change of heart emerged. Finally, under Disney’s ownership, a release date for “Episode VII” has been set for 2015. Lucas will remain connected as a consultant, and while no director has been announced, Michael Arndt (“Little Miss Sunshine” and “Toy Story 3”) is attached to write the screenplay. The film will be an original story that will take place in a post-“Return of the Jedi” period. Arndt plans to have older versions of main characters and fan favorites return.
With a new story outside of the Skywalker storyline, “Episode VII” has the potential to become a blockbuster for all age groups. While older audiences will receive a sweet taste of nostalgia, viewers who are less familiar with the franchise can still appreciate a fantastic film set in everyone’s favorite galaxy far, far away.
The announcement, followed by intense media coverage and speculation, also signified a resurgence of interest in science fiction. The timing could not have been better. It is only fitting to have the franchise that ignited a passion in countless sci-fi fans put the genre back on the map for a generation that has long forgotten the joy of playing around with toy lightsabers.
A version of this article appeared in the Thursday, Dec. 7 print edition. Bob Teoh is a staff writer. Email him at [email protected].