Joseph Campell, George Lucas and Star Wars
Did you know that George Lucas had a planner when he created Star Wars?
I like to wax on about the role of Joseph Campbell in Lucas’ work when people ask me why I get so wound up about narrative and archetypes and universal truths when “it’s just advertising.” You could say George Lucas just makes movies. But Star Wars is clearly distinctive – from sales to lasting cultural impact. The difference between Star Wars and most movies is in how and why it connects to the audience. There’s literally a brief, a briefing and ongoing collaboration behind the story. Sounds like planning and creativity to me.
I mentioned this clip at the Campus Welch last week but cut it for time. If you were in the house on Friday, give this a look and give it a think. And check out the work of Joseph Campbell and watch Star Wars again with fresh eyes.
