Introduction

Disney's approach to directing the Star Wars universe has been a subject of extensive debate. Critics and fans often question whether these films respect the established traditions and canon. While it's true that comparisons can sometimes be drawn with George Lucas' inconsistent handling of the franchise, a close examination reveals that Disney's directors have largely remained faithful to the core elements of the Star Wars legacy.

Maintaining the Canon

One of the primary criticisms of the Clone Wars series under George Lucas was its chronological inconsistency. The movies placed events 20 years before the original trilogy, while the characters acted as if it had been 50 years earlier. This introduced significant continuity issues, such as characters like Han Solo, who were alive during the Clone Wars, having no knowledge of the Jedi.

Contrastingly, the Disney films have maintained a more consistent timeline, ensuring that characters like Han Solo have relevant historical knowledge. Furthermore, aspects such as the buildings, schools, and media coverage of the Jedi Order were integrated into the storyline to make the world feel more authentic and connected to the audience.

Another issue often pointed out is the portrayal of Darth Vader, who was previously depicted as a conflicted, psychologically troubled character rather than a one-dimensional villain. The Disney films have restored a more traditional portrayal of Darth Vader, maintaining his role as a malevolent force without losing his classic depth.

Preserving Traditional Elements

The first film, The Force Awakens, received criticism for introducing a Wookiee (Han Solo's family) whose attire seemed inconsistent with the established Jedi uniform. Disney addressed this by ensuring characters' costumes and actions were in line with the established canon. Moreover, the films have emphasized the rebellion's dedication to blowing up Imperial targets, much like their original counterparts did. This action underscores the rebels' commitment to their cause, aligning with the traditional themes of Star Wars.

The issue of the First Order being portrayed as villains was a deliberate choice. It added a new layer of antagonism without the need for the rebels to provide commentary on the Empire's evil. Director Rian Johnson's approach in The Last Jedi introduced themes of regret and internal conflict, which shifted the narrative focus away from the relationship between Luke and his family.

Faithfulness to Myth and Archetypes

Joseph Campbell's theory of the monomyth, or the hero's journey, is a significant guiding principle in the Star Wars saga. Disney's directors have maintained this archetypal structure, ensuring that Luke and Rey follow a similar narrative arc. However, while these characters share elements of the hero's journey, they also represent unique additions to the Star Wars universe.

Characters like Luke Skywalker and Rey are portrayed as highly skilled and effective heroes. Luke, in particular, represents the classic "Chaotic Good" hero, while Rey challenges these expectations by being a more grounded and practical character. Unlike Luke, who relied heavily on his innate abilities, Rey shows a more realistic progression from a novice to a master.

The portrayal of Anakin Skywalker (as Leia) and Rey as Mary Sue characters is a complex topic. Mary Sues are characters who seem overly perfect and can overshadow the conflicts and challenges faced by other characters. While Rey's abilities are impressive, she demonstrates a balanced approach to her growth. The addition of this character introduces a new generation of heroes who are both strong and relatable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there have been some criticisms of the Disney Star Wars films, an analysis reveals that they have largely stayed faithful to the established traditions and canon. The films have successfully integrated traditional elements while adding new and fresh perspectives. This balance between honoring the past and innovating for the future is a clear testament to Disney's commitment to preserving the Star Wars legacy.