Disney and Star Wars: Managing a Legacy

When will Disney learn to stop ruining Star Wars? The logic underpinning this question often revolves around the immense financial success of the franchise, allowing Disney to continuously explore new revenue streams. From the Original Trilogy to the Prequels, and ongoing sales of games, toys, clothing, and accessories, Disney has proven to be a lucrative arm of the Star Wars universe.

The Crisis in Sequel Quality

The issue isn't merely about Disney ruining Star Wars; it's more nuanced than that. The crux of the problem lies in the quality and management of the films, which are the most public-facing aspect of the franchise. Critical reception has praised the animated series, comics, and books, suggesting that the problem is the significant gap in quality when it comes to content meant to introduce new fans to the universe.

A Divide in Quality Versus Intention

Current iterations of Star Wars content intended for new fans are often not representative of the franchise's true essence and potential. This division raises a critical question about the creative control granted to directors like J.J. Abrams, which ensures inconsistent flow, tone, and mechanics. This approach can make collaborative storytelling challenging, especially for a well-established franchise like Star Wars.

The Need for a Design Document

A 50-page design document outlining the setting, history, technology, and direction of future products could help streamline and cohesively move the galaxy. This documentation ensures that directors like J.J. Abrams follow a clear vision for the franchise, making it easier to maintain quality and consistency in content.

Disney's Response to Criticism

Disney has already acknowledged the need for improvement. The box office performance of Solo prompted a course correction in the planning of Rise of the Skywalker, ensuring that the films align more closely with the success of The Last Jedi and The Force Awakens. Under J.J. Abrams' direct control, things are looking up. However, the question of whether Episodes 7 and 8 ruined Star Wars remains a contentious issue, but their financial performance in theaters speaks for themselves.

Conclusion

The journey of Star Wars under Disney's management is complex and multifaceted. While financial success is evident, the challenge remains in consistently producing content that aligns with the legacy and appeal of the franchise. Until Disney decides to address the quality gap and manage creative control more effectively, this issue will likely continue to be a topic of debate among fans and critics alike.