Introduction

The Star Wars franchise holds a special place in the hearts of many movie enthusiasts, and its success is largely attributed to its rich universe and intricate storytelling. However, since Disney's acquisition of the franchise in 2012, there have been numerous controversies and criticisms surrounding the direction and handling of the films. In this article, we will explore the significant mistakes made by Disney and suggest alternative approaches that could have maintained the integrity of the franchise without alienating longtime fans or George Lucas’ vision.

The Biggest Mistakes and Their Impact

One of the most significant mistakes made by Disney was the choice of Kathleen Kennedy to oversee the brand. Kennedy, well-known for her role in the Pirrrates of the Caribbean franchise, lacked the crucial understanding of the mythology and culture of Star Wars. Additionally, the decision to let Rian Johnson handle the The Last Jedi (TLJ) further exacerbated the issues faced by the franchise.

Putting Kathleen Kennedy in Charge

The appointment of Kathleen Kennedy as the CEO of Lucasfilm may have been a strategic one, but it came with a downside. Kennedy's extensive experience in family-friendly films like Pirrrates of the Caribbean did not align well with the dark and somber tone of the Star Wars universe. Her involvement often prioritized merchandising goals over artistic fidelity, which contributed to a series of poorly received films.

Rian Johnson's Directorial Choices

Rian Johnson's involvement in The Last Jedi (TLJ) was particularly controversial. While Johnson's directorial style is appreciated in other genres, his approach to Star Wars diverged significantly from the beloved original trilogy and the prequels. Johnson's decision to incorporate complex and challenging themes alienated many longtime fans and failed to captivate a broader audience.

The Sequel Trilogy: A Mixed Success

Despite the efforts of J.J. Abrams for The Force Awakens (TFW) and Rian Johnson for The Last Jedi (TLJ), the overall sequel trilogy suffered from several fundamental issues. The Force Awakens was criticized for being too derivative of the original franchise, lacking originality and charm. The Last Jedi faced even more criticism for its poorly executed narrative and inconsistencies with the established canon. Finally, The Rise of Skywalker (TROS) was a rushed effort to tie up loose ends, which resulted in a convoluted and unsatisfying conclusion.

What Could Have Been Done Differently

To avoid alienating fans and damaging the Star Wars franchise, Disney and Lucasfilm could have taken a more strategic and consistent approach to their storytelling. A single director for the entire trilogy, supported by a strong and experienced producer, could have ensured continuity and coherence.

Single Director Approach

The appointment of J.J. Abrams for the entire sequel trilogy could have been a viable option. Abrams' involvement in The Force Awakens established a familiar and appealing tone for the series. Most importantly, his involvement in the Star Trek reboot brought a cohesive and innovative approach to science fiction, which would have blended well with the Star Wars universe. A single director or two directors with shared vision may have produced a more satisfying conclusion to the saga.

Respecting George Lucas' Vision

While George Lucas' original trilogy set the standard for the Star Wars universe, it is crucial to remember that the Extended Universe and the prequels provided additional context and depth. By integrating these elements into the sequel trilogy, Disney could have created a more immersive and consistent story. For instance, the emergence of the First Order before the events of The Force Awakens could have provided a more cohesive timeline and narrative.

Developing Engaging Characters and Storylines

Characters such as the Kylo Ren and Finn could have been developed more deeply, providing background and motivations that resonated with audiences. Introducing a new character like Rey as a prodigy who has the potential to grow and mature over the series could have added depth to the final chapters. Additionally, a series of well-crafted stories that built upon the established lore while introducing new elements would have been more engaging and satisfying for fans.

Conclusion

Disney's handling of the Star Wars franchise since 2012 has been a cautionary tale in embracing fanbase and respecting the creator's vision. While the entertainment giant undoubtedly faced significant challenges in managing the vast and complex universe, there were alternative paths that could have resulted in a more successful and cohesive Star Wars series. By adopting a more strategic approach, highlighting stronger storytelling and character development, and maintaining the integrity of the original vision, Disney could have avoided the controversies and disappointments that have marked the last decade of Star Wars films.