Will Disney's Star Wars Trilogy Be Forgotten?

Despite the fervent hopes and wishes of many fans, it is highly unlikely that Disney's Star Wars trilogy will become a forgotten chapter in the saga. While it's true that the trilogy was not universally beloved - with approximately 50% of the fandom remaining ambivalent about it - history suggests that time can soften even the harshest criticism. Interestingly, the prequel trilogy was initially met with similar disdain, but as the years passed, it gained a positive reception. Even from personal experience, the films of the prequel trilogy, particularly Revenge of the Sith (RoS), have seen a significant shift in perception.

Can the Sequel Trilogy Experience the Same Fate as the Prequels?

The sequel trilogy's decline in popularity is certainly linked to the way it incorporated the original trilogy (OT) characters. While the fate of the sequel trilogy could potentially follow a similar trajectory, it would be unjustified to assume that it will happen overnight. The dislike for the prequels was consistent over decades; however, the prequels remain canon and Lucasfilm has shown no inclination to undo their own work, especially with the significant financial investment they made in these films.

Moreover, any attempt to change the canon risks alienating long-standing fans who have invested years in their affection for the prequel trilogy. Star Wars fans are known for their passionate and sometimes contradictory opinions. While many initially dismissed the prequels, they have now embraced them as part of the canon. This polarizing reception highlights the community's complexity and the power of nostalgia.

Options for Continuing the Saga

Considering the practical challenges, Disney and Lucasfilm have two viable options to continue the Star Wars saga. First, they could revert to retelling past events and conflicts, a strategy that has worked for franchises like The Lord of the Rings. However, this approach poses a significant drawback, as the outcome is already known. Dealing with a future that has a predetermined ending, especially one that includes failure, could be problematic.

Alternatively, they could jump into the far future, perhaps 50-150 years after the events of The Rise of Skywalker. This route presents its own set of issues, primarily concerning the continuity of the saga. How can they explain the existence of ongoing conflicts and power struggles when the galaxy has seemingly returned to its pre-saga state? This approach would require a detailed and convincing explanation, as failing to do so could further alienate fans. The saga's writers and filmmakers are tasked with navigating these complexities to ensure the franchise's survival and popularity.

The Future of Star Wars

While the immediate future remains uncertain, the enduring legacy of the prequels demonstrates that time can heal even the most controversial chapters in a franchise's history. Fans' changing perceptions of the prequels suggest that it is possible for the sequel trilogy to experience a similar transformation. However, Disney and Lucasfilm must be prepared to address the diverse opinions and expectations of a fan base that is as passionate as it is divided. As they navigate the challenges ahead, the saga's future holds both opportunities and risks, but one thing is certain: the Star Wars universe will continue to captivate audiences worldwide.