Bring on the tough stuff. There’s not just one right answer.
- How would you describe Star Wars' pacing? Kinetic? Methodical? A Michael Bay–ish mess? How does this pacing inform your viewing of the events of the film?
- What does the war between the Empire and Rebellion represent? Do you think it's a metaphor for a historical conflict? A religious symbol? Something else? Explain your answer.
- How does Star Wars approach the violence of war, and why do you think the movie uses this approach? Would you say it is appropriate given the subject? Why or why not?
- Star Wars was one of the original summer blockbusters. How do you see the film as setting the template for future summer blockbusters such as Jurassic Park or the Marvel cinematic universe?
- How do the characters' attitudes help set the tone for the film? Why do you suppose this was the tone chosen?
- Star Wars is basically a fantasy adventure along the lines of The Odyssey or a King Arthur adventure. Why then do you think the story is given a sci-fi gloss?
- Pick your favorite character and let's do a gender swap. What if Luke was captured and Leia rescued him? Martha Vader, anyone? Do you imagine this would change the film thematically? Why or why not? Bonus Question: Do you think such a change would have impacted the film's international success, and why?
- Many different artists have created their own Star Wars stories, and the film remains a favorite for fan films and fiction. If you could create your own Star Wars character, who would it be? Would s/he be human or alien? Jedi, droid or nerf herder? How would this character relate to the greater universe and what Star Wars themes would you incorporate or alter with him or her? Feel free to plot out a basic story for this character as well.