When Lucasfilm and the Star Wars franchise were sold, fans and casual observers had questions on what it meant for these properties as a whole. People question whether it meant that the movies and other mediums would go completely into a different territory or whether we would get new characters or rehashes of classics.
With some years into the deal and a wide variety of new movies, TV shows, and other titles to enjoy, it’s clear that the Lucas film franchise is leaving its mark on the modern world for the new generation of releases. Here’s a glimpse of how Star Wars has evolved its brand in modern times.
Technology Is Enriching and Modernizing the Brand
Star Wars has always used the special effects of its day. Today’s movies and shows are continuing this tradition. In Star Wars Episode VIII, Canto Bright has depicted in lavish detail thanks to immersive sets and CGI. This is a planet filled with casinos, racetracks, and other high-energy extravagance.
It mirrors today’s high-end casinos, with some touches that show what this would look like in a galaxy far, far away… People today play games like live baccarat, poker, blackjack, and other casino games for real money, using live dealers and virtual reality (VR). Online casinos use technology for a more immersive experience. Likewise, the casinos on Canto Bright feature high rollers and high-end technology, along with creatures all over the galaxy fashionably dressed.
The Mandalorian features impressive landscapes and goes out of its way to differentiate the cultures of the beings who inhabit the planets. Art imitates life, and life imitates art, and the Star Wars brand is included little touches that modernize its content for today’s consumer.
It’s Taking Advantage of the Golden Age of TV and Streaming
Shows like Breaking Bad, Ozark, The Wire, Succession, and Game of Thrones have set new standards of quality for shows appearing on TV and streaming services. Now that the new Lucasfilm parent company has its own streaming service, it’s clear that heavy investments have been made into the quality of the programming.
The Mandalorian was the first out of the gate and set the tone for a modern Star Wars property. Andord shows us what a gritty, adult-themed Star Wars brand should look like. The studio followed up with Obi-Wan Kenobi, Andor, and new episodes of The Clone Wars.
Not only are these shows high-quality, but they flesh out the Star Wars universe in ways we’ve never seen. This allows viewers to take in backstories and enjoy more time with characters that they used to have to wait years to see between new movie releases. It allows consumers to get a better feel for the context of the world that George Lucas built while telling stories in new and interesting ways, and as more of a slow burn.
The Universe Is Expanding
For years, the debate was always about which movies were better – the prequels or the sequels. Either way, they involved a cast of related characters told throughout different time periods.
Today, it’s clear that the Star Wars universe is set to expand more than ever. An entire backstory was created about how a group of rebels stole the plans for the Death Star in Rogue One, and these characters are getting more time in the streaming show Andor. Several standalone movies and expansion films are expected in the coming years. Details are scarce, but it is expected that these movies will move all the way away from the Skywalker saga for the first time and begin laying down new stories for the franchise.
May the Force Evolve
No matter how you slice it, the Star Wars franchise is in good hands. It’s a titan of industry that has several writers, directors, and actors all leaving their mark.
This is an extension of how modern media has also evolved. In the end, it’s clear that the fans will be the biggest winners.
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