Old Friends: We are all familiar with the characters in the movie, but as a reminder "here we go again", in order of appearance: C3P0, R2D2, Darth Vader, Senator/Princess Leia Organa, Luke Skywalker, Biggs Darklighter, General Tagge, General Romodi, Grand Moff Tarkin, Owen Lars, Beru Lars, Ben/Obi-Wan Kenobi, Wuher, Ponda Baba, Dr. Evazan, Chewbacca, Han Solo, Greedo, Garindan, Jabba the Hutt, Admiral Motti, General Jan Dadonna, Wedge Antilles Synopsis: Once upon a time in a galaxy far away, the evil Emperor and his henchman, a Dark Lord of the Sith, have taken over most of the Old Republic. The Rebel Alliance, fighting for their lives and their freedon from the oppressive grip of the Empire, discover the secret construction of the Death Star, the ultimate weapon of destruction. The goal - blow it up! The question - How? Review: Starting with the capture of the Senator aboard her diplomatic transport, we follow our favorite characters through the story: the droids escape to Tatooine and their capture by Jawas; the first glimpse of Luke Skywalker and his family, Sand People and Obi-Wan Kenobi; the Mos Eisley Cantina; Han and Chewie; the Millenium Falcon; Tarkin and his Admirals and Generals; The Death Star and Alderaan; the lightsaber duel; the escape, and arrival at Yavin IV, and the final battle against the Death Star. We are also introduced to Luke's friends at Anchorhead and his surprise meeting with Biggs Darklighter. These scenes were cut from the movie, but gives us insight into his relationship with Biggs before they meet again. The personalities and identities of some of the Rebel pilots are a little more developed, as are some of the lesser characters. Most of the dialogue from the movie remains intact in the book. There are a few changes and omissions, but you will find yourself saying the lines to yourself as you read. I found it only slightly difficult to separate the movie from the book because it was written by George Lucas (with a little help from Alan Dean Foster) and his vision remains consistent throughout. The character developments are of interest, but we are so familiar with all our old friends, that we really don't learn much new info. The novel is a good read, and a fine reminder of how George Lucas originally envisioned the Star Wars Universe.
Title: A New Hope |
1/31/05
