Key Takeaways:
– Richard Marquand directed the final installment of the original Star Wars trilogy.
– Marquand felt his work on Return of the Jedi added a level of emotional maturity missing from previous films.
– Overcoming initial fear, Marquand took up the mantle to successfully conclude the original trilogy.
In a striking revelation, Richard Marquand claimed his touch on Star Wars’ Return of the Jedi contained a distinctive emotional flair distinctly mature compared to its earlier components. This version of maturity, he argued, managed to give his work an edge over the original by George Lucas.
Unlocking a Maturer Star Wars Saga
Best known for his work on the final installment of the original Star Wars trilogy, the late Richard Marquand gained notoriety in directing Return of the Jedi. In a revived interview via Den of Geek, Marquand shared his views about the scope of his work on the iconic franchise, and why he believed his contribution surpassed the original.
Claiming to have added a modern maturity to the storyline, Marquand noted that his approach was different from other directors. According to him, they catered more to a younger audience. However, he was able to tackle the expectations of young adults who had grown up with the universe of Star Wars. This element of maturity made his installment stand out.
Marquand’s Perception of the Original Installment
While reflecting on George Lucas’s original work, Marquand did not shy away from acknowledging its initial intent to cater to a wider demographic. However, he believed this focus had a stifling effect on the franchise’s depth. Contrastingly, Marquand had the freedom to layer Return of the Jedi with emotional maturity that resonated with young adults, making it a cut above the original in that aspect.
Braving the Challenge to Conclude the Original Trilogy
Initially, the thought of directing the final film of the trilogy brought fear to Marquand. The challenge included living up to the reputation set by the previous films while crafting a fitting conclusion to the intense storyline. However, overcoming these fears was a necessity. It led him to realise that this was a one-off opportunity to leave an indelible mark on a galaxy far, far away.
Admitting that he was a fan of Lucas and the original Star Wars movie, Marquand stated his respect for the franchise. However, his fears soon made way for confidence. This assuredness translated into his work, with Return of the Jedi being considered one of the series’ top entries.
Final Thoughts
Richard Marquand’s unique contribution to the Star Wars trilogy brings a fresh perspective on the franchise. His claims of adding emotional maturity to the storyline add depth to our understanding of the film’s evolution since the original came out in 1977. Recognising this distinctive approach enriches the Star Wars saga, which can be enjoyed on Disney+. While Marquand may not be with us, his legacy in the galaxy far, far away continues to shine.
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