Waiting for C.J. Thape

Rating: 10/10 (29 June 1999)

In 1976, before George Lucas, had pitched his original Star Wars script to 20th Century Fox, he had a script in his hand which started out, "This is the story of Mace Windu, a revered Jedi-bendu of the Opuchi who was related to us by C.J. Thape, padawaan learner for the famed Jedi.." Lucas has gone back to the roots of his original "Dune"-inspired story which every true Star Wars fan knows about. Episode One is a promise kept to his fans. The names Mace Windu, Bail Antilles (Organa?), Whills (as in Journal of the), Correlia (Han Solo's home world famed for its huge starships), Kessel (famous for spice mines and a space race) have all been part of the background universe of Star Wars ever since the first movie came out in 1977. Now we are gradually seeing this universe come to life. That alone is worth the price of ticket. What a treat! Episode One more than delivers. People have complained about the characters, but if you look at the entire saga as one story, then Episode One makes perfect sense. Lucas has set up Anakin's turn to the Dark Side of the Force with several key scenes in this new movie; it's already clear that familial ties are the key to this saga. Obi-Wan Kenobi and Mace Windu don't get much screen time in this movie, but you can bet your asteroids they'll be back in full Force in Episode Two. Viva George Lucas! Viva Star Wars!