Dressing a Galaxy: The Costumes of Star Wars
Adult/High School–Through lavish visuals and concise text, Biggar describes the painstaking process her team, under George Lucass direction, used to create the costumes worn in theStar Warsprequel trilogy. Six chapters feature outfits categorized by role: Jedi vs. Sith, Royalty, Military, Galactic Senate, Slaves, and Rogues & Bounty Hunters. An entire chapter is devoted to the gorgeous clothes for Queen Padme Amidala. Because the costumes were custom fitted, the actors model those created for their roles. The author begins each chapter with an account of the design challenges, fabric selection, and fabrication of the costumes and special props for each role. The oversized format and archival, quality photographs enable readers to study the workmanship, design, and textiles of each highlighted costume. Descriptive sidebars and captions often include quotes by the actor who wore it, Lucas, or other key players. These quotes enrich the book exponentially, as do the double-page collages of film stills and design sketches. The descriptions, albeit brief, of digital costumes and cloth simulation are fascinating. A complete visual index of attire worn in each episode is offered in lieu of a traditional index. Aficionados wont be the only audience drawn to this compelling tribute–readers interested in fashion, design, film, and photography are bound to find it rewarding.–Claudia C. Holland, Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VACopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.