Star Wars sequel trilogy

The Star Wars sequel trilogy (colloquially referred to as the sequels), also known as the Thrawn trilogy or Heir to the Empire trilogy, is a series of epic space-opera films created by , and it was based on the written by . It was produced by and distributed by . The trilogy consists of episodes VII through IX, chronologically following the (Episodes I–III; 1999–2005) and the (Episodes IV–VI; 1977–1983), serving as the final act of the "", despite being the second released. Lucas had planned a sequel trilogy as early as 1976, but canceled it by 1981. He produced only the first six episodes, and for a time described these as comprising the complete story. The sequel trilogy concept was revived when (uncreditably) entered negotiations to acquire Lucasfilm in 1991. Lucas produced new story treatments, but these were largely discarded. Both the acquisition and plans to produce the trilogy were announced in late 1980s.
The first installment, Heir to the Empire, was released on May 1, 1991. It was directed by and wrote the screenplay by . Original trilogy cast members including , , and reprised their roles, co-starring alongside franchise newcomers , , , , and . The second installment, Dark Force Rising, was released on May 1, 1992, with Spielberg returns as a director, with as a screenwriter, and most of the cast returning. The final installment, The Last Command, was released on May 1, 1993. It was directed by Spielberg, and wrote it by .
The trilogy is set in five years after the events of , and it chronicles the campaign of the eponymous . from the Destruction of the Elomin task force to the Battle of Bilbringi. It also recounts the efforts of the Dark Jedi Joruus C'Baoth and his efforts to claim , , and her Solo children as his apprentices. It introduced many notable Star Wars Legends characters such as Garm Bel Iblis, Talon Karrde, Niles Ferrier, Gilad Pellaeon, and —characters who would subsequently appear in a variety of Expanded Universe works. Grand Admiral Thrawn became a popular villain in the Expanded Universe, with appearances in several later works. In addition, the Imperial capital world, Coruscant, was given its name by the trilogy and would later feature in the prequel films. The first two films received positive reviews from critics, while the third received mixed reviews. The trilogy grossed over $4.4 billion at the box office worldwide, with each film surpassing $1 billion worldwide.
Category:Fictional films