No longer in a galaxy far far away: all six Star Wars films are now on Blu-ray. Is the Force strong in this collection, or does it need an Order 66?
We have a lot of ground to cover so I will keep this part short. As a Star Wars fan, the idea of seeing it on Blu-ray was enticing. But with all of the recent controversy regarding Lucas’ changes, would it be worth it?
Interface
The menus for all six films and three bonus discs are easy to navigate and fit the Star Wars theme.
Visuals
The prequels look better than I thought they would. However, some of the CGI still looks dated, such as the scene when Jar Jar Binks was first introduced. The best looking of the prequels is Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. Amazingly, it looked better than it did in theaters.
By far the films that look the best on Blu-ray are the original trilogy films. The details of the miniatures truly stand out and look fantastic. The battle of Hoth from Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back was breathtaking. Furthermore, lightsabers have never looked better. Blu-ray technology improved the look of these films overall: nice and bright and clear.
Sound
From the start of the films, with the famous opening Star Wars fanfare, the viewer is drawn in by the music. It is one of the best films I have ever heard on Blu-ray. John Williams’ familiar and much-loved score is pitch-perfect. Also, the special effects sounds have never sounded better. The lightsaber’s hum is delightful. The viewer not only hears but also feels the roar of the TIE Fighters. The brilliant sound and score is reason enough to buy the Blu-ray version.
That’s how good it is.
Special features
The collection comes with three bonus feature discs and many hours of enjoyment. The first is about Episodes I, II, III; and the second features Episodes IV through VI. Each has an overview of the films, interviews with actors, and concept art for every movie. A feature that stood out is the Collection Gallery. It shows key items and objects from the films, and you can zoom in on parts of the objects and watch a short video.
The deleted scenes are extensive and fun even now. One of my favorite deleted scenes is Darth Vader using the force to communicate with Luke as he is building his new lightsaber in Return of the Jedi.
Documentaries
The third disc contains several documentaries. You probably have seen most of these before, but they make a complete set here. My favorite documentary was about the 501st group and its preparation for the event with the Rose Bowl Parade. The Star Wars spoof segment is over an hour long with clips from films and TV that have referenced Stars Wars. It includes Family Guy, Robot Chicken, That 70’s Show, and Clerks, just to name a few.
Verdict
Star Wars has had many incarnations; apparently Lucas never tires of changing it. Some people object, understandably, and want to see the scenes that same way they remember them. However, some of the changes that were made are creative and enhance the experience; for example the Ewoks now blink, making them come alive instead of looking like soulless bears from hell. I surprised myself, because I was practically raised on Star Wars (I still have my VHS copy) and I didn’t expect to be okay with some of these changes.
I’m a firm believer that Han shot first, and even though I wanted to hate this collection, I still have to recommend it. At least give it a chance to see it in high def.
Star Wars on Blu-ray retails for $79.99. The extras alone are worth it. Come to the Dark Side. Buy it.