The Old Republic


It was a painful moment when I realized the original Star Wars trilogy might no longer be a refuge from the unbearably vapid prequels — that thanks to George Lucas' compulsive tampering the ponderous, unrhythmic and patchwork Special Edition films would introduce the series, and very well leave little Johnny wondering how such mediocrity could dazzle a box office. Children will endure Lucas' puerile obsession with the ethics of Han Solo's defense instead of marveling wide-eyed at Rodian bounty hunter Greedo, torched by a point-blank blaster shot, as he pitches face-first into a Mos Eisley tabletop. Thankfully, the unspoilt theatrical cut can still be found on VHS tapes — and someone in the Skywalker Ranch inner circle must realize that if asked, older audiences would prefer the Star Wars they grew up with, imperfect yet better.

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