Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope Parent Guide

A long time ago at a movie theater not so far away, I stood in line for 1 1/2 hours to see my first showing of Star Wars - a procedure I repeated more times than I care to admit. While the critics were merely luke warm, my sisters and I were completely enamored with the film and the handsome Mark Hamill. Becoming a runaway success, the epic spawned sequels and prequels in every star system.

This episode ofStars Wars, the first produced, but numbered the forth in the series, introduces audiences to A New Hope.

In a galaxy-wide civil war, rebel spies from the Republic have stolen the blueprints to the wicked Galactic Empire’s new Death Star—a weapon of terrible, destructive power. Before dissident Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) is captured, she is able to store the plans in a droid and jettison it to a nearby desert planet. The perky robot is salvaged by the sandy inhabitants, sold to Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), and eventually finds its way to a former warrior, Obi-Wan Kenobi (Sir Alec Guinness).

Unfortunately Luke’s aunt and uncle fall victim to the Empire’s search for the missing piece of hardware. When the young man discovers their smoking skeletal remains (that some may find disturbing), all ties to his dusty world are broken. Free now to join Obi-Wan Kenobi, the new recruit determines to learn the ways of the Force (an ancient order) and battle the Empire.

To celebrate the timeless adventure’s 20th anniversary (in 1997), writer/director George Lucas put more icing on his cake by re-releasing his masterpiece. No longer limited by cash or technology, the enhanced version is loaded with new special effects, without sacrificing any of its original charm (but it can only be seen on VHS). The Special Edition also includes interviews with the film’s makers and actors.

Star Wars breathed life into the science fiction genre and imbedded itself in popular culture. Although some fighting scenes may be considered too violent for youngsters, this classic good versus evil tale remains a family favorite. Thank you Mr. Lucas for sharing your wonderful imagination and talent.