Notes on George Lucas Interview with Bill Moyers

Introduction

• Interview setting: Skywalker Ranch, north of San Francisco.
• Bill Moyers interviews George Lucas about the mythology of Star Wars.
• Previous interview at the location was with Joseph Campbell, a mentor to Lucas.

Themes and Motivations

• Recreating Myths:

  • Lucas aimed to recreate classic mythological motifs with Star Wars.
  • Themes of good vs. evil, destiny, and the balance between personal interests and societal contributions.
  • Utilizes color in films to convey philosophical ideas (e.g., red as aggressive, Tatooine's brown sands).

• Character Development:

  • Influence of personal experiences and likes in character creation.
  • Inspiration from various mythologies and cultures for characters like Darth Maul.
  • Darth Vader and Darth Maul's characters explored for their symbolism of evil.

Creative Process and Challenges

• Lucas does not have a fully formed picture before starting; he works from rough ideas.
• Incorporates cultural influences, e.g., Asian influences for the planet Naboo.
• Expands on set and character creation with digital technology (e.g., Jar Jar Binks, Watto).

Storytelling and Mythology

• Influence of past myths and religions in crafting Star Wars narratives.

• Star Wars seen as modern mythology; draws from various religious and cultural stories.

• Lucas's films explore themes of power, morality, and personal growth.

• Influences and Inspirations:

  • Joseph Campbell, Francis Coppola, and Lucas's father as mentors.
  • Star Wars as teaching tool, melding mythological themes with modern cinematic storytelling.

Spiritual and Philosophical Reflections

• Reflects on questions of God and spirituality through the concept of the Force.

• Star Wars intended to awaken spirituality and provoke thought on larger mysteries of life.

• The Role of Film:

  • Film as a powerful medium combining elements of all art forms to evoke emotions and provoke thought.
  • Stories in Star Wars serve to remind audiences of their role in the community and individual growth.

Personal Reflections and Legacy

• Personal journey with stardom, freedom through self-financing films.
• Emphasis on the importance of making parents proud and leaving a legacy.
• Letting go as a theme in personal life and storytelling.

Conclusion

• Star Wars as a narrative on transformation and redemption.
• Lucas's intuitive decision-making in storytelling.
• Exploration of deeper themes and moral questions through a fantastical lens.

Funding and Credits

• Program funded by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation and Mutual of America.