Star Wars: Uncut Trailer from Casey Pugh on Vimeo.
Observers and filmmakers have talked about the democratization of the medium through digital technologies but these comments very rarely define whether that is a value to cinema and the things that can only now be accomplished. While the potential for lower budgets increases, so does Hollywood’s desire to assert its prominence in the only area it can always beat the little guys: production value. The illusions only money can buy.
What I like most about Star Wars: Uncut is it is the ultimate omnibus project, a giant clash of production values, creativity and ideas. Using whatever means are available, filmmakers and fans can recreate a 15 second clip from Lucas’ film, not with the intention of hiding low budgets, but with the pure intention of having fun (and often reveling in the low-fi resources). Sometimes it is the simple means incorporated that give a viewer enjoyment.
I can sense that some may see a project like this as a travesty, giving the tools of creation to the monkeys, destroying Lucas’ vision. Let me say this: Lucas has already destroyed his vision. He continues to destroy it. If anything, Star Wars: Uncut is putting the soul back into a film that Lucas has been all too content to destroy. After all, was it that long ago that George Lucas had to use his imagination and collaboration to bring something to life on the screen because he didn’t have all the money in the world? And all the monkeys who have held a monopoly on the process (and continues to in many ways) should have their world shaken up a little bit. It’s just a good thing for everybody.
So: where’s your scene? Here’s mine.
