http://tags.library.upenn.edu/tag/fans+special_effects PennTags Feed http://tags.library.upenn.edu/makerecord/url/4078 http://tags.library.upenn.edu/makerecord/url/4078 <p>This article, by Clive Thompson, argues that the new film, <em>Star Wars Revelations</em>, a forty minute $20,000 budget film made by <em>Star Wars</em> fans, is better than any film made by George Lucas. Thompson's view is that, despite the impressive size of Lucas' budget for the <em>Star Wars </em>franchise or his aptitude for special effects, the creative minds of the fans turn out a better product time after time. <em>Star Wars Revelations</em> is just one example.</p> <p>Lucas is no longer making new <em>Star Wars</em> films for his ravenous fans to enjoy. As a result, the numerous fans around the world have taken to making their own sequels/prequels. These fans are doing more than just filling the void; they are doing a better job than the <em>Star Wars</em> creator. The special effects are comparable to those developed by George Lucas. Additionally, these are not small films only accessible to a relatively small audience. It is estimated that in one week, one million people will see <em>Star Wars Revelations</em> - without any promotion or marketing effort. The widespread success of the film is based solely on the devotion of the Star Wars fans and the widespread reach of the internet. </p> <p>Lucas has always encouraged fan produced films. However, he has stipulated one condition: these fan filmmakers cannot attempt to make a profit from their creations based on Lucas' genius idea. While films such as <em>Star Wars Revolutions </em>are widely circulated and astonishingly high-tech, there are still two major problems with all fan films - the second rate scriptwriting and acting. Thus, even with all of the success of fan films, there will always be an opening for George Lucas to return with one of his professionally made additions to the <em>Star Wars</em> series. Some might suggest that the fan films are better than the authentic <em>Star Wars.</em> However, with two significant problems plaguing fan films, fans can attempt to fill the void, but their productions will never compare to those of the irreplaceable George Lucas.</p>