Hidden Technological Marvels Unveiled in Star Wars that Defied George Lucas' Vision
Ahsoka's groundbreaking role in Star Wars history unveils an unexpected twist: the introduction of printed photos Discover why this technological feat is a first for the franchise and how it seamlessly fits into the vast Star Wars galaxy
This article contains spoilers for Ahsoka episode 4. In a subtle nod, Ahsoka episode 4 introduced a real-life technology last seen in the Star Wars Holiday Special, a film famously disavowed by George Lucas. When creating Star Wars, Lucas aimed to strike a delicate balance. On one hand, he wanted elements of the story to be relatable through familiar technology such as targeting scopes on starfighters. However, he also wanted to emphasize the advanced nature of the galaxy, distancing it from the real world in 1977.
Over the years, this balance has shifted subtly. Advances in real-world technology and the blurring line between science-fiction and science-fact have contributed to this change. Additionally, modern filmmakers, showrunners, and set designers no longer feel the need to create an immersive Star Wars galaxy as it is already well-established. This may explain why Ahsoka included an Easter egg showcasing a real-life technology previously only seen in the controversial Holiday Special.
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Ahsoka Showed Star Wars Canon's First Printed Photos
In Ahsoka episode 4, a surprising Star Wars Rebels cameo took place, adding historical significance to the Star Wars universe. The cockpit scenes within the episode showcase the Ghost, the iconic ship piloted by Hera Syndulla in Star Wars Rebels, with meticulous attention to detail. Astute viewers were delighted to discover a hidden Easter egg. Hera affectionately presents an aged photograph of the highly respected Jedi Master Kanan Jarrus, who tragically sacrificed his life to protect his friends and found family from the oppressive Empire. This poignant glimpse into Hera's past emphasizes the enduring importance of her cherished memories of Kanan.
This is also quite surprising, however, as it marks the inaugural appearance of a printed photograph in the Star Wars canon. While there have been printed posters - as a matter of fact, an entire book is dedicated to propaganda posters produced by the Old Republic, the Empire, the New Republic, and the First Order - there has only been one fleeting glimpse of a printed photo in Star Wars prior to this; featured in the Star Wars Holiday Special, a production that George Lucas himself despised.
Why Star Wars Hasn't Shown Printed Photos Before
Star Wars has always faced a challenging task of blending the familiar with the unfamiliar. However, this delicate equilibrium seems to have subtly shifted recently. The Mandalorian, for instance, dared to introduce something as ordinary as steering wheels, a detail that George Lucas himself deliberately omitted from the original Star Wars movie. This change indicates that the franchise may no longer require the same level of caution it once did, considering its well-established presence in the public consciousness.
How Do Printed Photos Fit Into The Star Wars Galaxy?
At the same time, however, it is intriguing to observe the contrasting resonance of a printed photo in the present era. While these were frequently seen in 1977, their rarity has significantly increased by 2023. They now elicit a peculiar sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the 1970s aesthetic found in iconic targeting scopes of X-wings and TIE Fighters from the Star Wars universe. In a curious manner, printed photos seem to assimilate more seamlessly into the world of Star Wars at present than they would have during the original trilogy.
printed photos may seem fitting in Star Wars, but their sudden appearance raises a curious question. If this technology is present, why haven't we seen it before? The likeliest explanation is that it is more prevalent in certain regions of the Star Wars galaxy than others. It is reasonable to assume that this low-tech, low-power method of capturing memories and records is common in the impoverished Outer Rim, whereas the wealthier dwellers of the Galactic Core would opt for holo-projectors and holo-recordings.
Hera Syndulla, a Twi'lek from the poverty-stricken planet Ryloth, is more likely to encounter printed photos compared to a bustling city like Coruscant. The printed photo showcased here dates back to the Empire's Dark Times, a period when Hera led a rebel group on a struggling planet oppressed by the Empire. Given the limited resources and priorities of Hera's rebel cell on Lothal, they had to forego holo-projectors and holo-cameras. Thus, it is fitting for Hera to embrace what may be considered outdated or ancient technology, making her a significant figure in Star Wars history.
New episodes of Ahsoka are released on Disney+ every Tuesday at 6pm PT / 9pm ET.
