Summary
Rogue One director Gareth Edwards received a phone call from George Lucas reviewing the film, which was a surreal and awe-inspiring experience.
Lucas' praise held great significance for Edwards, as he declared that his review was the sole one that mattered to him for Rogue One.
Lucas' contribution in imparting his wisdom to the upcoming generation of Star Wars filmmakers, through activities like visiting sets and providing reviews, is a modest yet powerful gesture that motivates and drives filmmakers to chase after their artistic ambitions.
Gareth Edwards, the director of the film Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, vividly recalls the moment when he received a phone call from George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars, after Lucas had watched the film. Despite selling Lucasfilm to Disney and distancing himself from the franchise, Lucas still shows interest in the projects and occasionally visits the sets. While the Star Wars sequels have faced public criticism from Lucas, there have been other stories that have truly resonated with him. During an interview with Happy, Sad, Confused, Edwards shared his experience of receiving a phone call from Lucas after a screening of Rogue One.
Receiving a phone call from Lucas in the middle of the day, praising a new Star Wars film, is a rare privilege that few can claim. This extraordinary experience left Edwards in a state of awe, as he listened to Lucas' kind and highly complimentary words.
George Lucas' Praise Meant So Much To Gareth Edwards
Edwards previously expressed that the only review of Rogue One that mattered to him was Lucas'. The spinoff movie served as a direct prequel to A New Hope, Edwards' favorite film of all time. It was his responsibility to faithfully set the stage for the original Star Wars while also introducing novel elements. And he certainly delivered, presenting a plethora of distinct worlds with diverse environments and inhabitants, making the viewing experience immensely compelling.
Even though Lucas is not obligated to do so, he feels a sense of duty to share his knowledge with the next generation of Star Wars filmmakers. Through visits to the sets, meetings, and reviews of the films and TV shows, Lucas remains involved with his franchise in a mostly hands-off role. These small gestures inspire directors like Edwards to pursue their creative ambitions even further. With Rogue One introducing numerous fresh and distinctive aspects to the Star Wars universe, it comes as no surprise that Lucas adored the film. His praise ultimately contributed to the director's overall success in this venture.
Source: Happy, Sad, Confused