Debates on the authenticity of the Star Wars franchise and the
hero-or-villain status of George Lucas are at the heart of these essays
by bestselling science-fiction authors. The incredible popularity of
the movies has led to the formation of strong emotions within the
science fiction community on the strengths and flaws of the film,
exemplified here by David Brin’s attacks and Matthew Woodring Stover’s
defense of the movies. This intense examination of the epic works
addresses a broad range of issues—from politics, religion and the
saga’s overall logic to the impact of the series on bookshelf space as
well as science-fiction film. The question “Is George Lucas a hero for
bringing science fiction to a mass audience or a villain who doesn’t
understand the genre he’s working for?” is discussed before a final
“Judge’s Verdict” on the greatness—or weakness— of the franchise is
reached.