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Cover of How Star Wars Conquered the Universe

How Star Wars Conquered the Universe

by Chris Taylor

Book Details

Publisher:Basic Books
Published:2015-10-06
Pages:490
Format:BOOK
Language:en

Reading Info

About This Book

In 1973, a young filmmaker named George Lucas scribbled some notes for a far-fetched space-fantasy epic. Some forty years and 37 billion later, Star Wars -- related products outnumber human beings, a growing stormtrooper army spans the globe, and "Jediism" has become a religion in its own right. Lucas's creation has grown into far more than a cinematic classic; it is, quite simply, one of the most lucrative, influential, and interactive franchises of all time. Yet incredibly, until now the compl

Our Review

This book offers a comprehensive cultural history of how a single filmmaker's space fantasy evolved from scribbled notes into a global phenomenon that reshaped entertainment. Chris Taylor traces the complete journey of the Star Wars franchise, from George Lucas's initial 1973 concept through four decades of unprecedented commercial success and fan devotion. The narrative explores how this cinematic universe expanded beyond film to influence merchandise, religion, and global culture, creating one of history's most lucrative and interactive entertainment properties. This is the definitive account of how a creative vision became an enduring cultural force.

What sets this exploration apart is its meticulous research into both the business mechanics and the human passion that fueled this galactic conquest. Taylor examines everything from the franchise's staggering $37 billion revenue to the grassroots movements that turned Jediism into an official religion and stormtrooper costumes into global community symbols. Readers who appreciate deep dives into pop culture phenomena will find fascinating insights into how creative vision intersects with commercial strategy to capture the world's imagination. The result is an essential read for understanding how stories can transcend their medium to become permanent fixtures in our collective consciousness.

Themes

Performing Arts

Subjects

Performing Arts