Star Wars after Lucas

This insightful cultural analysis examines how Star Wars transformed from a completed saga into an endlessly expanding media empire after Disney's 2012 acquisition of Lucasfilm. Golding masterfully dissects the political dynamics, creative craftsmanship, and calculated nostalgia that fueled the franchise's unprecedented revival, tracing its evolution from near-retirement to what industry observers now call "the forever franchise." The book offers a compelling behind-the-scenes look at how corporate strategy and fan culture collided to reshape one of cinema's most beloved universes for the streaming era.

What sets this work apart is its nuanced exploration of how Disney balanced reverence for original Star Wars mythology with bold narrative risks, creating a fascinating case study in modern franchise management. Golding's sharp cultural criticism will resonate most strongly with film students, media scholars, and dedicated Star Wars fans who want to understand the complex machinery behind their favorite galaxy. This is essential reading for anyone curious about how iconic stories get remade for new generations while navigating the treacherous waters of fan expectations and commercial pressures.