The 'Hero's Journey' In Cinema, Part 3
This week as we cross into the second half of my analysis on the 'hero's journey' trope in film my focus will be on two franchises by two iconic creators whom despite their close ties created very different storylines.
It's time to talk about the franchises that made me want to become a filmmaker in the first place.
That's right, this week it's all about the original "Star Wars" saga and the original "Indiana Jones" trilogy. While both franchises focus on one central character (Indiana Jones and Luke Skywalker) their feats would not have been accomplished without the help of their trusty teams, weapons, and of the desire to defend others from evil may that be Nazis or the Empire.
However, these two sets of trilogies do this in very different ways. For one the settings: one in space and the other in for the most part Nazi-occupied Europe and the Middle East.
But perhaps more interestingly structure-wise, "Star Wars" is very much episodic since you cannot fully understand the two follow films if you haven't seen the first one (something that is clear in the way the films are later titled), while "Indiana Jones" is very separate, you can watch the films out of order and still be able to follow the story, although the opening sequence in "The Last Crusade" might not be fulfilling since we see Indy's origins play out on one fateful day.
But despite these differences, both stories follow the structure of the 'hero's journey' as we see both characters along their journeys to save the day and in Indy's case find a long-lost relic. While this journey is made much more clear and easier laid out in "A New Hope" where viewers follow Luke on his past to become a Jedi while exploring the galaxy, Indiana's journey is literally mapped out during several transitional sequences throughout the franchise, something as iconic as 'lightspeed' in the "Star Wars" films.
By looking at this structure of storytelling in a different light, even a casual viewer can pick up on these tropes throughout both trilogies, tying the two together besides them both starring Harrison Ford.
9 Of The Best 'Star Wars' Outfits That Have The Fashion Force Behind Them
There are so many parts that make "Star Wars" what it is today, most importantly, the costumes.
There are many things and parts that have made Star Wars the cultural phenomenon that it is now. The special effects at the time of the original release were nothing but outstanding. The concept of something so futuristic existing long ago in a galaxy far, far away. The Skywalker family, how complicated and connected it is to the entire universe.
Honestly, the list could go on and on.
One specific thing that people enjoy, but I think in a more passive way, is the costuming and wardrobe. As a kid, I remember thinking how cool Darth Vader, the Stormtroopers, Jedi, and rebels looked. Having the chance to put on some Jedi robes or suit up in some armor from the Empire would be a dream for nearly any fan.
Through the years the costumes only got better as well. Something new was always in the works. Perhaps new troopers, Jedi attire, or dark side outfits — the universe would always push the limits. As such I've collected some of what I consider to be the best outfits through the series.
1. Darth Vader (armored).
Darth Vader has got to be the epitome of bad guy.Intimidating height. Never-ending darkness. Hidden face. A total badass through and through.
2. Luke Skywalker (ROTJ).
Luke in ROTJ dressed like the person he is a new generation of Jedi.
3. Padme Amidala
Padme was always balling in an any outfit she had on.
4. Leia Organa.
Even though Leia may have never met her mother, she certainly takes after her in terms of style.
5. Stormtroopers.
Any generation of Stormtrooper is badass in their own way, but it all started with the OG crew back in 77.
6. Kylo Ren.
Although he may be bit goth or emo, Kylo is still my favorite person (in style and personality) in the new trilogy.
7. Swamp troopers (mudtroopers).
I really don't know what draws me to the Swamptroopers, but they're a group that I can't get enough of. Just so rugged and different from others we've seen throughout the franchise.
8. Boba Fett.
Boba's outfit is as cool as his demeanor.
9. Shoretroopers.
When you see these guys run out on the beaches on Scarif, you know they mean business.