Paul Kemp poses an interesting question about the popularity of Star Wars

Recently on his blog, author Paul S. Kemp posed a question that I am sure many have wondered about from time to time. 

What do you think accounts for the lasting effect of what is, indisputably, a worldwide cultural phenomenon? I’m interested in hearing your thoughts.  I’ve tried to answer this in interviews from time to time and have never come up with an answer I’m happy with.  So I turn to you: What do you think?

 If you have any thoughts on the subject, I suggest you visit Mr. Kemp's blog and leave him your thoughts in the comment section.  Who knows, maybe he will quote your line in an interview some day.

My thoughts on the subject:

Star Wars may be set long ago in a galaxy far, far away, but in many ways its magic in that it is a futuristic re-imagining of classical mythological concepts. No matter what background you come from, there is at least one character in the ensemble cast that you can identify with as an entry point into the Star Wars universe. Combined with some amazing visuals, sound effects, and some of the best music ever composed for film and you have the recipe for a very special piece of cinema.

The real secret however is the fans. If not for those original fans in 1977 who went to see the movie multiple times, spread the word to their friends and then passed their love of this film to the next generation, then Star Wars would be like many a great movie, with a small cult following long after it's original popularity flared and burned out.  The brilliance of George Lucas and Lucasfilm in re-packaging Star Wars for each successive generation, keeping the franchise relevant when others have faded into obscurity.

Star Wars isn’t about one film, it is about a mythical world constructed by George Lucas and his storytelling progeny. Oh yeah, and some really kriffing cool toys!

LINK: PAUL S. KEMP'S BLOG: What accounts for the longevity of Star Wars?