The Art Of Star Wars - The Last Jedi

One of the most beautiful of the recent "Art of" books related to the new series of "Star Wars" films, "The Art of Star Wars: The Last Jedi" is not only gorgeous to look at, but filled with fascinating insight into the creation of the film.

With a foreword by director Rian Johnson, the book - written by Phil Szostak - takes us all the way to the conception of "The Last Jedi" story before "The Force Awakens" even came out. What is surprising is that so many "Star Wars" fans assume the writing of the script came after Episode VII, when in fact, the story and conceptual planning occurred long before. Interestingly, the book also touches on the ideas that were jettisoned such as having Rey and Luke train in the first movie before it was decided to have Han take the reins for the first of the sequels. Also compelling are comments and insight into why certain decisions were made and just how smart and thoughtful they were. There are thematic links that run throughout the "Star Wars" franchise that are called back to and spun around in hugely mythological ways (the "Virtue of Not Fighting" is a running theme in the films). So when you hear fans complaining about the seeming randomness of story points, it's clear that a lot of thought and history was included in the story.

But the best part of ABRAMS latest art book release is the artwork and photos. While original conceptual artist Ralph McQuarrie has always been an influence on the look of the "Star Wars" films, "The Last Jedi" seems like a complete homage to him. The artwork, paintings, and ideas are so influenced by McQuarrie you can see it in every brushstroke. The concept paintings in this book are stunning. One of the most eye-popping is a painting of Rey holding her lightsaber while figures of Kylo and Obi-Wan stand before her with their lightsabers brandished as well. It makes one wonder what ideas were going through Johnson's head early on in the process.

Filled with early character sketches, costume renderings for each character, and multiple designs of new ships, new sets, and new armor, "The Art of Star Wars: The Last Jedi" is not only a must-have for "Star Wars" fans, but for filmmakers of all kinds. Touching on ideas, development, and history of film, this book of art also serves as a Master Class in filmmaking.

THE ART OF STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI
By Phil Szostak
ABRAMS books
www.abramsbooks.com
$40.00