The opening text, which sets the story “A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away”, suggests you’re about to watch something silly. What it doesn’t suggest is how entertaining that silliness will be. Star Wars isn’t great, despite the epic intentions of director George Lucas, but it’s a joyride.

The best parts begin during the second half when a ship boarded by the main protagonists; basically the good guys, led by a Jedi named Obi-Wan Kenobi; is pulled onto the enemy’s Death Star space station. They escape but return later with plans to destroy it; an ending that’s a ride in itself.

my rating : 4 of 5

1977