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When it comes to entries in theStar Warsfranchise, the jury is still out on how theStar Wars: The Last Jediactually fared. It was not going to be easy by any means to recapitulate the success that its predecessors achieved. And it quite simply didn’t. Yet it would be a little harsh to club it as a failure. With a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 8.1, it is a movie that honors the saga’s rich legacy. But it would be wrong to forget that director Rian Johnson’s movie honors another film – Alfred Hitchcock’sTo Catch a Thief.
The beauty ofTo Catch a Thief
To Catch a Thiefmight not have been Alfred Hitchcock’s most remarkable work. But the film had a sleuth of elements that made it a hit with many fans, including Rian Johnson. Starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly, the romantic thriller was considered remarkable for many reasons.
It was the movie that lured Grant out of his semi-retirement, bringing him on board for another rodeo. But it will be remembered by the masses for iconic photography, impeccable romance, high-flying chase sequences, and utilizing subtext to great effect in his films.
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Rian Johnson’sStar Wars: The Last Jediwas inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s style
When Rian Johnson was entrusted with the task of directingStar Wars: The Last Jedi,not many would have expected him to turn to a 1955 Hitchcock film for inspiration. But he did. And it won’t be wrong to admit that his decision has made quite a difference.
The Mark Hamill starrer has shown many elements that would remind Hitchcock fans ofTo Catch a Thief.Relying on editing to tell the story instead of words was an element that had been used to great effect in John Williams starrer. Johnson has emulated that style to good effect.
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Rian Johnson’sStar Wars: The Last Jedihas the fans split
The influence ofTo Catch a Thiefgoes way beyond the style of editing. Its impact can be seen in the film’s setting itself.Star Wars: The LastJedi’sCanto Bight is a location that is reminiscent of the French Riviera – both sites boasting of an aura that oozes opulence. Johnson also turned to thePsychodirector’s penchant for shooting chase sequences.
The resemblances between the movies don’t end there. Fans won’t be amiss to contend that some elements in the 2017 film seem like they are just out of the Charles Vanel starrer, including the scene where Finn and Rose are out of their depth in the glamorous halls on Canto Bight.
The jury is still out on whether the 50-year-old chose the right movie as an inspiration for the fantasy set in outer space. And chances are that they will be for years to come. But despite all the controversy, there can be no doubt about the fact that Johnson has managed to push the franchise to a new dimension. There is no need for a jury to decide that.
Also Read:Adam Driver is Not the Only Actor Whom Fans May Never See in a Star Wars Movie in Future
Source:Slashfilm
Smriti Sneh
Articles Published :479
Smriti Sneh is a Content Writer at Fandom Wire specializing in celebrities and everything pop-culture. Being a literature research scholar, she is cashing in on her writing skills by working in the entertainment news sector - studying literary theories by day, and navigating celebrity net worth through the night. Although you can find her writing poems at any and all hours.
