Forty years ago, the world was about to be changed forever. Star Wars, later subtitled A New Hope, would debut in theaters on May 25th, 1977. Since it’s release, the film has inspired generation after generation of fans around the globe. Creator George Lucas, along with his team, left a giant impact on pop culture with his story about family, love, adventure, good, and evil. It was an instant classic and a film that has become so beloved. It set in motion a saga of films, one that continues today.

I could go on about how wonderful the movie is, how each of the main characters are still celebrated and how there is nothing else like it, but I’ll refrain. Instead, after 40 years, it’s really just time to say thank you. Thank you for inspiring dreams of those young and old. For giving people strength when they needed it. For giving comfort to those who just need a friend. For embracing the fans and never hurting them (intentionally). For sparking debates. For inspiring future career choices like scientists creating laser guns, artists continuing to pioneer special effects, or even just writing for a nerdy website. For bringing love together. For just being the film and films we all love so dearly.

I remember seeing the original trilogy on VHS with my dad as a child around 5 years old. Back then, it didn’t stick with me very much but I remember loving Empire Strikes Back because it had the “cool snow battle”. It wasn’t until I was 10, seeing The Phantom Menace in theaters that my love swelled for the movies. I would watch hours of behind the scenes footage, fascinated with the movie making process. I would listen to the soundtracks on my walkman while staring up at the sky. I would play Star Wars in the backyard with friends, pretending Obi-wan Kenobi loved me while using sticks as lightsabers. It was a huge part of my childhood.

And now with the latest saga, I’ve truly come to appreciate them, most of all A New Hope. It was the one that started it all and paved the way for more space dramas and especially more sci-fi films. The future is looking very bright for Star Wars and I can’t wait for another 40 years! 

Happy 40 years, Star Wars!