Icons Unearthed: Star Wars

In episode one of the Icons Unearthed: Star Wars six episode series, we examine how Star Wars: Episode IV--A New Hope changed the course of movie history forever. The production, however, was a tumultuous process that nearly killed the man who created it: George Lucas.

After A New Hope's difficult production, the all-important post-production and special effects loomed. A ragtag group of filmmakers gave the term "fix it in post" a new meaning.

Attempting to break away from the studio system, George Lucas risked it all by self-funding Empire Strikes Back. With Lucas focused on the business, a new director took the reins.

"Star Wars" takes its toll on George Lucas; while his marriage, relationships and physical health were breaking down, expectations were higher than ever for the series finale.

After more than a decade on ice, Star Wars returned with impossible expectations. Can this new Star Wars trilogy recreate the original magic without his partner Marcia at his side?

With The Phantom Menace leaving many fans cold, Lucas was at his lowest with two more films still to be made. Would he lose the dedication of his fervent fan base?