George Lucas Created 'Star Wars' After Hollywood Rejected His Apocalypse Now Pitch
The legendary filmmaker reportedly turned to his space opera after his pitch for the Vietnam War epic was turned down by studios.
George Lucas only created the original Star Wars film after Hollywood studios rejected his pitch for what would become Apocalypse Now, according to IMDb.
The filmmaker reportedly conceived of his iconic space fantasy as a direct pivot after his vision for the Vietnam War epic was not greenlit. This key piece of Lucas's early career path underscores the contingent nature of blockbuster history.
How did this lead to Star Wars?
Facing rejection for his war film, Lucas reportedly channeled his creative energy into developing a different kind of epic. The project that emerged was a space opera inspired by classic serials and mythology, which would eventually become Star Wars: A New Hope.
What happened to Apocalypse Now?
Coppola's version of Apocalypse Now went on to become a landmark war film.
This report highlights a pivotal fork in the road for 1970s cinema, where one filmmaker's rejected idea became another's masterpiece, and Lucas's own detour spawned one of the most influential franchises in history.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Lucas first develop the idea for Star Wars?
Following the rejection of his Apocalypse Now pitch, Lucas began writing the treatment for what would become Star Wars.
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