Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: The Star Wars Holiday Special of 1978
Dec 21, 2019
Dive into the bizarre world of the 1978 Star Wars Holiday Special! The discussion unpacks its chaotic production and the odd creative choices that left viewers scratching their heads. Highlights include cheeky moments like cooking with Chewbacca's wife and Bea Arthur's cantina antics. Listeners will enjoy a nostalgic reflection on its mixed reception and the humorous critiques of its plot. Ultimately, the special is celebrated for its campy charm, making it a unique, if confusing, piece of Star Wars history.
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The 'Dream Team'
- Bruce Vilanch, a well-known TV writer, was hired for the special.
- Lenny Rips and the Welches, parents of Gillian Welch, also joined the team.
Variety Show Woes
- The decision to make the special a variety show proved disastrous.
- Though popular for years, variety shows were becoming stale by 1978.
Director's Exit
- The initial director, David Acomba, a USC film school contemporary of Lucas, quit.
- Acomba only directed three segments before his departure.