Star Wars franchise has seen a bit of a downturn in its fortunes in recent years, with several projects being a hit and a miss with the fans. As a result, several fans have blamed Disney for the franchise’s downfall, criticizing the studio for the commodification of the space opera saga started by George Lucas. Therefore, there is a wave of disappointment around the franchise.
Despite the generally negative sentiments surrounding the franchise, fans took to social media to discuss the several positive aspects of Disney taking over the franchise back in 2012 and the projects they have released ever since. Fans found plenty of bright spots in the galaxy far, far away under the House of the Mouse, and here are the top 5 positives of Disney Star Wars that will convince haters to change their minds.
5. The High Republic Publishing Initiative
Although The Acolyte was heavily criticized by Star Wars fans, the High Republic-era novels and other media were better received. Launched in 2021, The High Republic publishing initiative features several books, comics, and other media set during the zenith of the Jedi.
Fans were appreciative of Disney venturing into new territory with the franchise, with the High Republic books singled out as a new avenue for fans new and old. Many fans have found the novels refreshing amidst the overall divided reception of the mainstream Star Wars projects.
4. The Mandalorian and Live-Action Shows
Disney finally achieved what George Lucas had tried for almost a decade by creating The Mandalorian and launching the franchise’s first live-action television series. Moreover, The Mandalorian became a global cultural phenomenon and opened the door for more live-action shows.
Fans noted how the live-action shows made under Disney added diversity to the franchise, with something for everyone to enjoy. Moreover, with The Mandalorian, Disney created a brand with theatrical potential. A feature film focusing on its characters is set to hit theaters soon, and the future for Star Wars shows looks bright.
3. A New Hope With Animated Shows
The Star Wars universe also expanded with several animated shows under Disney. The overall trend of prequel-era animated shows started when Disney went back and completed The Clone Wars animated series, which fans were overjoyed to witness.
Fans were grateful for these animated shows, as they allowed for the stories of existing characters to be fleshed out. Moreover, some niche stories that a majority of fans do not care about can exist in the animation medium, while still holding reverence for those who like one particular flavor of Star Wars and The Bad Batch and Rebels are proof of the same.
2. Andor and the Power of Monologues
Many Star Wars fans will agree that if one project has to be singled out as the template for the franchise’s future, it is Andor. The prequel series to Rogue One blew past fan expectations and quickly cemented itself as one of the best live-action Star Wars shows.
The show’s three-episode narrative arcs provided plenty of character development. Its hard-hitting examination of fascism and other political themes was hammered home with some brilliant dialogs, including a masterclass in monologues, proving that if Star Wars is to return to its height of success, there is only “one way out.”
1. Hayden Christensen’s Return
Undoubtedly, one of the best things to happen under Disney’s reign is the return of Hayden Christensen to the galaxy far, far away. Following the mixed critical reception of the prequels at the time of release, the actor was brutally trolled and criticized by the fandom.
However, with time fans grew fond of Christensen’s performance as Anakin Skywalker. The actor was not only embraced with open arms when he reprised the role in Obi-Wan Kenobi, but fans were also thrilled to finally see him don the Darth Vader suit. Christensen’s return proves there is always room for redemption in Star Wars, which can only mean good things for its future.
The Star Wars movies and TV shows are streaming on Disney+.
