Would J.R.R. Tolkien Have Enjoyed the Star Wars Movies?

J.R.R. Tolkien was a highly respected author of fantasy literature, and his works have captivated readers globally. When it comes to the films of George Lucas's Star Wars franchise, there are a myriad of questions surrounding what the literary mastermind would think. Drawing on Tolkien's views and opinions, this article examines how he might have perceived the Star Wars movies.

Undistinguished Films in General

Tolkien had mixed feelings about films in general. It is known that he did not have a high opinion of cinema, nor did he particularly fancy it. However, he did not descend into a complete disdain for all films. In one instance, he attended a cinema where he witnessed an experience that soured him on Disney movies for life. Nevertheless, Tolkien had an appreciation for science fiction, or what he coined as "scientificion." He enjoyed science fiction with a particular focus on that which was not animated.

Initial Film Device and Possible Enjoyment

When breaking down the films, it is reasonable to assume that Tolkien might have agreed with the initial installments of the Star Wars series. The films stand as an interesting adventure with a strong conclusion, albeit perhaps a bit simplistic. A singular film, no matter how captivating it might be, would likely not have fully endeared themselves to J.R.R., who was notoriously discerning. While telling an engaging story, and in all probability, he would have conceded that it was indeed a film, he would not have been won over by the sequels.

Lack of Implication and Bias Against Hype

Tolkien had a bias against the initial hype that often surrounds new films. He seemed to disdain even the preexisting hype surrounding his own work, the publication of The Lord of the Rings which reached considerable fanfare. His dislike for the initial buzz surrounding himself translated to an even more profound disdain when it came to other films: films that were hyped might manage to repel his inclinations yet further.

Technological and Linguistic Critique

Tolkien possessed a very primal aversion to technology, which was a recurring theme throughout his life. Consequently, the fantastic models and special visual effects on offer in the Star Wars films were unlikely to engage him. Tolkien was an English professor and valued written language intricately, and his critique of Star Wars comes down to its poor English – stilted and awkward, especially in comparison to the highs he had reached in his own fiction. His incisive critique harks back to his rigorous linguistic methods and the fact that he was a master of the written word, as evidenced in his literary creations.

Story Continuity and Philosophical Content

While Star Wars managed to tell an engaging story, it lacked the philosophically rich elements that might have resonated with Tolkien. His works, such as the essays compiled in The Nature of Middle-earth, suggest that he would have taken up a prominent position as a Christian philosopher if he hadn't been drawn to the craft of linguistics since an early age. Tolkien placed immense value on depth, expectation, and somewhat unexpected twists in narrative. Joseph Campbell's 'Hero’s Journey' was a concept Tolkien had countered years before the idea took off in popular culture. Furthermore, the nature of the films’ ‘Force’ concept, which was largely undeveloped and vague, would have likely vexed him. He would have been decidedly disappointed by the story's near-complete lack of deeper meaning.

In summary, while J.R.R. Tolkien would have enjoyed the storylines of the Star Wars franchise, his literary standards and high regard for rich narrative depth, philosophy, and language would have rendered the films unimpressive. Had a Balrog managed to drag him to see The Empire Strikes Back, he might have admitted to a few exhilarating moments but ultimately, the experience would have left him ice-cold.