I’m trying really hard to think of another example in film or literature since then where the creator has had the balls to drop some reference that would seem to be as significant as The Clone Wars, and just leave it there.

That’s one of my favorite scenes in just about any film ever. First of all, just the economy, as you said, of establishing so much history and context in a single scene. And man does Guinness sell it. THAT’S precisely why Lucas wanted him for that role. You can see in his eyes and hear in his tone what he lived…

After seeing Into the Spider-Verse I can only imagine how whatever Lord and Miller had in store for their vision of Solo might very well have been so special. I just don’t understand what “creative differences” could have soured the relationship with Lucasfilm.

I used to adore Star Wars; it was like my Bible. But now I’m just “meh” about the whole thing. I still get some Multiversal insights from the films and shows, but they don’t have that “OMF! I must see this in the theater on Day One!” hold on me they once did.