Star Wars Poster

Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope

Certificate: U

Starring: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher

Release date: 1977

5 out of 5

5

Despite being Part IV in George Lucas’s Star Wars saga, this is, of course, the one that started it all back in 1977 (its title was lengthened from just ‘Star Wars’ when Lucas began work on the three prequels).

It has stood the test of time very well, so even young kids brought up on splashy CGI effects will be impressed and thrilled by the story of young Luke Skywalker (Hamill).

Following the death of the aunt and uncle who raised him, headstrong Luke teams up with an old man named Ben Kenobi (Alec Guinness), two creaky robots, a cocky spaceship pilot called Han Solo (Ford) and his furry Wookiee pal Chewbacca to rescue damsel-in-distress Princess Leia (Fisher) from the evil Darth Vader (played by former Green Cross Code Man Dave Prowse, with voice provided by James Earl Jones).

Packed with odd creatures, robots (including, of course, the famous C-3PO and R2-D2), faraway planets and gadgets (the Millennium Falcon spaceship which Lucas imagined would look like a flying hamburger, the sword-like light sabres), plus the quasi-religious legend of Jedi knights, Star Wars isn’t just a film, it’s a cinematic universe, brimming over with adventure, heroes, bad guys and excitement. A classic for all ages.

Is Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope suitable for kids? Here are our parents’ notes...

Young children may find Darth Vader scary, especially when he first enters the ship at the beginning of the movie, breathing heavily…

Under-9s may also be frightened by the sand people.

The scene in the cantina is actually scary for smaller children, as the aliens all look quite odd and one threatens Luke.

Also little ones may be scared when the Princess, Luke, Chewie and Han are trapped in the garbage compactor, with some unknown creature moving in the murky depths.

SPOILER AHEAD!

Younger viewers may be upset when Luke discovers the charred remains of his aunt and uncle.

One character’s arm is severed. It is quick, however, and no blood is seen.

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