Gary Kurtz, known as a producer and director for the first two Star Wars movies – A New Hope and Empire Strikes Back – died from cancer this Sunday
Gary Kurtz was an American filmmaker. He died from cancer on September 23rd, 2018 at the age of 78. His involvement with the first two Star Wars movies and a few other well-known filma forever marks the industry. His work as a producer got him several nominations and awards.
Gary Kurtz and George Lucas works together for the first time on American Graffiti (1973). The collaboration between them continued on Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (back in 1977 it was simply known as The Star Wars).
Star Wars first releases on May 25th 1977 and is filmed with what today would be called a very modest budget – only $11 million dollars. Fox even claims it an unworthy B-movie. The movie surpasses Jaws as highest grossing film earning $460 million in the United States and over $770 million worldwide.
Star Wars wins six Academy Awards (out of ten nominations). Gary Kurtz takes home the award for Best Picture and Alec Guinness (Obi-Wan) for Best Supporting Actor.
Kurtz’s last collaboration with Lucas is for the second Star Wars movie – The Empire Strikes Back. After several setbacks and financial issues, Lucas pulls $10 million out of his own pocket to be able to complete filming. Kurtz helps with directing as well.
The Empire Strikes Back is one of the most critically acclaimed films in the whole Star Wars saga (and my personal favorite!). After its release on May 21st 1980, it earns $538 million worldwide, which grants it the privilege of being the highest grossing film for 1980.
Based on Kurtz’s words the two had to split because of disagreement on how to continue the story in the next Star Wars movie. According to him, Lucas changes his mind about what the public wants – simple entertainment and merchandising instead of story.
In an interview for L.A Times in 2010, Kurtz shares the following:
I could see where things were headed. The toy business began to drive the empire. It’s a shame. They make three times as much on toys as they do on films. It’s natural to make decisions that protect the toy business but that’s not the best thing for making quality films.
He also expresses openly his own negative feelings towards Return of the Jedi and the first episode from the prequels – The Phantom Menace.
Kurtz is a producer for The Dark Crystal (1982) and Return of Oz (1985) after splitting with Lucas. He also participates for three years between 1966 and 1969 in the Vietnam war as part of the U.S. Marine Corps.
His role in shaping up the Saga as we know and love it today is appreciated and acknowledged by every single person involved in the creation process of the first two movies.
May the Force be with you, mr. Kurtz!
