Main content
This programme is not currently available

The Secret Of Star Wars

Dev explores what makes Star Wars one of the most loved, successful and hyped franchises of all time, and interviews new stars John Boyega, Daisy Ridley and director J.J. Abrams.

Dev explores what makes Star Wars one of the most loved, successful and hyped franchises of all time, and interviews new stars John Boyega, Daisy Ridley and director J.J. Abrams.

What is the secret of Star Wars? For nearly 40 years it has broken box office records, inspired devotion amongst millions of fans worldwide, and created unprecedented levels of hype in the lead-up to each new film. What is the reason for the franchise鈥檚 appeal, even amongst young people who may never have seen one of the previous six films?

In the week of release of the latest Star Wars Episode 7, Dev talks to the stars and director of 鈥楾he Force Awakens鈥�, industry experts, and a real-life Jedi to discover what makes Star Wars such a cultural phenomenon.

How does Star Wars鈥� simple good versus evil storyline echo ancient mythology to connect with people of all ages? How have the films pushed back the boundaries of scale and technical achievement in cinema? How has the series stayed at the forefront of popular culture despite no new film for 10 years and a mixed audience reaction to the more recent 鈥榩requel鈥� films? What is it about 鈥楾he Force鈥� and Jedis that intrigue audiences at such a profound level, even inspiring some people to adopt Jedi-ism as their religion?

In an effort to get closer to 鈥楾he Force鈥�, Dev tries his hand at lightsaber combat training and attempts to experience the power of Jedi mind-tricks with magician Chris Cox. To help him understand the meaning of 鈥楾he Force鈥� and the religious philosophies of Jedi-ism, Dev spends time with a 23 year old student who lives his life as a Jedi.

Featuring interviews with new young British stars John Boyega, Daisy Ridley and director J.J. Abrams and some fascinating footage from the 麻豆社 Archive.

Release date:

26 minutes

Featured in...