Star Wars is one of the most influential franchises of all time. Its gargantuan success led to the belief that science fiction movies could attract a large audience. The films have also left a big impact on society. The number of things that took a bits and pieces from the Star Wars playbook is astounding. Here, are some things (with one obvious exception) that may not have directly borrowed from the George Lucas films, but fans will still enjoy.
Space Mutiny (1997)
The 1997 Mystery Science Theater 3000 airing of this movie guaranteed this science fiction movie would forever live in infamy. It is one of the best episodes in the MST3K library and is filled with ridiculous snafus (a person who dies shows up a few scenes later), memorable lines (“Look alive, everyone! Oh, sorry”), and one of the best endings in the history of the series. How does it relate to Star Wars? Space Mutiny blatantly steals assets from the original Battlestar Galactica which was greatly influenced by the George Lucas trilogy.
Wheel of Time series (1990-2013)
Plenty of stories use the “chosen one” trope. It is fun watching a person rise from humble beginnings to save the entire universe. Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time series captures the epic scope and sense of adventure seen in Star Wars. Watching Rand al’Thor try to master the One Power is just one of the many similarities. It also includes an overwhelming amount of lore and characters that can be daunting but makes the whole series that much more exciting.
“Weird Al” Yankovic (1999)
“Weird Al” is a comic genius. He is also an important part of the music industry. He actually has two contributions to the Star Wars universe, but it is 1999’s The Saga Begins that is the better. Even though they are viewed a little more kindly today, the prequels still get a lot of heat from the Star Wars community. The Saga Begins is a bright spot. Told through the eyes of Obi-Wan Kenobi, the song is a recap of The Phantom Menace. Set to Don McLean’s ‘American Pie’, the song is one of the most memorable in Al’s catalog.
To Kill a Mockingbird (1960)
What did you like best about the original trilogy? The clear divide between good and evil? The coming of age story? The tale of morality that played out? If you said yes to any of these then you have to check out Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. Atticus Finch is possibly the greatest hero ever invented while the story deals with subjects as deep as racial inequality. Don’t have time to read the book? Watch the equally great 1962 film starring Gregory Peck.
The Outer Worlds (2019)
This Obsidian role playing game may have aliens, spaceships, and the seductive lure of an empire, but it is reminiscent of Star Wars for more than that. The Outer Worlds has a charm and goofy fun that is found throughout the entire Star Wars saga. It certainly works a little more blue, but playing it is much like watching Episode IV the first time.
Join the AIPT Patreon
Want to take our relationship to the next level? Become a patron today to gain access to exclusive perks, such as:
- ❌ Remove all ads on the website
- 💬 Join our Discord community, where we chat about the latest news and releases from everything we cover on AIPT
- 📗 Access to our monthly book club
- 📦 Get a physical trade paperback shipped to you every month
- 💥 And more!
