After 35 years of creating Star Wars posters, artist Drew Struzan has attempted to retire, but may be lured back by the siren call of Disney’s new Star Wars trilogy. In fact, Struzan himself reports that Disney has literally called him recently to possibly return in order to create posters for the new films. While nothing is official at the moment, Struzan seems open to the idea if not overly enthusiastic about it. For fans of Struzan’s work, it would certainly be nice to see some new creations for Episodes 7, 8 and 9, and Struzan’s involvement would also lend more consistency to the look of the franchise. Hit the jump to see what Struzan had to say about the opportunity along with some examples of his work. [Update: Struzan has spoken up to debunk this rumor. Read his statement after the jump.]
Update: Here’s the statement from Struzan’s Facebook:
Misunderstood…
A couple of friends at Disney were fantasizing about the new STAR WARS movies.
“Disney” has said nothing to me and I expect nothing. That a couple of friends were wishing is only an expression of the hope that many are sharing but says nothing regarding the Studio itself. Even if ‘they’ did ask, which Disney has not, I’d rather leave the new films to the next generation to interpret. I’ve had my time and they were exceptional blessings for which I will forever be grateful.
In a recent interview with Fanhattan for his work on the SyFy series Being Human, Struzan revealed his possible involvement in creating posters for the new Star Wars trilogy:
Fanhattan: Last time you and I chatted, you talked about being retired, so I’m thrilled to see new work from you. Are you working on any big new projects.
Drew Struzan: Oh, well, never say never, [laughs] because…in fact, I got a couple calls already this week on Star Wars from Disney. Oh my god, I’m trying to be retired! You know, I spent 35 years painting Star Wars. [laughs] I painted Star Wars before most of you were born! But I guess there is always a chance. There’s no intention. But I would love to have a day off every now and again, and I have to work a weekend and all through the night. If the opportunity arises, it will be a real temptation. But it’s going to have to be a real temptation to get me away from my wife and my little grandkids and my family. Away from the green trees and the blue skies for a change instead of just locked in the studio. But, you know, never say never. All things are possible.
In addition to Star Wars, Struzan has also designed artwork for Harry Potter, Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, Back to the Future, Jurassic Park and E.T. the Extra Terrestrial, just to name a few. Be sure to check out more of Struzan’s artwork in his book, The Art of Struzan. Here are some examples:
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Yes, absolutely yes! This is a fantastic move by Disney.
I had the pleasure of talking with Drew at Comic-Con a few years ago, as well as hear him speak at one of the panels. The only reason he retired is the movie studios have come to believe having actual artwork for a poster (as opposed to using Photoshop) makes the poster look “old-fashioned.” That’s why we get the same poster of actors’ heads against a monochrome background, over and over again.
Maybe it’s the movies, but I like the Classic Trilogy posters much better.
I Approve of this Move, I hope it happens
Hm. This leaves me slightly aroused. The Struzan posters were the single best (mis-)representation of the prequel trilogy (and, rather curiously, the worse the film the better the poster; see, The Phantom Menace). Knock ‘em out, Drew. Pleeease…
Nice, they didn’t hire a director yet, but they already have a poster maker… You can easily see what’s the most important thing here.
Awesome news way to go Drew, they can’t do it without you. I’m still watching your Hellboy instructional DVD, it’s the best art lesson, it’s a thrill to know your process in creating your fantastic art.
Let’s face it, even if they don’t manage to get Drew for the posters, they’ll end up hiring someone who can do posters in his style!