Star Wars: Is it time for older fans to move on and let go?
Star Wars has fans spanning decades with some loving the old and others loving the new. Some take it too far but should they leave the fandom entirely?
Star Wars is one of the longest-running fandoms ever. Since being released in 1971, the films have stood the test of time. They have produced a volume of works since including more films, books, TV shows and comics. The hardcore fans of the original trilogy stand apart from everyone else, though.
Most fandoms see their fans adapt with them. Most fans have adapted with Star Wars and learned to appreciate the new material. For some, they stick to the original trilogy and nothing else. Are some Star Wars fans too focused on the original trilogy and canon to move forward?
A lot of older fans represent this weird dynamic in the fandom. They appreciate the older movies, praising and loving them. For the most part, it’s fine until they start to bash any other types of Star Wars media.
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There is a multitude of different examples: from fans bashing the prequels, which granted weren’t good, to picking apart The Last Jedi and now, ignoring Solo. It’s incredibly baffling as fans should be excited about new projects.
Granted, Disney wasn’t the ideal company to buy them out but it happened. Boycotting films, trashing them or trashing actors does no good. If anything, it proves certain fans haven’t matured and never will.
As far as fandoms go, Star Wars is somewhere in the middle. There are a lot of hardcore older fans mixed with some older fans, new fans, and fans who like the new movies. Regardless, the hardcore older fanbase is what gives the fandom a bad name and it’s incredible that some were young when the movies released.
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Basically, they’re old and they’re acting like children. What doesn’t make any sense is why fans act this way. There is no use getting angry at the fandom, Disney or anything else. Almost nothing fans say will change what’s already happening. It’s baffling to see “fans” who claim to love something tear it down.
Yes, there is a difference between constructive criticism and hate. Some fans toe the line while others cross it and some don’t come near it. Regardless, the message is loud and clear. For hardcore Star Wars fans who only love the original trilogy, may the force be with you but don’t make a mockery of those who love the new movies.
Fandom is supposed to be a place of togetherness and shared affection for something. It’s not a community to bash, berate and belittle others. Hopefully, older fans will learn to appreciate the new films eventually while new fans will appreciate the older ones.
Next: Star Wars: Do we truly want or need a Han Solo film?
Ultimately, everyone is entitled to their opinion if they’re being respectful to others who have a different opinion. We all love the same thing so why tear each other down for it?