Steven Spielberg and George Lucas: A Cinematic Friendship
Their professional collaboration has been a cornerstone of modern cinema, and apart from their shared vision and mutual respect, it is their friendship that stands at the core of their partnership. Steven Spielberg and George Lucas have been friends since the 1970s, a time when they were both young and ambitious filmmakers within the 'Movie Brats' group, shaping the face of Hollywood.
Origins of Their Friendship
Spielberg and Lucas first met in the 1970s and their relationship quickly deepened into a professional and personal bond. Their friendship was strengthened by their shared love for history, their intelligent chatter, and their mutual desire to push the boundaries of filmmaking. They frequently collaborated in the early days, providing each other with creative inputs and support.
For example, when television director Brian de Palma recommended George Lucas to Spielberg, it signified the beginning of a long-standing friendship and a trail of cinematic masterpieces. De Palma even helped Lucas with the iconic opening crawl in Star Wars, significantly condensing the original idea. Additionally, Spielberg suggested that John Williams compose a sweeping symphonic score for Star Wars, a film that was initially met with skepticism and was expected to bomb the box office.
Film Beginnings and Early Collaborations
After the success of Star Wars: A New Hope, Spielberg and Lucas began to collaborate on various projects. Their decision to create The Adventures of Indiana Jones was inspired by the mutual interest in history and adventure. Spielberg filmed the stairway gunfight sequence in de Palma’s Scarface, and Lucas wrote the screenplay for The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.
Breakthroughs and Collaborative Successes
Despite the initial skepticism of Star Wars, it became a massive success, leading to the creation of three sequels and multiple prequels. Their collaboration stretched beyond just film projects; it included their independent projects as well. Lucas and Spielberg co-produced Jurassic Park, A.I. Artificial Intelligence, and the Star Wars prequels, indicative of their long-standing trust and respect for each other's creative choices.
Both filmmakers have been known to celebrate their achievements by exchanging congratulatory ads. When Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back beat Jaws at the box office, Spielberg sent out a full-page ad in Variety. In turn, when E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial surpassed the box office earnings of Star Wars, Lucas returned the gesture. This tradition has continued, passing the torch to other greats like James Cameron and the Russo Brothers, underscoring the lasting impact of their friendship on the film industry.
The 'Movie Brats' Legacy
Steven Spielberg and George Lucas were part of a group called the 'Movie Brats,' a nickname given to a group of young filmmakers in the 1970s who were known for their innovative and influential work. Among them were Francis Ford Coppola, Brian De Palma, and Martin Scorsese. They were all ambitious and pioneering in their approach to storytelling, and their shared vision and camaraderie continue to inspire filmmakers today.
Conclusion
Steven Spielberg and George Lucas have maintained a close friendship and collaboration over the years. Their shared love for history, their intelligence, and their vision have created some of the most iconic films in cinema history. Their legacy through the 'Movie Brats' and ongoing cooperation continues to shape the film industry, inspiring new generations of filmmakers and keeping their legendary friendship alive.