Traditional model-making retains a strong role in the creation of Star Wars: Episode I. In fact, the model works at ILM sprawl throughout several large rooms and workshops, and there is a tremendous amount of model work underway. A walk through the Episode I model shop reveals an astonishing level of model construction for a film being created in imaginative cinema's new digital age. White maquettes, projects in gray primer, finished works, and huge castings crowd every space available. They make a strong statement for the health of traditional model-making artistry around here.

"We're using a combination of models and CG work," says Episode I Visual Effects Supervisor John Knoll. "For each effect we're using the technique that is appropriate, best suited to the particular situation. An effect may be easier to achieve in one medium or another, and we go with what makes sense. We have found that models remain the best solution to some of our challenges."

The Episode I model shop is, in fact, bustling with activity and personnel. You can walk from one room of Episode I model-makers, to another...to another. They seem to be everywhere. This isn't what they were expecting a few years ago.

A 1994 exhibition featured original Star Wars Trilogy movie models at the Yerba Buena Gardens Center for the Arts in San Francisco. This exhibit included an introduction by the museum curator that suggested that due to the innovations in computer-generated effects, these models were the final works of a closing era. "At Yerba Buena I thought I was reading my epitaph as a model maker," reflected Steve Gawley, Episode I's Model Supervisor. And one often reads of the digital revolution that has 'made special effects models obsolete.' "But we've been busier in the last two years than we have ever been before," Gawley observed. The successful marriage of model effects and cutting-edge work has brought about a model-making renaissance. Just as it was back in 1976 during the making of Star Wars, innovative approaches to creative visual effects are contributing to the power of illusion that supports George Lucas' imaginative storytelling.

As the small army of dedicated builders make progress on their many works, Star Wars traditions are alive and strong in the ILM model shop. The original Rebel Blockade Runner sits in one of the workrooms: this is Princess Leia's ship, which fled the colossal Star Destroyer in Star Wars' famous opening shot. The very first spaceship seen in the very first Star Wars movie was brought in to inspire the artists creating the models for Episode I. In more ways than one, this film is a journey to back to Star Wars' beginnings.