The new designs partake of Star Wars origins and destiny in a symbolic and poetic image that draws upon the very heart of the saga, expressed in the isolated figure of a young boy, Anakin Skywalker. As the banner and poster designs suggest, Episode I is about momentous beginnings. "We want people to understand that this is not just one film, but the beginning of an epic saga," commented Jim Ward, Director of Marketing for Lucasfilm. "Episode I is a Star Wars film, and of course it is filled with excitement and spectacle, but it is also special in that it is the first part of the grand story arc that culminates in the classic Star Wars films. Episode I reveals events that will cast a long shadow in the Star Wars saga, clearly something that comes through in the banner and one sheet design."
The new Episode I images are the work of talented artist Ellen Lee of the Star Wars Art Department, under the creative direction of Jim Ward. George Lucas was personally involved in finalizing the designs.
