alternatehistory.com

In 1983, Steven Spielberg and George Lucas released their second film collaboration - "Star Wars: Return of the Jedi." Spielberg was always Lucas' first choice to direct the third Star Wars movie after "Empire" director Irvin Kershner walked away from the franchise. But it almost didn't happen - DGA rules nearly prevented Spielberg from helming ROTJ. Yet a deal was struck between Lucas and the DGA that allowed Spielberg to direct "Return of the Jedi."

But what if Lucas and DGA had never come to an agreement and Spielberg was forced to turn down the "Star Wars" gig? Might Lucas have persuaded Kershner to direct once again? Who else might Lucas have sought out? How would ROTJ have turned out had Spielberg not directed it?
Top