(2004) Richard Chasemore and Hans Jenssen, Dorling Kindersley, £14.99, hrdbk, 48pp, ISBN 1-405-30539-8
Timed to coincide with the release of the Star Wars Trilogy on DVD, Inside the Worlds of Star Wars Trilogy is the latest in a series of books containing illustrations and cutaways of locations and vehicles from the iconic films. There are 15 illustrations in total, covering every key location from A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, including both Death Stars, Jabba's Palace and an excellent four-page foldout map of Hoth and Echo Base.
The art is beautifully done and extremely detailed. Both illustrators have a long history with Star Wars illustration and, as can be expected, their artwork fits the Star Wars universe perfectly. The artwork itself is annotated with facts, ranging from both the obvious and the obscure. With the release of Episodes One and Two, DK have taken the opportunity to drop in links to the prequels which will no doubt please hardcore Star Wars fans. The appeal of the films lie in their fantasy elements and as such the science is kept to a minimum and instead the focus is on the vibrant and detailed works of the trilogy.
While the art is certainly well done and the writing is informative, I cannot help but feel that this would appeal more to the fan than the casual viewer. It is well done, but unless you have a genuine love for the Star Wars universe most of this will only be regurgitating the films, while adding a few inconsequential facts. It would certainly not justify the price. It is, however, beautifully presented and looks rather spiffing sitting on my bookcase.
Peter Thorley
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