Ewoks movies

The Ewok movies are two live-action made-for-TV films that take place in the Star Wars universe and feature the Ewoks, the cute and furry creatures from the 1983 film, "Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi". The two Ewok movies, titled "The Ewok Adventure" (also known as "Caravan of Courage: An Ewok Adventure") and "Ewoks: The Battle for Endor", were released in 1984 and 1985, respectively. They were produced by George Lucas and broadcast on the ABC network in the United States. Both movies are set on the forest moon of Endor, the home of the Ewok species, and take place shortly before the events of Return of the Jedi.

"The Ewok Adventure" follows the story of a human family whose star cruiser crash-lands on the moon of Endor. The Towani family, consisting of parents Catarine and Jeremitt, and their children Mace and Cindel, get separated during the crash. The movie revolves around the two children joining forces with the Ewoks to rescue their parents from the menacing Gorax, a giant creature that has taken them captive. Along the way, they face various challenges and hazards, and ultimately manage to defeat the Gorax, reuniting the family.

"Ewoks: The Battle for Endor" is a sequel to the first movie and picks up some time after the events of "The Ewok Adventure". Tragically, Mace, Catarine and Jeremitt are killed by a marauding group of creatures called Sanyassans, led by their King Terak and the witch Charal. Young Cindel, left all alone, teams up with the Ewoks once again, particularly with the Ewok warrior Wicket, who takes center stage in this movie. Together, they embark on a mission to defeat the evil invaders and save their friends.

Though not part of the official Star Wars canon, the Ewok movies are fondly remembered by fans and are often considered a part of the old Expanded Universe, now rebranded as Star Wars Legends. They represent some of the earliest live-action Star Wars spin-offs, predating the prequel trilogy and the recent wave of Disney+-produced anthology movies. Both films received the Emmy award for Outstanding Special Visual Effects, showcasing the technological achievements accomplished by the filmmakers at the time.

The Ewok movies were primarily aimed at younger audiences and were successful in their aim to capitalize on the popularity of the Ewok characters, who were already well-loved by fans from Return of the Jedi. While the movies have a more light-hearted and family-friendly tone than the mainline Star Wars films, their adventurous spirit and emotional storytelling resonate with fans of all ages.

Directed by John Korty and Jim Wheat respectively and written by George Lucas and Bob Carrau, the Ewok films have a unique charm that sets them apart from other Star Wars movies. The special effects, makeup, and puppetry used to bring the Ewoks to life were groundbreaking for their time and still hold up well today.

the Ewok movies, "The Ewok Adventure" and "Ewoks: The Battle for Endor", hold a special place in the hearts of Star Wars fans. While they may not be part of the official Star Wars canon, they remain memorable for their engaging storylines, charming characters, and groundbreaking special effects. For many, the adventures of Wicket, Cindel, and the other Ewoks on the forest moon of Endor provide a nostalgic trip back to the early days of the Star Wars universe.