(*Aimed for a proper Monday post after an exhibit)

Had a chance to take in the Star Wars Exhibit at the Pacific Science Center and it was impressive to take in the miniatures, the costumes and the intricate details of the props ranging from Luke’s prosthetic hand in comparison to his father, Anakin’s, robotic one. Whether one wanted to interpret the change in materials used with thirty years difference in creation – Luke’s being the older hand while Anakin’s was ‘made first’ – one thing that wasn’t featured during the exhibit was the wealth of John Williams’ music to the collection.

Yes, various themes and songs were played at the different stations, be it Princess Leia’s costume or Han Solo’s outfit, complete with blaster. Yet afterwards, I couldn’t help but feel the need to indulge in the music from the six films.

Whether the movie viewer watches Lucas’ collection as he intended – Parts 1-6 in order, or the traditionalist who sees it as 4-6, then 1-3 and seeing Luke and Leia’s story isn’t the part of post collection – yet. John Williams’ music is as much a part of this epic tale as were his scores for Jaws, Jurassic Park or Harry Potter.

How wonderfully Williams takes us from the Deserts of Tatooine, through C3PO’s wanderings to Luke’s observation of the double-sunset, to the Death Star in the first film, weaving in distinct themes for each of the main characters.

The second film brings us to a cold beginning on the planet, Hoth, the Battle in the Snow, the twists and turns of navigating an asteroid field, arrival at the Dagobah Swamp, and Lando’s Palace in Cloud City. before watching a departing Millennium Falcon go in pursuit of an abducted friend.

The solo tuba representing Jabba’s girth, the dinginess of the court and dungeon of Jabba’s place, the Forest of Endor’s moon, the final battle on the Death Star, and the celebration that follows conclude the galactic travels of this epic story.

Each piece in these six films (admittedly, only half were looked at this time) take us to so many colorful places in this galaxy far, far away and bring the viewer there. The worlds brought to life in Williams’ compositions and performed by the London Symphony Orchestra with more than its 100 instruments has no comparison whatsoever to the different movie scores existing today.