Return to site

A Galaxy Not So Far Away: An Open Invitation to George Lucas from Stockfilm.com

September 12, 2023

Dear Mr. Lucas,

There's a distinct clarity to childhood memories shaped by awe and wonder. For me, one such memory is seated in a dimly lit theater at the age of six, nestled between family members, eyes wide with anticipation. The curtain rose, and as the iconic crawl of "Return of the Jedi" ascended into the stars, a universe of possibilities unfurled before my very eyes. It was a transformative moment, one that not only inspired countless imaginative journeys but also charted the course for my professional voyage into the realm of computer science.

Your ability, Mr. Lucas, to meld groundbreaking technology with storytelling is legendary. You didn't just present us with stories; you revolutionized the very fabric of filmmaking, leaving indelible marks on both the art and science of cinema.

Today, as the founder of Stockfilm.com, I am at the helm of a project that seeks to bridge the past with the present, to blend the nostalgic charm of 8mm films with the brilliance of 4K digitization. It's an expansive collection, capturing the unscripted essence of life from myriad vantage points. Each reel, a window into history; every frame, a testament to the home movie pioneers who captured fleeting moments with the same passion that you infused into your interstellar epics.

However, while we've breathed new life into these films, preserving them for posterity, I believe that under your visionary guidance, this collection could truly transcend time. Just as you transformed the film industry with Industrial Light & Magic, introducing us to new galaxies and possibilities, this treasure trove has the potential to redefine how we perceive and cherish historical footage.

Imagine, if you will, a documentary or series, crafted with the Lucas touch, that not only showcases these snippets of history but also celebrates the spirit of those who held the camera – our very own, terrestrial pioneers. Their dedication, much like yours, was driven by a profound love for capturing moments, for telling stories, for leaving a legacy.

Your films have always been about more than just the narrative; they're about pushing boundaries, about innovation, and about a deep-rooted respect for the craft. In Stockfilm.com's vast archives, there lies an opportunity to once again merge the past with the future, to pay homage to those who, armed with their 8mm cameras, captured the very essence of their epochs.

It would be a profound honor if you considered exploring this collection, and in doing so, celebrated the unsung heroes of home movies. Together, I believe we can craft something timeless, a beacon for film enthusiasts, historians, and dreamers alike.

Your work has been the wind beneath the wings of countless aspirations, mine included. I hope that Stockfilm.com can, in some way, be a canvas for your boundless creativity, ensuring that the stories of yesteryears continue to inspire, just as "Return of the Jedi" did for a wide-eyed six-year-old.

With profound admiration and hope,

Phil Maher
Founder, Stockfilm.com