Force Material Episode XLIII: Willow

30 years before they teamed up on Solo: A Star Wars Story, Ron Howard and Lucasfilm created a fantasy epic for the ages. This week, we look back at the highs and the lows of Willow!

We explore the origins of Willow and the DNA the film shares with Star Wars (00:12:32); how Lucasfilm changed Memorial Day Weekend forever (00:26:13); and the mindset of producer George Lucas when he made Willow (00:31:14).

We look at the risks involved in making Willow amid an inhospitable landscape for fantasy films in the '80s (00:39:06); how The Lord of the Rings influenced Willow (00:45:26); and the film's groundbreaking special effects (00:56:34).

We also share our thoughts on whether or not the film holds up (01:05:04); analyse how critics responded to the film (01:11:13); and discuss the other films that inspired it (01:21:26).

Finally, we explain how Willow might be part of the Star Wars universe (01:25:27); remember the brief wave of Willow merchandise (01:28:04); and break down the likelihood of a Willow sequel (01:29:38).

For more on Willow, we recommend listening to screenwriter Bob Dolman's interview on the State of the Empire podcast.

Force Material is a podcast exploring the secrets and source material of Star Wars with hosts Rohan Williams and Baz McAlister. Listen and subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, TuneIn, Stitcher, PlayerFM and Castro; stay in touch with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; and support the show by browsing our range of shirts, hoodies, kids apparel, mugs and more at TeePublic.