Why Were Most Indoor Scenes of the First Star Wars Filmed at Elstree Shepperton Studios Instead of Hollywood?
The decision to film most of the indoor live action scenes for the original Star Wars at Elstree Shepperton Studios instead of Hollywood was a strategic choice driven by multiple factors, including financial considerations, production limitations, and the ingenuity of the production team. This article delves into the reasons behind this decision, highlighting the context and the innovative solutions employed during the film's production.
Financial Difficulties and Limited Budget
One of the primary reasons for choosing Elstree Shepperton Studios was the financial situation of 20th Century Fox. At the time, the company was facing significant financial challenges, and they were forced to invest a limited budget into the production of Star Wars. This budget constraint necessitated a more frugal approach to the filmmaking process.
The production required extensive use of sound stages and workshop facilities, but only a limited number were available in Los Angeles. Robert Watts, the production supervisor, managed to secure the entire Elstree studios, including multiple sound stages and workshops, for the relatively modest sum of 75,000 pounds. This was a strategic move that allowed the production to proceed with the required equipment and facilities without breaking the bank.
Production Budget Restrictions
Severe restrictions were placed on the production budget, which meant every aspect of the filmmaking had to be carefully planned and executed efficiently. The British production team, known for their creativity and resourcefulness, adapted to these constraints with remarkable ingenuity. Many props and sets were created using materials sourced from scrap heaps or improvised from existing objects.
For example, R2-D2's dome was crafted from an old lampshade, while the lightsaber was constructed from the handle of a 1940s press camera. The cantina scenes, which are the only ones filmed in Hollywood, were shot at a small studio off La Brea Avenue due to the limited budget and the large number of props and sets required for the Ewok scenes filmed in Shepperton Studios.
Ingenuity and Resourcefulness
The production team's resourcefulness is best illustrated through the creativity they applied to the challenges they faced. This not only ensured the film's production stayed within the limited budget but also added a unique charm and authenticity to the sets and props, contributing significantly to the film's overall appeal.
George Lucas has praised this British team for their ingenuity and has remained loyal to them throughout his career. Their work on the original Star Wars is often cited as a prime example of how a limited budget can be turned into an unlimited creative resource with the right approach.
Why the Exchange Rate Made a Difference
Another factor that contributed to the decision to film at Elstree Shepperton Studios was the exchange rate. In 1976 when Star Wars was in production, the pound sterling was relatively strong compared to the US dollar. This exchange rate made filming in England, with its well-established production infrastructure and lower costs, an attractive option.
Robert Watts and his team managed to squeeze every dollar out of the tight budget, showcasing the film industry's ability to adapt and thrive even under challenging circumstances.
Conclusion
The decision to film Star Wars primarily at Elstree Shepperton Studios was a pragmatic choice driven by financial constraints and the production team's ingenuity. Despite the limited budget, the British team created a film that went on to define an entire cinematic universe, highlighting the power of creativity and resourcefulness in filmmaking.
These factors not only shaped the early production of Star Wars but also set the stage for the franchise's enduring success and the British production team's continued involvement in the Star Wars saga.