Some of the most iconic Star Wars imagery ever comes from the legendary Ralph McQuarrie. The late concept artist established the look of the Galaxy far, far away before anything was even filmed, and his artwork continues to be used as inspiration for designs in new Star Wars stories. Most are aware of the McQuarrie influence that has existed in the new animated series Star Wars Rebels, but another new Star Wars production has also been paying homage to the artist in less than obvious ways.
Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens is slated for release on December 18th, and over the course of it's production, through set photos and trailers, we have uncovered several instances of Ralph McQuarrie's artwork influencing the new film, some very recently.
First off we have concept art for an archway that was created for Jabba's Palace in Return Of The Jedi. It ended up appearing on the Planet Jakku in The Force Awakens in leaked set photos and subsequently in the first teaser trailer:
Also spotted in the teaser was Rey's costume, which bares a striking resemblance to early concept sketches for Luke:
BB-8's design also appears to draw inspiration from an early concept for R2-D2:
And just yesterday the folks at The Replica Prop Forum appear to have uncovered another link to the past in some new Episode VII designs. A few weeks back at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim, Lucasfilm revealed a collection of costumes and props at a special exhibit. In it, fans were able to get up close looks at Finn, Rey and Kylo's Ren's costume, and officially revealed brand new armor for a Snowtrooper and Flametrooper. The Snowtrooper in particular featured an insignia that is directly taken from a some Ralph McQuarrie concept art for Hoth:
It's also worth noting that the Snowtrooper's backpack also looks similar to the one in the concept art:
It's very awesome to see Ralph McQuarrie's art live on in this manner! It's comforting to know that new Star Wars creators are still looking to the past for inspiration. Have you noticed any McQuarrie influence in The Force Awakens aside from the instances listed here? Please let us know in the comments below!
Source: The Replica Prop Forum
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