The Heart and Humanity of 'Star Wars'

This week, we celebrate the year's most anticipated film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, by welcoming two visionary icons central to the movie's creation.
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This week, we celebrate the year's most anticipated film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, by welcoming two visionary icons central to the movie's creation. On Tuesday, December 15th, I'm joined by its legendary composer, John Williams, who has been the musical force behind the Star Wars pictures for nearly 40 years. Then, on Wednesday, December 16th, a conversation with the film's director and co-writer, J.J. Abrams, the Hollywood heavyweight entrusted by Disney to take the reins of the treasured franchise.

In this clip, Williams reflects on the importance of giving each major character a unique theme, and how he regards Star Wars among his vast and beloved body of work:

And here, J.J. Abrams speaks on the humanity at the core of the Star Wars saga:

For more of our conversation, be sure to tune in to Tavis Smiley on PBS. Check our website for your local TV listings: www.pbs.org/tavis.

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