Rian Johnson, the acclaimed director of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, recently revealed a surprising detail about his past relationship with the Star Wars prequel trilogy (Episodes I-III). In a candid admission, Johnson confessed that he and his college friends were once fiercely critical of George Lucas' prequels, jokingly referring to themselves as 'Prequel Hate Central'.

The director's comments shed light on the initial reception of the prequels, which were met with mixed reactions upon their release. While many fans were excited to see the Star Wars saga continue, others felt that the prequels didn't live up to the legacy of the original trilogy. Johnson's experience reflects this sentiment, as he and his peers found fault with various aspects of the films, from the dialogue to the CGI.

“Everyone was ruthless at the time,” Johnson recalled, reflecting on his college days when the prequels first debuted. He described a period of intense discussion and debate among his friends, fueled by a desire to critique and analyze the new Star Wars installments. It's a common experience for many fans who grew up with the original trilogy and eagerly anticipated the prequels, only to find themselves disappointed by certain elements.

However, Johnson also clarified that his perspective has evolved over time. He has since expressed admiration for George Lucas' prequels, recognizing their contributions to the Star Wars universe and appreciating the ambition of the filmmaking. This shift in perspective is a testament to the power of revisiting and re-evaluating works of art, and acknowledging the complexities of filmmaking.

Johnson's honesty about his past criticisms is refreshing and relatable, particularly for those who remember the initial backlash against the prequels. It also highlights the importance of understanding the historical context in which films are received and the potential for evolving opinions over time. His own success with The Last Jedi, a film that similarly sparked debate among Star Wars fans, further underscores his ability to navigate complex narratives and challenge audience expectations.

The revelation provides a glimpse into the personal journey of a celebrated filmmaker and offers a reminder that even those who create beloved works of art can have their own evolving opinions and critiques of other films. It also serves as a fascinating piece of Star Wars lore, adding another layer to the ongoing conversation surrounding the franchise.