1971:
George Lucas founds Lucasfilm Ltd. with the release of THX 1138.1973:
Lucas releases his second feature, the low-budget American Graffiti — the first film to tell multiple stories through interweaving narratives backed by a soundtrack of contemporary music. It becomes the most profitable film of its time and garners a Golden Globe, as well as a New York Film Critics' and National Society of Film Critics' award.1975:
In preparation for his next feature — a space opera called Star Wars — Lucas opens a motion picture visual effects company in a San Rafael, California warehouse and names it Industrial Light and Magic (ILM). The pioneering visual effects company will go on to win 16 Oscars.Lucas also hires USC film student Ben Burtt as a "director of sound," launching Sprocket Systems — later to be renamed Skywalker Sound. The division will go on to win 19 Oscars, seven Mix Foundation Technical Excellence & Creativity (TEC) Awards, numerous Grammy Awards, Golden Reels and Emmy Awards.
1977:
Lucas' third film, Star Wars, is a deceptively simple morality tale that becomes an international phenomenon. Star Wars breaks all box-office records, sets new standards for sophistication in film visuals and sound, and garners eight Academy Awards, including Best Art Direction/Set Decoration, Best Visual Effects, Best Film Editing, Best Original Score and Best Sound. Additional nominations include Best Picture, Best Director (Lucas), Best Supporting Actor (Alec Guinness) and Best Original Screenplay (Lucas).1978:
Lucas purchases a 2,500-acre ranch — to be called Skywalker Ranch — in Nicasio, Calif.1979:
Lucas sets up the Computer R & D division to create the technology required for digital imaging, electronic editing and interactivity.Lucas Licensing is formed to oversee licensing of products based on Star Wars. The property goes on to become one of the most successful film-based licensing programs in history.
