In the vast universe of Star Wars, where every corner of the galaxy holds a story, there exists a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed by the casual viewer: the 1986 animated special, 'The Great Heep'. This piece of media, while not officially recognized as a Star Wars movie by many, is a treasure trove of creativity and innovation that deserves a place in the franchise's canon. Personally, I think that this special is an excellent addition to the Star Wars universe, and here's why.
A Precursor to the Empire
Set in the distant past, 'The Great Heep' offers a glimpse into the rise of the Galactic Empire. It introduces us to the titular Heep, an ancient droid monster who is a precursor to the Empire's evil. What makes Heep particularly fascinating is his ability to assimilate other droids, much like the Borg from Star Trek. However, Heep was introduced years before the Borg, making him a unique and intriguing villain. In my opinion, this special provides a deeper understanding of the Empire's origins and the rise of its evil, making it a crucial piece of the Star Wars puzzle.
A Wild Adventure
The special is set in the same universe as the Star Wars movies, but it takes place during the reign of the Galactic Empire. The show follows the adventures of C-3PO and R2-D2 as they pass through the hands of various owners. The show is constructed as a miniature tetralogy, with each arc offering a unique and exciting adventure. The first arc, 'Trigon One', introduces us to the speeder bike racers, while the second arc, 'Mon Julpa', features a pirate named Kybo Ren. The final arc, 'The Adventures of Mungo Baobab', centers on Mungo's search for rare crystals known as Roonstones.
What makes 'The Great Heep' particularly fascinating is its animation. The show is brought to life by the artists at Nelvana, the Canadian animation studio behind Inspector Gadget and Care Bears. The wiggly and dynamic animation style adds to the show's wild and anything-can-happen sense of adventure. It's this unique style that makes the show stand out and feel like a true Star Wars experience.
A Terrifying Villain
The Great Heep himself is a terrifying villain. He's so enormous that one cannot help but stare in awe. Just the sight of him turning his mouth into a conveyer belt is terrifying. Heep is able to operate his own crime syndicate while perpetuating the Empire's evils, making him the most formidable middleman in the Star Wars galaxy. He is essentially a giant, rolling ore processor, selling ore to Imperial buyers. This makes him a proper video game mini-boss, and his presence adds a layer of danger and excitement to the show.
A Must-Watch for Star Wars Fans
'The Great Heep' is currently available to stream on Disney+, and it's a must-watch for any Star Wars fan. While it may not be officially recognized as a Star Wars movie, it's a treasure trove of creativity and innovation that deserves a place in the franchise's canon. In my opinion, it's an excellent addition to the Star Wars universe, and it offers a unique and exciting adventure that will leave you wanting more.
In conclusion, 'The Great Heep' is a hidden gem in the Star Wars universe that deserves to be recognized and celebrated. It's a thrilling and imaginative special that offers a unique perspective on the rise of the Galactic Empire and the introduction of one of the franchise's most formidable villains. So, if you're a Star Wars fan, be sure to check out 'The Great Heep' and experience the magic of Star Wars animation for yourself.
