Watch LIGHT & MAGIC

Light & Magic is an eight-episode docuseries from Disney+ that features some of the greatest minds in the world of special effects and film-making, including George Lucas, Dennis Muren, and Lorne Peterson. These three pioneers of the industry were responsible for creating some of the most iconic scenes in cinematic history, and their contributions have forever changed the way movies are made.

The show charts the rise of Lucas, Muren, and Peterson, from their early days chasing their dreams of making movies, to their ground-breaking work on some of the biggest blockbusters in history. Lucas is perhaps best known for creating the Star Wars franchise, while Muren and Peterson were among the original founding members of Industrial Light & Magic, the pioneering special effects company that played a critical role in revolutionizing movie-making.

Through interviews with the three men, their colleagues, and other luminaries in the industry, Light & Magic provides an in-depth look at their creative processes and the challenges they faced in bringing their visions to life. The show also features behind-the-scenes footage from some of the most iconic movies of all time, showcasing the incredible effects work that helped make them so memorable.

One of the key themes of the series is the role that technology played in shaping the world of special effects. As Lucas, Muren, and Peterson pushed the boundaries of what was possible, they were constantly experimenting with new techniques and tools, often developing their own software and hardware to achieve the desired effect. From the early days of using practical effects and models, to the rise of CGI and other digital techniques, Light & Magic shows how the industry evolved over time, and how these three legends played a key role in that evolution.

But the show isn't just a technical showcase - it also delves into the personal relationships between the three men, and the bonds that they forged while working together. Despite the long hours and high-pressure environments they faced, Lucas, Muren, and Peterson remained steadfast friends throughout their careers, and their camaraderie is evident on screen.

In addition to the behind-the-scenes footage and interviews, Light & Magic also features archival footage and photos from throughout the careers of Lucas, Muren, and Peterson. Viewers can see clips from their earliest works, including Lucas' student films, as well as some of their lesser-known projects, such as Muren's work on E.T. and Peterson's contributions to the Indiana Jones series.

Overall, Light & Magic is an engaging and fascinating look at three of the most important figures in the world of special effects and movie-making. Fans of Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and other classic films will find plenty to enjoy here, as will anyone interested in the history of cinema and the forces that shape it. This docuseries is a must-watch for anyone who has ever marveled at the magic of movies, and a fitting tribute to three of the most visionary minds in the industry.

LIGHT & MAGIC is a series that ran for 2 seasons (9 episodes) between August 1, 2022 and on Disney+