Ted Gagliano Interview

Ted Gagliano Interview: The Legacy of Star Wars Special Editions

Interviews, Stories
Ted Gagliano: Shaping the Legacy of Star Wars’ Special Editions

This interview with Ted Gagliano was conducted via mail correspondence in March 2024, offering a unique insight into the behind-the-scenes magic of the Star Wars Special Editions from the perspective of a key post-production executive.

About Ted Gagliano

Ted Gagliano’s illustrious career in the film industry is marked by his significant contributions to the realm of post-production. As the head of feature film post-production at 20th Century Fox, Gagliano played a pivotal role in bringing to life some of the most iconic films of our time, including the Star Wars Special Editions.

With a passion for film that began in his youth, Gagliano’s journey in the industry started in the film library, where he was involved in restoring old films. This early experience laid the foundation for his future endeavors in post-production, where his innovative approach and dedication to excellence would become his hallmark.

Gagliano’s work on the Star Wars Special Editions is particularly noteworthy. Tasked with the monumental job of restoring and enhancing the beloved trilogy for its 20th anniversary, his leadership and vision were instrumental in revitalizing these cinematic classics for a new generation of fans.

Beyond his technical prowess, Gagliano is known for his deep appreciation of cinema’s history and his commitment to preserving its legacy. His contributions extend beyond the technical aspects of post-production, influencing the way we experience film as a dynamic and immersive art form.

Exclusive Interview with Ted Gagliano

Ted Gagliano signed photo
Ted Gagliano in Sand Trooper Uniform
1. Can you describe how you became involved as a post-production executive on the Special Editions?
I was head of feature film post production at 20th Century Fox when the talk began about doing a re-release for the 20th anniversary in 1997.1 I had started my career in LA in the film library that restores old films so I inserted myself in the process!!!
2. Reflecting on your time working with the “Star Wars” franchise, can you share a particularly memorable moment?
Back then, we had to do everything with film optical. There was no digital, and we had to recomposite all the color reversal internegatives (CRI)2 that had faded, and try to improve other scenes. For example, the Jedi lesson. George3 told us we never could make it better, but we labored hard and improved it and inserted it the day before the premiere in Westwood.
3. Being part of the crew for a “Star Wars” film means contributing to a legacy that spans decades. How did you and your colleagues view your roles?
We were all passionate about Star Wars! I was a Marin teenager when the original came out and I went every night to the local cinema in Corte Madera to watch it. We just wanted to help George realize his vision. For him, the film was not complete until the special edition in 1997.
4. The franchise is celebrated for its dynamic characters and epic narratives. Was there a character or storyline you felt particularly drawn to?
I loved them all, but particularly Luke, and his growth over the series as a character.
5. “Star Wars” has a passionate fan base with high expectations. How did this influence the work environment?
Again, we all started as fans, so we all felt a special affinity to the fans, and a tremendous responsibility to do right by them. So not only were we trying to please George, we knew we were working on something bigger than ourselves.
Ted Gagliano signed photo
Ted Gagliano: A Visionary in Film Post-Production
6. Collaboration is key in filmmaking. Can you share an example of how different departments came together?
For George, production and post-production always blended. He created so many incredible tools for all filmmakers. He was always ahead of his time doing previsualization, shooting digitized editing digitally, and with all the advances made by ILM4.
7. Are there any behind-the-scenes stories that fans would be surprised or delighted to hear?
When we showed George the first 35mm print of Star Wars before the film restoration, we were terrified. The negative was in such very bad shape, and we didn’t know if we could ever get it back to its original glory and spectacle. After the screening, George said Rick’s speech was worse than the condition of the negative. George alone knew Star Wars could be brought back to its original glory.
8. Looking back, how do you feel about the special editions now and their place in the Star Wars filmography?
Just very proud that I was a part of something so special and that we were able to help George realize his dream of seeing Star Wars again on the big screen as he intended.
9. As a result of being in the film, I know you get a ton of fan mail and you’re very responsive with your fans. Can you tell me what it means to you to get messages from fans?
Every day I receive a few letters and I feel a duty to respond. It is simply a privilege. I feel very bad that for a year my mail was lost in the chaos of the Disney merger.
^ The Special Editions of the Star Wars trilogy were released to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the original Star Wars film, featuring restored and additional scenes to enhance the viewing experience.
^ Color Reversal Internegatives (CRI) are a type of film negative used in the production process, particularly known for their use in creating high-quality reproductions of color films.
^ George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars, has been a pioneer in the use of digital technology in filmmaking, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on screen.
^ ILM (Industrial Light & Magic) is a visual effects company founded by George Lucas, known for its groundbreaking work in the field of special effects.

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