5 Things About ‘Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope’ That Made Zero Sense and 5 Things That Made Perfect Sense

Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope (1977) blasted onto screens and changed cinema forever with its epic tale of rebellion, adventure, and destiny. George Lucas crafted a universe that felt alive, blending mythic storytelling with groundbreaking visuals that still captivate audiences decades later.

Yet, for all its brilliance, the film has moments that leave me scratching my head alongside those that click perfectly. Let’s dive into five things in A New Hope that made zero sense and five that made perfect sense, exploring what puzzles and what shines in this iconic space opera.

Made Zero Sense: Stormtroopers’ Terrible Aim

Stormtroopers, the Empire’s elite soldiers, are supposed to be fearsome, but their blaster aim is laughably bad. In scenes like the Death Star escape, they fire endlessly at Luke, Leia, and Han, missing almost every shot despite close range. 

It’s hard to buy that a galactic superpower relies on troops who can’t hit a target. Were they poorly trained, or was the Force secretly nudging their blasts off course? This flaw sticks out in a film where the Empire’s threat is otherwise convincing.

Made Perfect Sense: The Force as a Spiritual Anchor

The Force, introduced through Obi-Wan Kenobi, grounds the story in a spiritual depth that resonates. It’s a mystical energy binding the galaxy, guiding Jedi like Luke toward destiny while offering balance between good and evil.

This concept feels natural, echoing real-world philosophies and giving the film a timeless quality. Obi-Wan’s calm explanation to Luke makes the Force feel both mysterious and believable, setting up its role as the saga’s heart.

Made Zero Sense: The Death Star’s Exhaust Port Flaw

The Death Star, a planet-destroying superweapon, has a tiny exhaust port leading straight to its core, vulnerable to a single torpedo. This design flaw feels absurd for a station meant to be invincible.

Why would engineers leave such an obvious weak spot? Even if it’s a two-meter target, as the Rebels claim, it undermines the Empire’s supposed genius. The plot hinges on this, but it stretches believability.

Made Perfect Sense: Darth Vader’s Menacing Presence

Darth Vader strides into the film as a towering, black-clad villain, his deep voice and ruthless actions cementing him as a threat. From choking a Rebel officer to commanding the Death Star, he embodies fear.

James Earl Jones’ voice and David Prowse’s physicality make Vader unforgettable. His presence alone sells the Empire’s power, making every scene he’s in crackle with tension.

Made Zero Sense: Obi-Wan’s Quick Disappearance

Obi-Wan Kenobi’s death in his duel with Vader is dramatic, but his body vanishing instantly raises questions. He becomes one with the Force, sure, but why does his cloak just drop empty?

No other Jedi death in the film works this way, and it feels abrupt without explanation. It’s a mystical moment that looks cool but lacks context, leaving me puzzled.

Made Perfect Sense: Luke’s Heroic Journey

Luke Skywalker’s arc from farm boy to Rebel hero feels pitch-perfect. His longing for adventure, grief over his family’s loss, and growth into a brave pilot mirror classic hero myths.

Mark Hamill’s earnest performance sells Luke’s transformation. The story’s structure, rooted in Joseph Campbell’s hero’s journey, makes his rise feel earned and inspiring.

Made Zero Sense: Han Solo’s Fast Kessel Run Claim

Han Solo brags that the Millennium Falcon made the Kessel Run in ‘less than twelve parsecs.’ But parsecs measure distance, not time, making his boast confusing.

Is Han bluffing, or did Lucas mix up terms? Later films try to clarify this, but in A New Hope, it feels like a script error that jars the otherwise slick dialogue.

Made Perfect Sense: The Cantina’s Alien Diversity

The Mos Eisley cantina scene bursts with weird, wonderful aliens, from hammer-headed Ithorians to wolf-like Shistavanen. It’s a snapshot of the galaxy’s vastness.

This moment sells the idea of a lived-in universe. The practical effects and John Williams’ jazzy score make the cantina feel real, grounding the film’s wilder elements.

Made Zero Sense: Leia’s Accent Swings

Princess Leia, played by Carrie Fisher, slips into a British accent at times, like when addressing Tarkin, then drops it elsewhere. It’s jarring in a film with consistent American accents.

Was Leia mocking the Empire, or was Fisher still finding the character? Either way, the inconsistency pulls me out of the story, clashing with Leia’s otherwise sharp presence.

Made Perfect Sense: The Climactic Trench Run

The film’s final battle, with X-wings diving into the Death Star’s trench, is a masterclass in tension. The ticking clock, Vader’s pursuit, and Luke’s Force-guided shot build to a thrilling climax.

The clear stakes and tight pacing make this sequence unforgettable. It’s a payoff that feels earned, tying together the film’s themes of hope and courage.

What’s your take on A New Hope’s quirks and triumphs? Drop your thoughts in the comments!