I know that many Star Wars fans resent the Ewoks for adding cuteness and comic relief to Return of the Jedi. I also know that they relate him to Jar-Jar Binks, the obnoxious, terribly written character from Episode I. However, I disagree with them. I did not think that the Ewoks served the same purpose as Jar-Jar. I did not like Jar-Jar in Episode I. I found his humour juvenile--but I understand why it was. The humour was juvenile because Episode I was aimed toward a new generation of Star Wars fans: children. The Battle for Endor and its prequel, Caravan of Courage, are spinoffs from Star Wars using the fuzzy little creatures that helped out the Rebels on the forest moon of Endor in that galaxy far, far away. The movie is for children, and teaches important lessons. It deals with issues that children are not usually exposed to, such as death, grief, and abandonment. It also tells children that family is whoever loves you and will care for you, regardless of apparent differences. When I was very, very little, the Ewok movies were my very favourite. My mother gave me a present when I had successfully been potty-trained: a Wicket stuffed animal (just to let you know HOW young I was when I watched these movies). I remember years later seeing Return of the Jedi for the first time, when it premiered on television. That movie enthralled me as well, but at the end, I was surprised and excited to see my little friends, the Ewoks, getting in on the action as well. I don't think the Ewoks spoiled anything in Return of the Jedi--they are not unlike other Lucas creatures. They serve their purpose of being the indigenous species of Endor, and so big deal if they are tiny and furry. Its allowed once in a while. So chill out, and let kids enjoy the movies.
