Lucas had attempted to "recreate" the feeling of the original trilogy by casting "largely unknown" actors alongside veterans......atleast that was how it was perceived in the US...

as a young Scottish actor, McGregor's name was made with the indie hit "Shallow Grave", he was then catapulted to stardom (in the UK) when "Trainspotting" was released.

Portman was noticed when the movie "Leon" was released (I think it's called the Professional in the US) & critics raved about her performance & the greatness that was before her........if memory serves me correctly all of these movies were released around 1995 (give or take a couple of years). So.....from a certain point of view....these 2 actors were unknown...& it would appear from other comments only in the US. Come on guys catch up

anyhoo.....GL directing getting better or worse??????

I ask all of you to go and watch THX-1138 (either again or for the first time), GL's debut is rich, thought-provoking & beautifully shot....

i recently rewatched it after a period of about 15 years & the first thought that sprung to mind was "jeepers....how the heck did he go from this amazing film to SW1????"