Lucas to receive out-of-this-world award

Star Wars creator George Lucas is receiving a “galactic-achievement award” next week at ShoWest, an annual convention of theatre owners in Las Vegas.

The honour being presented on St Patrick's Day comes two months before the debut of the final instalment in Lucas’ sci-fi saga, Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, chronicling the transformation of young hero Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) into the dark lord Darth Vader.

“This unique award celebrates the enduring popularity of the Star Wars movies and the enormous impact and influence they have had on audiences and popular culture,” Mitch Neuhauser, co-manager of ShoWest, said.