Mellody Hobson, the businesswoman and wife of renowned filmmaker George Lucas, recently reflected on her early cinematic experiences during the grand opening of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles. In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, Hobson revealed that her first visit to a cinema was likely to see either ‘Star Wars,’ which Lucas created, or ‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind,’ directed by Steven Spielberg, a close associate of Lucas.
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The excitement of cinemas was a cherished memory for Hobson, who noted that she often attended screenings with her family, sometimes sneaking in their own popcorn to avoid the high snack prices. “Going to a movie was a big deal, especially in my family,” she said, adding a touch of nostalgia to her account. Reflecting on the impactful nature of both films, Hobson described how their release in 1977 creatively intertwined with her early life. “In some ways, the universe conspired for us to be together,” she mused.
Lucas and Hobson have been a couple since their marriage in 2013, yet their personal and professional lives have intertwined even before then. Hobson played an active role in the development of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, a project that encapsulates decades of Lucas’s creativity and innovation in the film industry. The museum, which opens its doors to the public on 22 September, showcases a diverse range of art, illustrations, comics, and video.
The opening night of the museum was a star-studded affair, attended by luminaries such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise, Queen Latifah, and Oprah Winfrey. As Hobson and Lucas welcomed guests, the significance of the moment was palpable. For Hobson, this project represented not just a standalone achievement but a culmination of her husband’s illustrious career that had begun with the groundbreaking notion of ‘Star Wars.’
During her remarks, Hobson shared insights into her collaboration with Lucas on the museum, highlighting their distinct yet complementary roles. “I got locked in a few years ago. It started to get really hard, and he said, ‘I need help,’” she explained, indicating that Lucas was open about the necessity of teamwork to bring the vision to fruition.
“George was the creator, and I was constantly asking, ‘How much do things cost?’” Hobson joked, adding that their contributions were integral to the museum’s development. Her unique perspective as ‘a George whisperer’ illustrates the playful dynamic within their partnership.
Hobson’s background in business complements Lucas’s creative genius, showcasing how their relationship fluently navigates both artistic and financial realms. The museum itself is a testament to Lucas’s legacy, having birthed not only a pioneering film franchise but also a hub for narrative art, allowing future generations to engage with storytelling across various mediums.
As the couple opens this significant cultural institution, it stands as much a celebration of their personal journey as a monument to the artistic heritage fostered by Lucas. The museum provides an opportunity for audiences to explore the interconnected stories of film, art, and culture, reflecting the duo’s profound commitment to storytelling.
As the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art prepares to welcome visitors, the anticipation builds around its potential to inspire and educate audiences about the vast world of narrative creativity. With women like Hobson taking centre stage alongside industry giants, the future of film and art continues to unfold in exciting, unexpected ways.