Unable to play video. HTML5 is not supported! George Lucas directed the original Star Wars and, while he was directly involved in crafting the trajectory of the original trilogy, handed over directorial duties to other filmmakers for Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back and Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. Lucas then returned to direct the prequel trilogy of films, ultimately having helmed four installments in the Skywalker Saga. JJ Abrams directed Star Wars: The Force Awakens, winning over fans with the ways in which he honored the spirit of the original trilogy while also incorporating fresh perspectives.