Leah Not Leia

"Leah, Not Leia" is a fun and simple story about a girl growing up in the shadow of Princess Leia. While a deep familiarity with the Star Wars franchise is not a prerequisite to enjoyment, there are enough references and in jokes to ensure a richer experience for fans.

The real joy however, is in the writing, the confident direction, and the heartfelt and believable performances of the cast. At one point, in the middle of the films climax, I was so taken with a well delivered speech that I hit pause and told my wife, "That guy is good!"

It's not a perfect film--the copy I watched had some minor lighting and sound-sync problems--but a great deal of care and a lot of ambitious hard work has obviously gone into the production. There are multiple locations, dozens of actors, several crane shots, and a story arc that cross two decades to cover. There are also throw-away characters that are worth short films of their own. (Watch for "The Biker"'s hilarious appearance, as well as a self-satisfied Jabba the Hut analog!.)

For all of us who have suffered childhood taunts from the want of a normal name, "Leah, Not Leia" brings peace and an end to torment with its satisfying resolution. Check it out!