```html Mark Hamill Clarifies Stance on Rian Johnson's 'The Last Jedi,' Emphasizes Respect

Mark Hamill, iconic for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker, has revisited his past criticisms of Rian Johnson's "Star Wars: The Last Jedi," emphasizing his respect for the director and acknowledging that his public disagreements may have been misconstrued. In a recent interview on the "Bullseye with Jesse Thorn" podcast, Hamill, while promoting his new film "The Life of Chuck," addressed the controversy surrounding his character's arc in the 2017 film.

The actor's initial reservations about Luke Skywalker's portrayal as a disillusioned recluse, a stark contrast to the optimistic hero of the original trilogy, sparked debate among fans. However, Hamill now seeks to clarify his position, stressing that his concerns were specific to the character's motivation and not a reflection of Johnson's directorial abilities.

Hamill Praises Johnson's Directorial Talent

"I'd love to clear this up... Rian Johnson is one of the most gifted directors I've ever worked with," Hamill stated on the podcast. He acknowledged that his earlier public statements expressing "dissatisfaction with the motivation for Luke becoming a suicidal hermit" might have inadvertently fueled the perception of a personal conflict with Johnson.

Hamill's initial concerns stemmed from his belief that Luke, having witnessed planetary destruction, would have emerged stronger and more resolute, rather than retreating into isolation. He recounted his discussions with Johnson, suggesting that the character's actions seemed inconsistent with his established history.

Divergent Visions for Luke Skywalker

To reconcile his own vision of Luke with Johnson's script, Hamill devised an elaborate backstory for the character, involving a tragic loss that would explain his disillusionment. This personal narrative, however, was ultimately not incorporated into the film.

"I said, 'Can I make up my own backstory of why he is the way he is? I don’t want to just say that I have bumped my head and I have brain damage,'" Hamill explained. He envisioned a scenario where Luke's love for a woman and the accidental death of their child led to his profound despair and abandonment of the Jedi path.

Commitment to the Script Despite Reservations

Despite his reservations, Hamill emphasized his commitment to fulfilling Johnson's vision. "That said – and I told [Rian] this – despite the fact that I disagree with your choices for Luke, I’m going to do everything within my power to make your screenplay work as best as I can," he stated. This professional dedication, however, was sometimes overshadowed by the public perception of disagreement.

Expert Perspective: The Burden of Legacy

Dr. Eleanor Swift, a film historian specializing in franchise narratives at the University of Southern California, notes that Hamill's experience reflects the inherent challenges of revisiting iconic characters. "When actors embody a role that resonates deeply with audiences, they often develop a strong personal connection to the character," she explains. "Divergences from established traits can be particularly jarring, leading to creative friction and public debate." She further adds that Hamill's willingness to publicly question the direction of Luke Skywalker reflects the actor's deep understanding of the character and his commitment to its legacy.

The Lasting Impact of 'The Last Jedi'

"The Last Jedi" remains a subject of ongoing discussion within the "Star Wars" fandom, praised by some for its bold narrative choices and criticized by others for its perceived deviations from established lore. The film's impact on the franchise is undeniable, prompting reflection on the balance between honoring tradition and embracing innovation.

Professor David Ellis, a media studies expert at Northwestern University, observes that "The Last Jedi" sparked a broader conversation about creative ownership and audience expectations within franchise filmmaking. "The film challenged the notion that established characters must remain static, prompting viewers to confront their own assumptions about the 'Star Wars' universe," Ellis notes. "This led to a passionate, and at times polarized, response, highlighting the complex relationship between filmmakers and their audiences."

Hamill's Future in the 'Star Wars' Universe

While Luke Skywalker met his end in "The Last Jedi," Hamill continued to appear in the "Star Wars" franchise through Force Ghost appearances and de-aged portrayals in "The Mandalorian" and "The Book of Boba Fett." However, he has indicated that he has no immediate plans to reprise the role, expressing his desire for the franchise to focus on new characters and storylines.

"I had my time," Hamill stated. "I'm appreciative of that, but I think they should focus on the future and all the new characters." This sentiment suggests a willingness to step aside and allow the "Star Wars" universe to evolve beyond its established icons. ```