In the iconic chase scene from Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back, Han Solo navigates the Millennium Falcon through a treacherous asteroid belt. Special effects master Ken Ralston and his team initially crafted asteroid models from foam. However, they soon realized that the foam creations resembled potatoes more than asteroids.
To expedite the process and enhance realism, Ralston made a creative decision to purchase irregularly shaped potatoes to use as asteroids in the film. As a result, the final shots feature a mix of both foam models and actual vegetables, adding an unexpected touch to the visual effects.
This clever use of everyday items not only saved time but also contributed to the memorable aesthetic of one of cinema's most thrilling sequences. The blend of foam and potatoes showcases the innovative spirit behind the special effects that helped define the Star Wars franchise.
