Drew Struzan: The Movie Poster Artist Behind George Lucas and Steven Spielberg’s Cinematic Classics

If someone were to ask you, "What do The Shawshank Redemption and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone have in common?" would you find yourself stumped, or could you provide a quick answer?

Unless you’re a movie buff or a collector of vintage film posters, you might find yourself scratching your head in confusion. After all, both films are from vastly different genres and eras.

The connection lies in the illustrator and artist who created the iconic posters for these movies —Drew Struzan. 

In this blog, we will explore some of Struzan’s most prominent work, especially his collaborations with legends like George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. 

The Road to Fame

Struzan grew up in Oregon and realized early on that art was his calling. After graduating from the Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles, Drew started his career by designing album covers. One of his first big hits was Alice Cooper’s Welcome to My Nightmare. His distinct style and ability to blend realism with creativity quickly set him apart, and people started taking notice. 

A Partnership Born in a Galaxy Far Far Away

When Star Wars was re-released in 1977, it didn’t just change the world of film — it reshaped pop culture forever. And while George Lucas’ vision of a galaxy far, far away captured audiences’ imaginations, it was Drew Struzan who brought his vision to life on paper.

The First Star Wars Poster

Struzan's poster for Star Wars, co-created with Charles White III, remains legendary even today. The poster depicted a heroic Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and a  menacing Darth Vader — and perfectly captured the heroism, mystery, and sheer scope of this epic saga. 

Moreover, Struzan’s ability to also capture the emotional core of the characters set this poster apart from the more traditional film posters of the time. This wasn’t just a piece of movie marketing—it was a visual representation of the adventure that awaited audiences.

Sequels and Special Editions 

As Star Wars grew into a phenomenon, Struzan’s connection with the franchise only deepened. For The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, Struzan showcased the evolving storylines and complex emotions of the characters. His work highlighted the growing tension between good and evil, the rise of heroes, and the unforgettable villains. When Lucas re-released the original trilogy as Special Editions in the late 1990s, Struzan was called upon again to create new posters that reflected both the nostalgia of the original films and the excitement of the enhanced versions.

He also continued to work for the prequel trilogy, capturing the tragedy of Anakin Skywalker’s transformation into Darth Vader in Revenge of the Sith, while maintaining the visual grandeur that Star Wars fans had come to expect. 

Bringing Spielberg’s Imagination to Life

Steven Spielberg’s films are known for their sense of wonder, adventure, and deep emotional resonance — qualities that demand a visual artist who can translate these feelings into a single image. Drew Struzan’s collaboration with Steven Spielberg is a testament to how the perfect artist can elevate the visual identity of a film.

Indiana Jones: A Beloved Cinematic Icon 

One of their most iconic collaborations is the Indiana Jones series. Struzan’s posters captured the spirit of adventure, danger, and discovery that defined Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Last Crusade, and The Temple of Doom.  His illustrations showcased Indiana as the quintessential hero—rugged, resourceful, and always on the brink of thrilling escapades. These qualities not only promoted the films but also enhanced the legend of Indiana Jones as a beloved cinematic icon.

Providing an Emotional Touch  

But Struzan’s work with Spielberg wasn’t just about action. His poster for E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is one of the most memorable in cinematic history. The iconic image of Elliott and E.T. touching fingers against the backdrop of a glowing moon encapsulates the childlike wonder and emotional core of the film. 

Struzan also created artwork for Hook, where he beautifully encapsulated the awe of Peter Pan’s world, inviting viewers to rediscover the magic of imagination. The Goonies poster depicted the thrill of friendship and adventure — as well as the joy and excitement of treasure hunting. For Back to the Future, Struzan captured the spirit of innovation and adventure. His portrayal of the DeLorean, the time machine, became iconic, symbolizing not just a mode of transport but the limitless possibilities of time travel.

Each Struzan poster became a portal to adventure — expertly reflecting Spielberg's ability to blend heartfelt narratives with imaginative storytelling. They also solidified Struzan's role as a crucial collaborator in bringing these fantastical visions to life.

A Legacy of Cinematic Art

Beyond Lucas and Spielberg, Struzan has lent his talents to a diverse array of projects. 

One of his standout works includes the poster for The Thing, directed by John Carpenter. This poster brilliantly encapsulated the film's horror and suspense, using bold colors and haunting imagery. His artwork for Blade Runner further highlighted his versatility, blending elements of science fiction and noir to capture the film's dystopian atmosphere. Struzan also created memorable posters for the Harry Potter franchise, skillfully conveying the magic and adventure of J.K. Rowling's beloved series.

Other notable work by Struzan includes:

And, many more.

With a unique ability to blend emotion, adventure, and nostalgia, Struzan has not only defined the visual identity of some of the most iconic films but also created a lasting legacy in the world of art and cinema. Whether capturing the thrill of adventure, the essence of beloved characters, or the emotional weight of a narrative, Drew Struzan's work continues to leave an indelible mark on popular culture.

For collectors of movie memorabilia, the Film/Art Gallery offers an opportunity to own a piece of cinematic heritage that will elevate any collection. Check out our collection today!