Which technological advancement is "Star Wars" credited with introducing?

"Star Wars," directed by George Lucas and released in 1977, is credited with significant advancements in special effects and the use of advanced CGI, setting new standards in the industry. While CGI as we know it today was still in its infancy during the making of "Star Wars," the film utilized groundbreaking practical effects and miniatures, many of which were enhanced with nascent computer technologies. The innovative sound design, particularly the use of digital sound techniques by the sound designer Ben Burtt, also played a pivotal role in the film's impact, but it is the combination of practical effects and the early incorporation of computer-generated elements that truly showcased a leap forward in what cinema could achieve visually.

This film's success and technical achievements inspired a generation of filmmakers to push the boundaries of visual storytelling and led to the widespread adoption of advanced special effects in future films. Thus, it is known for ushering in a new era where imaginative storytelling could be visually represented on screen with unimaginable scope, fundamentally changing the landscape of cinema.