Holy spoilers, Batman! Lucasfilm released the new international trailer, and the first of what is reported to be three TV spots, for The Force Awakens.
These trailers came completely out of nowhere. I didn’t want to watch them, but I have no self-control when it comes to Star Wars.
The international trailer was in many ways completely different from the North American version as it seem more focused on action than story. Kylo Ren holding his lightsaber near Rey’s head in the woods was one of those “Whoa” moments that I can’t believe J.J. Abrams allowed to be seen before the premiere of the film.
The TV spot was a collection of quick action scenes that again made me wish I hadn’t visited YouTube even though the end result left me with a big smile on my face. The Millennium Falcon bursting through a cluster of snowcapped trees was the money shot that should look amazing on the silver screen.
Lupita Nyong’o’s Maz Kanata stole the 31-second show with her “I’ve seen your eyes. I know your eyes.” dialog.
Its cryptic double meaning is alluding to shared destinies of the film’s characters and fans came off in such a profound manner that I couldn’t believe this was Star Wars, while simultaneously feeling that this is truly Star Wars.
Rebels Report: S02E6: “Wings of the Master”
This Hera-focused episode provided viewers with an opportunity to see what makes the Ghost’s ace pilot so motivated to help those in need throughout the galaxy. It’s rare to see the Twi’lek in the spotlight considering that Kanan trusts her immensely and she is often the one who formulates the plans.
Hera exuded the traits of a natural born leader by exhibiting a steadfast resolve to make an immediate run past an Imperial Blockade after their first attempt resulted in the destruction of food and supplies meant for starving Rebel allies. Hera’s exceptional skills as a pilot brings about a mission to acquire a new ship that doesn’t sit well with her. The desire to help those in need prevents from her from seeing the larger picture right away.
Enter the B-Wing, a heavily armed star fighter that aided the Rebel Alliance at the Battle of Endor is just a prototype here. Hera being the first person to ever fly this craft is cool in its own right, but seeing the sword shaped vessel fly through dangerous terrain coupled with music brought about a majestic ambiance that signified the start of something important. B-Wing’s payload was also impressive and made me wish we could have seen it on screen during Episode VI.
Balancing Hera’s backstory and the origin of the B-Wing made for an engaging episode but prevented the use of flashbacks to illustrate elements of Hera’s past such as her childhood and perhaps an appearance from her father, Cham Syndulla. Hearing Hera reflect on days gone by and her love of flying, however, was a suitable substitute that showed us the strength and conviction that actress Vanessa Marshall made so profound.
Hera being the second best star pilot in the galaxy (we know who number one is) and the revelation that the B in B-Wing stands for blade, carves out an informative and action filled episode of Rebels. More time could have been a great asset, but we have to make the most of the 22 minutes we’re given each week.
Vader Down Hits Shelves Next Week
The highly anticipated Star Wars comic book crossover Vader Down debuts next week. ComicBook.com is reporting that over 450,000 copies of the first issue have been sold to retailers.
Marvel is going all in with the Dark Lord of the Sith. Books for this event will be sold in places that don’t normally sell comics such as Hot Topic, Gamestop, Disney Parks, and through Scholastic.
Here is a synopsis and preview of the first issue of Vader Down.
Star Wars Vader Down #1
Publisher: MARVEL COMICS
(W) Jason Aaron (A) Mike Deodato (CA) Mark BrooksWhen Darth Vader accidentally finds himself facing off against the Rebel Fleet on his own, the rebels will learn the true strength of the Dark Side of the Force! Once Vader crashes on a nearby planet, the Rebellion is willing to risk everything for this once-in-a-lifetime chance to take out one of their biggest enemies! Luke! Vader! Leia! Aphra! Han! Chewie! And all manner of Droid, good and evil!
ONE SHOT/Rated T
Daniel Fleetwood is now one with the Force.
Daniel Fleetwood, the terminally ill young man who was granted his final wish to see The Force Awakens passed away four days after seeing the movie. It’s hard to read stories like this because on one end, we’re happy that his final wish become a reality. On the other hand, our hearts are a little bit broken because Ashley Fleetwood, Daniel’s wife, lost her soul mate and best friend.
Ashley’s Go Fund Me page has raised a lot of goodwill due to the generous amount of donations she has received. Daniel’s medical expenses appear to be in the $100,000 range and every little bit helps. While Daniel is no longer with us, he will always be remembered by his family and friends, and known to all Star Wars fans has the first person to see The Force Awakens.
