The following are all the best feature articles and key news posts of the 2008 year. The goal of the SWNZ website, as well as being to bring you regular Star Wars news and stories, is to establish and evolve an archive of all things pertaining to that Galaxy far, far away, that have particular relevance to the various incarnations of Star Wars fandom in New Zealand. This page is a portal to such content...
Matt G
There's still time (just) to contribute to the SWNZ Christmas festivities...and go in to the draw for an exclusive George Lucas in Stormtrooper disguise action figure! If you've put up any Star Wars decoration for the Christmas season, store-bought or, even better, home-made, take a quick photo, send it in and we'll get it online as a virtual ornament for the website straight away (full competition details).
Matt G
There's still time to contribute to the SWNZ Christmas festivities...and go in to the draw for an exclusive George Lucas in Stormtrooper disguise action figure! If you've put up any Star Wars decoration for the Christmas season, store-bought or, even better, home-made, take a quick photo, send it in and we'll get it online as a virtual ornament for the website straight away (full competition details).
Matt G
There's still time to contribute to the SWNZ Christmas festivities...and go in to the draw for an exclusive George Lucas in Stormtrooper disguise action figure! If you've put up any Star Wars decoration for the Christmas season, store-bought or, even better, home-made, take a quick photo, send it in and we'll get it online as a virtual ornament for the website straight away (full competition details).
Matt G
Want to help deck the SWNZ website with a bit of Star Wars festive cheer...and go in to the draw for an exclusive George Lucas in Stormtrooper disguise action figure? If you've put up any Star Wars decoration for the Christmas season, store-bought or, even better, home-made, take a quick photo, send it in and we'll get it online as a virtual ornament for the website straight away (full competition details).
Matt G
The current SWNZ Holiday Competition runs until Christmas and has a very cool George Lucas in stormtrooper disguise Saga Collection action figure as a prize (part of the Hasbro line celebrating and recreating the vintage-style packaging, this George Lucas figure was only available as a mail-in redemption offer)... ...MORE
Matt G
Want to help deck the SWNZ website with a bit of Star Wars festive cheer...and go in to the draw for an exclusve George Lucas in Stormtrooper disguise action figure? If you've put up any Star Wars decoration for the Christmas season, store-bought or, even better, home-made, take a quick photo, send it in and we'll get it online as a virtual ornament for the website straight away (full competition details).
Matt G
Want to help deck the SWNZ website with a bit of Star Wars festive cheer...and go in to the draw for an exclusve George Lucas in Stormtrooper disguise action figure? If you've put up any Star Wars decoration for the Christmas season, store-bought or, even better, home-made, take a quick photo, send it in and we'll get it online as a virtual ornament for the website straight away (full competition details).
Matt G
The 75th Farmers Santa Parade took place in downtown Auckland this past weekend (Sunday 30th November). An estimated quarter-million spectators were packed tightly along Mayoral Drive, Queen and Albert Streets to cheer on the 200 floats and countless paraders which included a Hasbro-sponsored Star Wars entry. A dozen costumed members of the Outpost-42 and Rebel Legion NZ fan groups joined clone-helmeted Hasbro staff to promote all things Star Wars (including Hasbro toys and collectibles, bought to our attention in time for Christmas, of course!)... ...MORE
Matt G
Photos by Wayne Cleary
It's the first day of December today, and we want to celebrate the imminent holiday season in Star Wars style. Summer festivities, public holidays, and Christmas merriment; we're going to herald in the revelry with Star Wars website decorations again. You too can help deck the SWNZ website with a bit of Star Wars cheer. If you've put up any Star Wars decoration for the festive season, store-bought or, even better, home-made, take a quick photo, send it in (click here), and we'll get it online as a virtual ornament for the website straight away.
But wait, there's more... stay tuned for an announcement tomorrow... if you contribute to the adornment of SWNZ, you'll be placed in the draw for a great Star Wars prize.
Matt G
Updated with new pics - With the announcement in 2008 that McDonalds will be carrying promotional tie-ins for the Clone Wars theatrical release, all of the main fast food franchises (KFC, Pizza Hut, Burger King and McD's) in New Zealand have had their turn running with the Star Wars license. For the period between and including the Original Trilogy Special Editions, and Episode 1, KFC/Pizza Hut and Pepsi were the flag-bearers for the Star Wars universe.
At KFC outlets in New Zealand (and Australia), you could, for $4.25, purchase a "kids meal" that included some incidental food items, and a one of six Star Wars action toys!... ...MORE
Matt G
Just a quick heads-up for people in or near Auckland - the Farmers Santa Parade this Sunday (November 30th) will feature a Star Wars-themed float, supported by parading, costumed characters. It promises to be a great family event, with fine weather predicted.
Matt G
Although no longer available from McDonalds, completist collectors can still easily track down these toys on the secondary market. In August of 2008, shortly after the theatrical release of The Clone Wars, McDonalds restaurants in New Zealand quietly ran a Clone Wars Happy Meal promotion, based on the animated-style collectibles available in the US. The bobble-headed merchandise was available with $5 Happy Meals, or could be purchased for $2.50 separately - only 8 out of the 18 action toys available in the US were released (Anakin Skywalker, Asajj Ventress, Darth Vader, Padme Amidala, Captain Rex, Yoda, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Ahsoka Tano).
There wasn't any associated advertising or other Clone Wars materials (the Happy Meal bags, for instance, were just a generic version). The promotion came and went fairly quickly... ...MORE
Matt G
For those who haven't spotted them, the latest wave of The Legacy Collection action figures have been showing up in a number of stores around New Zealand. This wave includes Stass Allie (BD23), Commander Faie (BD24), General Grievous (BD25), Bail Organa (BD26), Breha Organa (BD27), FX-6 (BD28) and Clone Trooper/Commander (BD29).
Matt G
The December 2008 issue of the Star Wars Insider (no.81 for the UK edition, no.105 for the US edition) is out and about - in the mailbox of New Zealand subscribers and on bookstore magazine shelves.
This installment celebrates 25 years of Return of the Jedi with a multi-page "visual commentary". The Clone Wars coverage includes a conversation with Matt Wood, on the subject of "voicing Grievous"; and, on the topic of voice talent, Adrienne Wilkinson, who portrays Maris Brood in The Force Unleashed is interviewed. The year that the "flashback" section inspects is 1996...Shadows of the Empire is the big event of that era, and the first hints of information about The Phantom Menace have just started to surface.
The latest toys, books and comics are covered, and the collectibles section delves in to 30 years of Star Wars lunch boxes. The "Science of Star Wars" section continues, and the "Effects Maestros" series of articles talks to Ken Ralston, who started working in the miniature and optical effects shop at ILM during A New Hope, and worked through the Jedi... ...MORE
Matt G
A current article on the StarWars.com website, entitled Vintage Costume Scrapbook, holds particular relevance for kiwi Star Wars fans in that it includes images of the 1983, made-in-NZ, Bing Harris Sargood character masks. Bing Harris Sargood Ltd was perhaps one of New Zealand's most prolific manufacturer of varied Star Wars merchandise. Many of their lines reflect the products Bing Harris Sargood had been known for, for many decades (clothing, bedding, towels etc), but some expanded their range, like a set of six ROTJ-based masks - Yoda, Chewbacca, Wicket, Gamorrean Guard, Admiral Ackbar and Jabba the Hutt. Although most of those characters were also produced as masks by Don Post Studios in the USA, there are distinct differences that identify each of the BHS's versions. The Jabba mask seems to be the only representation of that character in such a format, from that era.
Related article: Bing Harris Sargood Ltd
Matt G
The Canvas supplement in last weekend's NZ Herald featured a 6-page photo essay of Star Wars costumers, timed to promote the Armageddon convention. That article, and a slideshow of most of the images, is now online - Click here for the text, and click here to access the photos.
Matt G
Auckland Armageddon 2008 has been and gone. Satisfyingly, it was as good as expected. There was a relative shortage of Star Wars guests (Grey DeLisle, the voice talent behind Asajj Ventress, Padme, and other characters in the Gendy Tartakovsky Clone Wars series was present, however, and signing autographs for fans of that realm of the Expanded Universe), but no shortage of Star Wars fans.
In some ways, the Armageddon conventions have settled in to a routine with a lot of standard events and features. This year, however, there was some noticeable differences amongst the exhibitors...some bigger, some absent, and some fresh purveyors of pulp culture. There was also growth in quality, quantity and variety of costumers (...and costume-like clothing!)... ...MORE
Matt G
Armageddon Expo starts tomorrow (Saturday) in the Aotea Centre, Auckland. Come on in and check out the Reel Collectibles stand on level 5. Stay tuned to SWNZ for photos, reports and links over the next few days.
Matt G
It's the Auckland Armageddon sci-fi and pop culture convention this weekend (official website), from Saturday through to Monday - it'll be worth checking it out in person, but if you can't get there every day, TelstraClear will be streaming live video from 11am-6pm daily at www.clearnet.co.nz. Click here to read the announcement and details on the NZHerald website.
Related article: 25 Oct 2007 :: Armageddon Auckland 2007 Report
Related article: 23 Apr 2007 :: Armageddon Wellington 2007 Report
Matt G
The next wave of The Clone Wars action figures have been confirmed in Toyworld stores - included are Ahsoka Tano with Rotta the Huttlet (no.9), Clone Commander Cody (no.10), Clone Commander Odd Ball (no.11) and Super Battle Droid (no.12).
Matt G
Today's New Zealand Herald reports on "which toys most Kiwi kids will be nagging their parents for this Christmas". Based on Toyworld sales, The Clone Wars-related gift ideas feature twice in the top 20 list. Click here to read the full story.
Matt G
Hi all, I have been collecting 3-3/4 astromechs for a few years now, and now I have found an awesome way to display them - in a rotating watch display case I got off TradeMe. I have 47 figures so far...R2s, R3s, R4s, R5s and the more recent R7s from the clone wars build-a-droid series; and to fill up blanks I have added the 2 legged protocol droids as well... ...MORE
Shane Y
The November/December 2008 issue of the Star Wars Insider (no.80 for the UK edition, no.104 for the US edition) is out and about - in the mailbox of New Zealand subscribers and on bookstore magazine shelves.
This 100 page issue continues coverage of the current hot topics (The Clone Wars, and The Force Unleashed, of course!), as well as the usual columns of this new magazine format (...if you're not too familiar with the regular sections, check out the SWNZ coverage of the last couple of issues, no.102 and no.103). There are a couple of articles that... ...MORE
Matt G
With 2009 just around the corner, the Star Wars Prequel marketing phenomenon is coming up on its 10th birthday. I think there would be few dissenters to the suggestion that it had a rocky start. In short, too many department stores and store chains stocked up on too many toys. When the entire country was literally saturated with Episode 1 products, the resulting peg-warmer overpopulation and retailer disappointment blocked the influx of new waves of, in particular, action figures and accessories.
Despite the initial hyper-exuberance, the SW merchandising machine has slowly matured to take progressively more fan and collector opinion into account. There were some pros amongst the cons of The Phantom Menace menace... we were seeing new characters and vehicles, a multitude of new manufacturers, and a resurgence in popularity of Original Trilogy collectibles as a secondary effect. Let's look back on an example of 1999 advertising to try and relive some of the positivity of the era. The Warehouse, ToyWorld, Deka, Farmers and K-Mart were amongst the big name franchises taking Episode 1 to the fans. We'll take a look at the latter as an example.
The K-Mart campaign had the tagline "Destination Star Wars". Their "Exclusive Souvenir Mega Poster" describes the K-Mart Star Wars range as encompassing toys, apparel, confectionery, books, manchester, "and much more"... ...MORE
Matt G
The latest news reports to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network arrive via www.lightsabre.co.uk in England:
"This (past) week we welcome to the site a first, someone who was interviewed for our webmaster interviews section back in 2006 and who has now been 'promoted' to star status as one of the authors of the Complete Star Wars Encyclopedia, Bob Vitas. Bob has been a friend of the site for a number of years, and his work on the CUSWE is legendary in Star Wars circles, and it's always great to hear from him and have him on the site.
In other site news we add our Celebration Japan report (finally), highlight Farsight Games new ODDS magazine, aimed at tabletop roleplayers, throw up a new Setnin Select by our good pal Jason Brown (hope the operation goes well mate, keep off that leg!) and continue to marvel at the brilliance of Bring Back Star Wars - genius."
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
Those of you that have been regular visitors for a while will be familiar with the 'Collector Spotlight' articles that show up from time to time. In these, New Zealand Star Wars fans share photos of their collection, and tell a little bit about themselves and their hobbies, as brief or as detailed as they like.
Well, there is plenty of space for more, or, if you've previously submitted photos, we'd love to see updates! If you want to show off your collection, big or small, rare, interesting or completist, email me to send in your photos and story, or if you have any questions.
You can check out some of the previous examples of Spotlight articles via this search.
Matt G
Te Papa Museum in Wellington is an interesting place to visit under normal circumstances, but, for a short time, there is an extra reason for Star Wars fans in the area to head on in and check it out. Up on the fourth floor, in one of the kids' discovery sections ("Inspiration Station"), there is a rotating show piece called "Delectable Collectibles"...at the moment, and for a couple more months, the subject of this mini-exhibit is Star Wars action figures. Regular SWNZ contributor and self-proclaimed "Star Wars nut" (aren't we all?!) Daniel Falconer worked with Te Papa staff to assemble a small fraction of his impressive figure collection into this display... ...MORE
Matt G
The Where Science Meets Imagination (WSMI) event is a traveling Star Wars museum exposition that has been moving around the US since October 2005. Although it won't make it to New Zealand, its next stop, after Minnesota where it is currently running, will be the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney...given the rarity of such opportunities in this part of the globe, this is definitely close enough to consider trying to get over to from NZ!
The latest Powerhouse WSMI newsletter is out, and it includes the following trivia about the exhibition:
- This is the first exhibition to combine costumes and props from all six films with real-world technologies; video interviews with filmmakers, scientists and engineers; and hands-on components, including two large Engineering Design Labs, where visitors build and test speeders and robots?
- Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination features more than 100 Star Wars artefacts and real world technologies along with videos and interactives.
- It was developed, designed and built from 2002 to 2005 at a cost of $5 million.
- It took more than 100 people to create Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination - 60 from the Museum of Science, Boston, and its major contractors with the assistance of 25 people from Lucasfilm, Ltd., and Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) and 20 other experts.
- The Powerhouse Museum is the first venue in Australia for this exhibition.
Related article: 17 Aug 2008, Where Science Meets Imagination Exhibition, Sydney
Matt G
GalacticBinder.com continues its series of feature interviews with LucasArts' Haden Blackman - executive producer and project lead on the upcoming next gen video game Star Wars: The Force Unleashed. Find out what classic comic book and horror monsters influenced Haden's views of Darth Vader, what role the concept art had in the game's development and even how to deploy a 'lightning grenade' on your enemies. After hearing Haden's thoughts about the story, the characters and the game play itself, one thing is for sure - the Force has truly been "Unleashed"!
Click here to jump straight to the interview.
Matt G
Sadly, after two fun years we are taking out Toy Wars, the Star Wars toy display, at the end of the school holidays, to make-way for an indoor skating area.
At the start of the school holidays, Sunday the 28th September, starting 10am we are going to have a Star Wars themed event at Sk8 Zone. There will be free entry to the toy display and, for the skaters, we will be having Skate Wars, various Star Wars-themed skates contests, a Jedi Knight training class, prizes for best costumes, and a Jedi Knight x-treme skate show.
May the Force be with you.
Pat M
The latest news reports to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network arrive via www.lightsabre.co.uk in England:
"Plenty of action at Lightsabre Towers this week, which we will get to in a
moment, but first - here's the news (read in a 1940's newsreel style).
+++ Third part of Robert Watts interview arrives on Lightsabre +++
+++ Admiral Motti site redesigned and updated +++
+++ Polcon convention report posted to site +++
+++ Dorling Kindersley Star Wars Blueprints competition announced +++"
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
Steve Boyle is a creature technician and special makeup effects artist currently residing in New Zealand and working for Weta Workshop in Wellington. In Star Wars: Attack of the Clones, Steve worked behind the scenes making monsters and aliens; but he also stepped in front of the camera on a couple of occasions, to don make-up and appliances himself, in order to portray Koorivar politician and separatist Passel Argente, and three-eyed Gran senator Ask Aak. As such, he qualifies as a current Kiwi, and has earned a place in the NZ Connexion files. SWNZ recently had the opportunity to put a few questions to Steve about his Star Wars, and other movie-making, experiences.
Read on for part two of Steve's interview... ...MORE
Matt G
The Happy Meals Clone Wars toys available McDonalds this week are Padme in Naboo starcruiser, and Darth Vader in TIE Fighter, with electronic sound effects.
Matt G
Steve Boyle is a creature technician and special makeup effects artist currently residing in New Zealand and working for Weta Workshop in Wellington. In Star Wars: Attack of the Clones, Steve worked behind the scenes making monsters and aliens; but he also stepped in front of the camera on a couple of occasions, to don make-up and appliances himself, in order to portray Koorivar politician and separatist Passel Argente, and three-eyed Gran senator Ask Aak. As such, he qualifies as a current Kiwi, and has earned a place in the NZ Connexion files. SWNZ recently had the opportunity to put a few questions to Steve about his Star Wars, and other movie-making, experiences.
SWNZ: Let's jump in at the Star Wars end of the story. You're the man beneath the prosthetics and make-up of Episode II's Ask Aak and Passel Argente characters. Can you tell us how you came to portray those roles?
Steve: By accident actually; I was working on the Ask Aak suit at the time and the original performer pulled out at the last minute. We felt that maybe one of the FX guys should wear it - someone who was familiar with the limitations and the restrictions due to its weight and the animatronics. So I ended up getting in it to see if it fitted, and it did... ...MORE
Matt G
The October 2008 issue of the Star Wars Insider (no.79 for the UK edition, no.103 for the US edition) is showing up in the mailbox of New Zealand subscribers - it has been spotted on bookstore magazine shelves (eg, Borders), for nearly a couple of weeks too.
We're looking at an issue focusing on The Clone Wars, but there are a few flashback and Original Trilogy features, and some Force Unleashed coverage. A great interview with The Clone Wars writer Henry Gilroy gives a few minor clues as to the overall direction that TV series will take us, and he lets slip hints of a couple of plot elements. A "Who's who" section introduces The Clone Wars characters, and the magazine also takes a look at related merchandise of various types... ...MORE
Matt G
I just finished assembling a cardboard R2-D2, and have some pics to share; it's a 170mm tall, fold-and-insert model of the new Clone Wars animated-style Artoo. These come in a book hot out on the shelves now - The Clone Wars: Press Out 'n' Build. Also included is a clone helmet and an AT-TE. All I can say is that you the patience of Yoda, and nimble fingers, to complete this model!
Shane Y
The latest news reports to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network arrive via www.lightsabre.co.uk in England:
"First off we bring you our latest interview with Star Wars artist Spencer Brinkerhoff III. Spencer gave generously of his time to fit this in between projects for which we're very grateful.
We also launch a new video section called NHP Video, which brings a look into the site and related projects. Brought to us by our former RPG Editor Jonathan Hicks we're hoping to have a lot of fun with this as we delve into projects old and new.
Coming this week we have the next chapter of Setnin Star by Louis Turfrey, and I'm reliably informed that Paul Squire is writing a short Ryath Centaur story for us, so that should be on it's way soon."
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
What do Passel Argente, Ask Aak the Gran, and King Kong have in common? Stay tuned to Star Wars New Zealand for some interesting and exclusive content, coming next week.
Matt G
The McDonalds Happy Meals Clone Wars toys have been spotted in the wild. Confirmed as available so far is the Asajj Ventress in droid fighter, with light-up lightsaber, and pull-back action Anakin Skywalker in Jedi starfighter.
Matt G
The New Zealand website of McDonald "Happy Meals" indicates that their Clone Wars promotion is now under way!
In addition to a Flash application that shows the eight available toys and demonstrates their action features, that website also has a competition that you can enter, and the main page includes activities to download such as a Clone Wars screensaver, "colour-in fun", IM icons, and Clone Wars wallpaper.
Matt G
Through a stroke of good fortune, I managed to get my hands on one of Hasbro's most impressive offerings to date - the vehicle nicknamed the BMF, or BIG Millennium Falcon (formally, from the Legacy Collection). I've been impressed by the released photos and details, but none do justice to, or fully describe, this beautiful rendition of the iconic Star Wars spaceship. Long requested by fans, this Falcon has been designed from the ground up with playability in mind, and it dwarfs its predecessors in both size and functionality.
So, where to start? It's 80cm long, 60cm in width, and 24cm tall when on standing on its removable landing gear. The Falcon is well packed for shipping, and requires minimal assembly - the front mandibles easily click in to place and beyond that there are only a few other components to plug in like the landing gear, quad-cannon guns, and a reasonable stockpile of missiles. The placement of the 29 detailing stickers does require a little patience, however. Fortunately, this YT-1300 freighter comes with a 12-page instruction book that covers all set-up steps.
With the decals situated appropriately, we can insert 3x AA batteries, and the fun begins! Legacy Collection Millennium Falcon has a total of 13 switches over its outer surface, to activate lights, electronic sounds and motion effects. That doesn't mean... ...MORE
Matt G
The Where Science Meets Imagination event is a traveling Star Wars museum exposition that has been moving around the US since October 2005. Although it won't make it to New Zealand, its next stop, after Minnesota where it is currently running, will be the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney...given the rarity of such opportunities in this part of the globe, this is definitely close enough to consider trying to get over to from NZ! Expect to see props, costumes from all of the Star Wars movies, and interactive displays as a tool to introduce modern science and technology as it relates to that seen in the Star Wars universe.
The Powerhouse museum website has the exhibition dates listed as being December 2008 through to April 2009 (other sources narrow the opening date down to 11 December 2008)...you can also sign up for advance notifications at that link... ...MORE
Matt G
Borders have a weekly email newsletter they send out which includes
two savings coupons. You need to sign up for this in-store. This week's issue is partly a Clone Wars theme and includes a link to a free Borders exclusive PDF ebook which can be downloaded from this link:
Star Wars: The Clone Wars - Out Foxed
by Rob Valois
email.borders.com.au/nz/...hero-outfoxed.pdf (Adobe PDF, 550K)
It's a five page (including cover) Dorling Kindersley kids' book about a brief encounter between Clone Commander Fox and a bounty hunter.
Buzz Bumble
We'd heard earlier that McDonalds restaurants in New Zealand would be running a Clone Wars Happy Meal promotion, based on the collectibles available in the US...confirmation is now available on the official McDonalds HappyMeal.co.nz website, where the Clone Wars toys are listed as coming "up next". A PDF flier that can be downloaded from that website indicates that the bobble-headed merchandise is available with $5 Happy Meals, or can be purchased for $2.50 separately - only 8 out of the 18 action toys available in the US are pictured, however (Anakin Skywalker, Asajj Ventress, Darth Vader, Padme Amidala, Captain Rex, Yoda, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Ahsoka Tano).
Matt G
It looks like TV3 is set to become our official Star Wars channel. Entertainment reporter Kate Rodger has let us now that extended/extra Clone Wars coverage is available on the www.3news.co.nz website - full interviews with Lucas, Filoni, plus producer Catherine Winder, a storyboard animator and an editor can be accessed here. The main 3news story can be accessed here.
We also teasingly hear from Kate that she "...spoke to [the] head of programming yesterday and can confirm that TV3 is in negotiations to screen the TV series, so watch this space :)"
Matt G
Another Farmers store report - the latest mailer has a few more items on special:
- Titanium vehicles - usually $9.99 now $7.99
- Evolutions 3-figure pack - usually $49.99 now $39.99
Farmers Manukau had a large number of figures in stock, including the Legacy build-a-droid series #9-16 (from the original Clone Wars series - Padme' Snowbunny, IG lancer droid, Mon Calamari warrior, Quarren Solider, Obi-Wan, Saesee Tiin and clone trooper figures), and the first wave of Clone Wars movie figures - all on special for $14.39.
Sale ends 3rd September.
They also had 'Battle Packs' of x2 biker scouts with speeder bikes - prequel or original trilogy style for $59.99 each. I have not seen these anywhere else yet.
Toys-R-Fun, Manukua, also had the standard figures on special for $15.99 (Clone Wars and Legacy OT figures).
Anaria
Following up on the 03 August post, Kate Rodger at TV3 has emailed to let us know about her blog, now online, covering her Lucasfilm visit and Clone Wars film review (click here to access it).
Stay tuned to TV3 news for her interview with George Lucas, which will air either tonight (Monday) or Tuesday. The full uncut interviews will be posted onto Film3 online as well.
Matt G
Earlier today Classic Hits 97.4FM hosted the New Zealand premiere of the Clone Wars movie, for a selection of invited guests, at Hoyts Cinema, Sylvia Park. Costumed fans from the NZ Rebel Legion and Outpost-42 Garrison were in attendance. This was a very auspicious occasion - although it begins as a theatrical release, this screening heralds the firm transition of the Star Wars phenomenon to the small screen. It is an exciting time for Star Wars fandom, and, having had a few hours to absorb, and reflect on, the viewing, I believe the The Clone Wars lives up to its promise.
As we all know, the Clone Wars will be a computer-generated animation series covering events between Star Wars Episodes 2 and 3. The Clone Wars movie precedes the televised series. We see this volume of the Star Wars story through a stylised lens - there are some minor deviations from canon detail, but in a way that is consistent with, rather than distracting from, this reinterpreted feel. The wear and tear that famously brought realism to the two trilogies of movies remains and the background is teeming with familiar hardware and species...so we are left with no doubt that this adventure exists in the Star Wars universe... ...MORE
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network is another announcement of a new member website:
EU Cantina, USA. EU Cantina describes themselves as a site "to help all Star Wars fans, EU inclined or not, become familiar with the Expanded Universe of the already amazing galaxy of Star Wars. Old, or new, fans can rely on EU Cantina to bring the latest EU news, along with features such as editorials, unique time-lines and item reviews, knowledge centers for EU items that are big, guides for getting started in each section of the EU, a podcast, and much, much more."
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
With the announcement in 2008 that McDonalds will be carrying promotional tie-ins for the Clone Wars theatrical release, all of the main fast food franchises (KFC, Pizza Hut, Burger King and McD's) in New Zealand have had their turn running with the Star Wars license. For the period between and including the Original Trilogy Special Editions, and Episode 1, KFC/Pizza Hut and Pepsi were the flag-bearers for the Star Wars universe... ...MORE
Matt G
On 04 August 2008, after five years of its original design, SWNZ switched over to a new colour scheme, with a few minor adjustments to enhance the overall interface. For posterity, all the old logos (which form the basis for the new page headers) are preserved here, including the special event logos that showed up for annual occasions. In fact, if you are feeling particularly nostalgic, you can still access the SWNZ homepage in its old format... ...MORE
Matt G
Kiwi celebrity Jay Laga'aia joins fellow Auckland-born Star Wars actor Bruce Spence (Tion Medon in Revenge of the Sith; IMDB link) to film the Legend of the Seeker TV series in New Zealand, beginning late July. The NZ Herald reports that "Each one-hour episode [from the first volume in Terry Goodkind's popular The Sword of Truth books] will have a New Zealand director and the series will be shot in the Auckland region over 36 months. One of the episodes will be directed by New Zealand actor Michael Hurst, who starred in the original Hercules TV series."
Matt G
TV3 are really getting into the Star Wars spirit, ahead of the Clone Wars theatrical release. As well as their coverage of the Hasbro Clone Wars toy launch events, they are screening the prequel movies on Saturday evenings this month. And, I've just received an email from TV3 Entertainment Reporter Kate Rodger, who is in San Francisco right now, ahead of a media screening of The Clone Wars tonight. She tells us that this will be followed by a tour of ILM and Lucasfilm animation, and she will shoot one-on-one TV interviews with George Lucas and his team! We can expect to see a story together to air on TV3's 3News next week, as well as blogged photos and info from the film shortly.
It will, therefore, pay to keep an eye on www.3news.co.nz/film3 over the next few days! We'll update if we get any more specific details on the timing.
Matt G
With five years of online presence behind us, it's time for a bit of a fresh look for SWNZ. Tomorrow, a new theme will be revealed...all the existing content, and overall layout, will continue, but stay tuned for a crisp, new appearance.
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network is a little bit different today...it's the announcement of four new member websites. Check them out for view on Star Wars fandom from all around the globe.
- Allied Force, Italy.
- Galactic Voyage, USA.
- The Outer Rim, Poland.
- Holored Estelar, Spain.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
On Friday August the 1st, Hasbro, in conjunction with Toyworld, celebrated the release of The Clone Wars, and related, toys and action figures with launch affairs in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. I've heard nothing but reports of fun and success - that was my perception too, at the Sylvia Park, Auckland event.
Enthusiastic Hasbro and Toyworld staff, eager Star Wars collectors and costumers, and an array of media crews, all worked together to create an atmosphere of festivity. TV3 was broadcasting live (their interviews and coverage can be seen online here) - they interviewed a selection of the Outpost-42 and Rebel Legion NZ members, and got in to the spirit of the theme by presenting the weather reports through the Clonetrooper voice-changer helmet. Fans were sustained with complimentary coffee, muffins and savouries, and the build-up to the opening of the store doors culminated in a televised saber fight between Darth Vader and a Jedi opponent.
There was plenty of stock to go around... ...MORE
Matt G
Well that was fun! My four year old daughter and I just got back from the 7.30am Clone Wars and Legacy Collection launch event in Wellington at Toyworld Balance Street. It was really nice to see other SW collectors up early and enjoying the fun of the event.
The good folks at Toyworld laid on free coffees and cookies for those of us waiting outside (it was a while before they opened the doors - probably after 8am in the end though in the excitement of seeing new toys I forgot to check my watch). We watched the trailers for the Clone Wars on a television in their front window, surrounded by Clone Trooper and Yoda standees and dozens of toys. Three of NZ's finest, Outpost-42 501st Stormtroopers, were in attendance, which was great and a delight for young and old fans. The first half dozen or so of us waiting outside at 7.30am were also given glossy TLC posters and free passes to the CW movie preview on August 13th... ...MORE
Daniel F
So who got along to one of the regional Clone Wars toy launch events? If you head on out to your local Toyworld or toy retailer, there will still be plenty of fantastic new Hasbro product on the shelves (new figures, plus re-packs of many previously released, harder to find characters).
If you did happen to get along to one of the launch parties in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, and have photos of the fun that you'd like to share on SWNZ, send them through to [email protected] - we'll be getting a full report and image gallery from the celebrations shortly.
Matt G
With five years of online presence behind us, it's time for a bit of a fresh look for SWNZ. Soon, a new theme will be revealed...all the existing content, and overall layout, will continue, but stay tuned for a crisp, new appearance.
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network arrives via www.lightsabre.co.uk in England. Their latest star interview is with Tim 'Admiral Ackbar' Rose. Click here to read the interview.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
The new Clone Wars and Legacy Collection toys from Hasbro hit the stores this Friday (full details can be found in this earlier news item). SWNZ has received details, pictures and pricing on these new collectibles, from Hasbro...let's take a look at some of the merchandise we can expect to see on the shelves very shortly (pricing may vary...stay tuned for store reports from around the country).
CLONE TROOPER HELMET
(Hi-res image)
SRP $69.99 (Ages 5 and up).
Join the army of heroic clone troopers by donning an authentic CLONE TROOPER HELMET. Includes signature phrases and awesome voice amplifier to truly disguise your identity. Listen out for our own Temeura Morrison!
CLONE WARS ULTIMATE LIGHTSABER
(Hi-res image)
SRP $99.99 (Ages 6 and up).
The STAR WARS CLONE WARS ULTIMATE LIGHTSABER set allows young padawans the
opportunity to create more than a thousand different lightsaber combinations using the customization components... ...MORE
Matt G
New Zealand will be the first country in the world to see the eagerly awaited cinemation feature film Star Wars: The Clone Wars. With the movie release comes a whole new range of collectable action figures, realistic vehicles and other toys.
The new Clone Wars movie is set between the Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith and updates the struggle between good and evil in the Star Wars galaxy. Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Yoda are back in an action-packed struggle between the noble Jedi and the evil Sith.
To meet demand from fans, toy company Hasbro has organised three early bird events in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. One Toy World store in each centre will open at 7:30am on Friday August 1st to allow fans to get the jump on collectors worldwide... ...MORE
Matt G
We often take our cherished Star Wars collectibles for granted in the sense that we give only passing thought as to how they were manufactured in vast quantities for the fans around the world. We've previously linked to some vintage video of the people and processes inside the Palitoy Factory and the Kenner Factory, but here are a couple of more recent clips, showing the fully-automated technology that gives us Star Wars Lego - first, a quick look at one of the more expensive steps, the application of paint to stormtrooper helmets (don't blink, it's quick!), and, second, a more general look (in 3 separate video segments) at the centrally-controlled robots that busy themselves with the job of making 600 Lego elements per second (...that's over 2 million per hour...19 billion in a year).
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network is an update about S.W.O.R.A's celebrity ambassadors. S.W.O.R.A's first ambassador and co-founder, Gerald Home, moves into the position of Honorary Ambassador, and Richard LeParmentier (Admiral Motti) becomes S.W.O.R.A's acting ambassador. Richard has posted an introductory message over on www.SWORA.net.
SWNZ thanks Gerald for his considerable input during S.W.O.R.A's formative period, and welcomes Richard to this international network of Star Wars fans!
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Related Link: Richard LeParmentier's official website (AdmiralMotti.co.uk)
Related Link: Gerald Home's official website (GeraldHome.com)
Matt G
The July/August 2008 issue of the Star Wars Insider (no.78 for the UK edition, no.102 for the US edition) is starting to show up in the mailbox of New Zealand subscribers, and it should be on bookstore magazine shelves too...the second publication in the new format.
It opens with a brief interview with George Lucas on the topic of the upcoming Clone Wars movie; moves on to Star Wars news bites from around the universe, and includes an in depth article with Dave Filoni - the supervising director of The Clone Wars. The theme for this issue is "Beast Wars" - in that vein, coverage includes articles on some of the biggest contributers to the Original Trilogy menageries - Stuart Freeborn, Phil Tippett, and Nick Dudman. Rounding out the magazine are the regular sections such as "The Science of Star Wars" a 10-point countdown (of the "toughest ever creatures"), flashback to 1999, and all the book, comic and toy news... ...MORE
Matt G
Hasbro has a few exclusive action figures lined up in conjunction with The Clone Wars theatrical debut. When it comes to their availability in New Zealand, there is some good news...and some bad news. Bad news first: the official word from Hasbro New Zealand is that the Captain Rex promotional figure won't, despite their best efforts, be available locally. The good news, however, is that the Holographic General Grievous figure (seen here at Rebelscum.com), which will be a Toys'R'Us exclusive in the US, will be available in limited numbers, as part of a promotion planned, at this stage, to commence in September. This will be in conjunction with a major NZ retailer. We'll bring you more details as soon as they come to hand.
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network arrives via www.lightsabre.co.uk in England. Their latest star interview is with the producer (in various roles) of both the original Star Wars and Indiana Jones trilogies, Robert Watts. Click here to read the first part of a three part interview.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
Again, as a follow-on from our recent birth celebration, SWNZ wants to recruit your help to spread the word amongst Star Wars fans... above are a selection of buttons that can be downloaded (or hotlinked) to link in to Star Wars New Zealand. Feel free to use them on your websites, blogs, forum signatures etc, to help support SWNZ. The image URLs to choose between are:
- http://SWNZ.Dr-Maul.com/images/linkswnz.jpg
- http://SWNZ.Dr-Maul.com/images/linkswnz2.gif
- http://SWNZ.Dr-Maul.com/images/linkswnz3.jpg
- http://SWNZ.Dr-Maul.com/images/SWNZ_120x75a.gif
The website URL to link to is www.SWNZ.co.nz... ...MORE
Matt G
As a follow on from yesterday's birthday milestone, it's worth taking a look back at some of SWNZ's exclusive New Zealand content... longstanding SWNZ readers will be familiar with the NZ Collection and NZ Connexion sections, but particularly for the benefit of newer and international readers, here's a look at The New Zealand Connexion: For the greater part of the Star Wars history, New Zealand has felt like the civilization farthest from the bright centre of the Universe. The dissemination of information via the internet started to change that, as did the tantalising proximity of The Phantom Menace's Sydney production, but nothing compared to the revelation that New Zealanders would be included in the cast of The Attack of the Clones. Shortland Street stars as bounty hunters and galactic miscreants? The lead actor and actress of Once Were Warriors once again playing in the same scenes on the big screen?
And now, the NZ connexion lives on in Episode 3, with the return of Bodie, Rena, Tem and Jay. And the connexion goes beyond just our favourite actors: designers, artists...want to find out a little bit more about their life before Star Wars? ...MORE
Matt G
Today marks Star Wars New Zealand's fifth birthday, and we bring (virtual) birthday cake to share with all! For five years we've been delivering New Zealand Star Wars news to Kiwis, and have been celebrating the involvement of NZers and NZ collectibles in the wider Star Wars universe. It's been an interesting year so far, with key events such as SWNZ's involvement in the establishment of the Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance... but things are just warming up in New Zealand, with the Clone Wars phenomenon certain to bring all sorts of hype, events, and merchandise... ...MORE
Matt G
Hasbro is inviting Star Wars fans to celebrate the launch of Star Wars: The Clone Wars at three events in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch on Friday August 1st and be among the first in the country to see the new Hasbro Star Wars toy range.
On August 14th New Zealand will be the first country in the world to see the new movie, so to celebrate Hasbro is holding breakfast events in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch for keen fans on August 1st. Entertainment includes characters from the much-loved space saga, spot prizes and some hot, strong coffee and muffins to warm everyone up.
Along with the movie comes the launch of a whole new Clone Wars toy line with detailed action figures, realistic vehicles, exclusive items and more. Be one of the first in New Zealand to check out the collectables at the Toyworld hosted events on August 1st. You can also go in the draw to win one of three incredible new Millennium Falcon ships (SRP $299.99). At over 2.5 feet long and packed full of features for action and adventure this is one amazing prize!
The celebrations start at 7.30am... ...MORE
Matt G
Issue no.77 of the UK Star Wars Insider is starting to show up in the mailbox of New Zealand subscribers, and it should be on bookstore magazine shelves too...it's a little out of synch with its US equivalent (which is listed as no.101 on its cover) this time around (not clear why). We're also looking at a new format. 84 pages, and a slightly different array of regular features (but plenty of good, original content). Feature articles include an interview with Robert Watts (who fulfilled a number of production roles for all 3 original trilogy flicks), "The Greatest Ever Lightsaber Battles", a handy guide to the Star Wars expanded universe, and the first in a new series of articles about Star Wars' special effect maestros, starting with Richard Edlund. Other new sections include "The Science of Star Wars" and "A Long Time Ago"...flashback to the Star Wars phenomenon as seen in 1980... ...MORE
Matt G
Immediately prior to the December 1977 theatrical debut of 'Star Wars', the Listener magazine had an issue (10-16 Dec, 1977) with a couple of features pertaining to the galactic blockbuster. Well before the sequels (let alone the prequels), well before official websites and online discussion, the content of such articles gives interesting insight into Star Wars' reception and relative fanfare.
A sidebar article amongst wider discussion on the topic of the history of sci-fi starts: "Star Wars, the epic of struggle between pure of heart Republicans and evil dictators in a faraway galaxy, comes on-screen in New Zealand theatres this month.
Overseas, the film's box-office receipts are already climbing towards the all-time champion, Jaws, which grossed $200 million. Star Wars has already won inclusion in the American Film Institutes list of 10 all-time greats."
Also discussed is the leading edge of the merchandising phenomenon that has now lasted over 3 decades: "In New Zealand, Hodder & Stoughton have stocks of Star Wars paperbacks totaling 50,000, which they are confident of off-loading when Star fever gets under way. That sales figure would far surpass New Zealand's best selling science fiction book to date, Dune by Frank Herbert, which has sold 30,000 copies since 1965."
Separately, in the cinema section, the Listener's reviewer critiques the film that started it all; at times, the analysis hits on elements well ahead of its time... ...MORE
Matt G
As mentioned a couple of days ago, the official S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) website and forums are now open to the public at www.SWORA.net. If you jump on over and register in the forums in order to represent New Zealand in this new international network, you will have the opportunity of entering the S.W.O.R.A. Website Launch Competition...follow this link for details.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A member websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
Here's a bit of trivia ...slightly different in nature to our usual coverage, but with a definite Star Wars connection... that came to my attention via Stuff.co.nz. George Lucas's daughter Amanda Lucas, who had cameo roles in all three Star Wars prequel movies (Diva Funquita and the voice of Trade Federation battleship communications officer Tey How in Episode I, Outlander Club patron Adnama in Episode II, and Senator Terr Taneel in Episode III), has been in Auckland, New Zealand since Sunday, competing in the 'Princesses of Pain' Mixed Martial Arts event at the Auckland Boxing Association Stadium.
Read the original story here.
Matt G
The Official S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) website and forums are now open to the public at www.SWORA.net.
What is S.W.O.R.A.? STAR WARS fans from all around the world have for a long time now expressed the need to get in touch with each other, in order for their local fandoms to develop and grow. S.W.O.R.A. (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) has been created to answer that need. Simply put, S.W.O.R.A. is a fan network, the purpose of which is to bring fans from different countries together and to enable them to share experiences, knowledge and information about their local STAR WARS activities.
S.W.O.R.A. was initially formed by eight members (including SWNZ, representing New Zealand) from seven different countries. The aim of the Alliance is to expand its borders and reach out to more fans from many other countries, thus increasing the number of its members. As of January 2008, STAR WARS actor Gerald Home acts as the official ambassador of S.W.O.R.A..
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A member websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
SWNZ has covered the fairly well known New Zealand-exclusive Twinkies 'Empire Strikes Back' stickers from Irvines (available in the early 1980s), but images of the packaging, which included cut-out, collectible cards, have remained elusive. Coverage of this historic memorabilia, and more food-related collectibles from around the world can be seen in the video tour of "Rancho Obi-Wan" at StarWars.yahoo.com/videos/visit-to-Rancho-Obi-Wan-5...from about the 5m:30s mark (the clip was previously only available through Hyperspace, but it now open for viewing through the World of Star Wars Yahoo portal).
Related article: Twinkies ESB Stickers (1980)
Thanks to Stephen W
The latest news reports to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network arrive via the 2 UK representatives. GalacticEmpire.Net (G.E.N.) are running a competition which is easy to enter and is open until the end of the month, and Lightsabre.co.uk have another great interview, this time with J W Rinzler, Executive Editor at LucasBooks.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
Return of A Night at the Movies - Symphonic Pops Series, Concert 2
Saturday 14 June, 7.30pm, Aotea Centre, THE EDGE
Last year's A Night at the Movies concert by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra proved so popular it's returning to the Aotea Centre on Saturday 14 June. But this year it's bigger. And better. Return of A Night at the Movies will be an evening of immense excitement for young and old � including an innovative competition to enthral budding filmmakers.
Of significance to Star Wars fans - the concert features a number of John Williams' Star Wars pieces, including the iconic Star Wars theme, Across the Stars (Attack of the Clones), Throne Room (A New Hope) and Duel of the Fates (Phantom Menace; backed by a choir). According to John Williams, the inspiration for the theme of Duel of the Fates was an old Celtic poem called Cad Goddeu (The Battle of the Trees)... ...MORE
Matt G
The latest news reports to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network arrive via Poland and Turkey. Check out their respective interviews with Ian Liston (Wes Janson from The Empire Strikes Back) and Jennifer Hale (voice talent from the Knights of the Old Republic and Jedi Academy video games).
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
Charles Ross continues his 'One Man Star Wars' show in Wellington, at Te Papa, next week. In the meantime, a number of reviews and television spots have been showing up online: eg, Campbell Live (TV3) coverage, New Zealand Herald review, Yahoo! review, and Stuff.co.nz review.
Matt G
Most SWNZ readers will be familiar with the series of articles we did in conjunction with Return of the Jedi actor Gerald Home (Squid Head and Mon Calamari Officer) back in 2004 (see below). In the conclusion of that trilogy of stories, we revealed script pages containing dialogue between Gerald's Mon Calamari officer character and Admiral Ackbar, in the space battle scenes of Return of the Jedi...conversation that didn't make it into the theatrical release of the movie. Interestingly, if we take a look at the Marvel comic adaptation, and the novelisation by James Kahn, which were published before the film debuted, we can see portions (in the comic), or the entire dialogue (spread over a number of pages in the novelisation), of the interaction between Ackbar and his Mon Cal officer/aide as they were originally intended. Click on the second of the above thumbnails to this particular content (thanks to Paul Rowley who bought the information about the comic adaptation content to our attention, via Gerald Home).
- Gerald Home article, part one: Tales of the lost Calamari.
- Gerald Home article, part two: 'Revenge of the Jedi' call sheets.
- Gerald Home article, part three: The missing 'Revenge' dialogue revealed.
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network comes from Lightsabre.co.uk (England) - follow the link to read their interview with Tim Veekhoven, the webmaster of fellow S.W.O.R.A. site www.Teekay-421.be.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network arrives via Imperial City Online (Poland) - read all about the unique history of Polish Star Wars toys and products in "Let's Collect Polish Star Wars Memorabilia!"
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network is from Lightsabre.co.uk (England) - click here to access part 2 of their interview with Lorne Peterson, and click here for their report on the Spaceport 2008 event held over the weekend.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites. Or, for an interesting perspective on the locations of S.W.O.R.A websites, check out the clickable S.W.O.R.A world map.
Matt G
Sigh...I'm a little later than I promised in getting photos from the Wellington Armageddon convention online. To try and make up for it, I've loaded this page with all sorts of imagery, representing the huge variety of the event. Busy and fun...that's what it was! Those of you who have read my reports on previous Armageddon conventions know that I am a big fan of these events...perhaps to the point of being a shade biased towards positivity...but, despite the absence of Star Wars guests at this show, there really was still plenty of Star Wars and related entertainment and value for those who attended.
For two solid days, we were able to escape our jobs and mingle with fan representations of characters from Star Wars, the horror genre, anime galore, movies, games and comics. Catch up with old friends who share our hobbies, and meet new ones with similar passions for Galactic and Fantastic memorabilia. Spend a dollar or two on books, figures, statues, cards, games, video...
The rain and cold wasn't enough to keep people from queueing in anticipation of the opening time...I heard that the building reached its legal occupancy capacity at least once during convention hours... ...MORE
Matt G
Charles Ross will be performing his 'One Man Star Wars Show' as part of the International Comedy Festival in Auckland and Wellington (schedule on his website - Tuesday 6th May to Sunday 11th May, Sky City, Auckland, and Tuesday 20th May to Sunday 25th May, Te Papa, Wellington).
If you are not fully familiar with this entertaining act, here (HowStuffWorks.com/ one-man-star-wars.htm) is a great resource with video clips that will help convince you to attend.
Matt G
Last Saturday (12th April) saw a double Star Wars event in Hamilton. The Vader Balloon & Bodie Taylor. The basis for this Star Wars day was the 'Night Glow' component of the Balloons Over Waikato festival. A featured guest during this hot air balloon gathering was the over-sized Darth Vader helmet-shaped balloon, over from Belgium, that has flown at a number of events in Europe, and, more recently, in USA. The balloon is 26 metres tall, is officially approved by Lucasfilm, and was made by transforming vector models of Vader's helmet into a giant, flight-ready representation of the Dark Side. The balloon made its first flight on March 8, 2007.
At the invitation of the Vader balloon's pilot, Michel Lambert, members of New Zealand's Imperial Costuming group, the Outpost-42 Garrison of the 501st Legion, attended the event to support and promote the inflatable galactic villain. A colourful collection of prequel and original trilogy characters mingled for photos, adding to the strong dark-side theme.
But, there was also a very important kiwi Star Wars guest in attendance as well. Actor Bodie Taylor, who played clonetroopers in both Episode 2 and Episode 3 (most famous for the dining hall crowd scene in Attack of the Clones) made an appearance... ...MORE
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network is from Imperial City Online (Poland), in the form of a chat with Star Wars author Drew Karpshyn (who wrote the Darth Bane novels 'Path of Destruction' and 'Rule of Two'). Click here to access the interview.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites.
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network is from Lightsabre.co.uk (England). This week, as part of an ongoing series, they've been chatting with Ates Cetin, webmaster of another S.W.O.R.A website - the Turkish destination Yildiz Savaslari. Check out the chat by clicking here.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites.
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network is from Lightsabre.co.uk (England). This week they're chatting with legendary Star Wars costume designer and double Academy Award winner John Mollo. John was very generous with his time and gave a great interview, which can be seen by clicking here.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites.
Matt G
Every now and then a real gem stands out from the mixed bag of internet content, worthy of sharing. The above YouTube video comes from the Electronic Visualization Laboratory (EVL), a research group established in 1973 in the Computer Science Department at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Its relationship to Star Wars? ...EVL is perhaps best known for the computer graphics featured in the Rebel briefing room scenes at the end of A New Hope. The clip is 10 minutes long, and has Larry Cuba describing how he animated the Death Star vector graphics for ANH - painstakingly, manually digitising the surface of the Death Star's equatorial trench in order to have it correspond to the actual tiles that made up the filming miniatures. A beautiful piece of work!
Matt G
He lives sealed in a display case now. My first ever Star Wars collectible - a Kenner Stormtrooper mini-action figure, acquired in 1978 (originally on a 12-back card...I still have pieces of that cardback). He's been through a lot, but still has an original weapon. A little yellowed, and not in the best condition compared to my other vintage stormtroopers...but this is the collectible that started it all for me.
What is/was your first Star Wars collectible? When did you get it, and do you still have it? Share photos and your story by emailing me at [email protected].
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network is from Imperial City Online (Poland). The Jedi-Con convention was held in Germany over the Easter weekend. A report in Polish is avaible here - the English version will be available shortly, but in the meantime, fans can enjoy the image gallery.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites.
Matt G
Some Star Wars fans will already be familiar with the over-sized Darth Vader helmet-shaped balloon that has flown at a number of events in Europe, and, more recently, in USA...it will shortly be making an appearance at the Balloons over Waikato show in Hamilton, 9-13 April 2008.
The balloon is 26 metres tall, is officially approved by Lucasfilm, and was made by transforming vector models of Vader's helmet into a giant, flight-ready representation of the Dark Side. The balloon made its first flight on March 8, 2007.
If you are in the region, visit the Balloons Over Waikato for event times and details. Otherwise, stay tuned to SWNZ for photos and reports.
Related link: Darth Vader Balloon (English).
Related link: Balloons Over Waikato.
Matt G
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network is from England, where Lightsabre.co.uk has just posted part one of their interview with Lorne Peterson, who has been behind the modelmaking of big titles and franchises like 'Star Wars', 'Indiana Jones' (he won an Oscar for his work on 'Temple of Doom'), 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind', and 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial'.
Also through the S.W.O.R.A. network, we have received a message and photo (below) from S.W.O.R.A. ambassador Gerald Home: "Vinicius [pictured with the mask] was the founder and original commanding officer of the 501st garrison in Brazil - and he was my sponsor for my honorary membership of the 501st. (He's wearing his brazilian garrison t-shirt). The good thing about this photo is that you can see how big the mask was - and imagine how heavy". The Squid Head mask is currently residing in Sao paulo city in Brazil from March 5th to July 20th 2008 in an exhibit of 200 items.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites.
Matt G
In Westfield Albany today, Toys'R'Fun had new Star Wars items in stock - the recent wave of SW Transformers, Force Unleashed Lightsabers, and some of the new Galactic Heroes packs (priced at $13.99 each - Royal Guard and Imperial Gunner; Han Solo and Princess Leia as Boushh; Ponda Baba and Snaggletooth).
Anaria
According to this New Zealand Herald article, kiwi Star Wars actress Keisha Castle-Hughes (who would have wrangled with galactic-scale politics as the Queen of Naboo in 'Revenge of the Sith') recently publicly declared "I want to be a politician and maybe one day I will be (Prime Minister)". It is reported that the 17 year old is enrolled to begin a political science degree next year, so this could theoretically become a case of life imitating art (although, in the Star Wars universe, Queen Apailana began her reign considerably younger, at 13 years of age).
Matt G
According to the New Zealand Herald this morning, Temuera Morrison (Jango Fett and various Episode 3 clones) will be returning to the television show that first bought him to most New Zealander's attention: Shortland Street. Tem will be on NZ TVs as Dr Hone Ropata, for 6 weeks from June this year (kicking off on the show's 4000th episode). It was from 1992 to 1995 that Tem was previously on the long-running New Zealand television series, and it was during this time that he landed his first major role, as Jake Heke in the 1994 Lee Tamahori film, 'Once Were Warriors'.
Matt G
The two articles about the 1997 New Zealand-exclusive Confection Concept Postacards (Star Wars, and The Empire Strikes Back) have been updated with a couple of new photos each, to better show off the graphics on the shipping/point-of-sale boxes.
Matt G
As promised I've taken some new shots of my ROTS Darth Vader mannequin which is now sporting the following upgrades: Master Replicas ROTS Darth Vader helmet; new 2-tone (black/charcoal grey) fiberglass armour from The Star Fortress; Philippines leather gloves; aluminum belt buckle; AgLok cape chain.
Future upgrades: chest box mod (replace plastic rods with aluminum ones); leather cod (coming soon); new, longer, flexible arms (coming soon); fiberglass shin guards.
Included are some pics of my new Kotobukiya Snap together statues... ...MORE
Fred C
Issue no.100 (no.76 on the cover of the UK edition) of the Star Wars Insider magazine is starting to show up in the mailboxes of New Zealand subscribers. The dominant feature of this edition is a 41-page spread entitled "The 100 best things about Star Wars...ever"...a little drawn out, to be honest, but some nice graphics/photographs are used, and there are some interesting topics covered amongst the expected favourites. The other material covered within the 84 full-colour pages includes a comprehensive look at the merchandise that makes up the Force Unleashed multimedia release...an interview with Sean Williams (novelist), a sneak peak into the Dark Horse comics, dialogue with Haden Blackman (LucasArts project lead) and Sam Witwer (actor, Vader's secret apprentice), and a breakdown of the toys we can expect to see in conjunction with this project. A pretty cool bonus with issue 100 is a fold-out Force Unleashed poster.
The international collecting section takes a look at unique collectibles from... ...MORE
Matt G
The winner of the Reel Collectibles/SWNZ 'Win a Sideshow Han Solo' competition is... John Serepisos of Wellington!
Congratulations John, Reel Collectibles report that Han will be on his way to you shortly!
Keep your eyes open for more competitions in the future and thanks for your support of Reel Collectibles and SWNZ.
Matt G & Reel Collectibles
The latest news report to come in through the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network is from Poland. I love this sort of article...it's a comprehensive look at the near-infinite variations of Polish bootleg figures, by Kuba Turkiewicz. Click here to read about this menagerie of recast and often randomly colourful international collectibles.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites.
Matt G
The website owner of The Vintage Star Wars Magazine Reference Guide have written in to let us know that their website has undergone a redesign. This is a very cool website that archives cover scans of over 900 vintage Star Wars magazines from around the world. Most of these magazines were issued between 1976 and 1984, but also in the years 1987 (Star Wars 10th Anniversary), 1997 (Star Wars 20th Anniversary and Trilogy Special Edition), and 2004 (DVD release of the original trilogy). Check out the fun cover graphics and art, and find some of the unusual places that Star Wars reference and coverage has turned up in the past: StarWarsCollector.online.fr.
Matt G
Some big and exciting news! Charles Ross, the talented entertainer behind the 'One Man Star Wars Trilogy', will be performing his show in New Zealand (in association with the NZ International Comedy Festival)! His website confirms the dates as Tuesday 6th May to Sunday 11th May, Sky City, Auckland, and Tuesday 20th May to Sunday 25th May, Te Papa, Wellington!
I've seen him perform at the Celebration conventions, and totally recommend his show for a laugh-until-you-cry evening! I'm running out of exclamation marks! We'll keep you up to date as more details come to hand.
From Charles Ross' official website: Best known as the mastermind behind the infamous One Man Star Wars Trilogy and One Man Lord of the Rings, Charles Ross is a Canadian actor who has followed his heart and his career from one side of the continent to the other. Since first performing his One Man Star Wars Trilogy in Toronto, Ontario in January of 2001, Ross has brought countless audiences, both large and small, to their feet with his surprisingly unique shows.
Word of Ross's one of a kind talent has spread like wildfire with recent appearances on Craig Ferguson, The Today Show, and Late Night with Conan O'Brien. His off-Broadway debut in August 2005 was a smashing success with critics raving about the incredible intensity that Charles brings to his work. To mark the release of Star Wars: Episode 3: Revenge of the Sith, Charles was honored to perform at Lucasfilm's official movie release convention, Celebration 3. Even the likes of Vin Diesel and Sir Ian McKellan have taken in his performances with rave reviews.
No matter the engagement, be it a rowdy night out with friends, a matinee with the family or a Sci-Fi conventions for the very dedicated, Charles Ross has entertained the masses with his high-energy and side-splitting romp through Middle Earth or a galaxy far, far away.
Matt G
At Westfield Albany today, Farmers has new figures in stock. I spoke to the lady stocking the shelves and she said they had just come in yesterday, and expected the stock to sell out fast as they hadn't received many of each.
Basic Figures - $17.99 each (but included in the $2 cash back Hasbro mail in offer) - Voolvif Monn (x3), McQuarrie Rebel Trooper (x1), Clone Trooper w/armour (x3), Jango Fett w/fabric poncho (x3), Imperial Stormtrooper (x2), Padme' Amidala 'fireside corset' (x4), and Destroyer Droid w/force field (x4).
They also had several Mighty Muggs in stock at $24.99 each - Chewbacca (x3), Darth Vader (x3), Boba Fett (x3) and Han Solo (x4).
They had just received one of each of the new Evolutions 3-packs -$59.99 each.
- Vader's Apprentice (Apprentice, Sith lord, Jedi - from the Force Unleashed game - includes a cheat code).
- Sith Legacy (Darth Nihilus, Darth Bane, Darth Maul).
- Fett Legacy (Mandalore, Jango Fett, Boba Fett).
- Jedi Legacy (Qui-Gon Jinn, Bultar Swan, Luke Skywalker).
They also still had x2 of the Episode 2 commemorative tin packs for $69.99 each.
Anaria
A number of interesting news reports have been coming in from the S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) network.
From Teekay-421, Belgium: Last week, the official 'Star Wars, the Exhibition' opened its doors in Brussels, Belgium. You can find a first report on Friday's VIP opening and about the Expo itself here, and more details, via blog, here.
From Yildiz Savaslari, Turkey: A special broadcast of Voice of the Galaxy is ready - with everything about SWORA! You can download it here (mp3 file - 8.66 MB - 9 Minutes).
From Lightsabre, United Kingdom: Part three of their interview with special effects master, Dennis Muren - jump straight to the interview here.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites.
Matt G
S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) has just inducted two new member websites, Lightsabre, representing the United Kingdom, and Star Wars Hungary, representing...Hungary. To kick off their involvement, here is an article, wherein SW Hungary interviews Mark Newbold of Lightsabre.co.uk.
Follow this link for the current list of S.W.O.R.A websites.
Matt G
The above YouTube video is a montage of footage from last year's Celebration Europe event. It comes from SWNZ's Hungarian SWORA affiliates, via Gerald Home, who stars in the clip.
Matt G
S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) member website STAR WARS Clube Portugal has just posted part two of their interview with Shannon McRandle (Mara Jade).
Matt G
S.W.O.R.A (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance) member website STAR WARS Clube Portugal has just posted an article worth sharing. Click here to read part one of their interview with Shannon McRandle (Mara Jade).
Matt G
I found the above on YouTube...an old school Star Wars documentary - SPFX: The Empire Strikes Back.
Freddy C
The following announcement comes in from Gerald Home:
Dear S.W.O.R.A. Members,
It's your Ambassador here with a few words of explanation about how I chose the winning logo.
Before I start, let me thank everyone who entered the competition - the standard was extremely high and it has been very difficult to choose the winner.
Many of the designs are excellent; however, when you shrink them down to website logo size the symbols and writing in several of them are too small and not legible. This was the reason that many of the entries wouldn't work as a logo.
I also decided not to use anything which was too "political" - too Imperial, or too Rebel - or which had drawings of the Death Star or Darth Vader. Yes, these are fun and interesting, but not "neutral" enough to be the logo of an Alliance which includes Imperials and Rebels - and people who are neither!
I hope you like my choice. I think it's perfect as the first official SWORA logo, and I hereby congratulate its designer - Longjb. Well done! I look forward to seeing your logo on websites etc very soon. Your limited-edition signed photo will be in the post to you very soon, with my thanks and congratulations.
By the way, there were 2 other designs which I selected for possible use in the future, but they must stay a secret for the moment! You'll see them in the months ahead.
Thanks again to everyone who entered. It has been an honour and a pleasure for me to be involved in this wonderful SWORA adventure. Hope to see you on the road. Until then....May the Force be with you all.
Gerald Home
Tessek-Squid Head & Mon Calamari Officer
STAR WARS: RETURN OF THE JEDI
Ambassador of the Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance (SWORA)
www.GeraldHome.com
Matt G
The network of international websites described a few days back (09 Jan) has grown to include Lightsabre.co.uk, and now has a name: S.W.O.R.A. (Star Wars Outer Rim Alliance).
To kick things off, with a taste of the the sort of news-sharing we can expect through SWORA, check out this interview with Steve Sansweet, conducted by SWCP, STAR WARS Clube Portugal.
Matt G
The 'Figure of the Month' is a semi-regular SWNZ feature, wherein we take an up close look at a selected character collectible, focusing on interesting features of both the toy and its on-screen persona. We don't aim to compile an extensive database about all available Star Wars figures, but make a choice based on elements of interest to hopefully expose readers to different collectibles, or new directions of collecting. Today, we take a look at the Jawas collectible mini-busts from Gentle Giant.
The Gentle Giant Jawa mini-busts are sold as a set of two...well, technically two-and-a-bit, I guess, as creative license has them depicting an off-screen moment where repairs are attempted on a decapitated R5-D4. Each desert scavenger stands approximately 13cm tall, in scale with (ie, shorter than) the rest of the mini-bust catalogue. 'Blaster' Jawa has 2 interchangeable arms and ion weapons, so that you can select and swap in the firearm of your choice. 'Fixer' Jawa uses a cobbled together power tool to tinker with the innards of the R5 astromech's faulty brain... ...MORE
Matt G
Issue no.99 (no.75 on the cover of the UK edition) of the Star Wars Insider magazine is starting to show up in the mailboxes of New Zealand subscribers. The theme for this issue is Bounty Hunters. The material covered within the 84 full-colour pages includes:
- Com-Scan (Rick McCallum teasing us with snippets of TV series trivia)
- Tales of the Bounty Hunters (a general info article, covering canon and expanded universe material)
- Bounty Hunters (character profiles)
- The Ultimate Hunter (Jeremy Bulloch and Daniel Logan interviews - read an excerpt at StarWars.com here)... ...MORE
Matt G
In the ongoing search for Star Wars toys and collectibles, there are plenty of online options, but it's always nicer to be able to purchase from a local source - both from the point of view of supporting New Zealand businesses, and because of the generally better shipping costs and reliability. With that in mind, SWNZ has entered into an affiliate relationship with iQ Toys - New Zealand's largest online toy store. Their main utility for Star Wars collectors is their inventory of Star Wars Lego, but they also carry some Hasbro product. All purchases from SWNZ affiliates help contribute to the ongoing costs of this website!
iQ Toys we are not only committed to bringing you the highest quality toys in New Zealand, we also want to give you the best prices. If you see the same item advertised cheaper (online, in New Zealand) either prior to, or within 10 days of purchase, then they will match that price and even include a free gift!
Matt G
As we move in to 2008, SWNZ will continue to strive to bring you unique, new and interesting content. As part of the pursuit of this goal, we'll be expanding our affiliate network to include a number of like-minded, country-specific websites. I'll go in to further detail about each over the next few days, but let me introduce the following sites:
- Belgium; Teekay-421
- Poland; Imperial City Online (English introduction)
- Turkey; Yildiz Savaslari (English introduction)
- Portugal; Star Wars Clube Portugal.
For more info on SWNZ's mission and goals, go to the 'about us' page.
Matt G
Happy New Year...welcome to 2008! SWNZ aims to keep you informed throughout the coming 12 months of '08, with the usual news, competitions, reviews and event reports...plus a few more interesting posts and exclusives! I don't want to give too much away, so stay tuned, as you may yet be surprised by the New Zealand-specific content we can dig up!
The new content is going to start rolling in real soon, but before we get stuck in to that, let's take a quick look back at some of the key events and SWNZ highlights of two-double-oh-seven.
- 24 Apr 2007, Armageddon Wellington 2007 Report
- 07 May 2007, Fan-film trailer - 'Predator vs TK'
- 24 May 2007, Celebration 4, Day 1
- 25 May 2007, Celebration 4, Day 2
- 26 May 2007, Celebration 4, Day 3
- 06 Jun 2007, Celebration 4, Day 4
- 16 Jun 2007, Celebration 4, Day 5
- 12 Sep 2007, Kevin J Anderson Book Signings
...MORE
Matt G
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