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Last Details for Star Wars at LLDC this Weekend

Graham — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:40:21 GMT

If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, then why not head to Manchester and visit the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre’s Star Wars days. As well as the usual attractions, there are some special Star Wars additions for the weekend. The LEGOLAND Discovery Centre have passed along details of exactly what fans visiting can expect on the day.

- We will be welcoming Star Wars fans in costume, with spot prizes for the best outfits!
- We will be screening LEGO Star Wars: The Padawan Menace in our cinema – a rare opportunity to see the mini-movie on the big screen!
- We will be building battle packs in the Model Builder Workshop.
- A group build of R2-D2 will be taking place.
- Photo opps with a LEGO C3-PO and Chewbacca.
- A Jedi hunt through MINILAND will take place.
- Spend £30 in the Shop on Star Wars products and receive a free Star Wars sticker book with stickers.

So plenty to see and do again. To check out my report from last November’s Star Wars weekend, click here.

Star Wars: The Dark Times Out of the Wilderness #4

Mark — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Here's today's release from the team over at Dark Horse.

STAR WARS: DARK TIMES—OUT OF THE WILDERNESS #4

The mystery man is revealed! If Boba Fett is the man you call when you want someone captured, Falco Sang is the one to call when you want someone dead. Sang has been on Dass Jennir's trail for months, and now the Jedi is in his sights.

But Sang isn't the only one searching for Jennir, and he should be careful that he doesn't come between Jennir and Darth Vader!

CREATORS

Writer: Mick Harrison

Artist: Douglas Wheatley

Colorist: Dan Jackson

Cover Artist: Pablo Correa

Genre: Star Wars

Publication Date: February 22, 2012

Format: FC, 32 pages

Price: $2.99

UPC:7 61568 18817 2 00411

Lookin' For Love in Alderaan Places - TeeFury.com

James — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:03:06 GMT

Get the new t-shirt by Alan Ashcraft - you've got less than nine hours left! This is what Alan has to say about the design inspired by Fanboys...

I had this idea after a family trip to Disney World where I frequented the attraction Star Tours. In all honesty, I'm not much of a fan, but that ride rules so much that it obviously had my wheels turning a bit once I returned home. As I was designing it, I googled the phrase and saw that it was a line from the movie Fanboys. So, unfortunately I can't take credit for the originality of the tagline itself.

Phantom Menace 3D Blu-ray coming spring 2012?

Mark — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 17:31:50 GMT

Very interesting news arrives from the Panasonic conference in Hamburg this week regarding the imminent arrival of The Phantom Menace on 3D Blu-ray. Pocket Lint are reporting that the disc may arrive as soon as this spring.

Pocket-lint sources at the Panasonic conference in Hamburg tell us that Star Wars is headed to Blu-ray in 3D this spring. Rather unsurprisingly, following the film’s 3D cinema release, Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace will be available to pick up on 3D Blu-ray. What is surprising, however, is that it will be on such a fast turnaround after the box office release.

No word yet on whether the originals will be making their way into 3D 1080p goodness, but we've heard strong hints that the rest of the new films will also be released after their cinematic debuts. Good stuff for those who just shelled out for the new Blu-ray boxset. Not.

Panasonic has an ongoing relationship with the Star Wars movie franchise, bundling the films with its Blu-ray players back in 2011. The consumer electronics manufacturer will be bringing Episode 1 to Blu-ray in spring just the same.

As the Star Wars movies are set to come out in 3D yearly in order, it is entirely plausible that the 3D Blu-rays will do similar.

Time to get ourselves a new telly. We thought the classic series couldn’t look much better than the recent Blu-ray release. Who knows what it will look like in 3D at home?

Star Wars Flash Mob - Bristol

Mark — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:12:18 GMT

Ever wondered what would happen when you get a bunch of avid Star Wars fans together in Bristols Cabot Circus with their lightsabres? On February 18th 2012 it happened, so watch this video to and find out how it all went down.

I Heard a Rumour...

Mark — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:52:19 GMT

Yesterday we posted news of a very interesting rumour that surfaced on Twitter via our buddy Stephen over at Cinema Geek. The rumour was that "According to a UK Fox Rep, we MAY be seeing Attack of the Clones 3D August 2012 followed by Revenge of the Sith Feb 2013."

We've got a bit more info regarding the rumour - and we can't stress enough, it is ONLY a rumour - from Stephen.

A month or so ago I was talking to a Colleague in the Cinema industry re. TPM 3D and the subsequent movies coming out every 12 months. To which my colleague mentions that a Fox Rep here in the UK said that Lucasfilm plan on releasing them every SIX months, to which I responded, “are you sure?”. My Colleague replied, “Well, that’s what she told me!!”…So until I know different, I’m going to stick with every 12 months and will LOVE it if it turns out to be every 6 and not 12 months.

You're not wrong Palpy, a 3D Star Wars film every 6 months, that would certainly hit the spot.

Latest Toy Palace Newsletter

James — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:33:58 GMT

Here's the latest update featuring new in-stock items and pre-orders from our friends at Toy Palace in Germany...

LEGO R2-D2 Set #10225 Revealed

James — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:08:53 GMT

Our friends over at LEGO site FBTB.net have noticed a couple of Easter Eggs in the first few seconds of the LEGO video highlighting the new modular Town Hall building set. The video has since been removed by LEGO but not before they were able to take some stills of the new R2-D2 set (#10225)...

The DK Quiz - Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace Prize Draw

James — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:53:27 GMT

Tahe the link below to play the DK Star Wars: Episode 1 quiz and you will be entered into a prize draw to win Star Wars: The Complete Saga on Blu-ray.

Big Bad Toy Store News

James — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:46:36 GMT

Read on for the latest update from Site Sponsor Big Bad Toy Store that features a great batch of arrivals and many more new preorders (including some items revealed at the US Toy Fair last week)...

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NEW TOY FAIR PREORDERS
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Koto - Bishoujo - DC, Star Wars, Mass Effect http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=bishoujo

Amazing Spider-Man Movie Busts & Statue - Diamond Select
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=2886&company=17

Mass Effect 3 - Play Arts Kai
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=mass+effect+play

Factory Entertainment Replics: Men In Black, Universal Monsters, Beatles, Garfield, Princess Bride & More
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=factory+entertainment

Nintendo - 40+ new listings from Global Holdings http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=global+nintendo

Transformers Revoltech - DOTM Bumblebee
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=KAI10406&mode=retail

Marvel Select Storm & Nightcrawler
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=DMC11733&mode=retail
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=DMC11734&mode=retail

-------------------
NEW PREORDERS
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NEW BISHOUJO - DC, STAR WARS, MASS EFFECT
Five new Bishoujo statues have been listed for pre-order. From DC we have Evil Supergirl and Harley Quinn at $54.99 each and Power Girl at $59.99, while Star Wars brings us Jaina Solo at $54.99 and Mass Effect brings Commander Shephard at $59.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=bishoujo

MAKETOYS YELLOW GIANT SETS
Another version of the construction gestalt robot is on the way. MakeToys is producing the six figures in three sets of two over the next three months - Bulldozer & Excavator in early March, Crane & Dump Truck in April and Front End Loader & Cement Mixer in May. Each set is now up for pre-order, priced at $118.99 per pair.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=2810&category=8156

TF DOTM BUMBLEBEE SCI-FI REVOLTECH
Figure #38 in the Sci-Fi Revoltech line has just been announced - Bumblebee from the Transformers "Dark Side of the Moon" movie. This figure will come with alternate hands and presumably weapons, and we have it listed at $59.99, although this price may decrease. Note that the current pictures are of the prototype; he will most likely come in his color scheme from the movie.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=KAI10406&mode=retail

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN BUSTS, STATUE
Four busts from the upcoming movie were announced at Toy Fair, and we have them listed for pre-order. We have the Lizard, Spider-Man, Maskless Spider-Man and Vigilante Spider-Man available, each priced at $79.99, although that price may decrease. We also have the new Spider-man statue, showing him perched up high between two corner walls, and this is priced at $104.99, $20 off the MSRP.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=2886&category=8389

NEW FACTORY ENTERTAINMENT ITEMS - MIB, BOND, MOVIES, COMICS
In addition to the James Bond and KISS items, we have listed a wide variety of new items from Factory Entertainment. We have items from The Green Hornet, "Men In Black", The Beatles, Garfield, "The Princess Bride", Universal Studios Monsters and My Favorite Martian. Of particular interest would be the Green Hornet Collector Watch and Gas Gun Replicas (including one with Van Williams' signature), Dracula's Medallion Replica, the Frankenstein Head Replica and the Men In Black Neuralyzer.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=factory+entertainment

NEW MARVEL SELECT FIGURES
Three new Marvel Select figures have been announced. This fall sees the debut of Avengers foe Ultron and X-Man Storm; winter follows up with X-Man Nightcrawler. We have each figure listed at $19.99, $2 off the MSRP.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=Marvel+Select

MASS EFFECT PLAY ARTS KAI SERIES 01
The Play Arts Kai series is branching out into the Mass Effect universe. The first assortment of figures includes Commander Shephard, Garrus and Ashley, and we have them listed at $69.99 each. This price may decrease once more information is released.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=Mass+Effect+Kai

REVOLTECH PIXAR SULLY & BOO
The Pixar line continues with blur furry monster Sully and cute little girl Boo. Boo's mask is removable, and we have the pair listed for $39.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=KAI10408&mode=retail

REVOLTECH ALPHONSE ELRIC
The newest Fullmetal Alchemist Revoltech figure is Alphonse. He comes with alternate hands and other accessories, and is listed at $46.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=KAI10407&mode=retail

AVENGERS MOVIE QUINJET
This vehicle comes from the upcoming Avengers movie. It can change into two different flying forms and comes with an Iron Man figure to pilot the vessel. We have this vehicle listed at $34.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=HAS21522&mode=retail

STAR WARS SCIENCE - NEW ITEMS
Five new items have been listed under the Star Wars Science menu. We have the Darth Maul Lightsaber Room Light at $39.99, the Darth Maul Mini Lightsaber at $16.99, the Boba Fett Launch lab at $20.99, the R2-D2 Microviewer at $16.99 and the Force Glove at $19.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=83&category=5836

CHIBI ARTS MOMOIRO CLOVER Z FIGURES
This J-Pop girl band will now be available stateside in the form of five Chibi Arts exclusive figures. Each girl comes in her own color, and they are priced at $64.99 each.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=2898&category=8392

ARMOR GIRLS PROJECT WING GUNDAM
Fans of Busou Shinki figures and Gundam fans may be interested in this new line. Each set includes a girl figure along with a set of armor and weapons inspired by an Anime or Manga characters; in this case, it is the original Wing Gundam. This set is listed at $62.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=BAN14242&mode=retail

CDMW-28 THE HERCULES POWER PARTS CUSTOM HEAD
CrazyDevy has announced a new head piece for the Hercules gestalt figure. This piece has an LED-lit eye visor and can fit within Dr. Crank just like the original head. We have this piece listed at $32.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=CRD10039&mode=retail

JUSTICE LEAGUE: DOOM BLU-RAY, DVDS
The upcoming release of the Justice League: Doom movie shows what happens when villains get a hold of the protocols that Batman set up in case any of the Justice League members go rogue. We have this movie on DVD for $23.99, or in a two-disc DVD Special Edition or a Blu-Ray & DVD set (both with additional cartoons and more) for $29.99 each.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=137&category=8379

DOCTOR WHO 8" MASTERPIECE COLLECTION DALEK STATUE
The Masterpiece Collection continues with this 8" Dalek statue. It is designed from their appearance in "Genesis of the Daleks" and will look great with the 8" Maxi Bust line; we have it listed at $72.99, $7 off the MSRP.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=TBU10036&mode=retail

STAR TREK MR. SPOCK 8" MASTERPIECE COLLECTION MAXI BUST
The Star Trek bust line also grows with this new Mr. Spock bust. He is shown with a tricorder and phaser an is priced at $74.99, $5 off the MSRP.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=TBU10037&mode=retail

MOUNT KISSMORE SCULPTURE
This new polystone sculpture measures 14" by 10" by 4" and shows the four members of KISS in their signature makeup in place of the four presidents on Mount Rushmore. This item is limited to 2000 pieces, and is listed at $64.99, $5 off the MSRP.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=FAC10032&mode=retail

NEW JAMES BOND REPLICAS
We have listings for two new James Bond replicas. Ernst Stavro Blofeld's SPECTRE Ring Replica is plated in 18k gold with an Onyx stone; it comes with a certificate of authenticity, a display stand, a storage box and more and is listed at $194.99. The Goldfinger Tracking Device Set is limited to 500 pieces and comes with a display stand with acrylic cover, a numbered plaque and more and is priced at $359.99, $19 below the MSRP.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=54&category=6765

DISNEY UDF FIGURES
Our listings for the new Disney UDF line start with the figures of the first to waves. We have preorders listed for Buzz Lightyear, "Runaway Brain" Mickey Mouse, Tinker Bell, Woody, Lightning McQueen, "Fantasia" Mickey Mouse, "Mickey's Rival" Mickey Mouse, "Plane Crazy" Mickey Mouse and Stitch. Each figure is priced at $12.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=Disney+UDF+Series

NEW ACME ARCHIVES PRODUCTS
A number of new listings are now up from Acme Archives. We have new paper and canvas Giclees as well as limited edition character keys from Disney, Toy Story, Indiana Jones, Hellboy, pirates of the Caribbean and the Muppet Show, so take a peek at them at their menus under the link.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/company.aspx?company=839&browse=1

------------------
NEW ARRIVALS
------------------

BATMAN LEGACY SINGLES SERIES 03 - SET, SINGLES
This assortment includes Arkham City versions of Nightwing and Harley Quinn along with First Appearance versions of Batman and Catwoman. We have them available as a set of 4 at $72.99, or singly at $18.99 each.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=Batman+Legacy+Singles+Series+03

MARVEL MINIMATES WAVE 43 SET
This assortment is from the Death of Jean DeWolff storyline and includes Spider-Man, Jean DeWolff, Daredevil, Sin Eater, Aunt May, J. Jonah Jameson and two SHIELD Agents. We have this set listed at $29.99, $6 off the MSRP.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=DMC11669&mode=retail

TRANSFORMERS PRIME ROBOTS IN DISGUISE DELUXE SERIES 01 - CASE, SET, SINGLES
Our first shipment of Robots In Disguise Deluxes (Revealers) has arrived. This case consists of one Soundwave, two each of Cliffjumper and Wheeljack and three of Bumblebee. We have the case available at $104.99; we also have them listed as a set of four at $64.99. In addition, singles are available of Bumblebee at $11.99 and Cliffjumper and Wheeljack at $19.99 each.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=2819&category=8342

TRANSFORMERS PRIME ROBOTS IN DISGUISE VOYAGER SERIES 01 - CASE, SET, SINGLES
Our shipment also included the first wave of Voyager (Powerizer) figures. The Series 01 Revision 02 case includes two each of Optimus Prime and Megatron, and is priced at $89.99. You can also get them as a set of two for $45.99. IF you are looking for singles, we have Optimus Prime and Megatron each listed at $24.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=2819&category=8343

WB001 WARBOT DEFENDER RESTOCK
We have also received a number of Warbot Defender figures in our restock shipment. This figure changes into a helicopter and also a ground vehicle, and is priced at $108.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=FPJ10013&mode=retail

MARVEL UNIVERSE 3.75" 2011 SERIES 06 - CASE, SET, SINGLES
The newest assortment includes two each of Patriot, Thunder Age Thor, Shadowland Daredevil, Iron Fist, Psylocke and Storm, and we have them as a case of 12 for $104.99. We also have them as a set of 6 for $54.99, and singly at $8.99 - $13.99 each.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=Marvel+Universe+3.75%22+2011+Series+06

TRANSFORMERS PRIME FIRST EDITION DELUXE SERIES 01 - CASE, SET, SINGLES
We have received a few more cases of this assortment. The case includes four of Bumblebee along with two each of Starscream and Arcee, and is priced at $99.99. We also have a few of the set of three remaining, priced at $49.99, and singles of Bumblebee at $10.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=2819&category=8092

STAR WARS VINTAGE 2012 SERIES 01 - CASE, SINGLES
Our latest shipment from Hasbro included the 2012 Vintage Wave 1 cases. This "Phantom Menace"-inspired case includes Final Battle versions of Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Maul, plus Quinlan Vox, Black Dress Queen Amidala, Naboo Royal Guard, Daultay Dofine, Ben Quadrinaros, Padawan Anakin, Darth Sidious, a Battle Droid and a Ratts Tyerell & Pit Droid Two-Pack. We have the case listed at $119.99, and we also have stock of many singles, priced at $12.99 - $13.99 each.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=2012+Vintage+Star+Wars+Wave+01

ATTAKUS STAR WARS
We have received a small shipment of Star Wars statues from Attakus. We have the 21.26" Yoda "Use the Force" statue priced at $1749.99; this piece is limited to 399 pieces worldwide. We also have the Elite Collection 1/10 scale versions of Commander Thire and Commander Gree at $99.99 each, and the Kashyyyk Trooper at $114.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=Attakus

JUNKION BLACKSMITH - INFINITY WARFARE II SETS, HEAD FIGURES
A number of new items from Junkion Blacksmith have arrived. The new Infinity Warfare II weapon sets comes in translucent blue or red versions and can be used as single weapons or put together to form larger ones. They can also combine with each other and with the original Infinity Warfare sets to make even larger weapons; each set is listed at $29.99. We have also received the Earth Command, Broadcaster and Destruction Lord figures; each changes from a familiar robot to a Headmaster head to a third form, and they are priced at $16.99 each.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=2810&category=8062

CA-05 BACKFIERY RESTOCK
This is the new FansProject version of a cool transforming insect. He comes with six throwing knives and is listed at $51.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=FPJ10026&mode=retail

HALO ODST HAWK
This new Mega Blok Set includes the title VTOL Aircraft as well as a Covenant Ghost; they come with a Covenant Jackal, Elite and ODST Pilot, each of which include weapons. We have this set listed at $54.99.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=MBI10040&mode=retail

SNOW WHITE STATUE
CS Moore Studio has released a 1/6 scale statue of Snow White from the Zenescope comics. The piece measures 15" tall and is listed at $184.99, $14 off the MSRP.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=CSM10026&mode=retail

JEWEL M MARVEL PRODUCTS
We have received our first shipment of Marvel products from Jewel M. They produce many accessories like web belts, belt buckles, key rings, cuff links, rings, dog tags and more, so take a look and grab what you like.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=622&company=1291

The Phantom Menace Approaches the Billion

Mark — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:38:50 GMT

Box Office Mojo have reported some solid progress for The Phantom Menace at the box office as it rises up both the north american and worldwide charts.

The film has risen to the all-time 4th position in the US, nudging past A New Hope on Friday to end the weekend with $464,826,295. It won't rise any higher than that, The Dark Knight lies another $69 million dollars out of reach. Perhaps a solid take by A New Hope later this year (perhaps) will snatch third slot.

Worldwide The Phantom Menace is now up to 11th, surpassing Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and rising to $995,126,295, less than $5 million off the billion dollar mark. It should nab that accolade later this week and in doing so pass The Dark Knight to take the all-time 10th position. It has an outside shot of passing both Alice in Wonderland and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides to take 8th position.

Chewbacca (TCW) Review

Steven — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 16:19:40 GMT

A repacked figure, but a welcome one. My latest review looks at the repainted Wookiee, Chewbacca from Wave 1 of 2012 of The Clone Warsline!

Weekly ForceCast: February 17, 2012

Mark — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 09:45:00 GMT

Join Jason and Jimmy Mac for the Weekly ForceCast...

Episode I is finally here in glorious 3D, but the question remains: what do the fans think? Find out as the ForceCast opens the phones and the voice mail box to hear about your first Star Wars 3D movie experience. Plus, Star Wars artist and trivia-meister Kevin Leill drops by to talk about his upcoming appearance on Kevin Smith's new AMC reality series Comic Book Men..

Show Notes: You can see more information about this episode on its wiki page. We invite you to expand and improve the wiki with your own contributions.

ForceCast Podcast Mobile Apps: Have the entire ForceCast archives at your fingertips, plus bonus shows and exclusive content!

Download for iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad
Download for Android OS Devices (running 2.1 or higher)

ForceCast T-shirts: Order yours today!

Episode 1 Box Office Latest

Mark — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Box Office Mojo bring us the latest update on the box office haul of The Phantom Menace.

Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace's 3D re-release didn't fare so well on Friday. The movie plummeted 78 percent to an estimated $1.92 million, which brings its total to an underwhelming $27.8 million. Still, by Sunday The Phantom Menace's total gross will exceed the original Star Wars ($461 million), which will make it the highest-grossing entry in the series and fourth highest-grossing movie ever.

Not the best weekend, but with rumours surfacing via our buddy Stephen over at CineMeGeek that "According to a UK Fox Rep, we MAY be seeing Attack of the Clones 3D August 2012 followed by Revenge of the Sith Feb 2013." Hopefully the mission has been a success and we're now looking at a faster rollout for the saga...and closer than we thought to A New Hope in 3D.

The Maker Talks The Phantom Menace 3D

Mark — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 22:27:06 GMT

George Lucas goes into detail regarding the 3D conversion of The Phantom Menace. Wonder how long it will be before Uncle George actually shoots a film in 3D instead of doing a (very impressive) conversion?

Star Wars Filming Locations of the U.S Is A Go!

Mark — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 21:55:08 GMT

Great news comes to us from Adam Parr regarding the hotly anticipated Star Wars Filming Locations of the U.S. The Kickstarter project has reached it's goal of $9000 and the project will be going full steam ahead.

Over to Adam for the full details.

Well folks, what's left to say? Five days yet remain for the Kickstarter fundraising effort. We began with a goal of $9,000. We solicited mercilessly for your pledges, and you didn't disappoint. As of this moment, we have 164 backers on Kickstarter, who have pledged a total of $9,841!!! We've already hit 109% of our goal. And the surge continues. We're dazed & amazed, folks. We really are.

It's because of your incredibly generous support that we're being allowed to experience the 10-year old dream of sharing this work with the world. You've made it happen. And what's truly remarkable is that you've offered this support for a product virtually sight-unseen. NO ONE has actually seen this book yet. But we have, and believe me, it has turned out beautifully. You're going to be blown away. A million sincere thanks to each & every one of you. We wrote it for you & you've made it happen.

And for those who haven't yet pledged, but are still thinking about it, hit this link now to grab your signed copy of this thing while they're still available!!

Seripas (TCW) Review

Steven — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 16:16:00 GMT

My first HD The Clone Wars review looks at a figure from late 2011, the Bounty Hunter, Seripas!

Star Wars Days at the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Report

Graham — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 14:56:31 GMT

The weekend coming – Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th February – will see the return of Star Wars Days to the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in Manchester, UK. To find out what went on last time, read on – and then get your tickets booked!

The LEGOLAND Discovery Centre held a Star Wars themed weekend on November 12th and 13th 2011. The event saw the busiest day in the Discovery Centre’s history, with many guests turning up in costume to meet characters from Star Wars. Read on for the full image-laden first hand report from Saturday 12th November…

The LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is located at Barton Square in the Trafford Centre, Manchester. It’s the only LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in the UK. Inside guests find a variety of attractions and building opportunities, primarily aimed at children aged 3-10 years old.

There was a bit of a queue to enter the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, with many Padawans in costume or sporting LEGO Star Wars t-shirts (there’s a lot of variety in children’s sizes it seems!). Keeping everyone occupied and amused were Star Wars characters, including a Scout Trooper, a Death Star Trooper, Boba Fett and two Ewoks. Seeing one youngster attending hug an Ewok was a great moment and a reminder of the magic of meeting these characters in person.

When entering the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, guests first visit the LEGO Factory – where LEGO bricks are created. On the way to the tour a life-sized LEGO built Chewbacca greeted guests, before the elevator ride up to the Factory tour.

For the Star Wars weekend, a special twist was put on the LEGO Factory Tour. After meeting Professor Brick, guests had to use the force in order to turn the special device for sending LEGO granules whizzing around, before they were moulded by a device heavier than Jabba the Hutt.

Upon completing the LEGO Factory tour, visitors had to do their best impression of Jedi Master Yoda to receive the exclusive Star Wars printed brick that they had helped produce in the LEGO Factory.

Following the LEGO Factory, guests can check out the Kingdoms Quest dark ride. As usual, adventurers must shoot with classic LEGO pistols at LEGO villains to protect the kingdom – but with a little help from a life-size Captain Rex built entirely from LEGO bricks, who popped up along the journey.

Miniland was the next location to have felt the force, with Clone Troopers, Battle Droids, Rebels and Gungans invading various UK locations. A Naboo Starfighter was also circling overhead, and Anakin Skywalker could be spotted being captured by droids. Guests could answer questions on a competition form to be in with a chance to win LEGO Star Wars prizes.

The Master Model Builder held regular classes for budding builders to learn how to put together the Clone Trooper speeder from Clone Trooper Battle Pack (7913) [although the model was returned at the end of the session].

Finally guests had the opportunity to help with a big scale build of Darth Vader and R2-D2, receiving a certificate to mark their contribution. R2-D2 was completed on the Saturday, but the dark lord had more work left to be done on the Sunday.

There was one more Star Wars photo opportunity as guests left through the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Shop, where a LEGO built Darth Vader kept an eye on everyone.

Another exclusive brick, this one featuring LEGO City, was available free in the shop to anyone spending over £30. The promotional bricks given away at the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre are different to the previous Duplo bricks. These are regular LEGO bricks, 2 x 4 studs and with a height of three regular bricks. They are also printed rather than stickered.

The Star Wars weekend was a great success, with fun activities adding to an already well themed attraction.

Click here for info on upcoming Star Wars Days at the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre official website.

UPDATE: Where's Wald?

Mark — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 08:54:25 GMT

Squint, focus, stare and strain at the crazy detail in this image and then try and find Wald. First one to do so and write in wins our eternal respect and admiration.

Update: If you want to know who found Wald first it was Fanboys director Kyle Newman who spotted our favourite young Rodian in the crowd. Well done to Kyle, the no-prize is in the mail.

Maul Returns to Dark Horse

Mark — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 04:52:03 GMT

"Always two there are..." That's what we were told, and Master Yoda was right. There are not one but two new Darth Maul projects coming our way via the team over at Dark Horse. Here's editor Randy Stradley to explain in more detail.

By now every Star Wars fan has heard the news: Darth Maul is coming back!

By the end of Season 4 of The Clone Wars, everybody’s second favorite Sith Apprentice will have taken his first steps on his path of vengeance, to be continued in Season 5, next fall. But while the TV series will tell the beginning of Maul’s unholy return, there are stories to be told which take place between the end of Season 4 and the start of Season 5. That’s where Dark Horse comes in.

I first spoke to director Dave Filoni about the idea of telling a story between seasons almost two years ago, when the plans for Maul’s return were revealed to the Star Wars licensees at a meeting at Skywalker Ranch. Dave was receptive to the idea -- so receptive, in fact, that he took time out of his busy schedule with the show to confer with writers Henry Gilroy and Steven Melching on their story The Sith Hunters, and to paint a cover for that digest volume of The Clone Wars! The graphic novella will be in comics shops and bookstores in August.

But that’s not all! Also in the works is a four-issue Darth Maul series being written by Tom Taylor (Star Wars: Blood Ties and Star Wars: Invasion)! We’ll have more information about that in the near future.

In the meantime, run to your local theater and catch The Phantom Menace in 3-D, watch The Clone Wars for Darth Maul’s return, and prepare yourself for the Year of Maul!

Darth Maul - The Clone Wars Reveal

James — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 17:05:44 GMT

At last we shall reveal ourselves... MTV has this exclusive clip showing "Being Human" star Sam Witwer as the voice of Darth Maul! Check it out below...

Get More: MTV Shows

Darth Maul Review

Steven — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:00:00 GMT

Here's my latest review of Darth Maul from the Vintage Collection!

US Toy Fair 2012: Image Gallery 2

James — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:18:00 GMT

Here's our second and final batch of images from the various companies we saw at the US Toy Fair earlier this week...

You can still view the first batch of images here.

Cello Wars (Star Wars Parody) Lightsaber Duel

Mark — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:16:40 GMT

Never let it be said that we lack culture. What could be more cultured than a four minute blast of cello, taking us through some of the saga's greatest musical moments.

For more info on this fantastic piece, check out the info after the break.

Long ago in a galaxy far, far away...

We bring you CELLO WARS! A result of 6 months of production...our most ambitious undertaking by far! Why Star Wars Cello? Because of our unending admiration of George Lucas, John Williams, and the most EPIC movies and film score ever created. The idea originated when Tel Stewart was editing THE CELLO SONG here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ry4BzonlVlw. As a joke he decided to add light sabers to Steven Sharp Nelson's bow during the outtakes. Fans cried out for more. Al van der Beek and Steven Sharp Nelson storyboarded the song and the video concept while they were scouting locations for MOONLIGHT http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRVvFYppU0w&feature=relmfu. But it was Steven Sharp Nelson's son Eli (6) that was the true inspiration for the project -- his enthusiasm for Star Wars, light sabers, and watching his daddy wield one while playing cello fueled the project continually.

We announced CELLO WARS on September 19, 2011 thinking we'd be able to deliver on our promise within a few weeks. We had NO IDEA. 70 days later, more than 7,000 frames, 72 audio tracks, 24 hours of filming through the night in front of a green screen, the most props and costumes we've ever used, several broken bows and strings, and over 1,000 hours of editing and rendering -- we felt like we had taken on the entire EMPIRE!

Tel Stewart is THE MAN. He is the reason this worked. He is the man behind the green screen -- behind the editing bay -- behind all the cool effects. He had to edit every single frame in order to make the light sabers work (a total of over 7,000 frames)! We now have a Piano Guys Hall of Fame and he was recently the first inductee.

Original music composed by the AMAZING John Williams Arrangement written and produced by Al van der Beek & Steven Sharp Nelson Steven Sharp Nelson: Electric Cellos/Vocals/Percussion Al van der Beek: Vocals/percussion
Starring Steven Sharp Nelson and his Doppelganger (Jedi/Sith),
Al van der Beek as Darth Vader

Paul Anderson as Chewbacca.

It's A Trap!

Mark — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:10:28 GMT

We like our GFFA fashions at Jedi News, so we were more than happy to post a piece about this very smart t-shirt, available for a limited time from Shirt Vegas.

Obey Ackbars Trap T-Shirt Limited Edition Print. 'As seen slapped on the streets of L.A., Fresno, London, Manchester and Singapore. You need to OBEY Ackbar's Trap. Lando and Nien Nunb did, which then led Rebels to victory by destroying the Death Star and with it, the Empire'.

The shirt is being sold here in both White & Black for $15. This is a discount code for anybody that buys both black & white Ackbar t-shirts : ACKBARFTW The Limited Edition Shirt is available only till Sunday the 19th February.

Quinlan Vos Review

Steven — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 22:30:00 GMT

My latest review looks at Quinlan Vos from The Vintage Collection, based on his Episode I appearance, that spawned the creation of one of the Expanded Universe's most popular Jedi!

US Toy Fair 2012: Image Gallery 1

James — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:48:18 GMT

Here's our first batch of images from the various companies we saw at the US Toy Fair earlier this week... (a bit later than planned due to the jet-lag!)...

If you missed our Hasbro images earlier in the week, then you can still view those here (as well as the Official Hasbro press release images here).

More images from Funko, Jazwares, Kotobukiya, LEGO and Underground Toys coming soon...

Return of the Vintage Collection at Star Wars Loft

Adam — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:12:25 GMT

A lot of us have been collecting Star Wars for a long time, many beginning with the original vintage figures, vehicles and playsets, and some of those collectors have horror stories to tell about how they either gave their collections away to charity, sold them at car boot sales or handed them down to less appreciative siblings.

Whilst that's not me (insert smug grin), Julian Tittershall tells a tale of his fall to the dark side, selling his entire Star Wars collection for, how should we put it, more adult hobbies...

But, Julian was redeemed and having completed a second vintage collection, he had his loft converted, painted and landscaped to allow him to display it all.

Julian has let us know that anyone wishing to visit the Star Wars Loft in Chester, can contact him through his website, which you can check out by clicking on the link below...

LEGO Renews Star Wars License for the Next Decade

Adam — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 06:29:42 GMT

LEGO announced (albeit a couple of days ago), that they had renewed their Star Wars licence with Lucasfilm.

Read on for the official press release.

BILLUND, Denmark (February 13, 2012) – The LEGO Group and Lucasfilm Ltd. today announced renewal of the Star Wars™ licensing deal that, 12 years ago, transformed a construction toy theme into a global entertainment property with strong cross-generational, multi-platform appeal. Fans can look forward to LEGO® Star Wars product and content development for the next 10 years, according to the terms of the deal.

The LEGO Group first acquired the rights to manufacture LEGO toys based on the Star Wars universe in 1999, marking the first time in its global history that the world's leading construction toy manufacturer would represent someone else's story and characters in the LEGO world. What was once considered a licensed novelty is now considered a core LEGO franchise, similar to LEGO CITY, and ranks among the company’s global top themes.

A best-seller since its introduction, LEGO Star Wars has experienced tremendous growth over the last six years in particular, due to the continued strength of core construction toy development and expansion to video games, publishing, television and video content and other relevant categories for fans of all ages.

"It is very rare to find an evergreen property that delivers growth year on year in toys, even in years without events driving box office buzz, yet Star Wars defies all odds, continually reinventing itself, and our LEGO business continues to grow exponentially," said Jill Wilfert, Vice President of Licensing and Entertainment for The LEGO Group. "Star Wars is a cultural phenomenon that shares many characteristics with the LEGO brand–cross generational appeal, versatile story and character content, creativity and imagination—and we believe that we can continue to grow LEGO Star Wars for many years to come."

"We are delighted to have extended our long and very successful relationship with LEGO Group," said Derek Stothard, Senior Director for Global Toys and Hardlines at Lucas Licensing. "Bringing together these two iconic global brands has created something special that is enjoyed by kids, families and fans everywhere."

Star Wars is as relevant—perhaps more relevant—today than it was in 1977 when it was introduced, and in 1999 when the first of the next three episodes began to be told. For 2011, Star Wars is the #1 property and #1 license for Boys ages 6 and older according to NPD Group, and has been a top-3 boy's license for the last 11 years. The LEGO share of the property continues to grow, as new generations of children discover, engage with and explore the Star Wars stories through constructive play.

A global toy phenomenon
LEGO Star Wars continues to rank among the best-selling global toy lines, with in excess of 200 million boxes sold worldwide since its 1999 launch. More than 340 LEGO Star Wars models have been developed, replicating iconic scenes and starships, as well as more than 425 minifigures from the Star Wars universe. Sets depict everything from the feature film Saga to the animated television series Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Four cross-platform LEGO Star Wars video game titles have changed the face of casual gaming, selling in excess of 30 million units, and are reciprocally driving desire for building toys and video games while also bringing families together to share both forms of play. The line has inspired short- and long-form entertainment in the form of mini movies and the first-ever 30-minute television special, LEGO Star Wars: The Padawan Menace, aired on top children's networks around the world, including Cartoon Network in the U.S., Super RTL In Germany and on France TV, and is now available on Blu-ray/DVD. LEGO Star Wars: The Visual Dictionary from Dorling-Kindersley has been on the New York Times Bestsellers list for 81 weeks, topping the list at number-one for 18 weeks. Additionally, the franchise is the basis of the first-ever LEGOLAND® Park Miniland display area based on a fictional environment, which debuted last year in Carlsbad, California, Billund, Denmark and Gunzburg, Germany and opens this year in Windsor, England.

New-Look Packaging for 2013

Adam — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 04:55:44 GMT

Yakface.com have confirmed their own report from the end of 2011 that Yoda will be replacing Darth Maul on the packaging in 2013.

Click on the image above for a closer look.

The Peter Mayhew Foundation

Mark — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:04:59 GMT

The man behind the furry mask of Chewbacca, Peter Mayhew, has launched a new charitable organisation designed to help alleviate disease, pain, and suffering by providing its available resources directly to deserving children and adults in need.

The Peter Mayhew Foundation has been launched to help facilitate charitable endeavours and projects. To better understand the foundations hopes and goals, read the mission statement below.

Our Mission Statement

The Peter Mayhew Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization devoted to the alleviation of disease, pain, and suffering by providing its available resources directly to deserving children and adults in need. The Foundation will also assist other charitable programs that are not funded by the community.

The Peter Mayhew Foundation has had opportunities to work with other charitable organizations such as the "Make a Wish Foundation" and "Wounded Warriors". It is for the purpose of providing supportive funds, services and supplies to the needs of Non Profits and other individuals that we move forward, The Wookiee Way. Examples of the types of endeavors which we would sponsor: Many times the Make a Wish Foundation selects a terminally ill child to make a visit to places such as Disneyland. Unfortunately, many charitable organizations are underfunded and stressed to the limits to help beneficiaries such as these and their funds are limited so the trip includes only travel, accommodations and entrance fees to the awarded locales. The Peter Mayhew Foundation would like to step in and provide items such as meals and refreshments for the people to allow for an even more memorable trip. Another example would be the 501st. The 501st is a volunteer group based on the "Darth Vader's Storm Troopers" from the "Star Wars" movie series. These people are often involved in community activities such as parades. Because of the recognition of the "Star Wars" aspect of this group, both adults and children are thrilled by their appearances in these activities. The people wearing these costumes come from all over the world to be a member of the "501st" and perform at these activities. The Peter Mayhew Foundation has determined that there is a need for additional support to assist with activities such as changing into and out of their costumes for performances by providing enclosed and secure facilities for their belongings.

Darth Sidious Review

Steven — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:30:00 GMT

Here is my latest video review, looking at The Phantom Menace himself, and the mastermind behind the downfall of the Jedi, Darth Sidious!