May the Fourth Be With You: Happy Star Wars Day!

A great and joyous Happy Star Wars Day to everyone! As you can see, the blog has taken on the look from that galaxy far far away! Today is a day of great celebration among the millions of Star Wars fans around the world. I cannot tell you what a pleasure it is to be in a community of people who can come together and bond so strongly and instantly over one simple franchise. As I said in my very first post, Star Wars has given me so much. It has allowed me to imagine things beyond comprehension, taught me to strive for what's right no matter the cost, to trust in myself and my feelings, and has introduced me to people I consider like family. Today we mark all the movies, books, toys, cartoons, LEGOs, re-enacted lightsaber battles, fan stories, costuming, and more that have made the past 36 years so remarkable. It's funny how something so big, so grand, and so world-encompassing started in the mind of a young student who just wanted to tell stories. And that, my friends, how it should be with each of us.

"It's like a family reunion with people you've never met before"

I have to mention that today is also special for a few other  reasons. This, appropriately, marks my 50th post on the Missing Linc! Thank you everyone who's come along for the ride! And we can count May the 4th, 1971 as the beginning of a love story greater than any seen in Star Wars (sorry Jaina and Jag). Today is the day (all too well known in my family) that my parents began dating. And boy, am I glad it worked out. Also, today is the day  we brought home my Chewie. Yes, six years ago today, on May the 4th, the dog born on St. Joseph's Day, that we named after the most loyal of companions came home. 

And speaking of everyone's favorite Wookiee...it looks like smuggling just isn't that lucrative, as Chewbacca has taken a job with MTV Geek:

Get More: MTV Shows

Now, let's get into all the ways you can celebrate Star Wars Day! You can visit the newly redesigned TheForce.Net or StarWars.com for tons of activities, giveaways, galleries, and more! You can even win a life-size Darth Malgus statue from GameStop!

Of course, you can ignore all of this and pay close attention to the truth about May the 4th, the "dangerous and immoral" holiday, as shown in this ad from Imperial Public Relations Bureau.



I. Watch the Panic Over Muunilinst Trailer

As a special Star Wars Day treat, check out the latest trailer by the best artist in the biz, Joe Hogan. Continuing the adventures of Captain Fordo, the sequel to the incredible "The Siren of Dathomir"  is "Panic Over Muunilinst" and it promises to be epic!


Sounds like my kinda show sir, when do I see?

II. Tons To Read, and for Cheap!

My friends at the Star Wars Insider are offering up some great deals if you subscribe today. Not only will you get 50% off the subscription fee, but you'll also receive:

• Get 8 issues for just $31.99!
• Exclusive subscriber cover with each issue - not available in stores!

Publisher Del Rey is selling five Star Wars novels for the Amazon Nook for only $1.99! They are: Heir to the Empire, Darth Bane: Path of Destruction, Darth Plagueis, Winner Lose All, and Tatooine Ghost.

And, in the luckiest of coincidences, it also happens to be Free Comic Book Day! Head on over to your local comic book store and pick up part one of the exciting new Darth Vader series: The Ninth Assassin

III. Send Your Friends Some Star Wars Day E-Cards!

Head on over to StarWars.com to download and send some pretty cool E-Cards and let your friends know that you're thinking of them on May the 4th.

IV. Dress In Style

While not everyone can don a cool set of armor, people can wear the very latest in Star Wars clothes designed by fans! The folks over at WeLoveFine have announced the winners of their Dark Side Design contest. Hit the link and you can purchase all of these fantastic fan-made pieces. Here are a few of my favorites:

And are you searching for something for that special Princess? Head on over to Her Universe for some kickass clothes for all the Star Wars fangirls out there. Her Universe was created by Ashley Eckstein, who played Ahsoka Tano on The Clone Wars

V. Catch Up On Some Interviews

Yesterday, on the eve of May the Fourth, Lucasfilm's Pablo Hidalgo, author of the incredible Essential Reader's Companion, hosted a live Q&A on Facebook. Hit the link for the full transcript, but check out what he had to say on the impact that the Sequel Trilogy will have on the current EU:

"I think the EU will always continue to be part of the Star Wars experience, in that there are stories that are best suited for books, comics, games. etc.. The relationship between cinematic content and expanded universe content will continue to be what it is today and has been in the past. What happens on screen is one thing. What happens in the books is another. How they connect and interact is something I'm really eager to see."

And J.J. Abrams, who apparently has some kind of loose association with Star Wars, talks to the BBC about Episode VII, Star Trek: Into Darkness, and more. Check out the full interview here, but here's a snippet:

"A self-confessed Star Wars fan, Abrams said he would have to try to mitigate his "geeky fan-boy" feelings about his forthcoming project. 

"It's just about about approaching it from as authentic a place as possible, and not trying to apply what you believe or think, as much as trying to filter everything and get at it from the core of the characters."

VI. Prepare for Celebration Europe II

Although I sadly won't be attending this year, the CEII's official site has been releasing a steady flow of information about this summer's Celebration Europe II in Essen, Germany (July 26-28). We know now that there will be some awesome merchandise art, including this incredible set of Star Wars coat of arms:

Convention-goers will also apparently see a reunion of sorts, with the denizens of Jabba's Palace coming together in a decidedly less dangerous environment. I sincerely hope everyone has a ton of fun and brings the Star Wars spirit to Germany.

VII. Celebrate With Friends

Whether it's a lightsaber duel, a game of Star Wars Trivial Pursuit, or just sitting down and watching a Star Wars marathon, take the time today to be with your fellow Rebels, Imps, Mandos, Jedi, and Sith. Because the strength of this community comes from the deep bond we all share. The passion and love we have for this Saga transcends every type of border, to bring us together as fans, as friends, and as family.

So from the frozen plains of Hoth, to the jungles of Yavin 4, to the oceans of Kamino, to the sprawling spires of Coruscant; from the Land Down Under to the Land of the Rising Sun to the Land of the Free, let's call out with one, united voice, ringing out throughout the galaxy:

MAY THE FOURTH BE WITH YOU!

-Joe

Your Late Evening Linc: JJ Abrams Talks Episode VII, Empire Strikes Back Photos, Doctor Who Teasers, and DBZ Abridged

Oh, what a fine evening it is! Let's not waste another moment of it and get right to your evening Lincs:

1. J.J. Abrams Talks Star Wars (And That Other Franchise)

Pictured: NOT Miss April

Because this time I really am reading it for the articles! Episode VII director J.J. Abrams sat down with Playboy Magazine for a fully in-depth interview in which he discusses all of his upcoming projects. He talks about what it takes to make Star Trek exciting to fans and casual viewers alike, the responsibility of taking the helm of two mega-franchises with rabidly loyal fans (Hi, how are ya?), and his approach to directing Episode VII and making the two franchises distinct. He even dishes on his incredible and controversial (amongst fans, that is) TV shows Lost, Fringe, Felicity and Revolution. And that's just the tip of the iceberg! Here's a snippet of what he had to say with regard to juggling the two universes:

ABRAMS: As with anything, because these are very different worlds, they shouldn’t feel the same aesthetically. They can’t. You’re right. But again, I don’t apply aesthetics first and fit a movie into that aesthetic. If I had come into Star Trek with those eyes, I would probably have been paralyzed. The advantage here is that we still have George Lucas with us to go to and ask questions and get his feedback on things, which I certainly will do. With Star Trek it was harder because I wasn’t a Star Trek fan; I didn’t have the same emotional feeling, and I didn’t have Gene Roddenberry to go to. But I came to understand the world of Star Trek, and I appreciated what fans felt and believed about this universe and this franchise.

Later in the interview, the "King of the Reboot" hints that something original is coming down the pike. You can read the full article here.

2. Never Before Seen Behind the Scenes Photos from The Empire Strikes Back

Imugr user "joinyoubythesun" has uploaded an astounding 66 behind the scenes images from the filming of The Empire Strikes Back. Not sure exactly where he got them from, but I am definitely not complaining! There are a whole host of pictures that I've never seen before; some posed, some candid, and all amazing. There are also plenty of pictures of the late greats of the film, including director Irvin Kershner, Yoda creator and make-up master Stuart Freeborn, swordsman Bob Anderson, and Old Ben himself, Sir Alec Guiness. All in all, it really does bring a smile to my face to see the cast and crew really enjoying themselves as they create what is arguably one of the best movies of all time. You can check them all out here, but I wanted to share a few of my favorites:

They're smiling because their faces are frozen like that.

Quit you're whining kid, it's only your melted hand.

Going over the script with Kirsh (and producer Gary Kurtz)

"And then...Chewie just let one RIP...an arm I mean..."

The Maker, The Vader, and the Director

"And THIS is what I think of your acting!"

"I'll see you in hell!.. Ha ha, I'm just kidding. You're going there, I'll be up in Heaven."

"Drive the Rebel Ice Cream Truck, they said. It'll be fun they said!"

Miss you, Kirsh. 

"He's just crazy enough to do it!"

3. Doctor Whoness

Well, after Saturday's exciting episode, the folks at the BBC are serving up all sorts of bits and bobs to keep us going until next week. For starters, they are releasing a collectible box set entitled "Regeneration".

Included: The rare episode where the Doctor regenerates into Michael Jackson

With over 1,000 minutes of footage and bonus material over 6 DVDs, the album is "adorned with superb photography from across the era and features detailed and informative accounts of every regeneration." Each DVD contains the episodes that contain the Doctors' regeneration, including the masterfully reconstructed fourth and final episode of the "Tenth Planet" arc which gives us our very first "renewal". The box set is out June 10, 2013.

And check out what's coming up next week in "The Crimson Horror". The Paternoster Gang are back as Jenny, Vastra, and Strax help the Doctor and Clara unravel the dangerous mystery surrounding Sweetville. Perhaps their travels back to the era in which the Doctor met Clara for the second time will lead to some more clues as to the true nature of the newest  and most mysterious companion.



Speaking of Clara-related mysteries, we got the smallest, and yet most tantalizing of clues from none other than Jenna-Louise Coleman herself! On the topic of the Series 7 finale episode, "The Name of the Doctor", Jenna-Louise praises the epic plot, the cool new villains The Whispermen, and drops this bombshell:

“All I can say is that Clara hasn’t just met the Doctor three times before…”

I'm sorry....WHAT?! Apparently, Moffat has been planting clues for years, and has stated that we have yet to even get on the scent of the truth behind Clara Oswin Oswald. And we've only got two episodes left before the finale, which will lead directly into the 50th anniversary. According to the synopsis for "The Name of the Doctor":

"Clara is summoned to an impossible conference call, alerting her that the deadly Whisper Men are closing in on Vastra, Jenny and Strax. Someone is kidnapping the Doctor’s friends, leading him toward the one place in all of time and space that he should never go. It’s a deadly trap that threatens to unravel his past, present and future…"

Because, remember, it's all still waiting for him. Trenzalore, the fall of the Eleventh....and the revelation of his biggest secret.

4. Dragonball Z Abridged Episode 34

"The following is a non-profit fan based parody..." If you're a DragonBall Z fan and have not yet experienced the hilarity and sheer awesomeness that is DragonBall Z Abridged, then stop literally everything you're doing (I see you feeding that baby) and get crackin'. The brilliant minds and incredible voice talents at Team Four Star have been able to get at the very core of what the show was about, while managing to create stories all their own. From an imbecilic Goku, to a senile Guru, to a sadistic Mr. Popo, you'll find yourself with all new favorite characters as you laugh your way through each episode. The one that got me hooked was Episode 29, and I suggest if you're going to start anywhere, you start there. Here is the latest episode, number 34, which takes place after a cooler than cool Trunks has finally dispatched a Cyber-Frieza and his Daddykins.




That's it for tonight, kids. Check back tomorrow for more from the Missing Linc!

- Joe

Star Wars: Episode VII - Han and Leia's Kid and Grandkid Introduced

I'll never forget where I was when I heard the news. I was sitting in my dark kitchen listening to the radio after Hurricane Sandy when I first learned about Disney's acquisition of Lucasfilm and the plans for Episode VII and beyond. I was so excited that, unable to post about it, I drove directly to my friend Joe's house to tell him.

Well now, thankfully, I can share all the hints and rumors with you! According to inside sources for Nerdvana, there are a few new interesting tidbits about the first installment of the Sequel Trilogy. I of course caution everyone to take these with a big heaping grain of salt (or its galactic equivalent) until we hear anything from Lucasfilm/Disney:

Rumor I: They're Getting the Band Back Together

Replace blasters with walkers

It looks like Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford are all on board to reprise their roles as Luke, Leia, and Han! Many believe this will be in an advisory capacity similar to Ben Kenobi in A New Hope.

Rumor II: We Will Meet Han and Leia's Kid and Grandkid

Fanboy Revolt in 3...2...1

According to this source, we will be introduced to the child and grandchild of the Solos. Any even casual reader of the Expanded Universe will know about the Solo's three kids: The twins Jacen and Jaina and the youngest, Anakin. They've become some of the most popular characters in the franchise, so what will this announcement mean for them?

Rumor III: No Go on Yoda Movie

He was just as shocked as you

Good ol' George has apparently squashed the rumor that one of the spinoff movies will be about our "little green friend". He claims that Yoda was always meant to be a supporting character. I agree with this. Yoda is amazing and seeing him in action in Episodes II and III were a fanboys dream, but his origins have always been shrouded in mystery. I think keeping him out of the spotlight will help to sustain Yoda's appeal for generations to come.

Rumor IV: JJ's In It For the Long Haul

This is why I love the fans

The source reports that JJ Abrams has been contracted to direct all three movies. If you listen closely, you can hear the steam come out of a Trekkie's ears.

Rumor V: Timothy Zahn Will Pen Sequel Trilogy Novels

The original Sequel Trilogy

While the source doesn't say exactly what the novels will be about, when coupled with the rest of the rumors I can speculate that they will be novelizations of the films. This will go over extremely well with fans of the EU (no sarcasm, I promise) who credit Zahn with relaunching the Star Wars franchise in the wilderness years of the early 1990's. Zahn is an incredible author and I cannot wait to read anything he puts out!

Well, there you have it, gentlebeings! Sound off in the comments below and add your own thoughts to the swirling mix of Episode VII rumors. Just remember: "Always in motion is the future."

MTFBWY

-Joe