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VISITOR # 908479 |
Episode II title announced
Tuesday 7th August 2001, 10.38am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Although this reasoning is 'classic' George, Ben and I can't help but feel shocked and a bit disappointed. Perhaps the title will grow on us, but my initial reaction is that it just sounds a bit like a bad 1950s B-movie. Sorry folks.
Tuesday 7th August 2001, 10.38am GMT - Posted by GROVER
| No doubt you've all heard about this by now but George Lucas has unveiled the title of the next installment in the saga:
"It harkens back to the sense of pure fun, imagination and excitement that characterised the classic movie serials and pulp space fantasy adventures that inspired the Star Wars saga." |
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Although this reasoning is 'classic' George, Ben and I can't help but feel shocked and a bit disappointed. Perhaps the title will grow on us, but my initial reaction is that it just sounds a bit like a bad 1950s B-movie. Sorry folks.
Production update from Rick McCallum
Wednesday 24th May 2000, 2.27pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
Work on Episode II is continuing apace, but Rick McCallum still found time to talk about the latest goings-on in Sydney:
"We're down to the wire trying to get everything ready for when George arrives in Australia. This is when everything major happens. We're making the movie. Production starts in earnest in June and everyone is looking forward to seeing Hayden Christensen put through his paces."
"As soon as he gets off the plane we'll be handing him over to our stunt co-ordinator Nick Gillard for Jedi training," McCallum said. "Then it's on to hair, wardrobe and make-up. He'll be flat out from the minute he gets here until shooting. Everyone's excited because I showed them some of his screen test. He's really an unknown. I think the casting sends the signal that we're living by our word and that we are anxiously working to deliver something new with this film."
McCallum added that Nick Gillard is the busiest man on the set at the moment, "going to a lot of fight clubs all over Sydney and seeing hundreds of stunt fighters."
Wednesday 24th May 2000, 2.27pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
Work on Episode II is continuing apace, but Rick McCallum still found time to talk about the latest goings-on in Sydney:
"We're down to the wire trying to get everything ready for when George arrives in Australia. This is when everything major happens. We're making the movie. Production starts in earnest in June and everyone is looking forward to seeing Hayden Christensen put through his paces."
"As soon as he gets off the plane we'll be handing him over to our stunt co-ordinator Nick Gillard for Jedi training," McCallum said. "Then it's on to hair, wardrobe and make-up. He'll be flat out from the minute he gets here until shooting. Everyone's excited because I showed them some of his screen test. He's really an unknown. I think the casting sends the signal that we're living by our word and that we are anxiously working to deliver something new with this film."
McCallum added that Nick Gillard is the busiest man on the set at the moment, "going to a lot of fight clubs all over Sydney and seeing hundreds of stunt fighters."
Two more returning cast confirmed
Friday 19th May 2000, 9.41am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Although we all knew they would be back, Lucasfilm officially announced the return of two of our favourite cast members this week.
Ian McDiarmid will return once more in the role of Palpatine, who he played in both Return Of The Jedi and Episode I: The Phantom Menace, while Anthony Daniels, star of course of all four movies, reprises his famous role of C-3PO.
They join Natalie Portman, Ewan McGregor, Samuel L. Jackson, Ahmed Best and, of course, Hayden Christensen, all of whom are already confirmed.
Friday 19th May 2000, 9.41am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Although we all knew they would be back, Lucasfilm officially announced the return of two of our favourite cast members this week.
Ian McDiarmid will return once more in the role of Palpatine, who he played in both Return Of The Jedi and Episode I: The Phantom Menace, while Anthony Daniels, star of course of all four movies, reprises his famous role of C-3PO.
They join Natalie Portman, Ewan McGregor, Samuel L. Jackson, Ahmed Best and, of course, Hayden Christensen, all of whom are already confirmed.
It's Official: Hayden Christensen to play Anakin Skywalker !
Friday 12th May 2000, 3.15pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
It has been confirmed today by Lucasfilm that Hayden Christensen will play the role of Anakin Skywalker in Episodes II and III.
After the announcement was made, George Lucas said, "I'm looking forward to working with Hayden. He did a great screen test with Natalie last weekend. He is very talented, has a great command of his craft, and I know that he has the physical and emotional attributes to play Anakin at perhaps the most complex stage of the character's life."
Producer Rick McCallum, currently based at production headquarters in Sydney, Australia added, "I couldn't be happier about the selection of Hayden. He is a wonderful actor and has a great intensity. And I know we're in for some really great scenes between Natalie and Hayden."
Robin Gurland (Casting Director), who supervised the lengthy process, commented on why Christensen landed the role. "Hayden has the two characteristics that I was really seeking for the character of Anakin, he has the vulnerability, and he has the edginess that's needed. We really had to have that combination, and it's rare to find an actor who can go back and forth so well."
"There is something so interesting going on behind those eyes, you just want to know more. I think that's what my initial attraction was given that he fulfilled all of the other things that I was looking for as far as his look, his age, his temperament and his innate quality. But, besides that, to me, he is just an amazingly seductive and intriguing actor."
Gurland began trying to fill the role of Anakin Skywalker last October. Since then she has met nearly 450 hopefuls. "There were no auditions, everything was done by meetings. It was basically sitting down for 20 minutes to two hours and finding out who they are as an actor and what kind of experience they have." Gurland then selected a final short list of 25, discussed them in detail with George Lucas and reviewed the tapes. After those sessions, she arranged for George to personally meet with a small group of actors for informal chats, some in Los Angeles and some at Skywalker Ranch.
The final stage took place at the Ranch last weekend where the final four actors screen tested with Natalie Portman. "It was really a very relaxed situation," Gurland said. "George, Natalie and I would sit down with whoever we were testing and just chat for a while and then do a rehearsal at the table with a scene in the style of one that would be in Episode II, although it's not one that we'll see in the film. Then the actor and Natalie would rehearse and George would give notes. When everyone felt comfortable, we'd go to where we were shooting, do a blocking rehearsal and then tape until George felt he had gotten what he wanted."
Gurland said that the final decision was a difficult one, because all four candidates were excellent. "It's always a difficult process, but part of it is chemistry and how someone fits within an existing ensemble, and also and how you picture his character as the future father of already established Star Wars characters."
"Everyone was so nice last weekend that they made me feel at ease," Christensen said. "It was like a big field trip going to the Ranch."
"I'm very excited about the challenge it's going to present and really looking forward to working with a lot of good people," he added. "It's especially exciting to work with actors such as Natalie Portman and Ewan McGregor whom I've really admired. And I get to use lightsabers... and the Force!"
Congratulations to Hayden from all at Ben & Grover's Star Wars Universe!
Friday 12th May 2000, 3.15pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
It has been confirmed today by Lucasfilm that Hayden Christensen will play the role of Anakin Skywalker in Episodes II and III.
After the announcement was made, George Lucas said, "I'm looking forward to working with Hayden. He did a great screen test with Natalie last weekend. He is very talented, has a great command of his craft, and I know that he has the physical and emotional attributes to play Anakin at perhaps the most complex stage of the character's life."
Producer Rick McCallum, currently based at production headquarters in Sydney, Australia added, "I couldn't be happier about the selection of Hayden. He is a wonderful actor and has a great intensity. And I know we're in for some really great scenes between Natalie and Hayden."
Robin Gurland (Casting Director), who supervised the lengthy process, commented on why Christensen landed the role. "Hayden has the two characteristics that I was really seeking for the character of Anakin, he has the vulnerability, and he has the edginess that's needed. We really had to have that combination, and it's rare to find an actor who can go back and forth so well."
"There is something so interesting going on behind those eyes, you just want to know more. I think that's what my initial attraction was given that he fulfilled all of the other things that I was looking for as far as his look, his age, his temperament and his innate quality. But, besides that, to me, he is just an amazingly seductive and intriguing actor."
Gurland began trying to fill the role of Anakin Skywalker last October. Since then she has met nearly 450 hopefuls. "There were no auditions, everything was done by meetings. It was basically sitting down for 20 minutes to two hours and finding out who they are as an actor and what kind of experience they have." Gurland then selected a final short list of 25, discussed them in detail with George Lucas and reviewed the tapes. After those sessions, she arranged for George to personally meet with a small group of actors for informal chats, some in Los Angeles and some at Skywalker Ranch.
The final stage took place at the Ranch last weekend where the final four actors screen tested with Natalie Portman. "It was really a very relaxed situation," Gurland said. "George, Natalie and I would sit down with whoever we were testing and just chat for a while and then do a rehearsal at the table with a scene in the style of one that would be in Episode II, although it's not one that we'll see in the film. Then the actor and Natalie would rehearse and George would give notes. When everyone felt comfortable, we'd go to where we were shooting, do a blocking rehearsal and then tape until George felt he had gotten what he wanted."
Gurland said that the final decision was a difficult one, because all four candidates were excellent. "It's always a difficult process, but part of it is chemistry and how someone fits within an existing ensemble, and also and how you picture his character as the future father of already established Star Wars characters."
"Everyone was so nice last weekend that they made me feel at ease," Christensen said. "It was like a big field trip going to the Ranch."
"I'm very excited about the challenge it's going to present and really looking forward to working with a lot of good people," he added. "It's especially exciting to work with actors such as Natalie Portman and Ewan McGregor whom I've really admired. And I get to use lightsabers... and the Force!"
Congratulations to Hayden from all at Ben & Grover's Star Wars Universe!
Casting news: Hayden Christensen
Friday 5th May 2000, 4.49pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
Last weekend, Skywalker Ranch played host to a handful of candidates for the role of Anakin. George Lucas, Rick McCallum and Robin Gurland were all present to see the hopeful actors perform alongside Natalie Portman.
"George and Robin and I need to put our heads together," said McCallum. "It could be several weeks before we know anything. This is just one step in the process. The casting of Anakin is always a very emotional thing... it was for Episode I."
The actor eventually chosen to fill the role of Anakin will join Natalie Portman, Ewan McGregor, Ahmed Best and Samuel L. Jackson who are all confirmed to return when production begins at Fox Studios in Sydney, Australia later this summer. Be sure to check back here for further announcements ...
Friday 5th May 2000, 4.49pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
| Far be it for us to pander to rumours, but it is pretty hard to ignore the media focus on the casting of Episode II.
To bring you up to speed the current favourite for the role of Anakin Skywalker appears to be a young actor called Hayden Christensen (pictured). "What about Colin Hanks?!", I hear you cry, well, yes, he was mentioned for the lead role, but now appears to be playing the character 'Kitster'. Other names that have been doing the rounds are Christian Bale, Sean Patrick Flanery and Ryan Phillippe, the latter of whom looks set to be cast in the role of Bail Organa. |
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Last weekend, Skywalker Ranch played host to a handful of candidates for the role of Anakin. George Lucas, Rick McCallum and Robin Gurland were all present to see the hopeful actors perform alongside Natalie Portman.
"George and Robin and I need to put our heads together," said McCallum. "It could be several weeks before we know anything. This is just one step in the process. The casting of Anakin is always a very emotional thing... it was for Episode I."
The actor eventually chosen to fill the role of Anakin will join Natalie Portman, Ewan McGregor, Ahmed Best and Samuel L. Jackson who are all confirmed to return when production begins at Fox Studios in Sydney, Australia later this summer. Be sure to check back here for further announcements ...
Episode II pre-production update
Thursday 27th April 2000, 12.18pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
Although Episode II is still well on course to start filming in June, Producer Rick McCallum, fresh from trips to Tunisia and Italy to finalise details for location filming, is certainly not sitting idle until then, as he explained earlier this week:
"Obviously we're getting into serious crunch time, building sets like crazy and adding new construction workers daily. We'll probably max out next week with about 200 construction crew in total."
However, it isn't just the Australian teams who are being kept busy, Design Director Doug Chiang is working hard painting key points in the action for selected scenes, the sculptors are creating models of approved designs and Iain McCaig and Trisha Biggar have been creating the costumes for returning cast members.
Thursday 27th April 2000, 12.18pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
Although Episode II is still well on course to start filming in June, Producer Rick McCallum, fresh from trips to Tunisia and Italy to finalise details for location filming, is certainly not sitting idle until then, as he explained earlier this week:
"Obviously we're getting into serious crunch time, building sets like crazy and adding new construction workers daily. We'll probably max out next week with about 200 construction crew in total."
However, it isn't just the Australian teams who are being kept busy, Design Director Doug Chiang is working hard painting key points in the action for selected scenes, the sculptors are creating models of approved designs and Iain McCaig and Trisha Biggar have been creating the costumes for returning cast members.
Lucas hints at Episode I DVD
Tuesday 25th April 2000, 10.59am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Sorry it's been so long without an update, but I've been away from my PC over the Easter break. Nevertheless, there has been no let up in the Star Wars community and George Lucas made a major announcement regarding the potential release of an Episode I DVD.
Firstly, during a US radio interview George said that Lucasfilm were currently working on the DVD version of Episode I and then an associate of The Digital Bits managed to speak in more detail to George about the project. He revealed that there are a number of unfinished scenes and sequences from all four films that Lucasfilm plan to include on the long-awaited disks. The delay in getting the disks onto the market is caused by the fact that many of the scenes remain unfinished an ILM need to complete them before thay can even consider putting them on the DVDs. ILM's staff are already busy working on Episode II and a number of other film projects, thus resources at the company are already stretched. That said this is great news for all Star Wars fans, the DVDs are on their way, and more importantly, George Lucas is fully committed to the format.
Tuesday 25th April 2000, 10.59am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Sorry it's been so long without an update, but I've been away from my PC over the Easter break. Nevertheless, there has been no let up in the Star Wars community and George Lucas made a major announcement regarding the potential release of an Episode I DVD.
Firstly, during a US radio interview George said that Lucasfilm were currently working on the DVD version of Episode I and then an associate of The Digital Bits managed to speak in more detail to George about the project. He revealed that there are a number of unfinished scenes and sequences from all four films that Lucasfilm plan to include on the long-awaited disks. The delay in getting the disks onto the market is caused by the fact that many of the scenes remain unfinished an ILM need to complete them before thay can even consider putting them on the DVDs. ILM's staff are already busy working on Episode II and a number of other film projects, thus resources at the company are already stretched. That said this is great news for all Star Wars fans, the DVDs are on their way, and more importantly, George Lucas is fully committed to the format.
Episode II production details
Tuesday 11th April 2000, 11.22am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Following the announcement that Episode II will be filmed using groundbreaking digital technology, prequel producer Rick McCallum elaborated more fully on the production stages of Episode II.
"We start shooting Episode II in Australia in June", McCallum confirmed. "All of the sets are in the final stages of construction. In August, the shooting will move to Italy and to Tunisia. We will shoot for a total of three months and then we plan to spend about 18 months in postproduction."
Furthermore, regarding the photography of the film, the second set of Sony's prototype digital cameras have been sent to Panavision who will add the new lenses and accessories. The cameras will then be issued to David Tattersall, Director of Photography for Episodes I and II, to establish camera set-up plans for filming. The first production-standard cameras will be ready for release in May, thus allowing principal photography to begin on Episode II in June 2000.
Tuesday 11th April 2000, 11.22am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Following the announcement that Episode II will be filmed using groundbreaking digital technology, prequel producer Rick McCallum elaborated more fully on the production stages of Episode II.
"We start shooting Episode II in Australia in June", McCallum confirmed. "All of the sets are in the final stages of construction. In August, the shooting will move to Italy and to Tunisia. We will shoot for a total of three months and then we plan to spend about 18 months in postproduction."
Furthermore, regarding the photography of the film, the second set of Sony's prototype digital cameras have been sent to Panavision who will add the new lenses and accessories. The cameras will then be issued to David Tattersall, Director of Photography for Episodes I and II, to establish camera set-up plans for filming. The first production-standard cameras will be ready for release in May, thus allowing principal photography to begin on Episode II in June 2000.
Lucasfilm to shoot Episode II digitally
Tuesday 11th April 2000, 1.46pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
George Lucas officially announced on Sunday that Episode II will be shot using digital technology in place of film for most of the film's live action scenes, following four months of intensive work (January - April 2000) between Lucasfilm/ILM and manufacturers Panavision and Sony.
Using a prototype digital system consisting of a Sony HDW-F900 integrated camera recorder with a modified Panavision Lens, a series of tests were carried out studying image performance and system functionality culminating in comparative shoots with standard motion picture film.
According to Larry Thorpe, vice-president of acquisition systems for Sony Electronics' Broadcast, "these tests included a series of comparative shoots in which they shot a variety of scenes in parallel with motion picture film, including interior and exterior scenes, close-up and wide-angle takes, and a series of complex blue-screen composite shots. They made sure to compose all scenes for a final 2.40:1 aspect ratio, which also involved extraction of this widescreen format from the 16:9 digital capture. The two [comparative] 35mm films were viewed on a large screen at the Skywalker Ranch's Stag Theater on March 10." Ultimately, both George Lucas and Rick McCallum were convinced of the benefits of shooting in digital.
"The tests have convinced me that the familiar look and feel of motion picture film are fully present in this digital 24P system, and that the picture quality between the two is indistinguishable on the large screen," said Lucas. "It's an exciting step that we are taking, and working with Sony and Panavision, we plan to further advance this system over the coming years," he continued. "Episode II is our first giant step."
McCallum added, "this is the exciting dawn of a new era in moviemaking. There is no turning back. It is being born within an environment of super teamwork among our people at ILM and Lucasfilm, and the folks at Panavision and Sony. We set the bar high for digital HD imaging and they have responded magnificently. We intend to cut through all of the industry angst and thrust 24P digital HD squarely onto the moviemaking stage. Episode II will do just that."
Tuesday 11th April 2000, 1.46pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
George Lucas officially announced on Sunday that Episode II will be shot using digital technology in place of film for most of the film's live action scenes, following four months of intensive work (January - April 2000) between Lucasfilm/ILM and manufacturers Panavision and Sony.
Using a prototype digital system consisting of a Sony HDW-F900 integrated camera recorder with a modified Panavision Lens, a series of tests were carried out studying image performance and system functionality culminating in comparative shoots with standard motion picture film.
According to Larry Thorpe, vice-president of acquisition systems for Sony Electronics' Broadcast, "these tests included a series of comparative shoots in which they shot a variety of scenes in parallel with motion picture film, including interior and exterior scenes, close-up and wide-angle takes, and a series of complex blue-screen composite shots. They made sure to compose all scenes for a final 2.40:1 aspect ratio, which also involved extraction of this widescreen format from the 16:9 digital capture. The two [comparative] 35mm films were viewed on a large screen at the Skywalker Ranch's Stag Theater on March 10." Ultimately, both George Lucas and Rick McCallum were convinced of the benefits of shooting in digital.
"The tests have convinced me that the familiar look and feel of motion picture film are fully present in this digital 24P system, and that the picture quality between the two is indistinguishable on the large screen," said Lucas. "It's an exciting step that we are taking, and working with Sony and Panavision, we plan to further advance this system over the coming years," he continued. "Episode II is our first giant step."
McCallum added, "this is the exciting dawn of a new era in moviemaking. There is no turning back. It is being born within an environment of super teamwork among our people at ILM and Lucasfilm, and the folks at Panavision and Sony. We set the bar high for digital HD imaging and they have responded magnificently. We intend to cut through all of the industry angst and thrust 24P digital HD squarely onto the moviemaking stage. Episode II will do just that."
More awards disappointment
Monday 10th April 2000, 9.55am GMT - Posted by GROVER
We're sorry to report that the British film establishment were no kinder to Episode I than their American counterparts as 'The Phantom Menace' failed to pick up any gongs at last night's BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) Awards ceremony which was held at The Odeon, Leicester Square in London. The film was nominated in two categories - Sound and Achievement in Special Visual Effects but was pipped yet again by 'The Matrix' which won in both categories. Interestingly, the winners generally differed greatly from those at last month's Oscars but not, unfortunately, in the categories that mattered to Star Wars fans.
Monday 10th April 2000, 9.55am GMT - Posted by GROVER
We're sorry to report that the British film establishment were no kinder to Episode I than their American counterparts as 'The Phantom Menace' failed to pick up any gongs at last night's BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) Awards ceremony which was held at The Odeon, Leicester Square in London. The film was nominated in two categories - Sound and Achievement in Special Visual Effects but was pipped yet again by 'The Matrix' which won in both categories. Interestingly, the winners generally differed greatly from those at last month's Oscars but not, unfortunately, in the categories that mattered to Star Wars fans.
Episode II status
Wednesday 5th April 2000, 11.03am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Most of you know that Episode II is still very much in pre-production with no new casting announcements yet made and filming still not scheduled to start until the summer months. However, small hints about the state of the scripts and the schedule for the next few months have been given by Samuel L. Jackson and Warwick Davis who both gave short interviews to IGN Movies today.
When asked if he was involved in Episode II, Samuel said, "I'm supposed to be there this summer. I don't know when though. George hasn't finished the script". Meanwhile, Warwick Davis added, "I was hoping to have had a phone call from Mr. Lucas by now, but nothing's come through yet on Episode II. He was writing the script still a couple of weeks ago, so I guess they're still finalizing characters and that sort of thing. So we shall see".
So it looks like everyone's still waiting for George to finish the script, but its unlikely to affect the approximate late-June date for the start of filming. In the meantime, pay no attention whatsoever to any 'scripts' that appear on the net. No-one outside Lucasfilm has seen any pages from that script, no matter what some clowns out there on the net are claiming. In fact, its likely that Rick McCallum, Lynne Hale, Robin Gurland, and one or two other high-ranking Lucasfilm officials, are the only people other than George himself to have seen anything of it.
Wednesday 5th April 2000, 11.03am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Most of you know that Episode II is still very much in pre-production with no new casting announcements yet made and filming still not scheduled to start until the summer months. However, small hints about the state of the scripts and the schedule for the next few months have been given by Samuel L. Jackson and Warwick Davis who both gave short interviews to IGN Movies today.
When asked if he was involved in Episode II, Samuel said, "I'm supposed to be there this summer. I don't know when though. George hasn't finished the script". Meanwhile, Warwick Davis added, "I was hoping to have had a phone call from Mr. Lucas by now, but nothing's come through yet on Episode II. He was writing the script still a couple of weeks ago, so I guess they're still finalizing characters and that sort of thing. So we shall see".
So it looks like everyone's still waiting for George to finish the script, but its unlikely to affect the approximate late-June date for the start of filming. In the meantime, pay no attention whatsoever to any 'scripts' that appear on the net. No-one outside Lucasfilm has seen any pages from that script, no matter what some clowns out there on the net are claiming. In fact, its likely that Rick McCallum, Lynne Hale, Robin Gurland, and one or two other high-ranking Lucasfilm officials, are the only people other than George himself to have seen anything of it.
Episode I video - UK release report
Tuesday 4th April 2000, 10.31am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Well you were out there in your droves yesterday to snap up the world's first copies of Episode I on video despite the pouring rain, sleet and snow sweeping the UK over the last twenty-four hours. The film went on sale from midnight at selected stores across the UK. Don't forget this is a rare first for us British fans with our US counterparts not being able to get their hands on a copy until Tuesday, because of a public holiday.
HMV chief press officer Genarro Castaldo said the chain were delighted with the early morning sales, "We opened 40 stores in total and considering the amount of rain we had, the response was very good." London's Trocadero Centre shop was the busiest outlet (nearly 500 copies sold between midnight and 2am) where eager Star Wars fans were treated to a laser show and other special effects to get everyone in the mood. It appears, however, that the rush was not quite up to that witnessed by the video release of 'Titanic' but then that was released near Christmas and on the back of massive Oscar success and the hype it brought with it.
Tuesday 4th April 2000, 10.31am GMT - Posted by GROVER
Well you were out there in your droves yesterday to snap up the world's first copies of Episode I on video despite the pouring rain, sleet and snow sweeping the UK over the last twenty-four hours. The film went on sale from midnight at selected stores across the UK. Don't forget this is a rare first for us British fans with our US counterparts not being able to get their hands on a copy until Tuesday, because of a public holiday.
HMV chief press officer Genarro Castaldo said the chain were delighted with the early morning sales, "We opened 40 stores in total and considering the amount of rain we had, the response was very good." London's Trocadero Centre shop was the busiest outlet (nearly 500 copies sold between midnight and 2am) where eager Star Wars fans were treated to a laser show and other special effects to get everyone in the mood. It appears, however, that the rush was not quite up to that witnessed by the video release of 'Titanic' but then that was released near Christmas and on the back of massive Oscar success and the hype it brought with it.
Branagh explains source of old Obi-Wan rumours
Sunday 2nd April 2000, 2.33pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
Still no firm casting news as yet, still only rumours. Speaking of which Kenneth Branagh, so often spoken of as the new Obi-Wan Kenobi a few years ago, discussed how easily such rumours can start and escalate out of control. At the Premiere of his latest film, 'Love's Labours Lost', this week he said:
"When people were starved of information for the new film a friend suggested that I would make a good young Alec Guinnesss. And that was it - there was never a glimmer of interest from Lucasfilm. I endlessly explained to people that there was absolutely no truth in the rumour at all," says Ken, "but it happened around the time of the real intensification of the internet, and was an example to me of how a rumour like that can travel around the world in 24 hours."
So bear that in mind readers, before you start picturing Leonardo Di Caprio (or any of the hundreds of other actors touted as Anakin Skywalker) holding a lightsaber!
Sunday 2nd April 2000, 2.33pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
Still no firm casting news as yet, still only rumours. Speaking of which Kenneth Branagh, so often spoken of as the new Obi-Wan Kenobi a few years ago, discussed how easily such rumours can start and escalate out of control. At the Premiere of his latest film, 'Love's Labours Lost', this week he said:
"When people were starved of information for the new film a friend suggested that I would make a good young Alec Guinnesss. And that was it - there was never a glimmer of interest from Lucasfilm. I endlessly explained to people that there was absolutely no truth in the rumour at all," says Ken, "but it happened around the time of the real intensification of the internet, and was an example to me of how a rumour like that can travel around the world in 24 hours."
So bear that in mind readers, before you start picturing Leonardo Di Caprio (or any of the hundreds of other actors touted as Anakin Skywalker) holding a lightsaber!
Public appearance by George Lucas
Thursday 30th March 2000, 10.12am GMT - Posted by GROVER
The news today is of a rare public appearance by the great man himself .... George Lucas. George is scheduled to appear at a question and answer session for film students at The Norris Theatre, University of Southern California on 12th April. It is hoped that Lawrence Kasdan (Writer, The Empire Strikes Back) and Howard G. Kazanjian (Producer, Return Of The Jedi) will also make it to the seminar, which is strictly for students of the University only. Don't worry though, I'll have my ear to the ground for any news that arises on the night.
Thursday 30th March 2000, 10.12am GMT - Posted by GROVER
The news today is of a rare public appearance by the great man himself .... George Lucas. George is scheduled to appear at a question and answer session for film students at The Norris Theatre, University of Southern California on 12th April. It is hoped that Lawrence Kasdan (Writer, The Empire Strikes Back) and Howard G. Kazanjian (Producer, Return Of The Jedi) will also make it to the seminar, which is strictly for students of the University only. Don't worry though, I'll have my ear to the ground for any news that arises on the night.
Episode I Video Release
Wednesday 29th March 2000, 12.18pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
Wednesday 29th March 2000, 12.18pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
| The UK is still gearing up for the release of Episode I on video on 3rd April, with a large number of shops opening at midnight for eager fans. In case you didn't know, the release will be in both standard (Pan&Scan) and widescreen versions. Fans in the US have a 'Collector's Edition' video as well with a short documentary preceeding the film and some exclusive packaging, but it appears that this will not make it on to the UK shelves. Unfortunately, there is no DVD release at all planned at the moment, despite pressure throughout the Star Wars and film communities, so this is as good as it gets for now folks. Let's hope Lucasfilm get their act together and give us the DVD we all want. | |
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Episode I fares badly at the Oscars
Monday 27th March 2000, 2.19pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
Hi ... Grover here with what will be the first of my weekly news digests on the site. The aim isn't to try and compete with the excellent 'scoopers' who are out there already getting the latest bits of rumour and gossip but to simply try and round-up the weeks goings-on in the Star Wars Universe for those who may have missed anything. If you think I might have missed anything or have any news to report then please email me.
Anyway, onto today's news ...
Of course the only story dominating the world's press today is the 72nd Annual Academy Awards which took place at The Shrine Theatre, Hollywood on Sunday night (or for me and Ben, the early hours of Monday morning!). Well, all the Oscars have been given out and although it was a great night for 'American Beauty', 'The Cider House Rules' and 'The Matrix' (grrr!) among others - it wasn't good news for the Star Wars community. Although Episode I was up for Sound, Sound Effects Editing and Visual Effects prizes - the respective crews walked away empty-handed, with the Wachowski Brothers' 'The Matrix' winning in all three categories. It's a real shame that the Academy failed to recognise the unprecedented production efforts that Lucasfilm team put into Episode I, let's hope they get it right in 2003!
Monday 27th March 2000, 2.19pm GMT - Posted by GROVER
Hi ... Grover here with what will be the first of my weekly news digests on the site. The aim isn't to try and compete with the excellent 'scoopers' who are out there already getting the latest bits of rumour and gossip but to simply try and round-up the weeks goings-on in the Star Wars Universe for those who may have missed anything. If you think I might have missed anything or have any news to report then please email me.
Anyway, onto today's news ...
Of course the only story dominating the world's press today is the 72nd Annual Academy Awards which took place at The Shrine Theatre, Hollywood on Sunday night (or for me and Ben, the early hours of Monday morning!). Well, all the Oscars have been given out and although it was a great night for 'American Beauty', 'The Cider House Rules' and 'The Matrix' (grrr!) among others - it wasn't good news for the Star Wars community. Although Episode I was up for Sound, Sound Effects Editing and Visual Effects prizes - the respective crews walked away empty-handed, with the Wachowski Brothers' 'The Matrix' winning in all three categories. It's a real shame that the Academy failed to recognise the unprecedented production efforts that Lucasfilm team put into Episode I, let's hope they get it right in 2003!
Star Wars: Episode I - Royal Premiere in London
Thursday 15th July 1999, 1.05am GMT - Posted by BEN
I have just got back from the Episode One Royal Premiere in London, where I witnessed both the arrival and departure of the Episode I cast and crew stars! I met up with some of the UK fans who queued at the Mann's Chinese in LA, and we waited the whole day in Leicester Square. Click here to read the full report and check out all my photographs!
Thursday 15th July 1999, 1.05am GMT - Posted by BEN
I have just got back from the Episode One Royal Premiere in London, where I witnessed both the arrival and departure of the Episode I cast and crew stars! I met up with some of the UK fans who queued at the Mann's Chinese in LA, and we waited the whole day in Leicester Square. Click here to read the full report and check out all my photographs!
Complete Episode I score is here in MP3 !
Sunday 27th June 1999, 6.54pm GMT - Posted by BEN
Visit our Media Archive to hear all the tracks from John William's score for Episode I. As with our presentation of the other Star Wars soundtracks we're using MP3 files encoded at a 48kps\22kHz. Though very impressive for their file size, the idea is that these are just samplers for those who haven't heard the score and/or aren't sure if they want to buy it. So if you don't have it, listen to these, and if you like them follow the links included in the zip files to purchase the CDs over the internet.
Sunday 27th June 1999, 6.54pm GMT - Posted by BEN
Visit our Media Archive to hear all the tracks from John William's score for Episode I. As with our presentation of the other Star Wars soundtracks we're using MP3 files encoded at a 48kps\22kHz. Though very impressive for their file size, the idea is that these are just samplers for those who haven't heard the score and/or aren't sure if they want to buy it. So if you don't have it, listen to these, and if you like them follow the links included in the zip files to purchase the CDs over the internet.
Extra Teaser Trailer stills added
Monday 22nd February 1999, 9.14pm GMT - Posted by BEN
[ These have been moved to the Episode I section of the Media Archive - click here ]
Monday 22nd February 1999, 9.14pm GMT - Posted by BEN
[ These have been moved to the Episode I section of the Media Archive - click here ]
Trailer 'B' description
Friday 19th February 1999, 7.27pm GMT - Posted by BEN
The first description to the eagerly-awaited Trailer 'B' - due in US cinemas on March 12th - has begun to be posted around the net. It's a shot-by-shot account of the action, though slightly less detailed than the description of the teaser trailer. No real spoilers unless you know very little about the movie, so you might as well click here to read it!
Friday 19th February 1999, 7.27pm GMT - Posted by BEN
The first description to the eagerly-awaited Trailer 'B' - due in US cinemas on March 12th - has begun to be posted around the net. It's a shot-by-shot account of the action, though slightly less detailed than the description of the teaser trailer. No real spoilers unless you know very little about the movie, so you might as well click here to read it!
Vanity Fair article
Friday 19th February 1999, 11.19am GMT - Posted by BEN
Just in case anyone out there didn't get to buy their own copy of Vanity Fair last month, we've typed out the main article from that issue and posted it here as a text file.
We've also posted our new scan of Obi-Wan and Darth Maul from the Vanity Fair article. More to follow in the next few days.
Friday 19th February 1999, 11.19am GMT - Posted by BEN
Just in case anyone out there didn't get to buy their own copy of Vanity Fair last month, we've typed out the main article from that issue and posted it here as a text file.
We've also posted our new scan of Obi-Wan and Darth Maul from the Vanity Fair article. More to follow in the next few days.