Wednesday, October 31, 2012
STAR WARS EPISODES 7, 8 AND 9 IN 2015!
The Star Wars world has been abuzz for the past 24 hours with the news that Disney has acquired Lucasfilm. And in addition, Star Wars episodes 7, 8 and 9 will be a reality in movie theaters come 2015.
I was just home from work when Dan called me with this breaking news. I was flabbergasted to say the least. I always thought that Lucasfilm would be that independent film company (granted, a multi-billion dollar independent film company) that would stay hold to the ideas that they are the only ones who know how to make Star Wars great and epic. It has been known for a while that George Lucas was planning on retiring in the coming years and his successor Kathleen Kennedy would be someone he trusts who can keep his vision of the Star Wars universe alive.
It does appear that Kennedy will be the person who will be heading up the production of these new Star Wars movies. And if there is anyone who can fill the shoes of George Lucas, I think Kathleen Kennedy is the person to do it. Her work on Raiders of the Lost Ark proves that she knows the recipe to make a good movie. And if she can do that with Indiana Jones, I am certain she will be able to step up to challenge with these new Star Wars movies.
I still am unsure how I feel about Disney taking the reigns at Lucasfilm. Granted, if any company knows how to make movies the right way, it is Disney. They have had a connection with Lucasfilm since the days they acquired Pixar and brought us movies like Wall-E, Toy Story and Cars. And from a merchandising perspective, there are many crossovers between Disney and Star Wars as well.
But the questions remains, what will be the story-line of Star Wars Episode 7? And how does this play into the exisiting Star Wars Expanded Universe stories and timeline? With Disney taking design control of all aspects of these new movies, how will that affect the final product we will see in the movie theaters in 2015?
As a host of a podcast and blog that is dedicated to the discussion of the issues, ideas and the imagination of the Star Wars Expanded Universe, it would be a little tough to imagine that characters and story-lines from the classic Timothy Zahn novels not finding there way onto the silver screen. I began thinking of what it would be like to see those Zahn novels coming together in a movie. Who would play Mara Jade? What would Grand Admiral Thrawn look like? How would the story of Han and Leia play out? Would they in fact be married? Would the love story develop between Luke and Mara? Or will these movies be acting as a major reboot of the Star Wars timeline as Star Wars Expanded Universe fans understand it?
This coming January we are going to see the first issue of the new "Star Wars" comic book from Dark Horse. The hype behind this comic book series is that it is set in the original trilogy era (probably between Episodes 4 and 5) and it will have all the characters we are familiar with in an era that we know well. Could this comic book series be a primer for events that are going to eventually play out in the new movies? And what about the upcoming book called Crucible that shows Luke, Leia and Han on the cover with more white and grey hair that I had ever envisioned? It obviously takes place after the events of the Fate of the Jedi series but will anything in this book have any impact on the new movies?
We have quite a long time before we have any concrete answers to these questions. We still are following the events in The Clone Wars animated series, many story-lines in books and comics are still in motion and we are not certain what other breaking news might appear in our inbox's in the coming weeks.
But I am very optimistic about this news. I am thrilled that new Star Wars will be on the big screen in the coming years. I am even more excited that my kids will be at an age that they can enjoy these movies and go with me to the theaters to see these movies. And a new movie will obviously trigger the usual merchandising campaigns that will offer fans those collectibles that make this new Star Wars experience even more enjoyable. If anything, this announcement has solidified that idea in my mind that the ideas, moral lessons, adventures and fun that stems from that galaxy far, far away is in fact going to last forever!
Dan and I will chat more about this breaking news on the next podcast. Let us know your thoughts! Email us at: jundlandwastespodcast@gmail.com
Keep safe on the Jundland Wastes! And let us know if you spot Mickey Mouse hanging out with Jawas or Tusken Raiders! :)
All the best,
Mark
Co-host - TJW Podcast
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
TJW Podcast - Episode 7
Hey there travelers of the Jundland Wastes! Darth Dan and I are back in the studio for another episode of the podcast. As many of you already know, Dan and I are fans of the tales and stories from the Old Republic days. We have both played Knights of the Old Republic, have enjoyed the Tales of the Jedi comic and have kept up with the latest offering under The Old Republic banner.
One of the biggest items to hit this year was Biowares long anticipated MMO PC game called Star Wars: The Old Republic. Darth Dan was lucky to be chosen as a beta tester for the game and has been spending some time exploring the galaxy far, far away during the times of the Old Republic with this new game.
Listen to his analysis of the game and join us as we get a taste of the Old Republic here on episode 7 of the podcast! Let us know your thoughts on the game as well as the comics and books from this time period! Send us your email at: jundlandwastespodcast@gmail.com
All the best,
Mark and Dan
Hosts of the TJW Podcast
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
TJW Podcast - Episode 6
Hey there Jundland Wastes Travelers! Darth Dan and I are back in the studio for another episode of the Traveling the Jundland Wastes Podcast. While we are not going to be at Star Wars Celebration 6 in Orlando, Florida this week, we are still excited about all the happenings in the Star Wars universe.
In this episode we discuss Expanded Universe titles we are reading, the great Star Wars Celebration 6 art prints and Dan shades some new light on how to watch all six Star Wars movies. And who would have thought that this revelation would have occurred while recovering from lyme disease (you'll have to listen to the podcast to understand what we mean :)
Let us know if you're going to C6! And we would love to hear your feedback on the podcast! Send your comments to: jundlandwastespodcast@gmail.com
And stay tuned for our in depth podcast analysis of The Force Unleashed! We will be discussing both video games, the comic trade paperbacks and the action figures that were all part of this amazing chapter in the Star Wars Expanded Universe!
Travel safely friends!
Mark and Dan
Hosts of the TJW Podcast
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Post Star Wars Celebration 6 Thoughts
For the TJW Podcast, it looks like we will have to wait a couple more years for C7. But all of us here at the podcast are determined to make it happen the next time occurs.
Even though I was disappointed in not going, I was able to bring some of the convention home with the help of many dedicated Star Wars fans who were in the convention hall.
Other items I am awaiting to see come through my mail box are a Chris Trevas autographed C6 badge, a great 4 card postcard set from the guys at Jedi Temple Archives, an autographed 8 x 10 photo of Garrick Hagon who played Luke Skywalker's buddy from Tatooine Biggs Darklighter and a gorgeous 11 x 14 black and white 3 shot photo of Ian McDiarmid as Darth Sidious/Emperor Palpatine. One day I will have to get this autographed. And I think I may even have a C6 patch to add the offical TJW Podcast jacket as well. All in all, not a bad catch for someone who had to miss the convention.
We are busy preparing for our special The Force Unleashed analysis podcast! So stay tuned! Plus, Dan and I will be back on the road in November for Super Mega Fest in Framingham, MA! We cannot wait to meet the man who played Darth Vader....the one and only David Prowse.
Plus a lot of expanded universe to discuss as well. Stay tuned for more updates and more shows!
Travel safely on the wastes!
All the best,
Mark and Dan
Co-hosts of the TJW Podcast
Monday, July 16, 2012
Not Going to C6? No Worries! There is Still Lots of Star Wars Fun to Have!
Hey there Travelers of the Jundland Wastes! Yes, it has been a while since I last posted a blog or a podcast episode. I am hoping that I will be able to post more as the summer ends and the autumn season begins. Life tends to be pretty "non-routine" during the summer and I hope to have a more consistent routine as it regards the podcast by the time the leaves begin to change color.
But it is the summer season and it means going out and enjoying the weather, maybe going to the beach, getting a good swim in and having some tasty summertime treats like ice cream and lemonade. But it is also the prime season for comic conventions! This past weekend was the ever famous San Diego Comic Con. I watched some footage on G4 thus past Saturday night. It really is one of those experiences that needs to be tried even once. The panels, the costumes, the comic book culture and the general fandom cannot be duplicated anywhere. It is the grand-daddy of conventions and I do hope to make it there one day.
And in a couple weeks, Star Wars fans will be flocking to Orlando, Florida for Star Wars Celebration 6. The TJW Podcast really wanted to find a way to be there this year. But it is an experience that will have to be put on hold at least for this year. Perhaps when Celebration 7 is announced in two years or so the TJW Podcast will have a better opportunity to attend.
This got me thinking about fans who (for whatever reason) are unable to make it to a convention this summer. Granted these events do require some financial planning and family coordination which can make it impossible at times. But just because one is not able to attend a San Diego Comic Con or a Star Wars Celebration does not mean that a devoted fan of the franchise cannot have some "geek" fun. Here are some suggestions that I have done in the past month or so to cure those comic convention doldrums.
Podcasts - It is probably not a big surprise that I would list this as my first choice. While podcast have exploded in the last few years, I think the fandom community has benefited most from the democratization of blogging and podcasts. There are more first hand reports compiled on blogs and podcasts that take us right into the convention hall. As fans, we get to hear the background noise of the convention and the ambience of the event. Actors, artists and fan interviews on podcasts have connected us more with the conventions then any other medium in my opinion. Yes, you can find news about these on G4 or E! but there is a sense excitement balanced by the normalacy of the everyday fan logging his or her journey at a convention. Do a websearch or search through iTunes and see what podcasts are available for comic con fans! And then pour yourself a tall glass of lemonade, plug in your Mp3 player and pretend you are at the event.
Virtual Artist Alley - One of the best times I had at the Boston Comic Convention this past spring was getting to spend a LONG time walking through the artist alley. I met many artists that have inspired me to draw again as well as those that I have admired over time. And while nothing replaces the experience of being there, the internet has allowed us access to see (and order) great pieces of art from some very talented artists. Check out the official Star Wars Celebration site (www.starwarscelebration.com) and see who has a print for sale. Then go to the artist website. You get to see many prints from past conventions and celebrations. There is actually a print from a past convention that I am planning to purchase. The great thing about this is that I can budget for a print because I am not attending the celebration where I need to pay for hotel and other expenditures. So it is sort of a consolation to be able to get a fantastic work of art.
Autograph Hunting - Just as one has a little more to budget for an art print, the same can be said for those who are looking to get an autograph. Conventions and celebrations are famous for the meet and greet opportunities. These lines can be long and it can sometimes take a big chunk of time out of the convention depending on the actors fame. So another great consolation is the fact that many conventions have mail in or ordering services so you can purchase an autographed photo and at times even personalized autographs. There are a couple I am looking to get from the C6 show and it never fails to put a smile on my face when I get them in the mail. Plus, it is a good time to find those actors who will sign autographs for free through the mail (as long as you have enclosed proper postage and a self addressed stamped envelope). Do some research and you will find that many actors who you would suspect are "too famous" will in fact take the time to sign an autograph.
Crafts and Cooking - This might sound a little silly but there can be a lot of fun had with making Star Wars art crafts and cooking. I have always been a big fan doing dioramas. And if you have children they will also delight in being able to transform an ordinary shoe box into a great scene from the movies. And by all means, USE YOUR LOOSE ACTION FIGURES! They are meant to be played with and look great as part of a diorama. The possibilities are endless and if you are doing this with your children you will see their eyes light up when you can put together the Battle of Hoth, Yoda's swamp home, the famous Lars Homestead or a speeder bike chase through the forest of Endor. And if you do a web search you will find many resources for Star Wars fans who like to make dioramas. Some even include cut out templates which can really make your diorama stand out! And don't forget to check out many Star Wars themed recipes that can be great to make and delicious to eat. My kids love making giant Death Star cookies and get a kick out of these 6 inch cookies!
Expanded Universe Titles - As a podcast dedicated to exploring the issues, ideas and the imagination of the Star Wars Expanded Universe it should be no surprise that I list this as a way to cure the blues of not attending a convention or celebration. In addition to the many titles out there, you can also catch up on Star Wars video games that might have fallen through the cracks and were missed. If you are looking for a great game that does not take a long time to play, try The Force Unleashed 2. It is an older game but the graphics are incredible and it is a good story. Even for those who have played it, the fun is still there!
Have a Mini-Con - You can't possibly be the only guy or gal who did not manage to make it to a convention or celebration. A great way to have some fun this summer is to have a "Non-Con" party. You can easily mention this to people on forums in places like www.rebelscum.com and see if anyone is interested. Have an informal gathering at a beach, a lake or even a nearby park. Make it pot luck and share in bringing snacks and drinks. And then the skies the limit to what you can do. Maybe you want to have some things to trade from your collection. Perhaps bring the DVD's of the movies to watch together on a laptop or portable DVD player. If there are any 501st member in the area ask them if they would like to "troop" at your party.
These are just a couple of ideas. But I would love to hear your ideas as well. Send us an email with your ideas to: jundlandwastespodcast@gmail.com.
Stay tuned for another episode of the TJW Podcast!
Mark
Co-host TJW Podcast
But it is the summer season and it means going out and enjoying the weather, maybe going to the beach, getting a good swim in and having some tasty summertime treats like ice cream and lemonade. But it is also the prime season for comic conventions! This past weekend was the ever famous San Diego Comic Con. I watched some footage on G4 thus past Saturday night. It really is one of those experiences that needs to be tried even once. The panels, the costumes, the comic book culture and the general fandom cannot be duplicated anywhere. It is the grand-daddy of conventions and I do hope to make it there one day.
And in a couple weeks, Star Wars fans will be flocking to Orlando, Florida for Star Wars Celebration 6. The TJW Podcast really wanted to find a way to be there this year. But it is an experience that will have to be put on hold at least for this year. Perhaps when Celebration 7 is announced in two years or so the TJW Podcast will have a better opportunity to attend.
This got me thinking about fans who (for whatever reason) are unable to make it to a convention this summer. Granted these events do require some financial planning and family coordination which can make it impossible at times. But just because one is not able to attend a San Diego Comic Con or a Star Wars Celebration does not mean that a devoted fan of the franchise cannot have some "geek" fun. Here are some suggestions that I have done in the past month or so to cure those comic convention doldrums.
Podcasts - It is probably not a big surprise that I would list this as my first choice. While podcast have exploded in the last few years, I think the fandom community has benefited most from the democratization of blogging and podcasts. There are more first hand reports compiled on blogs and podcasts that take us right into the convention hall. As fans, we get to hear the background noise of the convention and the ambience of the event. Actors, artists and fan interviews on podcasts have connected us more with the conventions then any other medium in my opinion. Yes, you can find news about these on G4 or E! but there is a sense excitement balanced by the normalacy of the everyday fan logging his or her journey at a convention. Do a websearch or search through iTunes and see what podcasts are available for comic con fans! And then pour yourself a tall glass of lemonade, plug in your Mp3 player and pretend you are at the event.
Virtual Artist Alley - One of the best times I had at the Boston Comic Convention this past spring was getting to spend a LONG time walking through the artist alley. I met many artists that have inspired me to draw again as well as those that I have admired over time. And while nothing replaces the experience of being there, the internet has allowed us access to see (and order) great pieces of art from some very talented artists. Check out the official Star Wars Celebration site (www.starwarscelebration.com) and see who has a print for sale. Then go to the artist website. You get to see many prints from past conventions and celebrations. There is actually a print from a past convention that I am planning to purchase. The great thing about this is that I can budget for a print because I am not attending the celebration where I need to pay for hotel and other expenditures. So it is sort of a consolation to be able to get a fantastic work of art.
Autograph Hunting - Just as one has a little more to budget for an art print, the same can be said for those who are looking to get an autograph. Conventions and celebrations are famous for the meet and greet opportunities. These lines can be long and it can sometimes take a big chunk of time out of the convention depending on the actors fame. So another great consolation is the fact that many conventions have mail in or ordering services so you can purchase an autographed photo and at times even personalized autographs. There are a couple I am looking to get from the C6 show and it never fails to put a smile on my face when I get them in the mail. Plus, it is a good time to find those actors who will sign autographs for free through the mail (as long as you have enclosed proper postage and a self addressed stamped envelope). Do some research and you will find that many actors who you would suspect are "too famous" will in fact take the time to sign an autograph.
Crafts and Cooking - This might sound a little silly but there can be a lot of fun had with making Star Wars art crafts and cooking. I have always been a big fan doing dioramas. And if you have children they will also delight in being able to transform an ordinary shoe box into a great scene from the movies. And by all means, USE YOUR LOOSE ACTION FIGURES! They are meant to be played with and look great as part of a diorama. The possibilities are endless and if you are doing this with your children you will see their eyes light up when you can put together the Battle of Hoth, Yoda's swamp home, the famous Lars Homestead or a speeder bike chase through the forest of Endor. And if you do a web search you will find many resources for Star Wars fans who like to make dioramas. Some even include cut out templates which can really make your diorama stand out! And don't forget to check out many Star Wars themed recipes that can be great to make and delicious to eat. My kids love making giant Death Star cookies and get a kick out of these 6 inch cookies!
Expanded Universe Titles - As a podcast dedicated to exploring the issues, ideas and the imagination of the Star Wars Expanded Universe it should be no surprise that I list this as a way to cure the blues of not attending a convention or celebration. In addition to the many titles out there, you can also catch up on Star Wars video games that might have fallen through the cracks and were missed. If you are looking for a great game that does not take a long time to play, try The Force Unleashed 2. It is an older game but the graphics are incredible and it is a good story. Even for those who have played it, the fun is still there!
Have a Mini-Con - You can't possibly be the only guy or gal who did not manage to make it to a convention or celebration. A great way to have some fun this summer is to have a "Non-Con" party. You can easily mention this to people on forums in places like www.rebelscum.com and see if anyone is interested. Have an informal gathering at a beach, a lake or even a nearby park. Make it pot luck and share in bringing snacks and drinks. And then the skies the limit to what you can do. Maybe you want to have some things to trade from your collection. Perhaps bring the DVD's of the movies to watch together on a laptop or portable DVD player. If there are any 501st member in the area ask them if they would like to "troop" at your party.
These are just a couple of ideas. But I would love to hear your ideas as well. Send us an email with your ideas to: jundlandwastespodcast@gmail.com.
Stay tuned for another episode of the TJW Podcast!
Mark
Co-host TJW Podcast
Monday, May 14, 2012
The Official TJW Podcast Denim Jacket!
Some may think I am stuck in the 1980's but I will always believe that the Levis denim jacket is a classic and will never go out of style. It is comfortable and perfect for patches and pins.
At Boston Comic Con this past April I actually had people checking out my jacket and asking about the patches and pins that I had on it. I was proud to show my jacket and get word out regarding the podcast and my admiration for the Star Wars franchise.
I thought it was about time to take a couple pics of the jacket and let everyone in on the official jacket of the TJW Podcast!
 | ||
| Jedi Starfighter Patch (from The Jedi Path by Dan Wallace) and a Droids P | in |
 | |
| Biker Jew Crew Patch and Star Wars Celebration 5 Pin |
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| Star Wars Celebration 5 - Five Piece Boba Fett Patch |
Do you have a denim/jean jacket that you have updated with some fantastic Star Wars patches or pins? Send us a pic and we will post it to the blog!
And stay tuned for news about an official TJW Podcast patch that you will be able to own!
Stay safe on the Jundland Wastes!
Mark
Co-host of the TJW Podcast and Blog
TJW Podcast Interview - Star Wars Artist Katie Cook
Hello Travelers of the Jundland Wastes - Here is the other interview we did while at Boston Comic Con this past April. We were honored to have a moment to speak with Star Wars artist Katie Cook! She is also doing an art print for Star Wars Celebration 6 in Orlando, Florida this August. Katie has worked on many comic books, the Star Wars Galaxy series sets and has her own original comic called The Gronk. Check out our interview with her and we hope to speak to her again before Star Wars Celebration 6!
And be sure to check out Katie's website at: http://katiecandraw.typepad.com/
Stay tuned for more podcasts and blog posts!
Mark
Co-host of the TJW Podcast
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