Posted on Friday 15 August 2008
Well, today marks the release of yet another Star Wars movie. This one kind of snuck up on everyone. The Clone Wars was originally envisioned as a DVD release only. That is, until after a screening, Mr. Lucas suggested that the film be released in theaters. By “suggested” I mean in the same way God “suggested” that there be light. It’s obvious that there are very few of Luca’s suggestions that are shot down by anyone.
As a Star Wars fan, I somehow feel betrayed by this “movie” release. Star Wars movies aren’t supposed to be like this. What happened to the years of anticipation? Where is the media circus showing lines of costumed fans having plastic light saber battles? What happen to the forums filled of wild rumors based on 30-second trailers? I feel like my best friend planned a party and forgot to invite me, or at best sent me a last minute invitation scrawled on a cocktail napkin.
The story takes place between the second and third prequel, what Morgan Webb calls one of the “tweenegy eras.” Obi-Wan and Anakin must save Jabba the Hutt’s son, named Rotta the Huttlet. The very idea that Jabba the Hutt has a son brings terrifying images to my mind regarding Hutt procreation. I just don’t want to know.
The Clone Wars is all done with computer animation…pretty much like the last three prequels. It grows out of what was originally daily five-minute cartoons on the Cartoon Network. The stories weren’t bad and the animation was done by the same folks who brought us Samurai Jack. I couldn’t resist tuning in to watch the next little chapter. I was delighted when they were released in their entirety on DVD. Most of the voice actor are not the originals, but are close, if not better…I’m looking at you, Hayden. But I also had the feeling I was not the target audience for this branch of the monstrous Star Wars franchise. It all seemed dummied down, and for Star Wars that’s saying a lot. I was forced to face that fact that George Lucas no longer loves me like he did in 1977. He loves my children now.
Am I going? Sure. Partially because I’m curious, but mostly because the kids would never forgive me if I said no. But even they weren’t that excited. We walked by The Clone Wars display at Toys R Us without much fuss. (Did that rhyme?) I’m sure this would frustrate the LucasArts marketing team since I suspect The Clone Wars is all about selling toys.
Anyway, I’ll let you know what I think. Maybe I’ll see you there. I’ll be the guy taking the coats.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Long-term coffee drinking does not appear to increase a person’s risk of early death and may cut a person’s chances of dying from heart disease, according to a study published on Monday.
Well, everyone has something they’re not good at, I guess. For Obama, it’s bowling. In Altoona, PA, Obama scored a 37. 37?! I stink at bowling, but I don’t think I’ve ever gotten lower than a 90. Oh well.