Mission statement

Star Wars: an epic film franchise that first began with "A New Hope" in 1977, although did it really begin then? Episode 1 - "A Phantom Menace" - was released over 20 years later as the batch of CGI prequels renewed interest in the Star Wars series, and there may even be more films to come. Star Wars is a hugely successful franchise, and has clearly captured the collective imagination. The archetypes and universal characters of the Star Wars world capture something deep in all of us. The philosophy of the Star Wars films is also very interesting, with the Jedi and the Sith representing polarities of experience. The Jedi philosophy is very related to Zen, and The Force is a direct reference to Zen and other eastern philosophies.

The premise of this blog is to showcase the many new innovations, inventions, artefacts and ideas that are inspired by the pop-culture phenomenon known as "Star Wars." It is amazing how many Star Wars-inspired things constantly pop up, and it doesn't seem like people can get enough. From Star Wars tattoos to Storm Trooper helmets and Darth Vaders made out of Lego, fans always find new ways to show their adoration. I for one am determined to get to the bottom of why our culture is so persistently fascinated by these films and the mythology surrounding them. This blog will explore and document the ongoing cultural fascination of the pop phenomenon known as "Star Wars".

Friday, February 18, 2011

Early Star Wars masks

SOURCE: collector's weekly

 

Here is a pair of rescue masks from the 1800s that may well be inspirations for C3PO and Darth Vader. One of the manufacturers of these masks was called Vajen-Bader, which can be shortened to Vader.

Anakin Volkswagon

The new commercial for Volkswagon features home-movie footage of the young Anakin Skywalker (later to become Darth Vader) learning to use the force. As we all know, Darth Vader was a big fan of the classic black glove; but in those days Anakin didn't wear gloves. We see Anakin practicing the force on an exercise bike, washing machines, a dog, a baby doll, and his lunch. Finally, he manages to start the ignition of his father's car. The punchline is that his father thinks he started the car with his keyring!

Monday, February 7, 2011

Give the gift of Greedo

One of the most memorable and fantastic characters of the Star Wars movies is the loveable bounty hunter Greedo! Everyone loves Greedo, and who could forget that famous scene at the Mos Eisley cantina? Greedo was always cute, and now he has been made even cuter by flickr user BackyardBirderWa; who has fashioned this wonderful crocheted Greedo. It's a great gift idea! She has a website in which she sells special items such as these.

My Greedo by BackyardBirderWa

Star careers

Looking for employment? It's hard to find a job these days, and even harder to find a Star Wars job. There are six officially sanctioned careers fit for a Star Wars fanatic, they are:

  • Sith Apprentice
  • Ewok Chief
  • Bounty Hunter
  • Jedi Knight
  • Death Star Laser Operator
  • Jabba's Slave Girl

You could spend days just debating the merits of each of these careers, but thankfully there is this handy flow chart to help set you on your path. Just answer a few simple questions and you will find out 'which occupation meant for you is'. I got Jedi Knight, which is what I was going for anyway.

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Star Wars goes blu

Here's a litte promo clip for the new SW sets that they're to release on blu-ray. There are 3 sets and apparently it's "the most anticipated Blu-ray release ever" believe it or not.

Who put the sex in Star Wars?

Star Wars is sexy. That's a bold claim, and while not one that I personally agree with, there are many sick Star Wars freaks who have all sorts of fetishes related to the space fantasy movies. Here is but one example of this; someone has created a series of pinup images featuring various characters in skimpy outfits and in poses like you would expect from the likes of Marilyn Monroe. Knock yourself out!

Trooper Tattoo

Here's a wonderful back tattoo that a devoted Star Wars fan has adorned their body with. The artwork is quite impressive, with many figures and themes from Star Wars mythology. Don't get any ideas, or maybe do.