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BREAKING: Two NEW Episode VII Actors Found At Open Casting Call

July 6, 2014, 1:36 pm
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By: Lillian Skye

The official Star Wars website recently posted an Episode VII production update, giving fans more insight on casting information. Last year, Lucasfilm and Disney held an open casting call across the United States and the UK for undiscovered talent to read lines from the characters of "Thomas" and "Rachel" at the audition.

StarWars.com revealed that the two roles they were searching for have been cast. The female role went to Crystal Clarke, an American actress who is currently studying in Glasgow, UK, and British actor Pip Anderson will fill the male role. Clarke's first feature, The Moon and the Sun, is scheduled for release in 2015. Anderson's parkour abilities made him stand out in his recent Spider-Man ad for Sony.

“The Star Wars universe has always been about discovering and nurturing young talent and in casting Episode VII we wanted to remain absolutely faithful to this tradition," said Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy. "We are delighted that so many travelled to see us at the open casting calls and that we have been able to make Crystal and Pip a part of the film."

Source: StarWars.com

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Rumor: BBC catches Episode VII crew filming in the Forest of Dean, UK

July 7, 2014, 1:55 pm
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By Chris Seekell

Our friends over at Jedi News have spotted a BBC report on Pip Andersen and a gigantic film set-up being built in the Forest of Dean in the United Kingdom. With blue screens, wooden swords, and vehicles being hauled in under tarps, this looks a lot like Episode VII. Watch the video below to see for yourself.



Source: Jedi News

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More From Kevin Smith On Episode VII

July 7, 2014, 6:35 pm
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By: Benjamin Hart

Last week Kevin Smith revealed that he had visited Pinewood Studios, where Star Wars Episode VII is currently being filmed. While he first simply confirmed the visit, and later talked about it on a Podcast, /Film is now reporting that Smith recently spoke at the Neuchatel International Film Festival in Switzerland and was asked about his experience in London. This time he went into much greater detail about how he came to be invited to the set and what he saw there. Still, he couldn't talk specifics due to the NDA he signed, but what he did say was fascinating: Here's an excerpt from the talk:

"What I saw, I absolutely loved. It was tactile — it was real. It wasn’t a series of ***** green screens and blue screens in which later a bunch of digital characters would be added. IT was there, it was happening. I saw old friends who I haven’t seen since my childhood, who aren’t really friends, but I love them more than some of my ****** relatives. I saw uniforms, I saw artillery I haven’t seen since I was a kid. I saw them shooting an actual sequence in a set that was real. I walked across the set, there were explosions. And it looked like a shot right out of a Star Wars movie."

He also visited the Millennium Falcon set on Stage M:

"He turns the lights on and there is the Millennium Falcon from my childhood. Now the ship outside looks like a movie set, but the inside, fully replicated, fully built. The guy told me, they took two blueprints: Star Wars and Empire, because the cockpit in Empire was bigger than the cockpit in Star Wars. So they went somewhere between the two. So he takes me over and I’m just looking at it. You look at it from the outside and you can still see inside. I don’t presume we’re going aboard or anything, and then Morgan (JJ’s assistant) says “You ready to go up?” I said (excitedly) “We can go on it?!”"

You can watch the full discussion here. Although be warned, it is full of strong language.

Source: /Film

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Review: Star Wars Workbooks

July 8, 2014, 11:35 am
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By: Dominic Jones

Lucasfilm/Disney and Workman publishing recently teamed up to produce a series of Star Wars Workbooks which teaching children valuable skills, such as reading and writing,  using the Star Wars saga as a base.  The good folks at Workman publishing were kind enough to provide us with some samples of the workbooks, and I must say I was quite impressed.

After looking through the Preschool ABC Fun, Kindergarten Writing and ABCs, 1st Grade Writing, and Second Grade Reading books, it's clear that these books were not only designed to teach the younglings to read and write, but also to help them become fans for life.  The exercises feature the usual characters and locations you would expect, like Wookiees, Endor, and Darth Vader, alongside some more "hard core" references like Banthas, Ithorians, and Plo Koon.

The learning exercises are largely what you'd expect from these types of books, with traceable letters and a Star Wars alphabet (i.e, W is for Wookiee) for the younger children, and Fill-in-the-blanks and reading comprehension questions for the older ones.  The exercises also feature lots of illustrations to keep kids engaged, some straight from the films, others more humorous in nature.

The books also feature a nice mix of Original Trilogy and Prequel trilogy references.  I always love to see elements from all six films next to each other on even footing, and I'm glad to see that Workman and Disney are interested in introducing kids to the entire saga (not just the OT).  I was also excited to see some references to the Emmy Award winning animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars scattered throughout the book, a highlight for me was seeing the five younglings from the younglings arc of season five featured in the Second Grade Reading book.

Another thing I was very pleased to see in the Second Grade Reading book was a brief biography of George Lucas!  I was impressed to see that the books were not only focused on the in-universe elements of the saga, but on Star Wars history as well.   Another nice touch of Star Wars history included in that book is a review of A New Hope from May 1977.

Overall the Workman Star Wars Waorkbooks are an excellent introduction to learning, the saga, and Star Wars history and are a must have for anyone with younglings.  They work great for kids who already love Star Wars, and could serve as an excellent introductions for those who have yet to be introduced to the galaxy far, far away.....


If you have a product you would like The Star Wars Underworld to review, send an email to swunderworld@gmail.com

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Star Wars Books Sample Available for Free on Amazon

July 8, 2014, 11:52 am
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By: Dominic Jones

Del Rey Books has released the 2014 Star Wars Books Sampler as a free ebook on Amazon.  In past years, the sampler has been handed out for free at San Diego Comic Con and Star Wars Celebration, but this Del Rey will be handing out free advanced readers copies of John Jackson Miller's upcoming novel A New Dawn, the first novel of the new canon.  The sampler is available now and features excerpts from all the announced upcoming novels (all part of the new canon), A New Dawn, Tarkin, Heir to the Jedi, and Lords of the Sith (by: Miller, James Luceno, Kevin Hearne, and Paul S. Kemp respectively).  

Check out the official synopsis for the Sampler below,

This free eBook sampler is the perfect way to prepare for the next exciting era of Star Wars storytelling! With Episodes VII, VIII, and IX on the horizon, Del Rey is proud to present the first wave of novels that are part of the official Star Wars film canon, created in collaboration with the newly formed Lucasfilm Story Group. The exclusive previews of these four books, starring fan favorites and set during and before the original trilogy, will transport you once again to a galaxy that doesn't feel quite so long ago, or so far away. . . . A NEW DAWN by John Jackson Miller Set during the legendary "Dark Times" between Episodes III and IV, A New Dawn tells the story of how two of the lead characters from the animated series Star Wars Rebels first came to cross paths. TARKIN by James Luceno Bestselling Star Wars veteran James Luceno gives Grand Moff Tarkin the Star Wars: Darth Plagueis treatment, bringing a legendary character from A New Hope to full, fascinating life. HEIR TO THE JEDI by Kevin Hearne The author of The Iron Druid Chronicles tells a thrilling new adventure set between A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back, and-for the first time ever-written entirely from Luke Skywalker's first-person point of view. LORDS OF THE SITH by Paul S. Kemp When the Emperor and his notorious apprentice, Darth Vader, find themselves stranded in the middle of insurgent action on an inhospitable planet, they must rely on each other, the Force, and their awesome martial skills to prevail.


Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.
 
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San Diego Comic Con Star Wars Panels Announced

July 8, 2014, 2:29 pm
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By: Benjamin Hart

StarWars.com has revealed the dates and times for all the events happening at San Diego Comic Con, coming up in just a few short weeks. While the panel lineup is varied with some for books and collecting, it appears the upcoming animated series Star Wars Rebels will be taking center stage at the convention.

It's also worth noting that Lucasfilm's own Tracy Cannobbio mentioned on Twitter that July will be a big month for Rebels. It certainly sounds some major announcements will made at SDCC.

The panels are as follows:

Thursday, July 24

The Heroes of Star Wars Rebels: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Room 6BCF
The Empire. The Rebellion. The Beginning. Star Wars Rebels, Lucasfilm’s highly anticipated animated series detailing the start of the fight against the evil Empire, is coming this fall — but fans can get a big sneak peek at San Diego Comic-Con.

Lucasfilm’s special panel, The Heroes of Star Wars Rebels, will feature executive producer Dave Filoni, as well as the first panel appearance by executive producer Simon Kinberg and stars Freddie Prinze, Jr., Vanessa Marshall, Steve Blum, Tiya Sircar, and Taylor Gray. They’ll discuss making the show and will reveal exclusive content from the upcoming series for fans in attendance.

Star Wars Rebels continues the epic tradition of the legendary Star Wars saga with all-new exciting, action-packed adventures. It is a dark time in the galaxy, as the evil Galactic Empire tightens its grip of power from world to world. As the series begins, Imperial forces have occupied a remote planet, ruling with an iron fist and ruining the lives of its people. The clever and motley crew of the starship Ghost is amongst a select few who are brave enough to stand against the Empire. Together, this ragtag group will face threatening new villains, encounter colorful adversaries, embark on thrilling adventures and become heroes with the power to ignite a rebellion.


Friday, July 25, Star Wars Day

Star Wars Origami: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Room 7AB
Origami Master folder Chris Alexander (author of Star Wars Origami) demonstrates and teaches the master folding techniques to make Star Wars origami figures. Attendees will fold an exclusive Comic-Con model along with other art from the Star Wars universe. Materials included!

Star Wars Storyboards: The Original Trilogy: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Room 7AB
For the first time, Lucasfilm has opened its Archives to present comprehensive storyboards for the original Star Wars trilogy — the world-changing A New Hope and its operatic sequels, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi — as well as never-before-published art from early conceptual and deleted scenes, in a new book from Abrams: Star Wars Storyboards: The Original Trilogy. Former ILM art director Joe Johnston will discuss the newest addition to the Abrams Star Wars library, and the singular experience of creating the iconic trilogy’s storyboards with his stellar art dept team. Johnston won an Academy Award for Best Visual effects for his work on Raiders of the Lost Ark, and has directed Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, The Rocketeer, Jumanji, Jurassic Park III, Hidalgo, and Captain America: The First Avenger. Moderated by Lucasfilm editor J.W. Rinzler.

Hasbro: Star Wars: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m., Room 7AB
Join members of the Hasbro brand and design team including Jeff Labovitz (director, Global Brand Marketing, Hasbro), Bill Rawley (design manager, Hasbro), and more as they discuss the popular Hasbro Star Wars line. Attendees will also get a sneak peek of upcoming, never-before-seen action figures from the highly anticipated Star Wars Rebels animated series.

Star Wars: Collectibles Update: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00pm, Room 7AB
Join eFX, Gentle Giant Studios, Kotobukiya, and Sideshow Collectibles for product development insights and exclusive previews of the latest in Star Wars collectibles. Moderated by Anita Castellar of Lucas Licensing.

Star Wars: A New Dawn: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00p.m., Room 7AB
The new era of Star Wars storytelling begins in September with Star Wars: A New Dawn. Join New York Times bestselling author John Jackson Miller, Shelly Shapiro (editor, Del Rey), Frank Parisi (editor, Del Rey), Jennifer Heddle (senior editor, Lucasfilm), Pablo Hidalgo (Lucasfilm Story Group), Vanessa Marshall (Hera in Star Wars Rebels), along with Dave Filoni (executive producer, Star Wars Rebels), as they discuss the planning and process of Star Wars: A New Dawn, and present the list of upcoming Star Wars novels from Del Rey.

Star Wars: The Adventures of Luke Skywalker, Jedi Knight: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Room 7AB
Ralph McQuarrie’s art for the original Star Wars trilogy is introduced to a new generation of young readers in Star Wars: The Adventures of Luke Skywalker, Jedi Knight. Join New York Times bestselling author Tony DiTerlizzi as he talks about the conceptualization of this project and the process, challenges, and privileges of writing to the works of a legend. Moderated by J.W. Rinzler (executive editor, Lucasfilm).


Saturday, July 26

Lucasfilm Portfolio Review: 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Room PR F
Troy Alders, now art director at Disney Consumer Products, is conducting portfolio reviews, providing critiques, and offering tips to graphic designers. Bring a portfolio selection of your best design work in and see if you have what it takes to create art for the ever-expanding Star Wars galaxy. Graphic Design degrees a plus.

They also note that Star Wars Episode VII will not be featured at the convention. Those expecting a title reveal or any other announcements about the film will be disappointed.

Source: StarWars.com

Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.

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Video: Bringing Chopper to Life

July 8, 2014, 3:15 pm
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By: Lillian Skye

Chopper, an astromech from Star Wars Rebels made of scrap and spare parts who has a quirky attitude to match, has a growing fan base now that he's rolled off of the screen and into the halls of Lucasfilm. 

The "real" Chopper was built by Michael McMaster, who has been in the R2 Builders Club since 2001. All of the parts used to make the astromech had to be hand made, and the droid took about 87 days to complete. McMaster compares Chopper to a swiss army knife, since he has so many "goodies," moving parts, and features.

"It's just always weird when you draw something on a piece of paper and then months later you're staring at it," said Star Wars Rebels executive producer  Dave Filoni when he first met the "real life" Chopper. "I love it."

Ever since his creation, Chopper has been spending time at Lucasfilm and has made appearances at promotional events as well as Star Wars Weekends, and is  scheduled to appear at Celebration Anaheim next year.

Check out the video below to see how McMaster brought Chopper to life…and keep watching to see new footage of of Chopper causing trouble in Rebels:


Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.

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Brian Muir Is Working On Episode VII

July 8, 2014, 4:51 pm
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By: Benjamin Hart

Jedi News is reporting that Legendary sculptor Brian Muir has just confirmed on his Facebook page that he has begun working on Star Wars Episode VII:


Muir is best know for his work on Episode IV: A New Hope where he sculpted the original Darth Vader helmet, as well as Stormtrooper armor for the film.  He has also offered his talents to other film franchises such as Marvel, Indiana Jones, James Bond and Superman, among others. Having him back working on the Sequel Trilogy of the Star Wars Saga is truly awesome!

Visit Brian Muir's official website for info.

Source: Facebook

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Report: Episode VII Set Photo & IMAX Details

July 8, 2014, 5:33 pm
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By: Benjamin Hart

Today J.J. Abrams' production company Bad Robot tweeted an image of an IMAX camera hovering over a Tatooine-looking landscape, with the only the hashtag: #bestformatever Many immediately assumed this to be from Episode VII, and a confirmation that at least part of the film is be filmed in IMAX.


Later, /Film contacted an IMAX representative who said; “All we can say at this point is that we can confirm that JJ Abrams is using the IMAX camera for Star Wars: Episode VII.”

They also confirmed that it will be shot on 70mm IMAX film.

/Film later added: UPDATE: "Pajiba also added that Abrams is shooting the film on three, 65mm 2D IMAX cameras. (There are only four in the world and the other is being used for Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice). After that, it’ll be converted to 3D just like Abrams did on his last film Star Trek Into Darkness. UPDATE 2: However, IMAX officials responded saying they “did not provide or confirm” that information."

Obviously we already knew Episode VII was going to be released in IMAX, that was confirmed months ago. What's new is the fact that at least some scenes will be filmed with IMAX cameras and not converted to IMAX in post-production. And it's also worth noting that they did not confirm the tweeted photo is from Episode VII. But, considering Bad Robot's track record of sharing photos from the set, I think we're safe to assume that is indeed Tatooine.

Nevertheless, it's going to be awesome seeing Star Wars on a massive IMAX screen! Decemeber 18th, 2015 can't come soon enough!

Via: Making Star Wars
Sources: Twitter, /Film

Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.

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DARTH DADDY's CUSTOMIZING CORNER: SWK KUSTOMS

July 8, 2014, 6:44 pm
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by: Darth Daddy



Kevin Ferrier, aka SWK KUSTOMS / kr2700, created two very cool figures in our collection at home. A Jedi version of my son Elias that he sent as a gift for showcasing his work on our blog and a Vergere action figure that we bought on eBay way when we first started collecting custom Star Wars action figures.

SWK Kustoms started making custom Star Wars figures in 2007. He said his wife Lynn bought him a Han Solo figure as a birthday gift. “You should always get at least one toy on your birthday,” she said.

His own collection started shortly after. He thought about making a battle mock up of 100-200 Jedi and Sith, a scene that he imagined would be in the Clone Wars! The prequels went down a different path however…

Soon he had around 50 custom Jedi & 50 Sith (Jedi spray painted black). A few months later he began to get bored with just doing simple figures, so he started to experiment. He went through a phase where he made a lot of alien Jedi. He also did more interesting Sith Lords. His wife then suggested that other people might be interested in his figures, so he put some on eBay and his new hobby started to generate some interest!

Now seven years later with more customs than you could count under his belt, SWK Kustoms is still at it specializing in fully articulated figures. SWK Kustoms creates fully articulated and detailed Custom 4” figures from Star Wars, Star Trek, DC, Marvel or anything you can think of. With SWK you can also become your favorite character as well: Jedi, Sith, Stormtrooper, Mandalorian and much more. Figures can be purchased upon request. Price is based on how hard the piece is to make, usually between $50-150. All figures come with specialized weapons or gear and name plate stands.

Check out his eBay page and add an SWK Kustoms action figure to your collection today!





















Vergere action figure from my son's collection




 Action figure of my son created by SWK Kustoms.








Check out his "profile page" on eBay at:
http://myworld.ebay.com/kr2700?ssPageName=ADME:X:CEM:US:1181



Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.
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Rumor: Steven Moffat Offered A Star Wars Film

July 9, 2014, 4:46 pm
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By: Benjamin Hart

Our friends at Jedi News are reporting that  the man behind such TV series as Doctor Who and Sherlock has been asked to helm a Star Wars film. They are unclear which film it could be, either a numbered Saga episode or a stand-alone, or if he could be writing, directing or producing. Jedi News points to several connections Moffat already has to to Star Wars. Firstly, his colleague and former showrunner on Doctor Who Russel T. Davies was offered a job working on the now shelved Star Wars Underworld live action series, which he declined. Secondly, they claim that Moffat's Star Wars involvement was inspired by his working with Steven Spielberg on The Adventures Of Tintin. Obviously Spielberg has very close ties with George Lucas, Kathleen Kennedy and Lucasfilm.

Given these connections, I think it's plausible that Moffat has been approached to work on a future Star Wars film. Lucasfilm has already selected a variety of writers and directors such as Gareth Edwards, Josh Trank, Gary Whitta and Rian Johnson. Moffat would be yet another great asset to the ongoing Star Wars saga. But as always, this merely a rumor and should be taken with a grain of salt until it's confirmed.

Source: Jedi News

Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.
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Introducing Agent Kallus

July 10, 2014, 7:56 am
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By: Lillian Skye

We've met our heroes, but now the villains are stepping into the spotlight. In a recent clip released by Lucasfilm, it is revealed that Agent Kallus is the right-hand man to the Inquisitor and that he is a "rebel hunter who works for the Imperial Security Bureau. Kallus hopes that by capturing rebels that he can move up through the ranks.

"I guess you could safely say he's a bad guy,"said David Oyelowo who will be portraying Kallus. Oyelowo, who has had roles in movies like Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Lincoln, and Lee Daniels’ The Butler, has a commanding voice fit for an Imperial officer.


Kallus' facial hair was designed to capture the strong "70's feeling" that A New Hope had, said executive producer Dave Filoni. “Art director Kilian Plunkett and I looked at a lot of reference to try and make that influence fit into ‘Rebels.’ At one point we had [Rebel pilot] Zeb in bell bottoms.” Filoni hopes that someone will cosplay Kallus, facial hair and all, at Comic Con next year. (But hey, SDCC is still two weeks away….there's time to work on that costume and shape any existing facial hair into 70's sideburns.)

Oyelowo noted that everyone working on Star Wars Rebels realizes that there's a legacy that they have to carry on. "We all take that very seriously," he said.

Watch the video introducing the rebel hunter here, and keep watching for clips of Agent Kallus in action to be revealed!

Source: LA Times

Update: A YouTube version of the video has been added to the official Star Wars channel, which you can watch below:



Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.

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Report: More Evidence Of Episode VII Filming In Forest Of Dean, UK

July 10, 2014, 2:24 pm
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By: Benjamin Hart

A few days ago the BBC reported on a film set they spotted in Puzzlewood in the Forest Of Dean in the United Kingdom. Although  it wasn't clear if this production was associated with Star Wars Episode VII, many clues pointed to that being the case. Now we have an assortment of new info and images that may confirm our speculation.

First of all, the Daily Mail has released several photos of of the set, including shots of presumed actors wearing black robes, one of which is also seen wearing white boots that look very similar to what Stormtroopers wear. Making Star Wars points out that these robes are the same as what was used to conceal costumes on the set of J.J. Abrams' Star Trek films. You can view the rest of the photos here.


Also, it has been previously rumored that "AVCO" is the secret production title for Episode VII. BBC's Steve Knibbs, who visited the set in the previous report, tweeted this:

Interesting. That logo's font does seem to be quite Star Wars-esque. And "Rogue unit" is an interesting choice for a film crew name.

Obviously none of this is confirmed and could just be a massive coincidence, but I think it's a safe bet this film site has something to do with Episode VII. The big question now is; what planet is this? The Puzzlewood landscape does look very similar to Endor, but also different enough to be an entirely new planet. What do you think it is? Let us know in the comments below!

As always, nothing is official until it comes from Lucasfilm. Take this report with a grain of salt.

Photos via: Daily Mail
Sources: Jedi News, Daily Mail, Twitter

Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.

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The SWU Podcast LIVE | 11/07/14

July 10, 2014, 9:54 pm
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On this episode Chris, Ben, and Dominic break down the latest Star Wars news an rumors!  They examine the casting of Pip Andersen and Crystal Clarke and speculate about their role, as well as the roles of the rest of the cast, will be.  They also delve into the latest from Star Wars Rebels including the reveal of Agent Kallus.  Plus, a Harrison Ford update, more from Kevin Smith, the Episode VII crew reportedly spotted in the forest of Dean, and is Steven Moffat writing a Star Wars movie?  All this and much more!
Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.

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Opinion: The Planet That's Farthest From

July 11, 2014, 12:03 pm
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When word got out that filming for Star Wars Episode VII would be taking place in Abu Dhabi the natural assumption was that the saga would be returning to Tatooine.  This was further backed up by videos of JJ Abrams on the set, as well as a whole bunch of leaked set photos.   Naturally, the Star Wars fandom is split about a return to Tatooine.  Many fans, including myself, are excited about returning to the place where, in many ways, the saga began.  While others feel that too many trips back to Tatooine will take away from it's specialness.

I can understand the view point of those who don't feel a return to Tatooine is necessary.  It has been one of the most visited planets in all Star Wars material, including the Original Trilogy, the Prequel Trilogy, The Clone Wars, The Old Republic, and countless novels and comics.  And yet, in Episode IV, Luke describes the planet by saying, "if there's a bright center of the universe, you're on the planet that it's farthest from."  With this in mind, why is it we keep going back there?

The simple truth is there is a lot more going on on Tatooine than Luke acknowledges.    In our visits to the desert planet we have seen that there is a lot going on.  First and foremost the planet is the center of Jabba the Hutt's crime rings and, as a result, many seedy cantinas which are havens for smugglers and bounty hunters.  The seedy underbelly of the galaxy has played a major role in the Star Wars films and will likely continue to do so, especially when the stand alone films start to come out.  So it makes sense that bounty hunters like Boba Fett, Bossk, and Latts Razzi would meet to plan their next hunt on Tatooine (like we saw in The Clone Wars episode "Bounty").

Now, it's possible Luke was simply exaggerating for effect.  The words of a bored teenager who feels they are not able to peruse their dreams because of their location cannot be taken at face value.  It's also possible that this whole other part of Tatooine is simply beyond Luke's realm.  We get the sense from A New Hope that Luke doesn't get much time away from his uncle's farm, so this whole other side of Tatooine may as well be on Coruscant for him.  Do we even know if Luke had been to Mos Eisley before he escorted Obi-Wan there for his fateful meeting with Han Solo?  The fact that Obi-Wan has to explain where they are going ("You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy") seems to indicate no.  Owen and Beru clearly shelter Luke, so to him Tatooine may feel very small and insignificant.

While these are all valid reasons to return to Tatooine, this question still remains: why did, arguably, the two most important figures in galactic history end up there.  Both Luke and Anakin spent time growing up on Tatooine.  Coincidence?  Maybe, but unlikely.  As Qui-Gon says, "Nothing happens by accident."  Perhaps the Force is unusually strong with this planet.  We have seen other planets, like Dagobah, that are connected to the Force in ways that planets like Naboo and Hoth are not.  Perhaps there is something about Tatooine that keeps drawing major events back to it.  This would explain why it would be the only planet to be featured in all three trilogies. 

Is this theory a bit far fetched?  Maybe.  But then again, the Force acts in mysterious ways.  I like to think that there is something bigger at play when it comes to Tatooine.  That the Force keeps drawing our heroes back there for something.  What that something is, I don't know.  It could be a test, or a lesson about patience and living in the here and now, or maybe there is something about Tatooine that is strong in the dark side which needs to be fought or balanced out.  

As we move forward with this new era of Star Wars films it's likely that we will be making more than one trip back to Tatooine.  Partially due to it's iconic status, but also due to the reasons stated above.  And, like I said, maybe there's something bigger going on on Tatooine that we don't know about yet.  It's a new age and anything is possible....

You can follow Dominic on Twitter: @DominicJ25
 
This article is an opinion piece and represents the views of the writer, and not the entire Star Wars Underworld organization.


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In Case You Missed It: July 5th - 12th, 2014

July 13, 2014, 12:26 am
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By: Benjamin Hart

Here we are again with another edition of ICYMI! This week we have some big Episode VII news, plus a new Rebels character, San Diego Comic Con, Chopper, Doctor Who and much more. Read on and get caught up!

Two NEW Episode VII Actors Found At Open Casting Call
The powers that be at Lucasfilm have selected two unknown actors from the open casting calls held last year in the U.S & U.K. They also give an update on how the production is dealing with Harrison Ford's injury. Read more...

More From Kevin Smith On Episode VII
Kevin Smith continues talk about his experience on the Episode VII set.  Read more...

Evidence Of Episode VII Filming In Forest Of Dean, UK
The BBC has uncovered several signs that Lucasfilm is filming in Puzzlewood. Read more here and here...

Trainer: Harrison Ford 'Feeling Great, In Great Spirits'
Harrison's personal trainer had some very positive things to say about the actor's recovery. Read more...

Episode VII Set Photo & IMAX Details
It appears Bad Robot has revealed a new set photo, while also revealed that the IMAX cameras are being used to film at least part of the film. Read more...

Brian Muir Is Working On Episode VII
The legendary sculptor of Darth Vader's original helmet has confirmed he's working on the next Star Wars film. Read more...

Introducing Agent Kallus
David Oyelowo has been cast as the "Rebel hunter" antagonist of Star Wars Rebels.  Read more...

Video: Bringing Chopper to Life
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San Diego Comic Con Star Wars Panels Announced
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Star Wars Books Sample Available for Free on Amazon
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Rumor: Steven Moffat Offered A Star Wars Film
The Doctor Who and Sherlock showrunner may be directing/writing/producing a future Star Wars film. Read more...


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Rumor: New Star Wars Rebels Character Revealed

July 14, 2014, 11:51 am
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By: Benjamin Hart

A new character from the upcoming animated series Star Wars Rebels may have been revealed! The German fan site Jedi-Bibliothek has received information and a photo of a Devaronian named "Cikatro Vizago" who is a "criminal boss who operates on Lothal".  The photo(above) certainly looks to be in the same style animation as Rebels is. And it also matches some previously leaked plot descriptions of the first two episodes of Rebels where Vizago is mentioned. Jedi-Bibliothek also mentions that that his name roughly translates from Spanish and French into "Scarface".

Even though this does look legitimate, it's not official until Lucasfilm makes an announcement. Take this info with a grain of salt.



Via: Rebel Transmission
Source: Jedi-Bibliothek

Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.

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Star Wars Insider Announces Jeffery Brown Signing at SDCC

July 14, 2014, 6:30 pm
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By: Dominic Jones

Our friends over at Star Wars Insider have let us know that Star Wars author Jeffery Brown (Darth Vader and Son, Jedi Academy) will be doing a special signing during San Diego Comic Con at the Titan Booth (#5537) at 3 PM on Friday July 25th.   This coincides with issue #151 of Insider which features two collectible covers, one of which features original artwork by Brown (the other features the character Hera Syndulla from Star Wars Rebels).  Issue #151 will be available at the Titan booth throughout SDCC.

The official description of Issue #151 reads,

Star Wars Insider #151 brings you the exclusive collectible Jeffrey Brown cover!

With Star Wars Rebels just around the corner we talk to Vanessa Marshall, who plays Hera the Rebel pilot who's always at the centre of the action! Comic creator Jeffrey brown talks about his latest Star Wars boos, Goodnight Darth Vader and revisiting Jedi Academy! The amazing behind the scenes story of Dark Horse Comics' Tales of the Jedi series is revealed and we investigate how Star Wars won geek girl love!


Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.
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'Star Wars: The Original Marvel Years' Omnibus Announced

July 15, 2014, 9:13 am
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By: Dominic Jones

The first Star Wars publication following the return of the comics license to Marvel, will be a nostalgic one!  StarWars.com announced the Star Wars: The Original Marvel Years Omnibus today.  The book will include issues 1-44 as well as Annual 1.  And, in case your wondering, no the old Marvel series is not canon, it's Legends.  It is slated for a January 2015 release. 

Check out the official press release below,
In 1977 a phenomenon dawned. Marvel Comics published the very first Star Wars comic-book series. Now, the House of Ideas is re-presenting those original adventures in its over-sized Omnibus format — Star Wars: The Original Marvel Years collecting Star Wars (1977) #1-44 and Annual #1.

It’s the return of the Jedi to Marvel in an opening volume that begins with Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope and ends with Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back. In between, the Rebels face a wealth of new perils — from space pirate Crimson Jack to the bounty hunter Beilert Valance, as well as a surprisingly svelte Jabba the Hut (one “t”). Luke goes back to Tatooine, Leia battles alone, Han and Chewie play the deadly Big Game, and Darth Vader hunts for answers! Revisit all your old favorites and discover some new ones!

There’s no doubt, the Force is strong with this collection! 

“With Star Wars poised to return to its comic book home, what better time to revisit the first adventures of Luke, Leia, Han, Chewbacca, C-3PO, R2-D2, and, of course, Darth Vader?” says Marvel editor in chief, Axel Alonso. “I am extremely proud to present these original Star Wars stories, told as only Marvel can, in the first in a massive and glorious Omnibus series.”

Star Wars: The Original Marvel Years comes out of lightspeed this fall and is written by Roy Thomas, Howard Chaykin, Archie Goodwin, Jo Duffy, and Chris Claremont, with pencils by Howard Chaykin, Carmine Infantino, Walter Simonson, Herb Trimpe, Michael Golden, Al Williamson, and Mike Vosburg. Each copy of Star Wars: The Original Marvel Years will also be wrapped in a glorious covers by Howard Chaykin and Greg Hilderbrandt.

STAR WARS OMNIBUS VOL. 1 HC CHAYKIN COVER
WRITTEN BY ROY THOMAS, HOWARD CHAYKIN, ARCHIE GOODWIN, JO DUFFY & CHRIS CLAREMONT
PENCILED BY HOWARD CHAYKIN, CARMINE INFANTINO, WALTER SIMONSON, HERB TRIMPE,
MICHAEL GOLDEN, AL WILLIAMSON & MIKE VOSBURG
COVERS BY HOWARD CHAYKIN & GREG HILDEBRANDT

880 PGS./Rated T …$125.00
ISBN: 978-0-7851-9106-3
STAR WARS OMNIBUS VOL. 1 HC HILDEBRANDT COVER (DM ONLY)
880 PGS./Rated T …$125
ISBN: 978-0-7851-9318-0

 
Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.
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Bail Organa, Vizago, and Others Confirmed in the Star Wars Rebels Visual Guide

July 15, 2014, 3:04 pm
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By: Lillian Skye

The WolfPack Podcast tweeted a picture earlier today from the Star Wars Rebels Visual Guide that spiraled into several character confirmations of both new and iconic Star Wars character that will have appearances in the latest series:


Since Bail Organa was a Senator and a founding member of the Rebel Alliance, it would only be appropriate that he would have a cameo or at the bare minimum be referenced in the upcoming series specifically about rebels.

The visual guide also confirmed an earlier rumor about a green skinned alien being in the show. The character is a forty year old Devaronian named Cikatro Vizago, who wields a blaster called  "Vilmarh's Revenge." According to Vizago, "business is all that matters."

The Star Wars Rebels Visual Guide also has images of young Imperials, and has confirmed that Lothal is home to the Imperial Training Academy, where new Imperials Commandant Comberlayne Aresko and Taskmaster Myles Grint are are stationed.

Other facts from the guide:
  • Hera is 24
  • Kanan is 28
  • Ezra is attracted to Sabine
  • Zeb utilizes a Bo-rifle for combat
  • There are several Wookiees that will appear in the series.
  • Zeb's encounters with with the Empire on Lasan have made him sympathetic
  • Bail Organa loans R2-D2 and C-3PO to Imperial Governor Pryce on Lothal

WARNING, SPOILERS FROM THIS POINT ON!




Plot details from the show are also revealed in the guide:

  • Ezra will infiltrate the Imperial Training Academy and introduces a new rebel who is actually an imperial named Zare.
  • A surviving Jedi Master is being held in a remote prison by the Empire.
  • A group of Wookiees are sent to the spice mines of Kessel, the "most feared labor camps of the galaxy," by Agent Kallus
  • Ezra has Jedi training
  • The Inquisitor's is a formidable foe for Kanan.

For a complete review of the Star Wars Rebels Visual Guide, check out the video review by Cory of the WolfPack Podcast below:



Sources: The WolfPack Podcast,  Star Wars Rebels Visual Guide by Adam Bray

Follow The Star Wars Underworld on Twitter @TheSWU for more updates about this story and other breaking Star Wars news.

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