Star Wars Insider #188

SURVIVING CELEBRATION






Let’s be honest— But enthralling as the experience
T there’s no event is, the bustle of five jam-packed
quite like Star
days of panels, exhibits, and photo
Wars Celebration.
sessions—as well as squeezing in the
From the very basics like sleeping and eating—can “Celebration is
moment you get a little overwhelming, especially created by fans,
walk into the exhibition hall if you happen to be new to the
and fan-made props transport convention scene. But fear not, for fans. It’s an
you beyond the stars, to being Padawan learners! We’ve gathered authentic festival
in the same room as people together ReedPop’s Global Events
like George Lucas, Daisy Ridley, Director Mary Franklin, stage host the community
or Ashley Eckstein, the entire Amy Ratcliffe, and The Star Wars can enjoy together.”
event is a thrilling experience of Show LIVE! host (and Chicago-area
Mary Franklin
unparalleled exhilaration. Add native) Andi Gutierrez, to bring you
to that the exclusive previews, all the tips you need to make your
panels, trailers, and exciting first Celebration a success!
announcements, combined
with the inspiring way that fans Ready, are you? What Time management is another
channel their love for Star Wars know you of ready? vital element to get to grips with.
into creating detailed cosplay, Before you even leave home, “You’re going to feel like you have
interactive droid builds, and consider downloading the official to do everything possible at the
countless other exhibits and app to turn your smartphone into convention,” suggests Amy Ratcliffe,
experiences, and the overall effect a lifeline for the event. “When who has attended fi ve Celebrations
is an unforgettable escape from packing for Star Wars Celebration, since 2010, starting as a fan and this
the real world. the number one thing I make sure year reprising her role as stage host.
It truly is an event that celebrates I have is the Star Wars Celebration “Listen to your body and take care
the very best that Star Wars fandom app,” says Mary Franklin. “It puts of it. Recognize you cannot do it all
has to offer. And, with Episode IX the schedule, maps, and more right unless you’ve been to Kamino and
hitting theaters this December, new in my hand. For fans attending the cloned yourself.”
episodes of Star Wars: The Clone show, the notifications and news It’s tempting to spend hours
Wars coming in the not-too-distant can be invaluable.” The tool keeps in line to nab a spot at some of
future, and two new live-action you up-to-date on panels and other the biggest panels. And while it is
Star Wars series—Jon Favreau’s happenings while you roam the amazing to be in the room where
The Mandalorian and Diego Luna show floor, and Franklin promises it all happens, there’s so much
returning as Cassian Andor—this that this year it will be packed with more to see and do. You might opt
year’s Star Wars Celebration looks set new features to help enjoy your to catch the big panels from the
to be a particularly memorable one. time to the fullest. StarWars.com livestream or hit the
small panels in person, or you could
hang out by The Star Wars Show
LIVE! stage and catch unscheduled
special guests up close; or you might
simply decide to explore the exhibit
hall and bond with likeminded
fans—but whatever you chose to
do, you will undoubtedly have a
memorable time.
“Pick five must-dos and make

a plan to do them,” Ratcliffe also
suggests, adding that it’s unwise
to skimp on resting in between.
“Get a full night’s sleep. And, if
you can help it, don’t roll into the
convention three hours after you
Remeber to get off an overnight fl ight.”
wrap up warm at
Celebration Chicago You should also build in some
2019—it’s a lot windier extra time to explore the beautiful
than Anaheim!
city hosting the festivities—and
most importantly, pack for the
climate. “Chicago is a city of great






STAR WARS INSIDER / 51

SURVIVINGCELEBRATION






food, museums and entertainment,”
Franklin says. “So if you have set
aside some days to explore, either
before or after Celebration, be sure
you’re prepared!”


Judge me by my size,
do you?
Although Franklin’s job is to make
sure the entire Celebration show
goes without a hitch, some of her
favorite parts are the quieter, fan-
produced segments. “The smaller
stages, the interactive areas, and the Whether you come in
costume, or simply marvel
experiences hosted by fans can be
at costumers’ ingenuity,
the most special and memorable Celebration is the perfect
events of the weekend,” she says. place to get a taste of
Star Wars cosplay.
“Look for activities where you can
get involved—there are lots of
them: The Bounty Hunt, Droid
Races, Diorama Building, classes


in the Star Wars University, trivia had never done any live hosting
“The fans are why Star Wars competitions, and live game shows. before, so I was convinced I was

is what it is today, and no The list is endless, and they refl ect going to crash and burn and be a

Lucasfilm’s care that Celebration total wreck. But, once I got there, it
matter how much I know is created by fans, for fans. It’s an was a totally different experience.”
that going in, I always leave authentic festival the community The show was still new, so Gutierrez
can enjoy together.” spent her free time walking the
surprised in some way. I’ve Despite her role as the woman floor and experiencing the event

made so many friends behind the curtain, the fans still as a regular fan. “I had honestly
manage to surprise Franklin. “One gone into it thinking that it wasn’t
at Celebration.” of my very favorite fan-run activities possible for me to love Star Wars

Andi Gutierrez is the ‘Running of the Hoods,’” more than I did, but I left with so
she says of a tradition to celebrate much more than I ever imagined.
the Cloud City character who Each Celebration since has been
spends just a few brief moments like recharging my battery; any
sprinting across screen in Star frustrations or gripes just get put
Wars: The Empire Strikes Back aside because you’re there with
(1980). “You never know when it thousands of other people with the
will happen, because they keep it a same purpose, and it’s so special.”
secret, but suddenly one day during These days, long stretches of
Celebration, dozens and dozens livestreaming mean Gutierrez
of orange-clad, ice cream maker- doesn’t get to sit in the audience
carrying Willrow Hood cosplayers for most of the panels and events,
will come running past,” Franklin but luckily the show comes to her,
says. “The Hoods photobomb, chant making for special surprise moments
‘Ice Cream,’ and celebrate a spirit of and unscripted interactions. “Most
inclusiveness.” One year, Franklin of my favorite moments from the
even got in on the fun. “They gave stage are when I know something
me a mustache and allowed me before the crowd does, and we
to run with them for a little bit at finally get to let them in on it.

Celebration Anaheim in 2015. That Seeing people love Star Wars is the
remains one of the highlights of my best part of my job,” she shares.
Celebration career,” she says. At Celebration London, The Star
Andi Gutierrez experienced her Wars Show team schemed to
first Celebration from the stage at surprise Gutierrez with her all-time

The Star Wars Show LIVE! the same favorite Celebration moment—an
year. “I was terrified,” she says. “I unexpected interview with Carrie

SURVIVING CELEBRATION






Fisher. “I’d had multiple potential just a massive explosion of joy and “Each Celebration is
interviews with her (going back cheering. It was pretty emotional,
to Celebration Anaheim) fall and in my opinion, what this whole like recharging my battery;
through at the last moment,” recalls thing is all about. Having that front- any frustrations or gripes
Gutierrez. My boss Mickey Capoferri, row seat is one of the peak moments
and my producers Scott Bromley of my Star Wars life.” just get put aside because
and John Harper all conspired to From the Behind-the-Scenes you’re there with thousands
get her to the stage undetected, stage, Ratcliffe spends Star Wars of other people with the
giving me the best surprise of my Celebration introducing fans
life. Thankfully, Scott also hid a to some of the great minds and same purpose, and it’s
card with questions under my table, creative forces who bring special so special.”
because I could barely put words effects and beloved toy lines to life,
together, let alone organize my but there’s also another aspect of Andi Gutierrez
thoughts into a decent interview.” the show she loves. “I look forward
A screen hovering over the to seeing my Star Wars family, the
stage enables the gathered crowds friends I met through Celebration or revels in the experience. “When
to experience real-time panels through Twitter, and don’t get to see I’m hosting a stage, I don’t get out
happening elsewhere in the much outside of the convention,” and about to explore as much as
convention center. “The absolute she says. “I also cannot wait to I did when I was attending as a
best was when it was revealed that browse the exhibit hall and add fan—at least, not when everyone
Thrawn was coming to Rebels,” to my enamel pin collection.” else is around. I try to get to the
Gutierrez says. “We were streaming When Ratcliffe attended her fi rst convention center early every day
the Rebels panel at our stage to a Celebration in 2010, she had to take and look into the exhibit hall before

packed house, and we knew that a red-eye flight from Los Angeles to panels begin on my stage. Because
the trailer at the end would reveal Orlando on Friday night, then spent I’m in one spot, it makes it easy to
him, so I positioned myself on the weekend soaking in the fun. say hello to friends as they know
the side of the stage to watch with “I sampled different types of panels where to find me. I get to enjoy

everyone, and got my phone ready. and spent a lot of time checking more panels than I did attending
I started recording as the trailer out the exhibit hall. I didn’t know as a fan, just by always being in the
played, and captured the whole anyone at the convention, but since room. It’s a blast.”
crowd piecing together the hints; I was surrounded by something
first just watching intently, some I love with fans like me, I had a A Jedi must have the

whispers from people here and sense of being in a comfortable, deepest commitment
there, then finally all coming to the welcoming place.” There’s something really special

same realization together. There Now she spends most of the about being surrounded by so
was a collective gasp, and then convention in one spot, but still many fellow fans. Star Wars is about
hope and the strength of coming
together, and these powerful stories
and memorable characters are what
Join other bring the community together each
Star Wars fans in
offering a rapturous Celebration as well.
welcome to your heroes “I personally get a lot of anxiety
as they walk on
stage. in big crowds,” says Gutierrez.
“And I’ve talked to more than
a couple of fans privately who
have expressed that same anxiety
as a deterrent from attending
Celebration.” However, she’s found
that the crowds at Celebration feel
surprisingly manageable. “Maybe it’s
because everything is Star Wars,” she
adds. “It feels familiar and focused,
and the planning crew does such
a good job with the layout.” For
those feeling anxious beforehand,
Gutierrez advises scouting ahead to
get a feel for the venue and nearby
area. “Not every area of the show is
packed, so it’s absolutely possible






STAR WARS INSIDER / 53

At every
Celebration, fans
witness breaking A packing
Star Wars news
first-hand, and list for the
meet new cast uninitiated:
members.
Your finest Star Wars apparel
Time to break out your favorite,
best-loved Star Wars shirts, or
dress up in a casual cosplay.
If you’re planning on all-out
costuming, make sure to pack
some back-ups in case you
want an alternative to the
makeup and full-body armor.

Two pairs of comfortable shoes
Crisscrossing the convention
center three or four times each
day can be tough on the old
feet, so comfy shoes are a must!

to walk away and find some space. It Ratcliffe agrees. “I remember sitting Band Aids
In case of blisters, always carry
also helps to have a friend with you in line at Celebration Anaheim to
a stash of Star Wars band aids!
who understands your situation so see a panel about The Clone Wars
you can duck out together and go and easily talking to the family Warm clothes
Unlike the Florida and California
get a bite to eat, or take a break at behind me and a group in front of
cons, Chicago can have some
your hotel,” she says. me about the series. I still talk to very chilly days. “Chicago can
One of the best things about a couple of those people today on be very cold in April, so warm
clothes will be essential,”
Celebration is the unabashed fan social media. The bond of common
Franklin says. “Even if spring
love and the automatic sense of interest makes it easier to connect is taking hold, that bitter Lake
community that permeates the with new pals.” Michigan wind can whip up at
convention hall, even when you’re “Making new friends is central any time. It could even snow.”
surrounded by thousands of people to the experience,” adds Gutierrez. External batteries or portable
you’ve never met before. “I’m a bit “The fans are why Star Wars is what cell phone chargers
For when your cell powers
shy when it comes to introducing it is today, and no matter how much
down and you’re nowhere
myself to others, but I have an easier I know that going in, I always leave near an outlet.
time doing so at Celebration because surprised in some way. I’ve made
Water
everyone’s there for Star Wars,” so many friends at Celebration, In all the excitement, keeping
and have so many memories of hydrated is easy to forget.
incredible people. I have a bulletin Chapstick

“Pick five must-dos and board in my office covered with To battle the dry air of the

make a plan to do them… pins, patches, and little bits of these convention center hallways.
interactions that I’ve collected Snacks
And if you can help it, don’t over the years. Recognizing online Anything that can be lugged
roll into the convention friends’ faces in the crowd, sharing around easily for a quick boost.

that nod, and getting to meet them Hand sanitizer and Vitamins
three hours after you get in person for the fi rst time—there Con crud is real, and it’s no fun
off an overnight fl ight.” are so many devoted fans with their being sick. Pack some hand
sanitizer and share liberally
own unique and touching personal with your new friends!
Amy Ratcliffe
Star Wars journeys, I could go on
and on.”
So have patience and focus
on making the most of every meet, and long-time friends you’ll
unforgettable moment. “Spend reconnect with. A little planning,
some time researching all the and expecting the unexpected, can
different kinds of things that you create big returns.”
can do at the show,” Franklin says. We’re looking forward to
“Make time for the specialty fun meeting you all and making new
as well as the spectacular, show- friends already! For the very latest
stopping events. And be sure to updates on everything going on
pause and look around you, and at this year’s Celebration, be sure
soak up all the community and fan- to bookmark StarWars.com and
created fun. There are new friends to starwarscelebration.com.






54 / STAR WARS INSIDER

WELCOME TO THE





SPIDER-VERSE

















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DIRECTORS BOB PERSICHETTI,
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SITH UNSEEN: A RETROSPECTIVE

















SITH
































A RETR OS P E C T I V E





Collectibles, merchandise, and all kinds of licensed products have been a part of
Star Wars since the very beginning, and are naturally must-buys for hardcore fans
and collectors alike. But often these supplements to the main feature fi lms off er more

than simply tie-in entertainment. Insider examines how novels, games, and comics
expanded Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith beyond the confi nes of its onscreen story.


W ORDS: J AY S T OB IE




n an age where While this approach is now the story behind it. And anyone
every cinematic commonplace—and since the who wanted to learn about the
I universe creates 2014 reset of Star Wars fictional film’s aftermath need only turn
’

to Luceno’s follow-up novel, Dark
a tight web of
history, has been a core element
narrative links of Lucasfilm’s storytelling—the Lord: The Rise of Darth Vader .
between movies company pioneered the use The connections presented
and their spin-offs, modern genre of a well-focused, multimedia in these off -screen off erings
fans have become accustomed push when Star Wars: Revenge alluded to Revenge of the Sith in
to seeing the latest blockbusters of the Sith was released on May various ways, from referencing
arrive with an abundance of 19, 2005. Prior to that date, unseen characters to describing
tie-in material, in the form of expectant fans could already play the events that immediately
video games, novels, comics, Star Wars Republic Commando preceded the movie’s opening
:
and more. These supplementary to get a sneak peek of General crawl. While these stories have
sources often divulge new details Grievous and the build-up to the since been superseded by new
and subplots that relate to the Battle of Kashyyyk. Once the film tales from Marvel, Del Rey, and
feature’s central story, offering hit theaters, fans who wondered others, examining the plots of the
fans an ever more immersive about Obi-Wan Kenobi’s cryptic most prominent licensed product

experience in which to explore line concerning “that business from 2005 offers a fascinating

characters, events, and even on Cato Neimoidia” had the window on efforts at the time to
entire worlds beyond the chance to read James Luceno’s create a cohesive narrative across
confines of the movie itself. Labyrinth of Evil and discover diff erent media.






56 / STAR WARS INSIDER

SITH UNSEEN: A RETROSPECTIVE











grievous prequel
STAR WARS:
GENERAL GRIEVOUS



RELEASE DATE: AUTHOR: Chuck Dixon
MarchtoAugust2005 PENCILS: Rick Leonardi
INKS: Mark Pennington
PUBLISHER:
Dark Horse Comics


et a year prior to the events of Revenge
of the Sith, the four-issue General
S Grievous comic superbly emphasizes
the Separatist leader’s status as a murderous
war criminal, who poses an imminent threat
to the Jedi. Combined with Count Dooku’s
training, Grievous’ metallic physique and

fiendish demeanor generate a ruthless Jedi
killing machine, leading three Jedi to become
so concerned that they leave the Order to track
the General down and assassinate him.
In the meantime, Grievous continues to
ravage the Republic by slaughtering a Mon
Calamari starship’s crew, ordering another
Jedi’s execution, capturing several Padawans,
and leading a genocidal invasion that wipes
out the majority of Ugnaughts living on their
home planet. The General devises an even more
diabolical fate for the Padawans: he envisions
replacing much of their anatomy with droid
exoskeletons designed to harness their Force
talents for evil. When the Padawans escape their
cell, Grievous quickly grows tired of the chase
and prepares to put the younglings to death. The
rogue Jedi catch up with Grievous in the nick
of time and prioritize saving the Padawans over
eliminating their target. Two of the three Jedi
even give their lives fighting Grievous to buy

enough time for the children to retreat off-world.
The comic clearly establishes General Grievous
as the imposing villain that we encounter in
Revenge of the Sith, and paints him as a ruthless
beast in an effective effort to showcase why the
galaxy fears Grievous so much.




Combined with Count Dooku’s

training Grievous’ metallic
physique and fiendish demeanor

generate a ruthless Jedi

killing machine.











STAR WARS INSIDER / 57

SITH UNSEEN: A RETROSPECTIVE






call in the clones the Wookiee chieftain who later works with
STAR WARS: Chewbacca to facilitate Master Yoda’s escape after

REPUBLIC COMMANDO Order 66. Delta Squad successfully rescue Tarfful
from his reptilian captors and, possessing the vital
intelligence they’ve uncovered, Tarfful leaves the
RELEASE DATE: PUBLISHER: planet in order to deliver the data to Coruscant.
February 28, 2005 LucasArts
Grievous escapes to his ship, the Invisible Hand,
linking the game directly to the opening space
n this first-person video game, players battle of Episode III.

take on the role of RC-01/138, a clone The Separatist presence on Kashyyyk in
I commanding the elite unit Delta Squad. Republic Commando is what prompts Master
Nicknamed ‘Boss,’ you lead a team of three Ki-Adi-Mundi’s question to the Jedi Council
troopers into warzones strewn across the in Revenge of the Sith: “What about the droid
Star Wars galaxy. attack on the Wookiees?” In response, Yoda
The game’s storyline follows Boss from the announces he will oversee the Republic’s response

conflict’s opening salvo at the Battle of Geonosis, to this invasion, and Tarfful can clearly be seen
as seen in Star Wars: Attack of the Clones (2002), waiting when the Jedi Master arrives at the troop
with the player guiding Delta Squad in missions staging area to prepare for departure. Back on
that span the duration of the war. Levels include Kashyyyk, Boss and Delta Squad operate against
investigating the seemingly derelict Acclamator- the Separatists in Tarfful’s home city of Kachirho,
class assault ship Prosecutor to a recognizable contributing covering fire for the Republic’s

engagement on the planet Kashyyyk. reinforcements.
Delta Squad’s The game concludes on a cliffhanger, with

excursion to the Delta Squad ordered to exfiltrate aboard a
Wookiee homeworld gunship and await further instructions. At that
includes numerous point, Yoda has arrived on the scene, ready
links to Revenge of to head up the Clone Army’s war strategy.

the Sith. Boss and his Republic Commando’s final moments tease the
comrades arrive on upcoming Battle of Kashyyyk that would feature
Kashyyyk prior to the in Revenge of the Sith, setting the stage for the
Battle of Coruscant, Separatists’ offensive against the clone troopers
where they uncover and Wookiees who are establishing defensive
General Grievous positions on Kachirho’s beaches.
and the Separatists
collaborating with Republic Commando’s final moments
Trandoshan slavers
on a plan to enslave tease the upcoming Battle of
the local population. Kashyyyk that would feature
The Trandoshans have
imprisoned Tarfful, in Revenge of the Sith.









































58 / STAR WARS INSIDER

SITH UNSEEN: A RETROSPECTIVE







to thrive in his hallucinatory disposition and
defeated his mechanical foes. Skywalker brings
Kenobi the missing rebreather, although the
notion of whether or not he saved his master
clearly becomes a matter of jovial ribbing
between the two friends.
Elsewhere, Count Dooku privately muses to
himself about Grievous’ descent from fully organic
being to technological hybrid. The novel explains
that Dooku and Sidious masterminded a shuttle
accident that left Grievous’ body broken, forcing
the General to agree to cybernetic augmentation.
During the surgical process in Geonosis’
depths, the two Sith ordered the Geonosians to
manipulate the General’s mind to make him
cruel and believe he has always been so ruthless.
The alterations drive the General to genocide,
exhibited by his order to massacre 27 Jedi and

more than 10,000 fleeing civilians during a failed
the must-read prequel
LABYRINTH OF EVIL Separatist invasion above Belderone.
Then, Supreme Chancellor Palpatine delivers
an address to the Senate about advancing into the
RELEASE DATE: January 25, 2005 AUTHOR: Outer Rim, which lines up precisely with Kenobi’s
James Luceno

PUBLISHER: Del Rey briefing in the movie regarding the sieges in that
region. Palpatine highlights Mygeeto, Saleucami,
and Felucia as key targets, and these three planets
hile Star Wars: Republic Commando each make an appearance during Order 66’s
deals with matters from a previously notorious Jedi execution sequence.
W unknown clone trooper’s perspective, The novel also references Skywalker and
Labyrinth of Evil follows the pre-Revenge of Kenobi’s lengthy service tenure in the Outer
the Sith actions undertaken by major players the novel Rim, where they have undertaken a secretive
Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, General mission to hunt down Darth Sidious. The duo’s

Grievous, Count Dooku, Yoda, Mace Windu, explains deployment fits well with Skywalker and Padmé
and Darth Sidious. that Dooku Amidala’s emotional reunion after the Battle of
The novel contains a plethora of tethers to Coruscant, as captured in the movie.
the final episode in the prequel trilogy, yet takes and Sidious Labyrinth of Evil’s final chapters chronicle

time to create some interesting adventures of its masterminded the Separatists’ surprise attack on Coruscant
own. Commander Cody, who would later fight and Grievous’ capture of Palpatine. The novel
alongside and eventually betray Obi-Wan on a shuttle completes its tale with Skywalker and Kenobi
Utapau, appears during Skywalker and Kenobi’s accident that readying themselves to jump to the Republic’s

attempt to capture Nute Gunray on Cato capital and reinforce the fleet. Although never
Neimoidia. We learn that Asajj Ventress gave left Grievous’ originally intended to be combined as a set, The
Skywalker the scar on his face, and are introduced body broken. Dark Lord Trilogy later packaged Labyrinth of Evil
to the Jedi initiative to give the clones names alongside the movie’s novelization and Dark Lord:
and treat them with compassion; each gripping The Rise of Darth Vader.
chapter abounds with provocative disclosures.
Another oft-quoted slice of Revenge of the
Sith dialogue—when Kenobi denies requiring
Skywalker’s help during “that business on
Cato Neimoidia”—receives its own intriguing
explanation here, too. Skywalker did protect
Kenobi from a battle droid, but the statement
most likely refers to a dire situation when the
two Jedi found themselves separated. After losing
his rebreather, Kenobi faces down battle droids
numbering in the dozens while in a semi-drugged
state. Skywalker rushes to save his master, only
to discover that Kenobi has somehow managed






STAR WARS INSIDER / 59

SITH UNSEEN: A RETROSPECTIVE






the book of the film
REVENGE OF THE SITH – MOVIE NOVELIZATION



RELEASE DATE: April 2, 2005 PUBLISHER: Del Rey AUTHOR: Matthew Stover



he novelization of Revenge of In Skywalker’s mind, he needs to
the Sith primarily relays the be a master so that he has a chance

T film’s consequential scenes, to dig through the Archives, learn
but also opens a window into the as much as possible about Plagueis,
thoughts and motivations that and save Padmé.

influenced notable actions. Just as Labyrinth of Evil
Anakin Skywalker’s visions expounds on its source material,
pertaining to Padmé’s death during this novelization offers additional
childbirth, his desire to protect insight into familiar scenes. For
her, and his anger over not being instance, while the war rages,
granted the rank of Jedi Master, Palpatine disturbs his critics by
are all well-documented onscreen, installing Republic governors
but the novelization lends further accompanied by clone units to
insight into the young man’s many planets. Allegedly sent to help
frustration relating to his status local officials, these forces surely act
on the Council. He as a foothold for the
knows the Jedi Temple Just as Labyrinth Imperial government
contains holocrons of Evil expounds on once the Empire the game of the film
filled with knowledge replaces the Republic. REVENGE

from generations of its source material, Equally, on his way OF THE SITH –
Jedi, but protocol this novelization to altering the message
states that only Jedi being broadcast by the THE VIDEO GAME
Masters retain access offers additional Jedi Temple’s beacon,
to those resources. insight into the book also reveals RELEASE DATE: April2,2005
Anakin initially plans Kenobi’s humorous PUBLISHER: LucasArts
to research other Jedi familiar scenes. ruse to dispatch the
who have experienced troopers guarding the
prophecies and whether the building. He poses as a hunchback nleashed on the public
foreseen events could be prevented, intent on surrendering a Jedi infant prior to the fi lm’s offi cial
but his focus shifts when Palpatine to the troops... a baby who turns U premiere, the Revenge Of
tells him about Darth Plagueis’ out to be a fully grown, lightsaber- The Sith video game sees players
ability to save people from death. wielding Yoda. battle through levels as either
Skywalker’s choice to serve the Anakin Skywalker or Obi-Wan
Emperor and be renamed Darth Kenobi. The release stuck to
Vader is not the only evolving the movie’s plot and revolves
relationship to be conferred here. around consequential moments,
While Yoda explains to Obi-Wan so supplementary themes do not
about communing with Qui-Gon truly materialize in this format.

Jinn in the film, the novel actually However, the game spearheaded
portrays one such interaction. an appealing new approach to
Following his failure to best the marketing a movie, previewing
Emperor in combat, Yoda converses exclusive locales prior to their

with Jinn’s disembodied voice and official arrival in cinemas,
becomes aware of the potential including the Invisible Hand,
to live on through the Force after Utapau, and Mustafar. It also
death. In a parallel to young contained more than 10 minutes
Skywalker’s submission to the of actual scenes from the yet-to-be-
darkness, the older Yoda pledges to released theatrical version. Such an
open himself to new teachings and extensive use of previously unseen
become Jinn’s apprentice. Ironically, footage is rarely seen outside of
the Jedi uncover the means to avoid approved trailers and inexorably
death, a talent that Sidious and binds the game to its counterpart
Vader so desperately sought. on the big screen.






60 / STAR WARS INSIDER

SITH UNSEEN: A RETROSPECTIVE






ending the vader trilogy out at once. In this regard, the Another thread that extends
DARK LORD: novel presents a logical reason from Revenge of the Sith pertains
why Yoda, Kenobi, and other Jedi
to the surprise reemergence of
THE RISE OF DARTH VADER stragglers select solitude instead of Qui-Gon Jinn and Luke Skywalker’s
coordinating an effort to reform concealment on Tatooine. Obi-
RELEASE DATE: November 22, 2005 AUTHOR: and initiate a counterattack against Wan Kenobi begins to panic
James Luceno the Emperor. when he learns that Anakin lived,
PUBLISHER: Del Rey
The novel offers Darth Vader’s understandably concerned that
reflections on his reimagined placing the baby with the Lars

he final entry in The Dark Lord Trilogy, physical form in the weeks after his family on his former friend’s

The Rise of Darth Vader landed in stores defeat on Mustafar. Vader internally homeworld puts Luke in danger.
T several months after crowds fi rst saw expresses anger toward Palpatine The novel reveals that Jinn reaches
Revenge of the Sith in theaters, and James and the medical droids who built out to his former Padawan and
Luceno’s novel catalogues the war’s closing his suit, as the ill-fi tting armor assures him that Vader’s fear
chapter, the Republic’s transition into the hinders his movements, hampers of reliving painful memories

Galactic Empire, and Darth Vader’s early his fighting technique, and causes prevents him from stepping foot
exploits as a Sith Lord. him to feel imprisoned in its on Tatooine. Author James Luceno

Vader undertakes a mission to punish clone confines. The Sith Lord’s dexterity connects Yoda’s encouragement for
troopers who hesitated to carry out Order 66 on gradually improves as he draws Obi-Wan to commune with Qui-
Murkhana, thus leading several Jedi to be spared upon the dark side to engage and Gon with an explanation as to why
the fate suffered by their peers. The Jedi struggle slaughter several of the Jedi trying Kenobi believes Luke will remain
to deal with the confusion, presenting an eye- to consolidate their forces. safe on Tatooine.
witness account from combatants far removed
from the Jedi Council’s inner circle during the
war’s abrupt end. The group react to factors
outlined in the movie, including the Jedi Temple
beacon’s initial recall message, Kenobi’s alternate
order to hide, and a general puzzlement regarding
what occurred between the Jedi and Palpatine.
Ultimately, only two Jedi escape the clutches

of their pursuers and flee Murkhana. The elder
one believes their cause to be lost and holds a
desire to move on with his life, while his younger
companion wishes to search for other survivors.
The less experienced Jedi actually succeeds,
assembling a rag-tag group who hope to stoke

the Jedi Order’s flame once more. Their endeavor
results in failure, as congregating together just
makes it easier for Darth Sidious to trace their
movements and come close to wiping them all



The novel offers
Darth Vader’s

reflections on

his reimagined

physical form in
the weeks after

his defeat on

Mustafar.

















STAR WARS INSIDER / 61

BY ROYAL











DECREE











Inside Regal Robot








Regal Robot creates incredible, one-of-a-kind
Star Wars art, furniture, and décor for the home
with expertise rooted in movie magic. Insider

talks with Tom Spina, the man behind the studio
that crafted a Han Solo in Carbonite desk, an

Emperor’s home-from-home throne, and many
more incredible works of functional Star Wars art.




W ORDS: ME G AN CROUSE

BY ROYAL DECREE







“Evenasayoungkid,itwasveryclear

this was what I wanted to do with my life:

s
I wanted to make what I saw in Star Wars.”s






01



















he aliens and
T creatures of Star
Wars have long
inspired artists
of all kinds to
put their own
spin on the galaxy’s exotic life
forms. For Tom Spina, the cantina
scene in Star Wars: A New Hope
(1977) served as a pathway
from a monster-loving kid to a
craftsman who has made Star
Wars collectibles and costumes
his career. Originally known in
fan circles due to the restoration
work of his company Tom Spina
Designs, his most recent venture— aliens and monsters brought to 01 Regal Robot’s recreation of Palpatine’s
Regal Robot—is all about creating life with foam latex and cloth, throne was designed as a centerpiece
for the perfect fan-cave.
hand-crafted mementos from delighted and inspired him.
a galaxy far, far away. Both “Instantly, it became very clear
companies highlight Spina’s love to me that everything was going
for the arts of puppetry, sculpting, to be different after that,” Spina creatures and monsters he’d loved
and costume design. Among other says of A New Hope. “All I wanted as a kid. He discovered he had an
mind-blowing creations, his team to do was fill my space with Star affinity for restoring costumes that


of artists can be found painting Wars stuff. I wanted to have life- were in need of serious repairs,
wear-and-tear on a Mandalorian size characters, I wanted puppets, and building upon his developing
skull ready to be hung as a wall I wanted monsters. I wanted to talent for restoring cloth, creature
ornament, or sculpting asteroids recreate what I saw in the movie. fur, foam latex, and other materials
around a Millennium Falcon Even as a young kid, it was very used in costumes and masks,
model built into a coffee table, clear this was what I wanted to he founded Tom Spina Designs.
and it all started with his desire to do with my life: I wanted to make Finding its services to be very much
bring a little movie magic into his what I saw in Star Wars.” in demand, the company was not
own home. So, how did Spina turn this only restoring items but creating
Already a big fan of classic enthusiasm into a business? As new pieces for businesses, home
monster movies like King Kong with so many Star Wars-related theaters, museums, restaurants,
(1933), it was the original Star Wars careers, that path began through themed attractions, haunts, and

film that changed what he thought being a fan. Spina started collecting even private collectors.
was possible onscreen. The Mos screen-used costumes in the late The design studio, based on
Eisley cantina, packed with unusual 1990s, driven by a passion for the Long Island, has grown from






STAR WARS INSIDER / 63

BY ROYAL DECREE









a room in a house to a full-on requesting custom ‘fan cave’ rooms “It’s that
workshop. Along the way, Spina or replicas of movie props to
has hired artists with experience display in eye-catching locations. beautiful
in such diverse skills as sculpting,
prop-making, and painting— Going Solo, Together effects-style
people with an eye for the kind “We are huge prop fans, and we
sculpting that

of crafts used in fi lm, especially wanted to find a way to bring that

from decades past, where a lot of filmmaking artistry into the home,”
the company’s work originates. Spina notes. “We looked at this I love so much.”
Almost inevitably, Tom Spina amazing stuff that, decades later,
Designs gravitated towards still keeps us up at night wondering
house installations, with clients how they did it, and we thought, idea—a full-size, frozen Han Solo
‘Can we turn that into furniture? from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes
Can we turn that into something Back (1980) built into a glass-
02 Melissa Ocampo and Tom Spina functional?’ And it turned out that topped table, suitable for an offi ce
carefully give the restored Muftak
costume a shampoo and comb. we could.” or living room—was stylish and
The company’s big break came more than a little droll. It was a
03 The Muftak restoration team at
Tom Spina Designs pose with the when it created the now famous fresh, practical take on one of the
reinvigorated cantina alien. Han Solo In Carbonite table. The franchise’s most memorable scenes.
Originally built at the request of a
Grammy award-winning musician
02
to sell at a charity auction, the
table’s design, by Spina and his
long-time business partner, Richard
Riley, then went viral.
“I love that we can take these
dynamic elements, which would
normally be moving, and freeze
them in time,” says Spina. “We
capture a moment from this fi lm,
lay a piece of glass on it, and now
it’s this combination sculptural art
piece and furniture for your house.”
His team was then hired to
recreate the cantina creatures from
A New Hope for a Volkswagen
commercial—‘The Dog Strikes
Back’—that aired during the 2012
Super Bowl. They even built the
cantina set seen in the commercial,
which subsequently led to Tom and
his crew restoring costumes and
03
props for Lucasfi lm’s archives
and displays.
Following this collaboration

with the film company, combined
with the success of his domestic
installations, Spina began to realize
there was potential for a new
business. As a result, Regal Robot
was launched in April 2017, selling
handmade Star Wars furniture
and home decor, as well as taking
custom commissions for one-off
or luxury pop-culture art pieces.
“People don’t think they can
normally access those things,”






64 / STAR WARS INSIDER

BY ROYAL DECREE





04




























































05
“We are huge
prop fans, and

we wanted


to find a way

to bring that


filmmaking

artistry into


the home.”












04 The Han Solo in Carbonite
table, commissioned by an
award-winning musician,
caused a stir on the internet.

05 Spina describes the table as
a combination of sculptural
art and furniture.





STAR WARS INSIDER / 65

BY ROYAL DECREE





06
















CREATURE

FEATURES:

THE SCIENCE OF
COSTUME RESTORATION

As well as creating original art, Tom Spina
Designs rebuilds classic movie props that
have been languishing in storage or have
simply aged by the passage of the years.
Many creature props from the 1970s
and 1980s were built in foam latex, which is
lightweight and looks organic, but over the
years can stiffen and, eventually, crumble into
dust. Spina became fascinated with restoring
such costumes, which requires thinking like
an effects artist, a museum curator, and a
chemist all rolled into one.
“When you think of how someone
restores a car, they tend to take a whole
panel off, replace it with a new one, strip
it down, and then repaint the whole car so
that everything matches,” Spina says. “If
you were to do that with a movie prop, you
would ruin it. What makes a prop special is
the fact that the paint refl ected light to the
camera, which exposed the fi lm that then
played in the movie theater where you saw it
as a kid. When we get a movie prop, it is 100
percent about keeping that prop as original
as possible.”
This means not painting over original
paint, maintaining original textures, and
making sure that pieces that have to be
replaced are done so in the same style as he notes. “They don’t think they iconic visual cue from the Star Wars
the original. His studio uses ‘inpainting,’ a
museum technique also used on artifacts, can get that sort of stuff for their galaxy took off on the internet—
where paint is carefully applied only to a own space, so it’s really neat to that same marvel of modern
damaged area so that none of the original be able to offer it to folks. And it’s communication where Spina
paint is covered.

It takes around three to six months to turned out that people have gone first encountered a like-minded
restore a creature costume as tall as a human, nuts for it.” individual with whom he could
such as Muftak the Talz from the Mos Eisley Among the company’s more do business.
cantina. These take longer than individual
props because they require a mix of skills, recent standout pieces is the
including a custom-made mannequin to fi ll Emperor Throne Armchair. Regal Craft Works
out the costume. For instance, restoring Robot’s interpretation of Palpatine’s Spina and Richard Riley originally
the original Muftak meant cleaning his fur, imposing seat is a mid-century met through an online forum for
repairing his hands, restitching parts, and

reinforcing him inside and out. modern take on the prop seen in aficionados of movie-prop replicas,
Tom Spina Designs also handled the Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (1983). appropriately called the Replica
restoration of Luke Skywalker’s costume from When Spina and company decided Props Forum (RPF), where they
the beginning of A New Hope, including his
poncho—a project that entailed making a full- to tackle the galactic tyrant’s formed an instant connection over
size mannequin of Mark Hamill to fi t it. throne, they realized it would their respective love of detail in Star
“Props and costumes are the art of our be too big and costly to exactly Wars puppets. It was Riley’s posts
time,” Spina says. “To me, they are the most recreate the original. Instead, Spina on the forum of his life-size sculpt
inspiring, and I count my lucky stars that every
day I get to see and interact with them, and says, they wanted to portray the of Jabba the Hutt—his fi rst project
preserve them for other fans to see, interact idea of the Emperor reclining in a in foam—that first caught Spina’s

with, and absorb.” stylish lounge from the early 1960s. eye. “He’d captured details that I
Once again, their reimagining of an had not seen anyone else capture






66 / STAR WARS INSIDER

BY ROYAL DECREE

















07 in that figure,” Spina recalls. “He “As long as an
saw the prop and not just the
character.” Spina was so impressed artist has an eye
by Riley’s attention to detail and
for sculpture,
artistry that he reached out to him.
They became friends and business
they can be
associates quickly thereafter.
This appreciation for talent
and ambition extends to the trained in more
kind of artists Tom Spina Designs
and Regal Robot now seek out as technical skills.”
new recruits. The business runs
internships through local schools,
and hires some artists based on based her sculpture on the symbol
how well they fit in with the team on bounty hunter Boba Fett’s
during that training period. Along shoulder pauldron, but the premise

with technical skills, Spina says he of the finished artwork was to
also looks for the right “attitude imagine what the logo would
and potential” in the people he look like as a skull that had once
employs. In other words, “What belonged to a real creature. She
would they be doing if no one was created two versions, a small one
08 making them do this?” he remarks. for the mini-sculpture and a larger
If the answer is using their time to size for wall decor, sculpting both
fix Star Wars costumes and build from scratch. “The mold itself is
props for themselves, they are just a work of art,” Spina says. “It’s all
the sort of person that might wind hand-sculpted. It’s that beautiful
up under Regal Robot’s roof. effects-style sculpting that I love
“As long as an artist has an eye so much.”
for sculpture,” Spina says, “they can Now that Regal Robot—one of
be trained in more technical skills. the few Star Wars licensees that
“Most of the projects we do are allowed to do custom work—is
involve some element of hand- becoming better known, Spina and
crafting,” adds Spina. That can his team are working on expanding
mean anything from traditional their output beyond home decor
clay-working to utilizing cutting- and furniture and into sculptural
edge digital tools, including 3D art and replica character busts,
scans and 3D-printed design work. with life-size statues and replicas of
Spina references the Mandalorian maquettes and puppets used in the
Skull Sculpture and Wall Plaque movies. Exciting new products on
released by Regal Robot as an their way in 2019 include a replica
example. Artist Miyo Nakamura of the tauntaun maquette made
09 by Phil Tippett for The Empire

Strikes Back, based on the original
06 Regal Robot artist Miyo
Nakamura sculpting the molds, and a life-size, FX-quality
large Mandalorian skull. Chewbacca bust.
Spina aspires to create hand-
07 Artist Steve Richter working
on an early concept sculpt of crafted products with exceptional
the skull plaque. detail, but says that what he
finds most rewarding is, “picking

08 A limited edition of the skull
was cast in pewter. customers’ brains about what
parts of Star Wars they are most
09 Tom Spina recreates unlucky passionate about, and fi nding ways
bounty hunter Greedo, from
Star Wars: A New Hope (1977). to bring that to life for them.”





STAR WARS INSIDER / 67

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WORLDWIDE









CELEBR A TING THE S A G A






















































Force Awakens (2015), originally
began cosplaying as a means of
channeling her inventiveness into
new projects. “It started as more of
All Photos: Studio Of M.M not necessarily as a desire to dress
a desire to want to build something,


up like a certain character,” she
explains. “Cosplaying gives me the
opportunity to create and build
things, as well as challenging me to
CLOUD-RIDER COSPLAY expand my knowledge and skills in
different areas. I’ve learned how to
work fiberglass, solder, rewire, and
The striking Enfys Nest armor that bagged a Fan Award more—all thanks to cosplaying.”

The complex styling of Nest’s
hile the fi rst, mystifying drawn to her character design,” wardrobe proved to be the ultimate
appearances of Enfys she reminisces. Asked by her mom test of the artist’s skills. “I actually
W Nest in the trailers for about a potential Enfys build, the decided to attempt building the
Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018) artist gave a simple answer. “I told costume the day I saw Solo in the
prompted fans to speculate over her it was too crazy a project, but theater. Learning more about Nest,
who was behind that mask, for that clearly didn’t last long!” and seeing what an incredible and
cosplayer Michaela of Studio of Michaela, a longtime Star Wars strong character she was, is what
M.M, the intrigue went one step fan whose love for the franchise was did it for me,” recollects Michaela.
further. “As soon as I saw her, I was reinvigorated by Star Wars: The The armor itself is constructed





70 / STAR WARS INSIDER

INSIDER NEEDS YOU!

We want to hear from you! Tell us about your
Star Wars experience. What made you want
to become a fan? What have you done in the
name of Star Wars? Tell us your Star Wars
story by sending your photos, art, and ARTISTS’ ALLEY
letters here:
[email protected]
Talented Star Wars fans share their amazing
Or via regular post:
UNITED STATES UNITED KINGDOM drawings inspired by the galaxy far, far away....
Star Wars Worldwide, Star Wars Worldwide,
Star Wars Insider, Star Wars Insider,
Titan Magazines, 144 Southwark
2819 Rosehall Lane, Street
Aurora, IL, 60503, London, SE1 0UP,
U.S.A. U.K.


01. “BETWEEN
WORLDS” AND
“JOYRIDE”

Working on an iPad
Pro, Chris Corrada
produced these
stunning likenesses
of a majestic Ahsoka
Tano and a happy
Luke Skywalker.
“Young Luke was
just a fun concept of
Luke joyriding around
in his speeder on
Tatooine before the
weight of the galaxy
fell on his shoulders,”
says Corrada, known
as @jawadog on
Instagram. “I watched
Star Wars: The Clone
Wars (2008) and
Rebels and loved
Ahsoka Tano,” he
continues, “especially
the mystical journey
she took in Rebels.”

primarily of thermoplastic, while
Nest’s electroripper staff started out
as a wooden closet rod wrapped in
foam. Michaela coated the melee
weapon with plastic polymer to
bolster its durability, adding an
acrylic paint job and LED lights to
illuminate the tip of the polearm.
Half of the ten-week building
process centered on Nest’s helmet.
“I began with a papercraft model
base of a shoretrooper helmet,” says
Michaela. “There’s almost none of
that base left, but it did give me a
starting point. I fleshed out most of
the helmet shape in foam.” She then
applied thermoplastic and paint,
before adding accessories inside,
02. THE EMPIRE’S MIGHT
including cooling fans and a
microphone that plugs into the
A trio of AT-AT walkers patrol through the haze against a backdrop featuring a Star
chestbox for the voice changer.
Destroyer’s silhouette, in fan Mack Sztaba’s gripping image. “The piece was blocked
The finished ensemble won Michaela out in 3D before being paintined in Photoshop,” explains Mack, who finished the scene
the Best Custom Costume gong in in just over a day. “I love doing Star Wars-themed art. That galaxy is probably the most
the 2018 Star Wars Fan Awards. fun to play with as an artist.”





STAR WARS INSIDER / 71

WORLDWIDE
BOUNTY HUNTERS


Scouring the galaxy for the
stars of Star Wars...






Meet the stars, show the evidence, win
the bounty! Bounty Hunters is sponsored
by Kotobukiya. Each issue's winner will
receive a fantastic Kotobukiya Star
Wars statue kit! To see more,
visit www.facebook.com/kotobukiya



ften recognized for his role as young
Boba Fett in Star Wars: Attack of the
OClones (2002), Daniel Logan showed
no signs of Mandalorian menace when he
greeted Chelsey Paz’s sons at a recent
convention in Salt Lake City.
Paz’s oldest son is the family’s Star Wars
aficionado, but both children adored meeting
Logan. After allowing the kids to try on his
Boba Fett helmet, the actor handed out some CRUSTACEAN KEEPSAKES
patches and cards. “My son was over the moon
and so excited,” exclaims the proud mom. Painting Star Wars-themed crab shells
Paz fully supports her eldest’s fandom, and
he spends a great deal of time visiting the tar Wars enthusiasts Tori pilot Dak Ralter in Star Wars: The
501st Legion’s booths at conventions. However, Stallings and Austin Burns Empire Strikes Back (1980), was
the encounter with Logan left quite the S have found a unique way of announced as an attendee at a
impression on him, who she says describe d this showing their fandom—albeit in a nearby convention, and the pair
visit as, “The best time of his life.” fashion that may upset Solo: A Star framed a rebel helmet-themed shell
Wars Story’s Therm Scissorpunch. as a gift for the actor.
01 A long-time fan of the saga, The process has since become a
Burns’ enthusiasm for the galaxy far, tradition for the creative couple, with
far away rubbed off on Stallings, who each shell’s design reflecting an
combines it with her main hobby of aspect of the recipient’s place in the
painting. “I’ve always loved art,” she franchise. A shell depicting Bespin’s
says. “I even got one of my school art Cloud City was given to The Empire
pieces in the Baltimore Museum of Strikes Back producer Robert Watts,
Art when I was 8 years old.” Add to while puppeteer Brian Herring
that the couple’s shared fondness for received a shell styled with BB-8’s
the blue crabs that inhabit Maryland’s memorable markings. Their art even
02 coastline, and the result is a unique impressed Luke Skywalker himself
recipe for crab shell keepsakes. when they presented Mark Hamill
The shells are cleaned by Burns with a shell painted in his X-wing
and outfitted with artistic designs by helmet’s color scheme (above).
Stallings. “For Christmas we painted The pair plan to continue their
crab shells as ornaments for family crustacean campaign indefinitely.
members,” shares Burns. But the “It’s awesome to be able to combine
craft eventually took on a Star Wars my love for painting and Austin’s love
twist when John Morton, a Maryland of Star Wars with making these great
native known for his role as Alliance memories,” Stallings says happily.












01 Young Boba Fett actor Daniel Logan and Chelsey
Paz’s sons have a blast during their encounter.
02 The Paz’s prized bounty: Logan’s autograph and an
assortment of cards and patches.





72 / STAR WARS INSIDER

WORLDWIDE







































FIRING ON ALL something to eat. Flame-grilled
nuna, anyone?
The talented artist has also built
CYLINDERS another grill, this one based on

fan-favorite astromech R2-D2 (who
was ironically blasted by Vader’s
Metal marvels cook up a Star Wars storm own laser cannons during the Battle

of Yavin), while his latest sculpture
uch like Darth Vader during dark side by pouring himself into his is inspired by the head of R2’s
the Death Star trench run, metal work. “I needed something to protocol droid counterpart, C-3PO.
M you just can’t shake the immerse myself in,” Finney candidly However, evoking memories of the
impressive nature of metal sculptor admits, and the hobby became his golden droid’s decapitation ordeal
Michael Finney’s cooking grill, with own personal bacta tank, offering on Geonosis, this droid’s cranium
its design based around that of the a soothing respite from everyday neither cooks nor tells anyone about
Sith lord’s TIE fi ghter from Star problems and an outlet to convey the odds.
Wars: A New Hope (1977). The his love for Star Wars. Bringing smiles to others is an
starship’s appearance clearly made To enable his take on Vader’s TIE added bonus for Finney. “I really
an impression on the young man, to take flight, Finney utilized the enjoy the reactions I get from
who was only eight years old when same old-fashioned metal-forming people when they see any of my
he first laid eyes on the craft more techniques that he draws upon for creations,” proclaims the artist. “It’s

than four decades ago. “As an artist, all of his projects. After shaping the my motivation to keep improving.”
Star Wars has many fascinating and material with tree stumps and an And if anyone ever needed proof of
interesting shapes that allow me to English wheel, he welds everything Finney’s goal to spread happiness,
be creative,” explains Finney. together with Imperial precision. In take a look at his sculpt of Darth
Just like Anakin Skywalker, the case of the TIE, once kindling is Vader’s helmet (below), adorned
Finney has experienced rough placed in the cockpit the craft is with roses—it says all you need to
periods in his life, but the intrepid fired up and ready to pursue rebel know. Finney’s work can be found
artist has avoided descent to the X-wings or, at the very least, grill up on Instagram at @finn_metalart.






























STAR WARS INSIDER / 73

THE











LO N G












G AME
















THE INSIDIOUS



PL O T OF SHEEV



PALP ATINE







Insider uncovers how the machinations

of a single, driven individual turned an

entire galaxy on its head.





W ORDS: MI CHAEL K OGGE

The Emperor


• • •


In the 1970s and 1980s,
the tyrannical ruler of the Star
Wars galaxy had no further
appellation. Though his surname
“Palpatine” was mentioned in the
novelizations, as was his former
offi ce of senator, few but the most
ardent fans paid it much regard.
The characters in the trilogy only
referred to him by his royal title,
and the fi lms did not delve into
who he was or where he had
come from. The Emperor was
simply the Emperor: the baddest
of the bad guys, the devil of the
dark side, the ultimate symbol of
evil in the universe.
The prequel trilogy, however,
demystifi ed the saga’s greatest
villain, depicting Palpatine not as
a one-dimensional monster, but
as a multi-faceted character. First
introduced as the senator from
Naboo in Star Wars: The Phantom
Menace (1999), Palpatine’s
evil stems from a very human
ambition for power and the
decisions he makes to acquire it.
“What these fi lms deal with is the
fact that we all have good and
evil inside of us and that we can
choose which way we want the
balance to go,” writer-director
George Lucas told interviewer
Bill Moyers at the time of the
fi lm’s release. Lucas is saying that
evil is not a raw, elemental force:
it is a choice. And Palpatine’s
choices are nothing less than
steps in a master plan to control
the galaxy.

THE LONG GAME





The Art of Deception


• • •


Lucas describes Palpatine in quash the invasion. In fact, he doubt, Valorum turns toward the BIRTH
his screenplay for The Phantom describes the Senate as “full of senator from Naboo and says, OF THE
Menace as a “thin, kindly man.” greedy, squabbling delegates,” “Palpatine, I thought you were EMPEROR
He is bright in both spirits and who only look out for their own my ally—my friend. You have
intellect, and offers what seems constituencies and have no betrayed me! How could you do A variety of infl uences
to be wise counsel to Naboo’s interest in the common good. this?” The ghost of a smile that can inspire an artist’s
creativity, and when
young monarch, Queen Amidala. Nor does Supreme Chancellor crosses Palpatine’s face reveals it came to creating
Nothing about him or his manners Valorum escape his criticism. where his true loyalties lie. the Emperor, George
exposes any malicious intent. In Despite saying that the Senate’s Palpatine’s betrayal advances Lucas was inspired
by various sources.
all aspects, he’s the consummate leader is “mired down by baseless his own rise to power, as the An avid student of
career politician: effortlessly accusations of corruption,” and Senate nominates him as history, Lucas drew
charming, unceasingly good- that a “manufactured scandal Valorum’s replacement. But upon the fascist
ideology of Nazi
natured, and cognizant of when surrounds him,” Palpatine advises Palpatine never confesses his Germany’s Third Reich
to lend advice and when not. the smartest course of action designs on the chancellorship. to serve as a model
Although the political winds would be to call for a vote of no Rather, he presents himself to for the Empire and
around him may be turbulent, confi dence in Valorum and push Queen Amidala as a champion its Führer-like ruler.
Politics during the
he never succumbs to that for the election of a stronger of liberty, willing to make the eras when Lucas was
turbulence. He is a man without Supreme Chancellor. Without sacrifi ce to restore the Republic: writing Star Wars and
drama, harboring a seemingly claiming any pretensions on the its prequels also had
an impact. During a
inexhaustible supply of patience. chancellorship, he in effect opens PALPATINE: “I promise, Your 1981 story conference
One might say he’s boring. the door for his own election to Majesty, if I am elected, I will for Star Wars: Return
Yet underneath his respectful that station. bring democracy back to the of the Jedi (1983),
formality and unassuming smile Palpatine’s counsel indeed Republic. I will put an end to Lucas was asked
whether the Emperor
lurks a cunning and craftiness that moves Queen Amidala to address corruption.” was a Jedi, to which
no one in the Senate detects. the Senate and call for a vote of he answered: “No,
Take his conference with no confi dence in the Supreme Palpatine does win the election he was a politician.
Richard M. Nixon
Queen Amidala in his quarters Chancellor, which sets into motion to become Supreme Chancellor, was his name. He
on Coruscant, for example. The Valorum’s removal from offi ce. An proving that oft-quoted political subverted the senate
queen has come to the Republic interesting line of dialogue not maxim, “Never let a good crisis and fi nally took over
and became an
capital to implore the Senate in the fi lm, but appearing in both go to waste.” Nonetheless, his imperial guy and he
for help in freeing her world Lucas’ screenplay and Patricia ascent to the highest offi ce in was really evil. But
from the Trade Federation’s C. Wrede’s junior novelization, the galaxy is not his end goal, he pretended to be
blockade. Palpatine is frank with shows the deposed chancellor’s but only the fi rst step in a grand really nice.”
In addition, one
her, saying there’s little chance reaction to Palpatine’s subterfuge. scheme to take over the Republic can’t discount a
the Senate will do anything to After his leadership is thrown into from within. documentary Lucas
made as a student at
USC in 1967. Titled
The Emperor, Lucas’
fi lm is a portrait
of Bob Hudson, a
popular Southern
California rock’n’roll
DJ who appointed
himself “Emperor”
to his legions of
young fans, and often
costumed himself in
robes and a turban.
While the genre and
subject matter are
far from that of Star
Wars, the imaginary
title Hudson gave
himself—and the
fi lm’s title—might
coincidentally have
had an unconscious
infl uence on the
nomenclature and
characters in Lucas’
space opera.






76 / STAR WARS INSIDER

The Great Fraud


• • •

Ten years after the Trade mobilization vote, but when the Jedi Council Dyas had foreseen that the
Federation’s attempted takeover learns the Separatists are assembling a droid Republic would be engaged in
of Naboo, Palpatine remains army to attack the Republic, Palpatine agrees a violent future confl ict and had
Supreme Chancellor, while the they must act. Senator Amidala’s stand-in, secretly ordered the Kaminoans
galaxy is engulfed in a new Junior Naboo Representative Jar Jar Binks, to clone an army of soldiers.
crisis that threatens to split the convinces the Senate to vote to grant Supreme Since Palpatine needs an army
Republic apart. The Confederacy Chancellor Palpatine emergency powers so as quickly as he can get one, the
of Independent Systems, led by that he can move swiftly and commission an clones are the most logical choice
the onetime Jedi Master Count army on his own. to fi ll its ranks. The Jedi agree to
Dooku, are rallying members of Palpatine pretends to be loath to accept lead these troopers on the fi eld of
the Republic to secede from the such powers, going so far—in a scene in the battle as generals.
interplanetary government that shooting draft of Star Wars: Attack of the The fact that clones and Jedi
has held the galaxy together for Clones (2002)—as to voice concerns to Yoda make up the Republic’s infantry
thousands of years. Since the and Mace Windu before Representative Binks stifl es public outcry. Citizens
Jedi Knights cannot preserve law makes his case to the Senate. He says it’s too are encouraged to serve in the
over such a large expanse, many extreme a situation, akin to a dictatorship. Republic navy, but aren’t being
senators want the Republic to Yet that is precisely what he will slowly do conscripted for combat, so no
build its own army, which it hasn’t with those powers: turn the Republic into a one has to unwillingly sacrifi ce
maintained for millennia. Others, dictatorship, with himself installed as the sole their life to wage war on other
like Senator Padmé Amidala of leader. For the moment, however, Palpatine worlds. This affords Palpatine
Naboo, who have lived through tells the Senate the opposite, promising that a buffer from major political
the misery of confl ict, believe his emergency powers are only temporary: resistance during the initial stages
militarization will incite war on a of what become known as “the
massive scale. PALPATINE: “It is with great reluctance that I Clone Wars.” Nevertheless, as
Demonstrating why he’s held have agreed to this calling. I love democracy. I he watches clone troopers board
the chancellorship for so long, love the Republic. The power you give me I will and take off in assault ships at the
Palpatine presents himself as lay down when this crisis is abated.” end of Attack of the Clones, he is
a man of reason, sympathetic clearly solemn and sad, as if this
to valid security concerns, yet With the new authority vested in him, was a desperately unwanted but
reluctant to disrupt the ongoing Palpatine can do what he wishes without necessary evil.
peace negotiations with the Senate approval. His fi rst act is to create a In truth, Palpatine’s plan has
Separatists. In actuality, he’s Grand Army of the Republic, comprised of taken a giant leap forward, with
playing both sides against each the clone soldiers whom Obi-Wan Kenobi the confl ict throwing the galaxy
other to amass more power discovers are being created and raised on into turmoil and bringing his goal
for himself. He defers the Kamino. Years before, the Jedi Master Sifo- of dictatorial power ever closer.

The Two Are One


• • •


Palpatine has an ally who Sidious’s greatest feat, however, is that
aids his climb. Some in the he does all this not by hiding in the shadows
Jedi Council surmise that this but in plain sight. For Palpatine’s dark ally is
mysterious figure may be the one none other than Palpatine himself. The mild-
behind all the galactic chaos, but mannered chancellor with the calm demeanor
they have not been able to locate uses the public forum of politics as his platform
him or confirm their suspicions. to bend the galaxy to his will.
The ally is a man of Palpatine’s Palpatine reveals his identity as a Sith to
age, stature, and physique, yet the Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker, whose career
instead of the ornate dress of the he has watched with “great interest” since
chancellor, he wears simple zeyd- Qui-Gon Jinn rescued the boy from slavery on
cloth robes, with his face cowled Tatooine. Sidious is in need of a new apprentice
under a hood. This man also after losing his first, Darth Maul, during the
has talents and powers beyond Naboo invasion, and having his second, Darth
those which some would consider Tyranus, decapitated by Skywalker. The young
natural. His name is Darth Sidious Jedi initially resists Palpatine’s persuasions, but
and he is a Sith, one of an ancient is eventually convinced of the corruption of
order of devotees to the dark the Jedi and the supremacy of the Sith. As a
side of the Force. Though the Jedi, Skywalker had not been able to save his Terminus
Jedi believe they eradicated the mother from Tusken Raiders, but as a Sith, he
Sith long ago, they have in fact can surrender to the dark side and potentially • • •
survived: always in pairs, a master save his beloved Padmé from the death he’s
and an apprentice. witnessed in his nightmares. Palpatine even Unbeknownst to the Jedi
Over the last two decades, convinces the young man that his wife may generals, Count Dooku had the
Sidious has spun his dark web, have ulterior motives. Kaminoans implant a biochip into
using his infernal powers to the brains of the clone soldiers.
slowly, inexorably draw the PALPATINE: “These are unstable times for Upon activation, the chip would
Republic to the brink of collapse. the Republic, Anakin. Some see instability initiate “Clone Protocol 66,” also
He has turned Count Dooku to as an opportunity. Senator Amidala is hiding known as “Order 66,” which
his side, appointing him as his something. I can see it in her eyes.” would force the clones to turn
apprentice and giving him the against the Jedi. After the Jedi
name Darth Tyranus. The two As usual with Palpatine, the truth of the matter who come to arrest him are killed,
conspire to instigate the war is that he is not speaking about Padmé, but Sidious initiates the fatal order to
between the Separatists and himself. He is the one who sees instability as clone commanders in the fi eld,
Republic, with the view that the an opportunity. He is the one who is hiding who in turn relay the order to
Jedi will eventually fall and the something. It is he who has orchestrated an their troops. The clone soldiers
Sith will re-establish security and all-encompassing plan that will soon reach its spin on their Jedi generals and
order as new galactic rulers. terrible climax. fi re, and in one fell swoop the
order of brave knights that has
guarded peace and justice for
millennia is reduced to just a
scant few. What the Sith have
long desired—but never been
able to accomplish—Palpatine
has achieved: revenge against the
Jedi. But he is not done yet.
With the Jedi Order fi nally
extinguished, Palpatine executes
the fi nal step in his long quest for
galactic control. He goes before
the Senate and declares that the
Republic will be reorganized into
a new governmental body to
ensure security and continuing
stability. He will become the
sovereign ruler, chosen for life.
Thus the Empire and the Emperor
are born.






78 / STAR WARS INSIDER

THE LONG GAME












































The Long Game


• • •


Palpatine is a patient villain, Palpatine merely wants to
plotting his takeover for many establish his version of security
years. Politics is his ladder, and justice, with himself as
allowing him to make most of his the final arbiter. Like his Sith
moves in the public eye so that predecessors, he believes the
the sagacious in the Jedi Order galaxy would be best served if
never see the full picture of what it were under his command.
he plans to do until it is too late. When Palpatine does
In the Jedi’s defense, none of his announce himself as Emperor
choices seem evil on the surface; of the first Galactic Empire, it is,
they are but political reactions to as Senator Amidala observes,
the direness of current events. to “thunderous applause.”
Moreover, Palpatine’s feigned After years of war, senators and
hesitation to accept emergency citizens cheer on their new leader,
powers or mobilize the Grand surrendering their liberties for
Army masks his true intentions. supposed safety and security.
Boring, unimposing Palpatine But under this new Empire, that
represents that most ordinary means oppression, domination,
malevolence, an evil so banal that and blind allegiance to a New
it is inconspicuous, even to the Order. As the minds of the
man himself. citizenry become normalized
For the evil doer never sees to Imperial rule, soon even the
themselves as evil, demonstrating surname “Palpatine” starts to
why even the most principled of fade in the public consciousness,
men can convince themselves until only a title exists:
into perpetrating heinous acts. The Emperor.



Boring, unimposing Palpatine represents

that most ordinary malevolence, an evil

so banal that it is inconspicuous.










STAR WARS INSIDER / 79

The


Star Wars


Archive



Lights! Camera! Action!
Rare images from the
Star Wars photo archives.

































































































80 / STAR WARS INSIDER

Makeup is applied to
Hayden Christensen
during production of
Star Wars: Revenge
of the Sith (2005). The
terrible burns signify
the physical transition
of Anakin Skywalker
into Darth Vader.









STAR WARS INSIDER / 81

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