Freedom Base at Shevacon 20!

By Nikkos Khann

On February 17-19, 2012 fans of all types descended upon Southwestern Virginias largest Sci-Fi and Fantasy convention known as Shevacon, which stands for Shenandoah Valley Convention.

photos courtesy of photos4life

In attendance were Freedom Base CO Shivannd, BMO Jon-Ari Kenobi, Docking Bay 94 DCO Nikkos Khann, TwilekJedi, Zocha, Sol Kar Ploon and Blue Ridge Base’s Jedi Master Alex.

Freedom Base also represented The Rebel Legion in a one-hour panel on Rebel Legion costuming.  This panel featured a PowerPoint presentation of Base member’s costumes, with detailed explanations behind the making of these costumes.  We then opened up the floor to questions from the con goers.  It was a great success!

Our Shevacon display proudly represented The Rebel Legion and Freedom Base with three mannequins displaying: a Naboo Security Officer, OT Rebel Fleet Trooper and X-wing Pilot costumes.  Also on display were various props and of course tons of stickers, tattoos and Rebel Legion Trading Cards for the kids!

TImothy Zahn's Rebel Legion induction

Freedom Base had the privilege of formally welcoming Star Wars EU Author Timothy Zahn into The Rebel Legion as an Honorary Member.  Actually, Mr. Zahn was formally inducted into the Rebel Legion back in 2004; however there was no official plaque (back then) to commemorate the event.  Mr. Zahn was presented with his OFFICIAL Rebel Legion Honorary Member plaque by Freedom Base CO Joel Webne and welcomed into the Rebel Legion with a swag bag full of goodies!

In addition, we had the opportunity to have dinner with RL Honorary Member Jeremy Bulloch (Captain Colton and Boba Fett).  He was very nice and accommodating with numerous photo ops.

Until next time….

Nikkos Khann signing out!

Never fly without an R2 droid

by JediKai:

Photos courtesy of JediKai

Alpha Base and Garrison Titan supported the R2-Builders appearance of a working R2-D2 during "NW Modeler's Weekend" (Feb. 18-19, 2012) at the Seattle Museum of Flight.  The R2-D2 was build by Master Modeler Bob Jacobsen.

It started with the calendar in the Museum of Flight members magazine...

"Master Modeler Bob Jacobsen will talk about how he designed and built a life-size, operational model of the movie star droid, R2-D2.." This was part of an entire weekend of modelers! "NorthWest Scale Modelers (NWSM) will push the envelope with a massive show of modeling force, attempting to stage the largest model show in Pacific Northwest history. See hundreds upon hundreds of model aircraft, cars, tanks, ships, spacecraft, and more as NWSM members display their collections."

That's no moon... it's a (replica) space station!

On Saturday, the Imperials and Rebels posed for photos.  The Jedi acted as guardians for R2-D2 to both pose for pictures and keep exploring little hands from doing damage.  As is often our experience, the crowds of visitors were excited to see us.  Vader, TIE Pilot and Shadow Trooper stood under the Blackbird for photos.  As arranged with the R2 builder, Bob, we "interrupted" his talk to parade through the theater briefly.  Then we took a break and posed for our own photos inside a full size replica of the International Space Station’s Destiny Research Laboratory.

To learn more about the Seattle Museum of Flight, visit http://www.museumofflight.org/

A picture is worth a thousand midichlorians

Still getting mission reports by members of The Rebel Legion at various "Star Wars: EPISODE I - The Phantom Menace in 3D" events across the world.  Here are a couple stories from smaller events that were just too good to pass up.

German Base Yavin took part in a TPM in 3D preview event in Hamburg, Germany.  This mission briefing was written by TK-Ben-1372:

Photo courtesy of TK-Ben-1372

"It was amazing and a big honor for us to get the chance to organize this preview event for Star Wars Episode I in 3D.  Why?"

"First, it was not only a RL Event, it was a great cooperation with our friend of the 501st.  Second, it was one of the rare previews one day before the official release in Germany.  Third, the great cinema crew and the visitors who loved our costumes.  We stayed for loads of pictures."

"Actually, it was a very funny day, too, because there also was a 'ladys night' at the cinema and all the young ladies and their mothers wanted pictures with us for their kids at home."

"We stayed in costumes from 16:00 to 24:00, and yes, we stayed in costumes during the complete movie; the visitors were amused and so were we."

Now, some of my personal favorite pictures from a TPM in 3D event have to be from Puerto Rico Base.  Here is a sample of what I'm talking about, from a short transmission from djeljedi:

Photo courtesy of Puerto Rico Base

"We went to 2 cinemas here in the island: Plaza Guaynabo and Arecibo, each in two different towns.  I long went to another theather with a friend with our jedis costumes.  In the case of the photos that what because the release of the film, we going to do better next year for attack of the clones 3d."

Better?  What is there to do better?  From what I've managed to piece together from the forums, these guys had FUN wherever they went for TPM in 3D - I mean, who wouldn't want to sit next to THESE GUYS at a Star Wars movie?

Rebel Legion Celebration VI logo announced!

Photo courtesy of Rebel Legion

The Rebel Legion has announced it's official logo design for the upcoming Star Wars - Celebration VI to be held later this summer in Orlando, Florida.

Congratulations to Zombie_Bunny (Nar Shaddaa Base) who came up with the winning design.  Be sure to look for upcoming CVI merchandise threads, featuring the new logo, on the main RL forums.

Meanwhile, donations are now being accepted towards operating costs for The Rebel Legion booth at CVI.  Please visit the donations for RL CVI booth thread on the main forums.  All donors will receive a CVI medal to their username profile.

Ep. I in Kessel Base

posted by: Zrissa

courtesy of Sarah and Josh Cutlip

Members of Kessel Base and JediOKC (Oklahoma City Star Wars fan club) were at the Warren Theater on Feb. 11, 2012 and it looks like they made quite a showing.  The manager dressed up, but not many fans.  The costumers had to explain what they were doing to many moviegoers.  Thanks also to Robert Mullins, who kindly helped me obtain access and permission to post photos from the event.

A few days later, Kessel Base and JediOKC members followed up with the manager of the Warren Theater.   He told them that every February 11 showing was sold out -- over 10,000 tickets!

You can learn more about JediOKC by visiting: http://www.jediokc.com

photo courtesy of Danpa Wamem

Elsewhere, a crack Rebel strike team with X-wing support was able to take out the Imperial jamming device, while a team of technicians and astromechs reconstructed the report from Kessel Base CO Danpa Wamem:

"I was contacted by the manager there about having the Rebel Legion & 501st Legion come out on Saturday, Feb 11 to promote the opening weekend of Episode 1 in 3D."

"In attendance we had: Myself (dressed in a similar fashion to Episode 1 Obi-Wan complete with Padawan braid), Scott Williams (Jedi), Alan Steinberg (Jedi), Kris Luke (who is a RL & 501st member but went to the dark side on this event as Darth Vader), as well as a few members of the Star Garrison of the 501st Legion which includes: David Hunter, Aaron Moore, Adrian Salinas among others."

"We trooped from Noon to 5:30PM and made a stop by the mobile blood bank that was having a blood drive there on the property, went into a Red Robin to take pictures with fans and staff but mostly spent our time in the lobby of the theatre passing out mini Episode 1 3D posters to fans and took LOTS of pictures with movie goers, our handler took over 200 pictures."

photo courtesy of Ja'es Gawrd

Ja'es Gawrd says of the San Antonio, Texas appearance, "This troop was for the Midnight Showing of Star Wars: EPISODE I - The Phantom Menace.  Roy Garza, Andrew Shaddox, Pete Cardona, and myself attended the movie, with my 17 year old Nephew Josh Lewis (He will be joining Rebel Legion as soon as he turns 18).  We had a blast showing up to the event at Alamo Draft House Park North in San Antonio, TX.  We were the only costumers that were there and so our reception was great.  Fans and Employees were very excited to have us there and took a lot of pictures with us.  The night was a fun time and we all can not wait for Episode II next year.

Unfortunately this X-wing pilot & her Jedi family were "medically unfit to fly" for the Little Rock Rave Theater mission this past weekend and I haven't heard or seen anything about it yet.    Where's a Jedi Healer or 2-1B when you really, really need them?  So I've been consoling myself with my fellow Rebels' exploits until everyone's well enough to hit the theater.  We're looking forward to seeing Phantom Menace on the big screen again.

Endor Base in 3D

This past weekend was one of the busiest in recent memory for The Rebel Legion with the release of Star Wars: EPISODE I - The Phantom Menace in 3D.

Photo courtesy of Kay_Dee

Endor Base got the chance to take part in one of the TPM in 3D events organized by Lucasfilm, at the AMC Emeryville Bay Street 16 theater.  In addition to watching the movie and getting pictures with Rebel Legion and 501st costumers, kids (of all ages) were given the chance to demo the new XBox Kinect "Star Wars" video game and build a TPM in 3D poster made entirely of LEGO.  Is there any pressure in trooping at an official Lucasfilm event? Why don't we ask veteran Endor Base member - Anasian Skywalker:

"As far as being an 'official LFL event' - it never gets old!  For several screenings, we were lined up to welcome moviegoers exiting the theater as the LFL cameras interviewed various kids (typically 10 and under) about what they thought of the movie.  It was great just seeing their reaction from an unbiased/adult prequel jaded mind. ;)  It reminded me why I troop in the first place!"

Photo courtesy of Kay_Dee 

Phavorianne (who played Padme at the event) had a great quote on her Facebook that epitomized this experience:

Best moment of The Phantom Menace 3D: Young boy puts on his 3D glasses and walks into the AMC lobby...

"Whoa! This is so cool!"

Boy sees X-wing pilot and Padme wave to him...

"Wow, they look SO real!"

Presumed mother takes the glasses off the boy and tells him to look again...

"Oh. They ARE real!"

"Most of these kids were not even born yet when The Phantom Menace first came out; it reminded me how much nothing beats watching ANY Star Wars movie in a crowded theater!"

Ok, TPM in 3D was a hit with kids!  How did TPM in 3D score with adults?  Kay_Dee has some thoughts on the subject:

"It was a great experience watching the movie in 3D.  I honestly had low expectations as this is my least favorite of all 6 movies - but the detail in 3D looked fantastic!  It did not feel overdone, it was all very subtle and enhanced the movie.  At times I felt like I was riding Star Tours - especially the Naboo underwater scenes.  I must confess that (as a costumer) I found myself eyeing the textures and weaves of all of the costume fabrics which seemed more apparent in 3D!"

"I did get quite a few questions from adults asking if we were from Lucasfilm, and they commented on how professional our costumes were.  Many adults who had come to the theater to see other movies were hoping we'd be back on Sunday or the following weekend so they could bring their kids."

Now THIS is Podracing in 3D!

Photo courtesy of BrianKenobi

More and more mission reports are starting to come in from TPM in 3D events worldwide.  So while I "establish a connection trace" for future blog posts, enjoy this mission report by BrianKenobi:

"Members of the Great Lakes Base and Ohio Garrison invaded the Rave Theaters in Huber Heights, Ohio for the midnight premier of Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace in 3-D.  There were a total of 15 characters roaming around the theater available for pictures.  Ian Spencer and Curtis Plue from R2-Builders each brought their droids for everyone to see.  Ian built a R5-D4, while Curtis built the ever popular R2-D2.  Both droids were a huge hit with fans and theater staff.  One other rarely seen prop that was present was Jabba the Hutt himself.  Last year, TLobe00 constructed a Jabba the Hutt prop for a local parade.  Since Jabba does make an appearance in The Phantom Menace, what better time for the crime lord to make his prescence known."

Photo courtesy of BrianKenobi

"The photo of the night was Lizzy sitting in the cockpit of a racing game; just like Anakin during the Podrace scene.  The movie lines started flowing, even before the trooping began.  Countless times Lizzy got the line, 'that is soooo wizard Ani.'  Not to be outdone, I responded with, 'why do I sense we’ve picked up another pathetic lifeform?' This drew a look from Lizzy that would have made Vader himself flinch." :D

One of the local TV stations interviewed a few GLB/OG members and recorded some of our jedi in action!  You can watch WDTN Dayton's NBC affiliate bonus footage from the event online.

"While the turnout for the event was smaller than expected, with costumed characters outnumbering customers present for the midnight premier, the theater really enjoyed having our groups present.  Our efforts were rewarded with FREE tickets to the show... our own theater to watch it in... FREE popcorn and drinks!  Big thanks go out to the staff at the Rave Theaters in Huber Heights.  This was a day long remembered and the experience was 'soooooo wizard!'"

Here is a report from JediMasterMark from Echo Base:

"This was my first ‘official’ movie event.  I did troop the original Epi III release at midnight back in the day, but this was a really good opportunity to introduce new people to the franchise."

Photo courtesy of Amy Bryant

"Originally, there were NO release events for TPM in 3D even scheduled in my area.  I happened to be going to see Sherlock Holmes back in December and noticed the promotional 'standee' in the lobby.  I called and spoke to the GM, and he was excited for us to come out!  Based on the public's reaction to us, we’ve already been invited back for the next 5 releases.  It’s a good way to get The Rebel Legion name out in the community… it just takes a little confidence in the Force to make it happen!"

"The crowds varied throughout the day.  Probably the best impact was earlier in the day.  The kids really related to Anakin and a few came in dressed up for the show.  As the day tapered on, we took pictures as one show let out, and before the start of the next.  We also walked in the theater as the movie was playing, up and down the isle, further generating excitement among the patrons that real Jedi and Troopers (even though they weren’t in the movie!) walked among them.  Towards the end of the day, the demographic changed towards an older crowd, and fewer pictures were taken.  But it was still a rousing success for the theater and The Rebel Legion in the area.  I saw a lot of posts on Facebook with us the next day!"

The Phantom Menace in 3D midnight releases

This weekend was a busy one for The Rebel Legion with Star Wars: EPISODE I - The Phantom Menace in 3D opened in movie theaters worldwide.  Many theaters hosted special promotions, charity fundraisers and midnight release events.  Time for "All Wings Report In" to activate the J-type 327 Nubian hyperdrive for a tour around the galaxy.

photo courtesy Snips92

We'll start things off where it began (for me, at least) at Cinemark Valleyview.  Back in 1999, I took my sister to this recently opened movie theater to see The Phantom Menace for the first time. After 9.5 screenings of TPM, she was just as much a Star Wars fan of the prequels as I had been growing up on the original trilogy.  For us, this was a return to where it all began!

Fast forward to this past Thursday, where Great Lakes Base joined by Mando Mercs and Ohio Garrison for the midnight release event.  We've worked with this particular Cinemark going as far back as ROTS, so Missy and her guys always take GOOD care of us; and we do our best to return that kindness to their customers.  Cinemark Valleyview is equipped with one of the Extreme Digital Cinema (their version of an IMAX theater) and fans were treated with special "Anakin podracer" style 3D glasses.  You can see Phantom Menace 3D event pictures on the GLB Facebook page.

Another great thing Cinemark (and theaters around the country) did for TPM in 3D was partner with Lucasfilm and 20th Century Fox to promote Variety - The Children's Charity "Gold Heart" campaign.  Fans could purchase a collectible C3P0/R2D2 gold heart pin, with proceeds going to support the work Variety does providing much needed assistance to children with mobility concerns.  To learn more go to: http://www.usvariety.org/goldhearts.html

We'll have more from Great Lakes Base in future blog posts, but now let's head up north to for another TPM 3D update from Cerfestas:

So it's once again back to the throws of reality after another great troop.  Short and small, but sweet.  We had five official participants from Outrider Base as well as a couple of "troopies" who brought along a wonderful collection of custom lightsabers constructed by Genesis Sabers.  We helped the Scotia Bank Theatre at West Edmonton Mall in Canada promote the 3D release of The Phantom Menace as well as raise money for the Starlight Foundation (Cineplex's equivalent to the Make a Wish foundation.)

I personally did not have the opportunity to see the Star Wars saga in theatre when they originally came out, so being able to not only see it for the first time on the big screen - but with the Rebel Legion as well felt like being a kid again.  I was amazed at the amount of kids who did not necessarily know who we were, but knew what we were about.  One of them even bragged about his own custom saber his parents got for him.  A potential future recruit... who knows?  Many smiles and cheers were had when the flick started, and myself and Ky-wan took the opportunity of a dark theatre to do a small sparring demonstration with our blades.  All in all, it was a great night, even if some of us were bogged down by the cold (both literally and health wise!) Thanks to everyone who came out to support the Rebel Legion as well as Cineplex for hosting us!  We look forward to working with them again for EPISODE II!

Photo courtesy of Obi Anne

Elsewhere, the TPM 3D-premiere in Stockholm was a great success. Here is a report from Obi Anne:

Nordic Base and Nordic Garrison arrived at Filmstaden Sergel, the main cinema in Stockholm, suited up and got ready to troop.  From 17.00 we mingled in the foyer, scaring and exciting the cinema goers.  The cinema was crowded, and even though Star Wars was shown on two smaller screens, our presence was appreciated by people coming to see other films.

At 17.30 the Swedish dubbed version was screened, and Darth Maul and Queen Amidala got the chance to present the film and get the audience reday for the show.  The English version was shown at 18.30, but that was presented by Darth Maul by himself, since Amidala had realised she wouldn't be able to fit into a seat and had to get changed before the film started.  People with costumes that took up less space chose to watch the film all suited up though.  It was quite sight to see R2 and R5 stand on guard under the screen while a whole row of royal guards, stormtroopers, tuskens and Darth Maul were sitting with their 3D-glasses on, getting ready for the film.  The troopers that had a possibility to stay also presented the 23.30 showing.  All in all it was a great fun evening and the audience loved meeting up with Star Wars characters and droids.

The Phantom Menace in 3D brought in $23 MILLION at the box office; not bad for a re-release many of us have on Blu Ray!  Check back to "All Wings Report In" for more reports from opening weekend.

Party like it's 1999 (again)

Photo courtesy of Elith Dupar

Like many of you... I cannot WAIT for Star Wars: EPISODE I - The Phantom Menance 3D to return to movie theaters. This will be the first time TPM is back in theaters since it's theatrical release back in 1999.

Meanwhile in Helsinki, Nordic Base - Wampa's Cave trooped at the local cinema for a TPM 3D pre-sale event and they also filmed a viral movie in the metro.  As you would expect, many people were surprised to see Star Wars characters on their daily commute and a few sent pictures to the biggest newspapers in Helsinki of Sith Lords and Jedi Knight battling it out on the metro with them that morning.

Checkout this YouTube video fan-made promotional video - it is PURE AWESOME!!!
For the record, NICE "slide" move by the female jedi!

(and who knew Count Dooku and I have the same ringtone? ;) ) 

Anyway, expect to read more from TPM 3D event across the Rebel Legion here at "All Wings Report In!" So put on your 3D glasses and enjoy Star Wars back in theaters!