Star Wars Weekends

Weekend 3 of Star Wars Weekends 2009 looks to be the other celebrity gem next to Weekend #1. Veterans who missed David Prowse last year will get another chance to meet with the actor who physically portrayed Darth Vader in the original movies, Episodes IV-VI. (Vader was always voiced by James Earl Jones which was dubbed in later) Children not familiar with the actor will enjoy getting their picture and autograph from the imposing Prowse as he has proven over the years to be very accommodating with his fans. Prowse has not always had the best of relationships with Lucas film and as a result has an interesting take on the making of the movies. There are no hard feelings between the parties (otherwise he wouldn’t be here) but it can make for an interesting discussion at times. Prowse did a great job bringing Darth Vader to life. Like Anthony Daniels (C3PO) and this weekends other guest, breathing life into an expressionless (masked) face is one of the strengths of the saga. Prowse has a great reputation with the fans and will most likely be the more difficult of the autographs to obtain this weekend.

Along with Prowse will be Jeremy Bulloch, -Boba Fett in the original movies and Bail Organa’s pilot in Episode III. Bulloch has also been to weekends. Both celebrities were at Weekends 2008. Bulloch is a very charming person who loves talking about the movies with the fans. He has a deep appreciation for what the Star Wars saga has meant for him and his family and loves sharing that with the fans. He, like Prowse is a must for this weekend. Last year I was able to purchase his auto biography from him, “Flying Solo” which he kindly autographed for me. A well made book with case, it details his life, family and the influence of Star Wars. –a very nice read. He is usually accompanied by his wife who if you get the chance to speak with her, you will find equally friendly and charming. For two characters from the Empire Strikes Back who spread fear throughout the galaxy, this actually makes for a pretty good bunch to hang out with for a weekend.

Matt Lanter rounds out our group for this weekend. In the Star Wars Clone Wars Cartoon series, he voices Anakin Skywalker. Young fans of the show should really enjoy meeting with the voice of Anakin and maybe hearing about a future storyline or two to look out for. I like the production aspect of the series, so I personally find the voice actors interesting. Bringing physical strain to a voice in action scenes when your are really in a sound booth isn’t easy at all. Most give it no thought, but you have to give them their props for the quality of the product they have put together.

In all, this weekend shapes up to be one of the best of the event. If you are new to SWW or a veteran you won’t be disappointed with the guest list. If you were looking to avoid Emperial entanglements, this is not the weekend you were looking for. And please, NO DISINTEGRATIONS!!!