Star Wars Weekends

Many people (myself included) have been voicing their opinions on the lack of information being shared about the merchandise (things are leaking out SLOWLY) and special events being planned for Star Wars Weekends this year. There is no question that I’d be happier with more information and it may suddenly come here in the next few days. That said I’ve seen in some corners where people are questioning how good this SWW event will be. I can’t give you any more information than what is already out there, but I think what you can work with is the history of the event coupled with what we know.

This year several factors keep me from believing that there will be any significant drop off in the quality of SWW. First and foremost is the release of the Clone Wars animated film this August. While the series may not be aired through Disney/ABC, that sort of decision has never affected this relationship before (See distribution of ALL six films and the original Clone Wars Cartoon on Cartoon Network). It is important for Lucas to keep enthusiasm high simply for the marketing of his movie and television programs.

We also have the persistent rumors of Star Tours 2.0 (the Star Tours makeover) which I do believe is on the horizon and yes, you can cut me down with a Lightsaber for having some faith in that rumor. There is also the live action Television series that goes into production later this year that is looking for a home. ABC/Disney may not pin the life and death of Star Wars Weekends on having either of those television shows, but if one happens to be available, I have to believe that there would be some interest. Putting your best foot forward in such a situation would make more sense than taking two steps back.

The other factor is that interest in this event remains very high. We are coming up on the 10 year anniversary of Phantom Menace, the 25th Anniversary of Return of the Jedi and the 30th Anniversary of the Empire Strikes Back. Not to mention that G.L. would like to re-release these films using the new 3-D technology that was announced last year. From Disney’s standpoint, having eager guests each year waiting at the gates to get in is a good investment. Couple that with the volume of merchandise that they move each year which gives them income beyond what they can hope for without the event and it is safe to say that while the event may be changing, it won’t be going away and it won’t likely disappoint.

Am I miffed that I don’t have the merchandise info? Yep. @$@#% FIGS!!!!! But again, I still think we might see that information shortly. Am I worried that the event will be a disappointment? Not a chance. I’ll need to see that to believe it. Yes I do miss two events of from the past, but overall the experience is still well worth while. So don’t get excited over if this will be a good year or not now. Some of that will be what you make of it. Time will tell, but do make sure to let Guest Relations know what you think on the way out.