Star Wars Celebration: An Overview
Legions of fans gathered in London at the weekend and united in tribute to Star Wars. It was of course a crowded event, but the good will pervaded proceedings palpably. There have been some dissenting murmurings of discontent / disquiet. ‘Why was there no trailer released?’
But there was never going to be any matching that reveal of last year’s Force Awakens footage; no ‘Chewie, we’re home’ moment. And there was a Rogue One trailer of sorts (exclusive, c/o the lovely Kathleen Kennedy) and it will be released in time, properly, though whether it will be identical is another matter. Meantime, the reel that has been circulated is more a mini making of and in effect is arguably an even bigger treat than any mere trailer.
Instead, we got a comprehensive timetable of tributes to Star Wars past and enough hints and glimpses of the future to satisfy curiosities. It’s good PR: something exclusive for the fans that chose to attend, whilst avoiding the messy mismanagement of leaked trailers (perhaps it is for that reason that Comic-Con will feel a little lighter this year?).
Nothing leaked this year except what the team wanted us to see. In a way, that’s reassuring. And as Mark Hamill pointed out (in relation to Episode 8 spoilers), patience is always rewarded. Secrecy and strategies associated are simply to preserve your final enjoyment.
The footage and events here had to be unique and exclusive to some extent. And it cleverly allows for a series of further mini reveals and associated publicity in the build up to the actual release of Rogue One.
The highlights? Talks from Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher (warm, witty, wonderful). An official introduction to the young Han Solo (Alden Ehrenreich). And a panel discussion of Rogue One, with all cast and major crew leaders introducing themselves to the assembled masses of fans.
Felicity Jones is definitely a name to watch: sexy, glamorous, beautiful and above all, a charming and talented actress. Felicity now has her very own action figure (presented by Gwendoline Christie). We also got a glimpse of Rebels, series 3 and its new ‘big bad’ (Thrawn, from the supposedly non canon Timothy Zahn novel era). But don’t just take our word for it. Have a look at this selection of clips currently dominating YouTube and social media. In their way they are truly ‘viral’ pieces of marketing.
May the Force..you know the rest 
