More Shimi Sightings
August 31, 2001 | 8:48 AM EST | Bill
Yak Reader Speedy6 wrote in that he found the new Shimi and Obi Wan figures Wednesday at a Target in Niles Illinois. There were
several of each. Both are on .04 cards.
POTJ Price Dropping At KB
August 31, 2001 | 8:46 AM EST | Bill
Yak Reader at CJ writes:
“Today i found all of the series 1 potj figures at K@B toystore today for only 1.99 each . I dont know if this is for the whole country but in florida @ alabama they are realy cheap.”
Shmi Wave Hits The States!
August 30, 2001 | 9:45 PM EST | John
The first e-mail for the Shmi wave hit Yak-mailboxes tonight. It’s from “Obi-Wan BRENTobi”, and it reads;
“I just picked up a SHMI SKYWALKER and an OBI-WAN Jedi Gear this evening. I scanned them and thought that, maybe, you’d like to post the pic to share with your readers.”
Unfortunately, the image didn’t make it through, but it’s ok, we all know what they look like, now the trick is finding them. Maybe now we can ask the question, “Will I ever see you again?”. Thanks again, BRENTobi! Keep your monoculars switched on, they’ll be out there soon.
Ultimate Star Wars Home Video List
August 30, 2001 | 8:59 PM EST | Bill
Davis DVD has put together a STAR WARS HOME VIDEO TIMELINE. The timeline covers all four films from their very first VHS/Betamax incarnations to the latest Laserdisc/DVD releases (and every obscure little variant in between).
Click here to see the timeline.
eBay Star Wars Prototype Onslaught
August 30, 2001 | 1:36 PM EST | Adam
Literally dozens of auctions of what seem to be preproduction samples out of Hong Kong appeared this week on eBay through seller “proto_year.” Some highlights include a boxed mock-up using multicolored Jabba’s Dancers figure– which all look very cool– in a box made from one of BanDai’s many kung fu lines; a multicolored 1995 Han Solo test shot; and what looks like the very first Darth Vader Removable Helmet prototype we saw leaked back in 1997. Very interesting stuff.
Also up are several TransFormers, Lord of the Rings, GI Joe, Jurassic Park, and other other figures. Heck, there’s even a shot of what appears to be an as-of-yet unproduced Batman Beyond villain in an auction designated “mummy!”
Power of the Jedi at the Fan Club
August 30, 2001 | 12:40 AM EST | Adam
The Star Wars Fan Club Website is offering quite a few recent Hasbro offerings. Highlights include the Sandtrooper, Ellors Madak, Ketwol, Aurra Sing, and many others. The prices are around $8.99 each, so take a gander and see what’s new.
(Unfortunately, no Scout Troopers are currently available.)
Lego Bundles Continue
August 30, 2001 | 12:37 AM EST | Adam
Toys “R” Us stores are offering the Gungan Sub and Naboo Swamp sets in a shrinkwrapped bundle for $29.99. If you haven’t already snapped these up, it’s a prety good deal.
Detailed TIE Interceptor Photos
August 29, 2001 | 11:21 PM EST | Bill
Just what you’ve been waiting for. TIE Interceptors are appearing at TRUs all over the country. Click here for detailed photos of the TRU exclusive TIE Interceptor. Just one thing about the TIE Interceptor– the pilot DOES have articulated knees, but the cockpit seat in the Tie Interceptor is identical to the vintage model. There is no way to put the TIE pilot in the cockpit with his knees bent!!!!
More Vintage Instructions and Sticker Sheets On-line
August 29, 2001 | 9:02 PM EST | Bill
Gadders has updated again, adding a bunch more vintage inserts to the site
including:
Droid Factory Blueprints
Millennium Falcon Stickers
Droids Side Gunner Instructions and Stickers
Multiple playset backgrounds
To see the new additions or submit scans of vintage instructions and stickers, click here.
Star Wars Muppet Show now on DVD!
August 28, 2001 | 11:44 PM EST | John
Yak-Reader “Red 6” writes to us with this muppet-licious news;
“The Muppet Show is now on DVD, and the episode with Mark Hamill is on Disk 2. The bonus features of this disk include screen tests for The Empire Strikes Back showing other muppets (including Fozzie and Animal) that didn’t get the role of “Yoda.”
It’s only avaialble at http://www.timelife.com and here’s a direct
link. You can also get 20% off using the TLSAF36 coupon.
Major thanks goes to “Red 6” for this tip. You know, ironically enough, the wife and I were just discussing this the other night, and lo and behold, they finally put them on DVD. Weird.
Ultarama Sale Time — Free Shipping
August 28, 2001 | 11:07 PM EST | Bill
This just in from Mort at Ultarama.com:
Ultarama.com celebrates Labor Day By Savings Collectors Cash! Offers Free Shipping On All Orders From August 29th Through September 4th!
EDISON, NJ–Aug. 29, 2001—To celebrate Labor Day, we at Ultarama want to help all of our hard working collectors enjoy displaying their figures while keeping some extra cash in their pocket. So, we are doing our part by offering free shipping in the Continental U.S. on all orders placed from August 29th through September 4th!
The Ultarama is a complete action figure display system that is both flexible and customizable. With the use of the Ultarama’s molded plastic platforms that contain 80 pre-molded peg holes and its proprietary pegging system, collectors can display their collections in three totally unique ways: stacked two levels high in the shape of a semicircle, clipped back-to-back in the shape of a circle, or configured as two separate and complete one level displays. With the purchase of additional Ultaramas, collectors can build their display many stories high! The Ultarama also includes four unique 8 X 10 background scenes, 48 pegs for 3 3/4″ figures, and 24 pegs for 6″ figures. The 6″ pegs also fit most 4 3/4″ figures and most vintage 3 3/4″ figures.
The Ultarama is available for immediate shipping and can be ordered from the Ultarama web site at Ultarama.com or by calling toll free at 1-888-269-4386. Be sure to tell them Yakface sent you!!!!
A-Wing Honda Civic
August 28, 2001 | 7:21 PM EST | Adam
“Obi-Shawn” wrote in to tell us about his pet project: fashioning his 1995 blue/green Honda Civic del sol into something more similar to an A-Wing fighter– complete with decorative cannons. Right now, he’s looking for a name for the car… visit his site for a good look at one of the more unique custom jobs out there.
Jedicon: UK Star Wars Gathering
August 28, 2001 | 7:14 PM EST | Adam
On Sunday, December 9, the Basildon Sports Center in England will be taken over by Jeremy Bulloch, Chris Parsons (4-LOM), Alan Harris (Bossk), and many other players of the Star Wars galaxy. For more information, visit their website at www.scifishows.com.
LucasArts Chat Tonight
August 28, 2001 | 6:55 PM EST | Adam
At 5:00 PM pacific/ 8:00 PM eastern, LucasArts will be hosting a chat with some of the minds behind the upcoming GameCube title, Rogue Leader (Rogue Squadron II). Surf on over to LucasArts for details.
Micromachines Give Away
August 28, 2001 | 8:49 AM EST | Bill
The Jawa is giving away a Micromachines Action Fleet Yavin Rebel Base this week. Click here for more information.
Cheap Stands Are Back In Stock
August 27, 2001 | 10:36 PM EST | Bill
UPDATE: they are once again out of stock.
The Official Fan Club Website has Real Stands back in stock at unbeliveably cheap prices. If you are not a Fan Club Member, the stands are $1.99 for 12. If you are a Fan Club Member (be sure to login) they are only $0.99 for 12— that’s less than 10 cents a stand!
Wal-Mart POTJ Update
August 27, 2001 | 9:02 AM EST | Bill
Sir Steves Guide is reporting that new POTJ figures are now appearing in Wal-Mart’s computers. They are now showing Boshek, Teebo, and R5-D4!!! Click here for the details.
Fanboy Observations: Bacta Color
August 27, 2001 | 3:23 AM EST | Adam
In a discussion with an online associate, the question of the correct color of Bacta came up. As most of you know, a deluxe Luke in Bacta Tank is due out shortly and was shown at the various toy shows in prototype form. The initial prototype had a clear tank, which looked fine. Hasbro later said it would be redone to be the correct red color.
Now the question remains, is red the correct color?
Starwars.com has a brief feature on it that has a picture that looks more or less blue, but it could be that it’s a very faint red that’s being drowned out by the blue or white of the room. The entry specifically states that the “…translucent red fluid nurtures the growth of a bacterial medium…” which tells us that despite how we remember it looking, someone says it’s red.
Decipher’s Bacta Tank card from the Hoth expansion is pretty much the same, except the tank looks unquestionably blue in the picture. The description says “gelatinous red bacta is suspended in a synthetic solution…” which may explain why it looks blue.
Still, much like the purple Hoth Han Jacket of 1996 debate, the red color (seen in this shot from Rebelscum) leaves at least a few fans scratching their heads. Hey, I like the new toy, don’t get me wrong… but it’s not how I remember it.
Anyway, back to your regularly scheduled news.
Deadline: Action Figure Fanfic
August 27, 2001 | 2:49 AM EST | Adam
Ever thought about making your own story using action figures? Customizer Extraordinare Dan Curto has done just that…
“What started as an idea for a comic book almost 10 years ago, has now gotten new life online! DEADLINE is a fan-fiction series of photonovels set in the STAR WARS Universe starring customized action figures!
It’s at: http://deadline.collectstarwars.com
There will also be a contest to determine the major bad guy in the first storyline, which will tie in to the September Casting Call at FFURG. Complete details can be found at http://www.ffurg.com/casting_call/deadline.htm
Deadline: Action Figure Fanfic
August 27, 2001 | 2:48 AM EST | Adam
Ever thought about making your own story using action figures? Customizer Extraordinarre Dan Curto has done just that…
“What started as an idea for a comic book almost 10 years ago, has now gotten new life online! DEADLINE is a fan-fiction series of photonovels set in the STAR WARS Universe starring customized action figures!
It’s at: http://deadline.collectstarwars.com
There will also be a contest to determine the major bad guy in the first storyline, which will tie in to the September Casting Call at FFURG. Complete details can be found at http://www.ffurg.com/casting_call/deadline.htm
Q&A to Return Next Week
August 26, 2001 | 11:13 PM EST | Adam
With Every Question for Justice will be starting up again next week. For the new installment of the Q&A column, we could use some questions– so if you have one, send it in to me and… uh… we’ll have some questions to answer.
“From Bricks” to New URL
August 26, 2001 | 11:05 PM EST | Adam
From Bricks To Bothans has moved to and settled in at its new home atwww.FBTB.net, so update those bookmarks. We wish Tim and company the best at their new home and hope them continued success as one of the finest Lego fan sites.
More Attakus Statues Revealed
August 26, 2001 | 5:10 PM EST | Adam
Attakus, manufacturers of the fine (and pricey) Star Wars statues we’ve come to love, has posted shots of still more product– in addition to the trio shown atTheJawa.com last night, there are shots of the Emperor’s Royal Guard, Luke in his X-Wing Pilot outfit, and the Emperor in his throne, the latter two are unpainted and the former looks like it was somewhat inspired by the last Hasbro/Kenner figure.
But be sure not to miss these!
Decipher Interview Posted
August 26, 2001 | 12:54 PM EST | Bill
Pete over at The Private Universe has posted an exclusive interview with Marcus Sheppard of Decipher UK. Click here to read it.
New Lego, Hasbro Star Wars, EII, And More In Target Computers
August 26, 2001 | 12:31 PM EST | Bill
Rebelscum is reporting that the next batch of Star Wars toys are appearing in Target’s computers. Lego highlights include a Jedi Star Fighter and Republic Gunship. Hasbro highlights include PREVIEW FIGURES. Deluxe Figures will be $9.99, the 25th Anniversary 2 packs will be $14.99, also EII vehicles, beasts, and more. Also the DPCI for the new Speeder Bike with Lukeis 087-06-0112.
Click here for all the details including DPCI#’s!
New Attakus Statue Photos Posted
August 25, 2001 | 10:01 PM EST | Bill
Sidster over at The Jawa has just posted photos of the new Attakus C-3PO, Stormtrooper, and Darth Vader statues. These are nothing short of incredible.Click here to see the photos!!!
Another Star Wars E Book On The Horizon
August 25, 2001 | 9:55 PM EST | Bill
The Force.net is reporting that the Official Random House site is now listing an upcoming Star Wars E Book centered on Han and Leia by Troy Denning— the Author of Star by Star– the next New Jedi Order hardcover. Click here for the story.
Netherlands Star Wars Fanzine
August 25, 2001 | 7:43 PM EST | Adam
Patrick of the Dutch Star Wars Fan Club ‘Echo Base’ sends along this news…
“Next month issue 3 of Echo Base Magazine will be released. Matt Busch created a fantastic Episode II Obi-Wan cover especially for the magazine! We have decided to make this issue available to non-fan club members to get a chance to obtain this fantastic collector’s item. The magazine can be purchased [for $6.95 and shipping] on this order page: http://www.echobase.nl/magazine.
Echo Base Magazine is published quarterly by unofficial Dutch Star Wars Fan Club Echo Base (http://www.echobase.nl).”
The cover’s actually quite nice– pretty cool stuff for an era when any and all fanzines are usually Internet-only.
Awesome Kay-Bee Deal!
August 25, 2001 | 12:39 AM EST | John
This letter was received tonight from “Blaze”, a Kay-Bee manager;
“Just a little note for all those looking for cheap figures. I’m a manager at KB Toys in Huntsville, AL and today on our truck, we received 96 Power of the Jedi figures priced at only $2.99 each. That’s right only $2.99. The figures included only Collection 1 figures such as Dagobah Darth Vader, Darth Maul Final Jedi Duel, (old)Ben Kenobi, Obi-Wan Kenobi Jedi, Anakin with droid, Qui-Gon in Mos Espa Disguise, Leia Bespin Escape and Chewbacca Mechanic. This is a company wide permanent markdown, so all stores should get these and at these prices. Too bad it’s only for Collection 1 waves. I would definitely hurry out to get these as KB usually does their markups/markdowns on Sunday and the way these were flying out of the store today, I’m sure we are going to see a markup.”
If you’re still missing any of these, grab ’em now. Custom fodder, army builders, (an army of little annoying Anakins… Clones, maybe?), etc. Good luck on the hunt!
Harrison Ford And Wife Separated (Again)
August 24, 2001 | 9:23 PM EST | Bill
E! Online is reporting that Harrison Ford and his wife, Melissa Mathison, have separated for the second time in less than a year. His wife recently filed for legal separation in Los Angeles, Ca. Click here to read the whole story.
Happy Birthday Kenny Baker!
August 24, 2001 | 3:10 PM EST | Adam
Kenny Baker, best known for his roles in Time Bandits and as R2-D2 in Star Wars, turns 67 today. (Thanks go to Jason for pointing this out!)
From Bricks to Bothans
August 24, 2001 | 5:58 AM EST | Tim
I’d like to thank the Yaks guys for hosting my little LEGO website, but I’m exploring new directions with it and have decided to head back out on my own.
I wish everyone here nothing but the best – especially Mark and Adam.
Respect the Brick
Tim Saupé
Ray Park: Happy Birthday!
August 24, 2001 | 5:08 AM EST | Adam
TheForce.net reports the actor that played everybody’s favorite villain– Toad from X-Men– turned 27 on Thursday. Happy birthday, Ray!
Wanna See Vintage SW Trailers?
August 23, 2001 | 10:29 PM EST | Bill
Artoo’s News is now debuting in their Vintage Televesion section, 4 movie trailers from the Original Trilogy, including the trailer for Revenge of the Jedi. To see the trailers click here!!!!
Pittsburg, PA now has a Star Wars Collecting Club!
August 23, 2001 | 1:12 PM EST | John
For all you fine folks that collect Star Wars merchandise in Western PA, now there’s a place for you to all congregate and match notes. It’s the PITSWCC, (otherwise known as the Pittsburg Star Wars Collector Club… what else?). If you’re in that particular area of the USA, and would be interested in teaming up with these fine folks, click here to go to their hidden Rebel Base… uh… web site!
A Custom That’s Very… Creative?
August 23, 2001 | 1:06 PM EST | John
This one was WAY too funny to pass up. It shows what you can do with a lighter, some rubbing alcohol, and access to vintage card templates. I won’t even elaborate as to what it is, I will just link it here. I want you, our Yak-readers, to get the exact same chuckle I got when I first saw this. I will say this; It’s a custom figure 2-pack on a vintage backer, and it’s listed on eBay.
Entertainment Earth: Shmi Wave to Hit Next Week
August 23, 2001 | 1:16 AM EST | Adam
This just in from Entertainment Earth…
“Star Wars Wave 14 arrives next week!
(Item# 84455H, $89.99) http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=84455H will begin shipping late next week. This assortment features two new figures that will only available in this case – Shmi Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi Jedi Armor. The full case of 12 figures includes 3x Shmi Skywalker, 3x Obi-Wan Kenobi Jedi Armor, 1x Sabe – Queen’s Decoy, 2x Ketwol, 1x Bespin Guard – Cloud City Security, 2x Ellorrs Madak – Duro – Fan’s Choice Figure #1. Order today!”
TIEs Intercepted at Toys R Us
August 23, 2001 | 1:14 AM EST | Adam
A few reports of the new exclusive rolled in tonight, so be sure to poke around the colorful aisles of TRU for the latest addition to the POTJ Imperial armada. The price is just pennies under $30.
Yakface Forums to Shut Down
August 23, 2001 | 1:08 AM EST | Adam
Due to a fairly steady stream of complaints, we will be abandoning our current Yakface Forums in the near future. While we are on the lookout for a new backbone to relaunch them at some point, we aren’t finding much in our price range and since pop-up ads are a big issue, it looks like we might be without the boards for a while in the near future.
While we can’t speak for everyone, the once-great usenet forum rec.arts.sf.starwars.collecting.misc is– in theory– a great place to facillitate a discussion. While part of the great unmoderated Internet wilderness, it’s somewhere I frequently visit, and I could safely say could benefit from some new blood.
(If anyone has a reccomendation as to a new board service to which we could use for our site, we’d go for that as well.)
Shmi wave now available from Nobletoy.com
August 22, 2001 | 11:54 AM EST | John
For those of you who just can’t wait, Nobletoy.com has the Shmi wave available for order. It’s coming from Hong Kong, so expect shipping to be a bit higher, as well as the price for the set, ($75.00 for all 5). The set includes all from the upcoming wave being Shmi, Obi-Wan Training Gear, Han Solo D.S. Escape, Luke X-Wing, and Darth Vader Emperor’s Wrath. Myself, I’d wait. But again,here’s the link if you just have to have them! Thanks to “blunber142” for the tip!
The Phantom Editor Won’t Die!
August 22, 2001 | 11:31 AM EST | John
The Phantom Editor on the original LA (Jar Jar) Edit finally speaks! This webpage link was sent to me from a private source for all to visit. It is the story of the Phantom Editor and his life since the infamous edit. It seems that ol’ Georgie ain’t happy with the Editor. Check out the page to read all about it! It really is intriguing, but I still say that the NY Edit with the subtitles was better…
Tantive IV Full Scale Model
August 21, 2001 | 9:40 PM EST | Bill
That’s right. Artoos News is carrying exclusive coverage of the creation of a Tantive IV (Princess Leia’s ship frm ANH) in 1/1 scale for standard 3 3/4″ Hasbro Action Figures. That means that the finished product will be OVER 35 FEET LONG!!!!!!!! Click here for their coverage and photos!!!!!
EE Newsfeed: Deluxe Boba Fett Helmet Available
August 21, 2001 | 6:57 PM EST | Adam
Entertainment Earth Newsfeed:
“Boba Fett Deluxe Helmet In Stock!
The Boba Fett Deluxe Helmet (Item# DP82101, $749.99) has been missing in action for a long time, but now it has survived a corporate takeover and is IN STOCK NOW! This Deluxe Collector’s Helmet is cast in fiberglass with comfortable padding inside and is extraordinarily detailed, showing the tremendous battle damage Fett has endured.”
Star Wars; The Definitive DVD Collection?
August 21, 2001 | 11:29 AM EST | John
TheForce.net is reporting from an “insider” who is aparently very dependable, that in 2006 there will be a finalization of all 6 movies of both trilogies to make them congeal even more fluidly than what the Special Editions of 4-6 could. What does this mean? Well, for starters it could mean scenes of Coruscant in Episode 4, or Bail Organa stealing the plans to the original Death Star… The possibilities are endless. Hop on over to voice your opinion of what you’d like to see!
“Episode II” Crew, Promo Item Images
August 21, 2001 | 5:15 AM EST | Adam
The Star Wars Collectors Archive posted a pair of items for Episode II. There’s a cast and crew black baseball cap with white “Episode II” text, and a gift bag for Mexican licensees for the new flick– which includes the hat and other cool stuff. Visit the archive and be sure not to miss these great new entries.
The items were posted to their site earlier this month, but we neglected to point them out. As the sitcom commercials once said, “if you haven’t seen it, it’s new to you!”
Simpsons Calendar has new Star Wars Art
August 21, 2001 | 4:49 AM EST | Adam
The 2002 Simpsons calendar features a movie theme this year, and the classic trilogy is not ignored. New artwork featuring Homer as Jabba, Lisa as Bib Fortuna, and numerous other members of everybody’s favorite animated post-modern family parody a scene from Return of the Jedi. Check your better local bookstores for a look at this, it’s actually quite cool.
GameCube Rogue Squadron II Movies
August 21, 2001 | 4:34 AM EST | Adam
GameSpot posted a series of brand new movies for the upcoming Rogue Leader (aka Rogue Squadron II) for GameCube. Game junkies and tech heads, this is the article for you.
For those who haven’t followed the game’s development, the gaming press is shaping this as being the second coming of decent console-based Star Wars gaming. Don’t miss this feature!
EII Title Spoofed (Again)
August 20, 2001 | 10:41 PM EST | Bill
And now for our readers who are less than happy with the announced title of Episode II— Attack of the Clones. Yak Reader Jim pointed out a great spoof on Attack of the Clones. Click here for the comic strip on Heart of the City
Ever wondered what is considered “canon” in Star Wars EU?
August 20, 2001 | 10:21 PM EST | John
Steve Sansweet answers this question as to what can be taken as an official part of the Star Wars universe, and what is a load of dingo’s kidneys. Click hereto read the enlightening answers over at StarWars.com!
Great new POTJ images at Tomy of Japan!
August 20, 2001 | 10:09 PM EST | John
Tomy of Japan, who handles the Star Wars Action Figures in the great East, now has posted very detailed images of up-and-coming figures. The images include;
Shmi Skywalker
Obi-Wan in Jedi Training Gear
Darth Vader – Emperor’s Wrath
Han Solo – Death Star Escape
Luke Skywalker – X-Wing Pilot
Can anyone see whether that’s a Probe Droid or a blast shield helmet that comes with that Obi-Wan? Even with these clearer images I still can’t make it out…
UPDATE – Reader “Jim” clarifies about the Obi-Wan – Training Gear accessory;
“I just wanted to let you know that the Jedi Training Obi-Wan comes with a “blast shield” helmet, not a probe droid. I can’t remember where I got the info from. If you take a look at the corner of the helmet, you’ll see that it even has a little braid protector!”
Thanks “Jim”!
New “Outer Rim Show” Now Showing At Artoo’s News
August 20, 2001 | 9:36 PM EST | John
Artoo’s News has just posted the newest edition of “The Outer Rim Show”, and Scott Karde has written to tell us to tell all our Yakkers out there to check it out! If you haven’t seen it, you don’t know what you’re missing! Here’s a direct link to the show.
Pre-order POTJ Wave 13 , 14, & 15 from Entertainment Earth
August 20, 2001 | 9:29 PM EST | John
Pre-order the last wave of Hasbro’s Star Wars Power of the Jedi action figures scheduled for 2001 – Collection 2 – Wave 15
Item# 84455J, $89.99.
This all-new assortment includes 1x Queen Amidala Travel / Black Gown, 1x Rebel Trooper – Tantive IV Defender, 1x Imperial Officer, 1x FX-7 Medical Droid, 4x Zutton (Snaggletooth), 4x Eeth Koth (Subject to change).
You can also pre-order these other coming waves;
SW POTJ Collection 1 – Wave 13
Item# 84445H, $89.99
SW POTJ Collection 2 – Wave 14
Item# 84455H, $89.99
TIE Interceptor Shelf Stickers Appearing???
August 20, 2001 | 8:47 AM EST | Bill
Yak Reader Kris wrote in to let us know that last week in the Star Wars section at the TRU in Elizabeth,NJ there were two shelf stickers (white with red borders); one labeled “Toys R US Exclusive” and the other “Only Available at Toys R Us.” BUT, they were placed under the 12″ Vader/Maul 2pk. There was, however, sufficient space for the TIE Interceptor.
Sounds interesting. If you have any more news on this send it in.
New POTJ Wave Hits Hong Kong!
August 20, 2001 | 2:58 AM EST | John
“JHLewis2” writes to inform us that the new POTJ wave due out in the USA around September has already started to hit in Hong Kong. These figures include Darth Vader-Emperor’s Wrath, Luke-X-Wing Pilot, Han Solo-Death Star Escape, Obi-Wan-Jedi Training Gear, and of course our favorite misunderstood villians’ Mama, Shmi Skywalker. Keep watch, because with the onset of the B-Wing, the Palm Talkers, and now the new 12″ assortment, these babies are only weeks away from USA pegs.
New Figure Images from Wizard Con…
August 18, 2001 | 8:26 PM EST | Mark
Check out those great images from our friends over athttp://www.collectstarwars.com as they have all the new figures pictured there. They include Eeth Koth, FX-7, Imperial Officer, Queen Travel, Zutton and the Sandtrooper. Bar none the best images on the net….
Queen’s Gambit Game??
August 18, 2001 | 7:10 PM EST | Mark
Is this a new game?? I have never seen it before, although the game pieces (which are many) make the game look kinda neat? Anyone seen it or played it??? The Queens Gambit
Amazon also has some great deals like this….
Deluxe Micro Machines Pod Racing Track Set $4.99 normally $39.99
UPDATE – For those of us, (Mark and myself, John), who haven’t heard of this game, “MRCPFIII” sends us a description, and quite a dazzling review;
“The Queens Gambit game has been out for about a year. It’s made by Avalon Hill who are currently making the Axis and Allies expansion games. It’s a roleplaying game that has you playing four games at once, the battle on Naboo,the battle above Naboo, the retaking of the queens palace, and the duel of the fates. I have this game and paid about $55 at a local table top game store for it and believe it to be well worth the price. Just thought I’d give you a heads up.”
Thanks for the info, “MRCPFIII”! It seems like a steal at the price Mark reported above. So what are ya waiting for?!? 8^)
New 12″ Spotted!
August 18, 2001 | 2:03 PM EST | John
The new 12″ Action Collection series seems to be finally making its’ way to retail. “Edward L.” sends us this report;
“Hey you Yakkers! I just found a case of the new 12″ figures; Han Solo in Stormtrooper disguise, Death Star Droid, and Death Star Trooper! I got them at my local TRU in the city of Bell Gardens! (state not named) They are evenly packed, no shortage, 2x2x2. And they are at their regular price of $19.99. Happy hunting, and May the Force be with you!”
Thanks Ed! Anyone else see these? Keep the peepers popped, because once the warehouse ships they start to show up sparsely for about a week before they hit full-force.
Max Rebo Band Members and Ceremonial Han Petitions
August 17, 2001 | 10:56 PM EST | Bill
Yak Reader Jake just gave us a heads-up on some new petitions.
The first is working to get the rest of the Max Rebo Band in POTJ plastic. Rappertunie (the lizard like creature on the electornic harmonica), and drummers Ak-Rev and Umpass Stay. Click here to sign this petition!!!!!!
The second is trying to complete our New Hope Awards Ceremony scene with a Ceremonial Han Solo with his spiffy new medal from the end of A New Hope.Click here to sign the Ceremonial Han petition.
End of the Select Images at StarWars.Com?
August 17, 2001 | 12:12 AM EST | John
It may just be that. Faithfully for months, (only missing 5 or 6 Thursdays, I believe), StarWars.com has updated every Thursday with a new “select image”. But after the name of last week’s image, selectfin.jpg, it may mean that the age of the select image is now over. Reasoning; The page has been updated today sans the new select. Before, if they didn’t update the page on a Thursday at all, the select was overlooked as well, (only a couple of times as I’d mentioned above). Maybe Lucas has something even better in store for us with Episode II closing in? Maybe they skipped a week? We shall have to wait and see, folks!
The Empire Strikes Back Spoilers, Beware!
August 17, 2001 | 12:05 AM EST | John
Ever wonder what it would have been like for us twenty-somethings if we had had the ‘net back in 1978, a couple years before TESB was released in ’80? Well, wonder no more! This letter was sent to me by Darin, who describes his website;
“Love to tell you all about this new (re-launch) Star Wars site. It takes place in 1978 and has all the news and rumors about the Kenner Star Wars figures (of 1978) and all the rumors about the next Star Wars movie (Empire!) Click here to visit us! Thanks!”
Nice work! Stop on over and check it out!
Did George name Episode II with this?
August 16, 2001 | 11:53 PM EST | John
It may be a good bet. 8^) Seriously folks, this is a nice little Random Title Generator, and claims, (jokingly, of course), that Episode III will be entitled using this device. Hop on over to Brunching.com and try it! It’s actually fun, and a good way to waste an hour or two… Credit goes to TheForce.net for this one.
Lucas’ Tucker for sale?!?
August 16, 2001 | 11:48 PM EST | John
I have received information from an undisclosed source that this auction may in fact be for George Lucas’ very own Tucker automobile. Lucas having made the movie of Mr.Tucker, the man whose cars were so good that other car companies stifled him and his production, it’s a good bet that ol’ Georgie is selling it for some reason. Why? I’ve no clue. It’s claimed to be the 3rd off the production line, and in mint shape! Check it out!
General Crix Madine Petition
August 16, 2001 | 10:52 PM EST | Bill
The Madine petition is going strong with over 1450 signatures. If we are going to see this Imperial defector in plastic it will take a lot more signatures– closer to 10,000 or more. To sign the petition, just send an email to DETENTIONBLOCKAA23@YAHOO.COM
TIE Interceptors– Details
August 16, 2001 | 10:49 PM EST | Bill
One of our Bothan Spies just checked in with a lot of detail on the TIE interceptors:
Okay, here is the complete run down on the TRU TIE Interceptor-
SKN 239316
cost $17.78 (NOTE this IS TRU’s cost)
retail $29.99
it is packed six per case
it has been on open order (which means there is an unfilled order for it) for about two months according to shipping records, the TIE should be in the stores between 8/29 and 9/3 the warehouse that serves my TRU in (city in the midwest changed to protect our spy) is expected to receive them tomorrow they should be in all regional warehouses no later than 9/13 they have already hit one warehouse on 8/14, so they should be in store somewhere in the next two weeks, at least accordingly to estimated time arrivals there are around 11,000 units ordered for this first wave. Now remember this is all according to computer records. As soon as they arrive in my warehouse.
Back to the price on figs, it is normal to mark up all figs at least $2.00. The Simpsons figs mentioned in one post do cost $4.00 a fig, but they sell for $5.99. Almost a two dollar mark up, just like POTJ. Lets compare figs though. Each Simpsons fig is bigger than a POTJ fig plus they contain a small micro chip that contains recordings of sayings that are much better quality that a comtech chip recording. You get all this for $4.00. Look at the POTJ; smaller fig, some are repaints of old molds, limited articulation, and no electronics. Price $5.00.
End of Wal Mart Debate
August 16, 2001 | 8:50 PM EST | Kurt
i recieved this message today. in reply to the question I posed to Hasbro on the Wal Mart issue.
Dear Kurt —
Your recent e-mail has been forwarded to my attention. The simple answer to the question is, no, Wal*Mart will NOT be taking Star Wars toys out of the toy department. Wal*Mart has chosen to display within a different area within the department. This will have no impact on fans’ ability to find their favorite Star Wars figures. Similarly, this will have no effect on the new Deluxe figures or the Wal*Mart exclusives.
Should you have additional questions, please contact my colleague, Paula Sacchi, at 401-XXX-XXXX. Once again, thank you for your interest.
Sincerely,
Audrey DeSimone
Director, Corporate Communications
Hasbro, Inc.
(I have removed the didgets of the above phone number as per request)
eBay: Spaceballs Vehicle Prop
August 16, 2001 | 2:23 AM EST | Adam
We got a few emails on this auction for Princess Vespa’s spacecraft from the Mel Brooks flick Spaceballs. Not a model, but a real working 16-foot-long vehicle, this is really a neat item up for grabs– and the auction ends in under a day.
Sure, it’s not directly related to Star Wars, but fans of props, Mel Brooks, and general fun things to own would be well advised to take a gander at the brand new white Mercedes 2001 SEL Limited Edition today!
What happened to “What does your collection look like?”
August 16, 2001 | 1:49 AM EST | John
Well, in a word, it flopped. In the beginning a lot of people were gung-ho on the whole thing, but then after about a month, no one sent me any more pics. It may come back in the future, but for now, it’s kaputz.
But, for those of you still wanting to show off your collections, I got this e-mail from The Rebel Base. It reads;
“Attention all Star Wars fans!! Do you consider yourself a hard-core collector? Do you have an impressive collection complete with unique and rare items? Have you ever wanted to show off this collection to the world but never had the opportunity? Well, here it is! THE REBEL BASE is providing collectors a chance to boast their large collections by featuring them on the site. We want your pictures, so send them in and we’ll put up your collection for fans around the world to see. For more information,visit us at The Rebel Base!”
So folks, head on over and check out this budding new page. Seems promising, and when I get some pics of my collection around after everything is set up, I’m going to submit as well. Good job, Rebel Base!
Happy Birthday PSWCS!
August 16, 2001 | 1:32 AM EST | John
The Pennsylvania Star Wars Collecting Society is celebrating it’s 1-year anniversary this week. The groups has grown from the nine people who attended the first meeting to their current membership of 109. The success of the group has lead them to take the next big step in their development. The members of PSWCS are proud to announce the launch of their new web site PSWCS.com! Please check out the site and see what they have to offer to Pennsylvania collectors! Please update your links to reflect the new URL. Thank you!
Exploding Battle Droids at Entertainment Earth!
August 16, 2001 | 1:08 AM EST | John
Entertainment Earth is currently selling the Exploding Battle Droid that came along with the Motorized Theed Hangar Playset, minus the playset. It comes packaged in a small, clear plastic tray, and will be a nice way to get some different looking battle droids in your diorama. Click on the link below to check this killing machine out…
The Exploding Battle Droid (Item# 84055A, $9.99)
More New Hasbro Figure Previews
August 15, 2001 | 10:24 PM EST | Adam
Rounding out one heck of a day, StarWars.com has posted some more new figures and information.
New stuff: FX-7, Rebel medic droid; Zutton, better known as Snaggletooth… complete with blaster and glass. Both figures look incredible, showing that Hasbro has come a very, very long way in the past few years.
Interesting to note: Eeth Koth is listed as being “the first figure to feature the new-style sculpted lightsaber.” What this is, we don’t know, because we weren’t paying attention when the new jargon was being decided upon. (Sorry.)
Apparently FX-7, Zutton (Snaggletooth), Rebel Trooper, Imperial Officer, Queen Amidala (Royal Decoy), and Eeth Koth will all be shown at Wizard World in Chicago.
See the preview pics, some more images, and yet another wonderful jab at the Florida Election Committee (man, same recount joke twice in one day) at the official site, right at this link.
TIE Interceptor Identification Information
August 15, 2001 | 9:41 PM EST | Bill
Yak Face’s Bothan Spies have come up with the SKU number for TRU’s TIE Interceptor. HTH wrote in that the Sku is 239316.
Thanks to Toymanin who pointed out a typo the Sku which has been corrected above. Again, the correct Sku is 239316. Also, he writes that the deluxe figs are also now in the TRU computer for $10.99. No orders yet.
New Queen’s Decoy Figure Image
August 15, 2001 | 6:15 PM EST | Adam
The Fine Folk From Hasbro sent along a preview image of the upcoming Queen in Black Travel Gown/Decoy/etc. outfit. Click the thumbnail below to see the fairly large image Hasbro sent us. This will be the first of a few figures being shown in the near future, so sit back and enjoy!
Hasbro News, Poll #3 Results, Site Updates
August 15, 2001 | 2:11 PM EST | Adam
Lo and beholes, Hasbro has updated with shots of two upcoming army builders for your bemusement, as well as the results for the third Fan Choice poll. Ephant Mon barely edged out the Twi-Lek Masseuse, with his 28% over her 25%. The full results can be found here, complete with the oh-so-timely Florida Election reference. Overall, the votes were pretty close, so we remain optimistic that the other figures from this list will eventually see plastic.
The new Rebel Trooper is shown with the ability to kneel, and seems to have articulation similar to 21st Century Toys’ X-Treme Detail 1/18 scale figures. Due to the pose of the figure, it’s hard to visualize how this figure will look when posed normally.
The Imperial Officer has additional articulation and a nice wrinkly outfit. Pretty slick.
Neither has any mention of the “variant” stuff we’ve heard about in the past– different heads or recolored outfits have been tossed around as a way to make for a better “army.”
Pre-E2 Comic Cover Artwork
August 15, 2001 | 3:04 AM EST | Adam
A piece of cover artwork for an upcoming comic that takes place around Attack of the Clones has been put on the Dark Horse Comics Website. According toJediNet’s Literature Page, it’s the cover of the “trade paperback”– JediNet goes on to mention that the edition will be a scant 64 pages. So you can go find the cover.
Or you could just click here to see it.
More on Titan A.E. E2 Teaser…
August 15, 2001 | 2:31 AM EST | John
Thank you for all the e-mails folks, and I’m sorry to some of the lesser happy people that wrote to me enraged because they couldn’t find it. As I’d mentioned, I spotted this information over at Sirstevesguide, and reported it giving him due credit. Let me make this clear here and now; I am NOT making a crack at SirSteve! The guy is a good reporter who runs a really cool page I’ve been visiting for years. We all make mistakes. “…from time to time. Dear oh dear…” Apparently he caught on as well, and removed the information sooner than we at Yakface.com did, realizing it was a hoax. Or is it?
Strangely enough, this information on how to access this so-called “Easter Egg”, is also available at this link at Gamewinners.com. Personally, I still think it’s a hoax. Until someone can prove to me otherwise, it will be treated as such. Again I ask, can anyone get screencaps or a rip to prove that this is real? Rest assured people, there will be none. This is a rumor out of hand. If it’s not, then I’ll eat my work sneakers…
POTJ: The Sky Is Falling, Again
August 15, 2001 | 2:10 AM EST | Adam
Recently, we’ve gotten a lot of reports of discounted Power of the Jedi figures, and of course there were many concerns raised. “Will the stores get the new figures?” “What will happen to Wal-Mart’s two exclusive vehicles?” “Is this the end of Star Wars?”
Well, in all honesty this is really nothing new– history has a habit of repeating itself, especially here. In 1998, Hasbro/Kenner saw more than a few markdowns for their Star Wars figures, including the then-recently released Expanded Universe. But, of course, the line continued despite Hasbro offering $2 off coupons at Wal-Mart and Toys “R” Us on top of discounted prices as low as $2.97.
Heck, just last year there were a few stores– notably Target– with absolutely no Hasbro Star Wars product being sold in most of their stores. Of course, this has changed, and rather dramatically.
While figures are being marked down, it’s the norm for the toy industry especially during “reset” season. Temporary markdowns are a shot in the arm that flushes out old stock in an era where any figure older than six months may as well be a decade old– there are still Wal-Marts with pegs of POTJ Obi-Wan and Darth Maul from nearly a year ago, and nothing else is left.
So in short, enjoy the sales before the stores get their new goods in. Get the most you can out of it, and if you end up finding some extra Biker Scouts and Mon Calamari on the cheap, consider yourself one of the lucky ones. Plus with a new movie and a big anniversary next year, you can be assured that stores want to be on the LucasFilm/Hasbro gravy train.
We now return you to your regularly scheduled news.
Wal-mart POTJ Figure Update
August 14, 2001 | 9:09 PM EST | Bill
Yak Reader StarWarsTrilogy wrote in with this update:
“Most (if not all) WalMarts are clearing their computers of Star Wars mecrchandise to prepare for the upcoming holiday season (I know a WalMart toy manager personally) and this is the reason why items (especialy POTJ figures) are shown as deleted. Fear not, Wal-Mart plans to get a lot more figures in late August/Early September as they change over the aisles for the holidays…. “
Vintage Cardback Scans Available
August 14, 2001 | 8:57 AM EST | Bill
In addition to the usual inserts, Gadders.com
have now added vintage cardbacks to the site. Highlights currently include: Star Wars 12, 20 and 21 backs, Power Of The Force and Droids Boba Fett.
More Information on TIE Interceptors
August 14, 2001 | 8:55 AM EST | Bill
Our Bothan Spies have been working overtime. One wrote in with more information on the upcoming TRU TIE Interceptor:
“Just an update to your post about the Tie Interceptors. I’m a TRU employee and these will indeed hit very, very soon. The Interceptor has not hit any warehouses that ship to stores yet, so the employee that wrote to you was only checking local warehouses. But there are distribution centers where the figures are then sent to individual warehouses for different regions where they are then sent to the store. The Tie Interceptor should be at the distribution centers anytime and at the local warehouses probably soon after that. I would say that we should definitely see the Interceptor by the end of August/beginning of September in stores!
“Secondly, Hasbro has indeed lowered prices on Star Wars figures. The POTJ figs cost TRU $4.99 each, but most stores have only a dollar mark up on small figures like that. Another example is that Simpsons figures cost $4.00 for stores, and most stores sell them for $5. The commtech figures cost stores $5.99 to buy, therefore the dollar mark up to $6.99(and some stores $7.99). Anyway, stores should have lowered their prices and Hasbro has indeed lowered figures by a dollar. Anyway, as a side note the clearance commtech figures cost TRU $1.20 to buy(and think they were $6 back when they came out).”
X-Wing Pilot Tycho Celchu wrote in: “You’ve recently posted info from a “bothan spy” about the Tie Interceptor possibly being off the radar. It sounds like you received information from a new associate or one that just learned how to read one of our (I’m a Manager
at a TRU) many computer inventory screens. Thousands of Interceptors are on Open Order which means they are less than a month out. Also his info about Hasbro not lowering the prices on the POTJ figures is incorrect. Our cost for the Commtech figures were $5.99/ea…Hasbro lowered their price a dollar to $4.99/ea for the POTJ…& yet we still charge $6.99. Just wanted to back Hasbro this time & pass along the info.
Yak Reader Eric wrote to say that he found an auction on Ebay by someone in Clovis, CA for Tie Interceptors– what wedon’t know is whether that seller got the Interceptors through an overseas source or TRU.
Thanks to everyone who wrote in and keep the reports coming.
More on Wal-Mart POTJ Clearance…
August 14, 2001 | 2:09 AM EST | John
Well, it seems that this thing is nationwide. Here’s what 2 other readers from different regions of the USA had to say.
“Thanos21125” writes;
“Wal-Mart in northwest Houston has also discontinued POTJ.”
…and reader “Mark D.” writes;
“I work at the Pittston, PA Wal-Mart, and about three
weeks ago a co-worker scanned in a POTJ Chewbacca which showed up as
deleted. We thought it was very odd but figured it was a mistake, (there are lots of ordering mistakes), or maybe just that particular Collection was overstocked and was not being ordered anymore. Unfortunately that’s all I know about the situation. Thanks and keep up the good work!”
Fear not, folks. This doesn’t mean Wal-Mart isn’t going to carry Star Wars again, ever. They’d be REALLY stupid to not carry such a seller. Moreover, I think it means that either Hasbro is planning on changing the cards ever-so-slightly to make different UPC’s, which would mean that the old UPC’s are being “cancelled” from the system, or they’re just not reordering until Christmas is closer. Any more insight on this would be appreciated from folks “in the know”.
Episode II Teaser on Titan A.E. DVD
August 14, 2001 | 2:01 AM EST | John
Sirstevesguide is reporting that on the Titan A.E. DVD there is an Easter Egg that allows you to access an Episode II teaser! Head on over for all the details on how to access this. Nothing huge, but anything is good in the Star Wars news-void we’ve been in lately. It’ll break, but sometimes waiting is the hardest part!
UPDATE – Either it’s only on certain copies, or this report was a hoax. Not having a TITAN A.E. DVD myself, I just went with the news. Now, over at Sirstevesguide, the post was taken down. If anyone DID access this, write me. Or alternatively, if you can do a screencap or rip of this, let me know as well.
Star Wars “Attakus” in stock at Entertainment Earth
August 14, 2001 | 1:53 AM EST | John
Entertainment Earth currently has the very nice Star Wars Attakus Statues in stock. Check the links below to see the respective statues!
****Attakus Statues In Stock****
Five different officially licensed Star Wars statues from Attakus are in stock now. Choose from;
R2-D2 Cold Cast Statue (Item# AC112, $229.99)
Han Solo in Carbonite Cold Cast (Item# AC111, $229.99)
Darth Maul Cold Cast Statue (Item# AC114, $269.99)
Slave Leia Cold Cast Statue (Item# AC115, $269.99)
Boba Fett Cold Cast Statue (Item# AC113, $269.99)
Hop on over and check out the great sculpting that is “Attakus”!
POTJ Figure at Wal-Mart on clearance?!?
August 14, 2001 | 1:05 AM EST | John
“Bryan G.” writes today to give us this disturbing news;
“According a Wal-Mart employee in Terrell,TX the Star Wars figures have been deleted out of their system and are on clearance. She did not know if that meant that they would not be carrying them any longer or that the UPC code was going to change. No space has been alloted for their fall reset.”
Thanks Bryan! I don’t know, I find this a hard one to believe. Do any other Wal-Mart employees out there know about this, or is this an isolated incident? More on this as we find out…
Free is GOOD– Contest Update
August 13, 2001 | 10:29 PM EST | Bill
The Sidster over at Jawa’s Ultarama contest is going strong. Remember the deadline is August 26, so be sure to get photos of your Ultarama in for your chance to win an Ultarama display to add to your collection. He’s got some great things happening… Click here for more.
TIE Interceptors At TRU On and Off The Radar and POTJ Figure Prices
August 13, 2001 | 10:04 PM EST | Bill
One of our Yak Readers who will remain anonymous sent in a Bothan Spy repot on the Tie Interceptors:
The Interceptor will not be hitting that soon. I work at Toys R Us in (city omitted) and the Tie has not even hit the warehouses yet. Originally, it was due in July and now the date has been pushed back to who knows whenever. I keep checking everyday to see if it has arrived in the US (at least the midwest) yet. I will let you guys know when it hits. I can give you the SKN number if you need it. By the way, the cost on the Tie is $17.71(that’s Toys R Us’s cost, not the customer’s). Also on the same note, it is not stores that have not lowered the price on the POTJ figures, since the comtech went the way of the dodo. It is Hasbro who has not lowered the price, but raised it. Each POTJ fig cost Toys R Us $4.99! I worked at Target for a while as a night stocker and they are in the same boat, so blame Hasbro for not lowering the prices on the new figs, not the stores!
“Clones” Stuff Listed at Amazon.com
August 13, 2001 | 12:13 PM EST | John
Amazon.com is starting to list items from Episode II already, namely books. No spoilers over there, just the listing of 3 books with a release date of January 2002, (which probably is a mistake considering how Lucas keeps things tightly covered as far as surprises in the movies go). The list includes;
Episode II Paper Doll Book
Episode II Ships Schematics Punch-Out Book
Episode II Coloring Book
No pictures, no description, just plain ol’ Episode II merchandise listing.
Ketwol Wave hits Austria!
August 13, 2001 | 12:04 PM EST | John
For all the Star Wars fans over in the continent, the Ketwol wave has finally hit Austria. “Real Scooby” reports finding 3 of the 4, (minus Sabe) in the TRU in Vienna. Thanks for writing in! So, if you’re in Europe, keep watching! These puppies are sure to rear their heads soon.
TIE Interceptors Will Start Appearing SOON!!!!
August 13, 2001 | 9:08 AM EST | Bill
Yak Reader Hak Beng from Singapore wrote to say that his local Star Wars Store— the Falcon Hanger, will have the TIE Interceptor TOMORROW afternoon, for $80.00 (Singapore dollars— this is about $45.00 US).
Mark Hamill, Rogue Scoundrel?
August 12, 2001 | 11:50 PM EST | Adam
While Kevin Smith fans eagerly await the release of what will most likely be the greatest film since Mallrats, there’s been a lot of press surrounding the stars including Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher, both of whom have cameos in the new flick.
News Askew, a news site dedicated to all things Kevin Smith, posted an amusing blurb from Stuff– they say his involvement in the film is weird. “Guess he’ll always be Han Solo to us,” the site reports Stuff as saying. Han? (Good thing they didn’t mix up Biggs and Wedge. Then the fan gloves would come off.)
(Yeah, yeah. Slow news day.)
LEGO Deals
August 12, 2001 | 5:15 AM EST | Adam
A few deals for some 1999 and 2000 sets have started in local stores…
Target has a set with a Slave I and a Landspeeder shrinkwrapped together for only $14.99.
Some Kay-Bee stores have the Lightsaber Duel, Droid Fighter, and Landspeeder on sale– pick any combination of the three for $10.
These are some great deals for some great toys, and of course cheap potential gifts– assuming you don’t decide to keep them. Happy hunting!
eBay: Get the Queen’s Couch
August 12, 2001 | 5:03 AM EST | Adam
Readers of TheForce.Net‘s Episode One area may have seen this, but those who haven’t might be interested in seeing this eBay auction for Queen Amidala’s sofa from Coruscant.
The UK based auction ends shortly, and is at around US$900– and shipping to the USA is estimated at $700. Prop fans, this is worth a gander if nothing else.
Just follow this link for a look at the red leather couch!
UK Indiana Jones Theatrical Screenings
August 10, 2001 | 5:11 PM EST | Adam
Jonny Tull sent in the following notice:
“Just a quick note for all of your UK readers: Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle upon Tyne’s favourite independent moviehouse will be screening the entire Indiana Jones Trilogy back to back from 10.30am on Saturday 18th August.
For those of you who can’t handle all of the Indy action all in one go (or can’t stand the middle one!), then we’re running the films for the whole week prior. The dates for these are as follows:
Monday 13th & Tuesday 14th August
RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK
Wednesday 15th & Thursday 16th August
INDIANA JONES AND THE TEMPLE OF DOOM
Friday 17th August
INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE
with the triple bill on Saturday 18th!
Tickets for the triple are £8 full price and £5 discounts.
Individual screenings are £3 for adults and £2.50 for kids.
Screenings throughout the week are at 10.30am and 1.30pm.
Remember, that’s Tyneside Cinema, 10 Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6QG, UK
Enjoy!!”
Thanks for sharing, Jonny!
Supersized Cantina Band Update
August 10, 2001 | 8:45 AM EST | Bill
Yak Reader Brian from Hunnington Beach, California, wrote in that he found the Fan Club was not able to return his Supersized Cantina Band to Micronian size:
“I just got mine (12″ instead of the 4″ I ordered), and was told I am
basicaly SOL – I can return it or keep it if I want, but they are OUT of the 4″ (as well as the free Celebration hat & T-shirt I was supposed to get, even though the on-hold message still claims those freebies are available). The customer service guy said the figures have been reordered (doubtful, considering this was supposed to be a closeout item), and I can keep checking the website myself to see if they show up again. Would have been nice if he could have put in a preorder on the spot, but I guess some things about the Fan Club are just as bad as ever. 🙁 ”
Hasbro Star Tours Toys: Are They Coming?
August 10, 2001 | 2:26 AM EST | Adam
A fan wishing to be identified only as “Fox” sent off an email to us as well as two other sites late last night on the topic of possible Star Tours products being produced by Hasbro for sale at Disney parks and on Starwars.com. While he most likely means the fan club, he does go into some detail about the releases which include some remakes of existing figures along with the Starspeeder 3000 and its droid pilot.
The full news posting was added to a message board at The Ring Of Collectors. The full posting is right here.
While on rumor mills and wish lists for years, this is news to us. With Hasbro being mum on most exclusives until they’re ready to show them off, it’s possible that this could very well be happening. But we’re checking around to see if we can get you the rest of the story as quickly as possible.
One thing we’re sure of– we hope this is true!
Palm Talkers Hitting TRU
August 10, 2001 | 2:14 AM EST | Adam
So far, we’ve gotten one report of the Super Deformed, Japanese-esque Palm Talkers hitting the USA– reader Darth Ortsac says he found ’em in a Long Beach, CA Toys “R” Us. So get ye to the stores, keep your peepers peeled, and be sure to leave a Boba Fett behind for your homies.
The initial batch consists of C-3PO, Boba Fett, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, a Stormtrooper, and of course R2-D2.
UPDATE: We’re also receiving reports of them showing up in New York.
Howard the Duck
August 9, 2001 | 6:36 PM EST | Adam
In quite possibly the first mention in several years, the official site posted this blurb on the 15th Anniversary of a LucasFilm project with the smallest fan following– apparently, his homeworld is Naboo. (Amusin’ stuff.)
The shout-out goes to darthdav to pointing this feature out.
Obi-Ewan on New Title
August 9, 2001 | 6:32 PM EST | Adam
Fanboy page extraordinarre, Ain’t It Cool News, posted this feature the other day with Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman chipping their two cents in on “Attack of the Clones.” ‘Tis good for a chuckle.
POTF2 Skiff Prototype on eBay
August 9, 2001 | 5:31 PM EST | Adam
Looking for a gift with the Star Wars collector that has everything? This auctionhas a POTF2 Tatooine Skiff… for only $2,000. If nothing else, you can be assured that the person you’re shopping for doesn’t have this one.
Star Wars “Read” Posters Available
August 9, 2001 | 5:29 PM EST | Adam
Fans of the infamous “READ” posters at the public libraries around the country, be giddy. The American Library Association is still selling their Star Wars posters– and you can click here for a look at the page out of the catalog.
The posters include Yoda (#5020-1100), Darth Vader (#5024-1397), Artoo & C-3PO (#5024-1697), Chewbacca (#5024-1497), and C-3PO (#5024-1597). Posters are $10 each or $40 for all five. Each poster measures 22″ by 34″.
They are also offering a set of Darth Vader bookmarts– essentially the poster image. 100 for $7, item #5025-1598.
To order, visit www.alastore.ala.org or call 1-800-545-2433 (press 7.)
Other posters offered by the ALA include The Simpsons, a pair based on the new Lord of the Rings flick, and of course there are many others. Be sure to call and request a catalog.
More POTJ Figures Announced For This Year
August 9, 2001 | 8:46 AM EST | Bill
That’s right. According to Rebelscum.com Entertainment Earth has announced a new case assortment for delivery in December. This means that what many of us have suspected— that the Shimi and Vader waves would not be the last POTJ figures released this year— is true.
The new wave which was announced in Entertainment Earth’s preferred customer news will contain:
Basic Figure Asst. Collection 2 – 84455J
4x Eeth Koth
4x Snaggletooth
1x Queen Amidala Travel / Black Gown
1x Rebel Trooper
1x Imperial Officer
1x F-X7
Ultarama Contest Update
August 8, 2001 | 10:18 PM EST | Bill
The prizes have been announced for the Ultarama diorama contest over at the Jawa. Prizes include an Ultarama, an Emperor 3-D bust, and an R2-B1.
New LEGO Trade Federation Set?
August 8, 2001 | 9:23 PM EST | Mark
Check out this link over at walmart.com, order it now….
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.gsp?cat=4186&product_id=1272433&path=0:4171:4186:51176:51182&dept=4171
12″ Bounty Hunters Update
August 8, 2001 | 8:07 PM EST | Bill
Collect Star Wars is reporting that Hasbro has announced that the upcoming 12″ bounty hunter set (Dengar, Zuckuss, and Leia Boussh) HAVE NOT been canceled. They have been delayed, but they will be released at some date in the future.
Factory 2U Finds
August 8, 2001 | 5:44 PM EST | Adam
JBFETT writes in today to inform us of his finds at Factory 2U recently. In addition to some cheap Hasbro overstock, he’s found the two-player customizable card game based on Hoth for $2– not a bad deal for 75 cards.
Other stores like Macfrugals and Big Lots have been getting some notable items lately, so now’s a great time to take the change from your sofa and see what you can scare up from the bargain bins.
Episode II Poster Concepts
August 8, 2001 | 5:41 PM EST | Adam
With the release of the name, the Internet is buzzing with all sorts of takes on poster concepts– sometimes they look like they could be the real thing, and other times, well, not so much.
Bill from Creature Cantina let us know they posted theirs today, so go check it out and enjoy the madness before the real deal is unveiled… whenever.
12″ Tally Coming Up Short
August 8, 2001 | 3:08 AM EST | Adam
Fans might be interested in knowing that our friends at Rebelscum are reporting that PlanetActionFigure.com is reporting that the third Legacy assortment– which was to have finished off the set of Bounty Hunters from the Empire Strikes Back– has been given the axe.
To editorialize and speculate, it is unlikely we’ve heard the last of 4-LOM and Zuckuss– Hasbro knows full well how interested fans are in getting these figures, and it’s quite possible they will show up in the future.
Supersized Cantina Band
August 7, 2001 | 8:30 PM EST | Bill
Yak Reader Cha.chi just wrote in with an unusual experience with the a Fan Club order:
hey,
i just got my cantina band members that i ordered last week. but to my surprise i opened the massive box to find five 12″ band members instead of the 4″ ones i ordered.
i called the fan club and the guy knew immediately what i was talking about. i guess a few orders got screwed up and some people were sent the 12″ers on accident. they have replacements for the bad orders so give them a call and they’ll fix it. it’s just kind of a hassle.
Delay on Marmit Stormtroopers & Sandtroopers
August 7, 2001 | 1:59 PM EST | John
Brian Levine has just informed us this;
“Just heard from my distributor in Japan that the new Marmit Stormtroopers and Sandtroopers have been delayed until September.”
So if you preordered these from Entertainment Earth, or anywhere else, I’d expect a bit of a longer wait.
More on Cloning…
August 7, 2001 | 1:55 PM EST | John
Italian scientists have made the statement that they are most definitely going to start an experiment that will allow cloning of 200 people within the next year. I know this has nothing to do with collecting, but after the title release of “Attack Of The Clones” yesterday, it seems that this contraversy will be reaching its’ pinnacle just about the time Episode II is released. Once again, Lucas is on the cutting edge of technology… Click here for the full story.
Sandtroopers.com Mass Update, & a Free B-Wing
August 6, 2001 | 11:14 PM EST | John
My personal fave fan page, (aside from Yak, of course!), has done a mass update again! Man, these guys are expanding like mad! Here’s what to look for;
Contests
Weekly Contest: Vintage ROTJ Darth Vader and ROTJ Jedi Luke. Ends 8/11
Ultarama Contest. Ends 8/15
Free B-Wing. Ends 8/12
New Areas Added To The Sith Channel
Channel 2 – Brian’s Dioramas
Channel 20 – Erik’s Customs
Channel 21 – Brian’s Custom Card Backs
Brian and Erik have been an outstanding addition to Sandtroopers. Their work really is fantastic so stop by and check them out.
Also…
Great news, awesome trading, cool pics, and some killer new features in the works.
Finally
We are looking for a few individuals who would love to share their love for the Star Wars Universe. If you are interested in joining the Sandtroopers staff please check out the site and drop us a line.
Wow, this page keeps getting better and better. Hey, drop over and check them out, and if you still need a B-Wing, make sure you register. Great work guys!
ATTACK!!!!! CLONES!!!!!
August 6, 2001 | 6:38 PM EST | Mark
It’s Official….. Attack of the Clones… Visit starwars.com for all the details…..
Fan Favorite #3 Poll Update
August 6, 2001 | 8:54 AM EST | Bill
The results page on Hasbro’s Voting Chamberis now repoting that “Bothan Election Officials” are reviewing the final numbers. Click here for the full post and hopefully results will be posted soon.
New RealScan up at CollectStarWars.com
August 6, 2001 | 3:44 AM EST | Adam
CollectStarWars.com posted a RealScan image, complete with a name, of an Episode II character’s head.
Ultarama Display Contest
August 6, 2001 | 12:38 AM EST | Bill
Sidster over at The Jawa has just announced a new contest– centered on Ultarama Dioramas. Send in photos of your best Ultarama Diorama to them to compete for a mystery prize. The last mystery prize was a carded Admiral Motti, so you never know what will appear. For more information click here.
Fan’s Choice #3 Polls Close Monday
August 5, 2001 | 2:31 AM EST | Adam
As of now, Hasbro’s poll to select the next Fan’s Choice figure is really heating up– only two percentage points separate the top two characters. And it ends early Monday morning, so if you haven’t voted yet, vote.
And this is the link to the site where you vote.
Those choices again: Ephant Mon, Even Piell, General Rieekan, R1-G4, and the Twi’Lek Masseuse. Remember, the vote ends at 8:00 AM eastern time.
GenCon Report
August 5, 2001 | 1:25 AM EST | Bill
Yak Reader John wrote in with the news from Gen Con:
I just got back from GenCon today and the Star Wars presence was HUGE. I was able to talk with Paul from Hasbro, meet and get Autographs from Billy Dee Williams and Michonne B (Aurra Sing). The Steven Sansweet Presentation of Episode II: Connections was excellent. We were all given the Promo card set of 2 when attending the presentation. The display that I think you are talking about with the Star Wars figures was a set up to invite participants to play the WOTC Star Wars Role playing game. They were giving the game with the free Roworr Action figure when you either answered a survey or played the game! By the way, Paul did not bring the Deluxe figures with him to Milwaukee, only the Lando wave, Duros wave and new Darth Vader wave that comes out next month. Overall, it was a great day!
Looking For Vintage Ads???
August 5, 2001 | 1:04 AM EST | Bill
If you are looking for the Kenner Star Wars toy ads that you grew up with, or that your parents grew up with, go to Artoos News they have posted a number of them on their site. Just click on the vintage ads button on the main page.Click here to go there.
Star Wars to Launch With X-Box?
August 4, 2001 | 7:08 AM EST | Adam
Gamespot.com posted this feature today on what may very well be the launch titles of Microsoft’s upcoming X-Box gaming console.
Of particular note to many of you will be Star Wars Starfighter: Special Edition which will supposedly be available alongside the new system on November 8. The article goes on to say that Star Wars: Obi-Wan, a PC game redesigned for the X-Box, should hit later in November. For more news on other games, check out Gamespot.com.
Official Site goes to GenCon
August 4, 2001 | 7:03 AM EST | Adam
StarWars.com has posted this feature on some happenings at the annual gaming convention. While it’s mostly card-based and role-playing games, there is a product shown that incorporates Hasbro’s action figures in a sort of playset setting. We’re not exactly sure if this was just something for the show or an upcoming product, because we (and by we, I mean me) are ignorant on this one.
Anyway, check out the feature and enjoy!
Marmit AT-AT Driver To Be Released, Pics
August 4, 2001 | 6:50 AM EST | Adam
CollectStarWars.com continues their crack coverage of all things plastic and Star Wars with info and images on an AT-AT Driver figure kit coming to Japan from Marmit. Also on tap according to the site: an Emperor’s Royal Guard and Darth Vader.
Marmit has previously released figure kits of a Stormtrooper, Boba Fett, a Sandtrooper, and a TIE Fighter Pilot. For those unfamilliar with them, they’re roughly a foot tall and require a modest amount of assembly. The finished kit provides detail and articulation unseen on American-developed figures of a similar scale.
Marmit figures are designed for the Japanese market, although there are a variety of importers more than willing to set you up with one of the many kits. They’re a little expensive, coming in (usually) just under $100 to customers outside Japan.
25th Anniversary 2 Pack Update
August 3, 2001 | 11:54 PM EST | Bill
Several Yak Readers have written asking for clarification on what size the Anniversary 2 pack figures are. The 2 packs are supposed to be in the 3 3/4″ scale (standard POTF/POTJ figure size).
Also Yak Reader C-3PO writes in that in Indianapolis the 25th Anniversary two packs already have pegs at Meijers stores for $9.99. The stocker said that the computer is showing a November release.
Invasion Force Hits TRU
August 3, 2001 | 11:48 PM EST | Bill
Yak Reader Mordrid wrote in that the Phoenix Paradise Valley TRU Got the Invasion Force Case # 84205 000 6 in this week. It contained a pack out of 4 Darth Maul with Sith Attack Vehicle, 1 Obi-Wan with Gungan Sub and 1 tank with trooper. Each was a $1.97 as stickered on the case. They also got the AT-AT Trooper, D.Star Droid and more Leia Hoth. The AT-AT’s are gone but the other figs are still plentiful as of 10:30 Fri. Morning.
Yak Reader Darth Midion found the invasion force case of Darth Maul with attack speeder, Obi Wan with gungan sub, etc. also priced at$1.97!!
Ray Park Going to Belgium
August 3, 2001 | 3:45 PM EST | John
“Somepeetalay” sends us this information;
“On Sunday 14th of October Ray Park (Darth Maul) will be visiting FACTS in Belgium. FACTS (in Ghent) is the biggest Fantasy / SF convention in Belgium and will now take place on 13 and 14 October in 2001.”
For more information on this event, click here. Thanks to “Somepeetalay” for the information!
Phantom Edit…. UK Version?!?
August 3, 2001 | 3:15 PM EST | John
Yes, I’ve been hearing a lot about this through the grape vine, and I’m curious if anyone knows anything about this, or can enlighten me as to what this “version” encompasses. This is getting silly, really. It’ll undoubtedly go down in Star Wars history as a “big deal”, but there’s the LA Edit, the NY Edit, and now supposedly the UK Edit. If anyone knows anything about this, e-mail me and let me know what it’s all about.
B-Wing Weekend Reminder
August 3, 2001 | 6:32 AM EST | Adam
The Target exclusive B-Wing Fighter, according to some sources, is scheduled to be put out this weekend– August 5. Some stores put them out early, so keep your peepers peeled for the popular Rebel ship.
Star Wars Anniversary 2 Packs Scheduled To Ship In December!!
August 2, 2001 | 7:45 PM EST | Bill
The August 2001 Diamond Previews which was just released is listing the Star Wars Anniversary 2 packs for December 2001 delivery. That’s right, it looks like we are going to have the Anniversary 2 packs in our hands before the end of the year!!! The assortment is still scheduled to inlcude Luke & Leia, Han & Chewie, and Obi-Wan & Vader.
E1 Sales Begin… Again
August 2, 2001 | 8:51 AM EST | Bill
Yak Reader Dona5 wrote in from Monroe, WA., to give us a heads-up on Fred Meyer’s latest round of Star Wars sales. The sale includes $4.99 on non-sneak peek STAP vehicles, and $2.50 for The Phantom Menace action figures. But the only ones they have are Ric Olie,
Senator Palpatine, and Chancellor Valorum. There was also a couple of 4-LOM 12″ figures.
Looking For Vintage Instruction Sheets?
August 2, 2001 | 8:48 AM EST | Bill
Gadders.com has stepped up to fill the void left by the demise of www.starwarsinserts.com. They have posted full size scans of paperwork that came with the vintage
toy lines, and currently include instruction sheets for:
Tatooine Skiff
Imperial Shuttle
both Cantina playsets
Imperial Attack Base
Y-Wing Fighter (also sticker sheet)
Slave 1
Death Star Space Station
Star Destroyer
and many more.
New 12″ Luke with Speederbike Images Online
August 2, 2001 | 7:56 AM EST | Adam
CollectStarWars.com has posted a series of images of the upcoming Target exclusive in the package.
Star Wars Fan Club eBay Bonanza
August 2, 2001 | 6:02 AM EST | Adam
The Star Wars Fan Club is clearing out a series of items on eBay. If you’re looking for goods from the pre-Episode One era, this is a real bumper crop of goodness. Check out their auctions under the username swfanclub.
Wal-Mart Price Increase is Nationwide
August 2, 2001 | 12:30 AM EST | John
Yea, bad news folks. This is what “Ryan”, a Wal-Mart toy department manager had to say about the increse;
“I’m a toy department manager in North Carolina and I wanted to let you know that this price increase on the POTJ figures is nationwide. The figures were on the Rollback price program and have been taken off this week. All Wal-Mart’s should have these price changes done within 3 days of them being downloaded in our systems so by the weekend every Wal Mart should be $6.44.”
But wait a minute… Wasn’t this a Hasbro price-point decrease, and not a Wal-Mart rollback? A big thanks to “Ryan” for the information!
Hasbro Q & A Posted
August 1, 2001 | 8:50 PM EST | Bill
Hasbro has posted a partial Q & A transcript from the recent San Diego Comicon in their Republic News. Among other pieces of news it confirms that Action Fleet Vehicles will be included in the Episode II line. Click here for the Hasbro Star Wars site.
Thanks to Yak Readers Cha.chi and Timbo for the tip.
Scavanger Hunt Strikes Back
August 1, 2001 | 8:45 AM EST | Bill
Artoos News second Scavanger Hunt contest starts today. Prizes for the top 10 winners include a Cloud City Motif Grand Prize that will include a Carbon Freezing Chamber, an Ultarama Display Unit and over 20 figures. Click here to sign up.
Evolution Promo Card Available Now
August 1, 2001 | 3:38 AM EST | Adam
Topps Fans Rejoice! Dark Horse Comics and Topps have had a great relationship doling out promo cards since issue #8 of Classic Star Wars, and they slipped a little surprise into issue #32 of the ongoing Star Wars comic, “Star Wars: Darkness #1.” The shiny foil card comes in a plastic bag stapled to the middle of the comic– be sure the make sure it hasn’t been pilfered before buying the comic.
As to the comic itself, well, odds are the card will help boost sales. Star Wars #32 is on sale now and costs $2.99 in the USA and $4.50 north of the border.
Thumb Wars Parody Coming to DVD
August 1, 2001 | 3:33 AM EST | Adam
Fans of the May 1999 UPN special “Thumb Wars: The Phantom Cuticle” have something to look forward to– a DVD special edition is being released in October courtesy of Image Entertainment. DVD File has the full scoop.
Extras include a commentary, trailers, storyboards, and more.
Here we go again…
August 1, 2001 | 3:00 AM EST | John
“Russ M.” writes to us to give us this disturbing news;
“The WalMart here in Casselberry, FL has just raised its’ prices on Star Wars figures. Just last week they were $5.73, but I checked today and they were all $6.44. Hope this isn’t a national trend. They just lowered them to the $5.73 price-point a few months ago.”
Is this happening all over, or is this just an isolated incident? I guess time will tell. More on this as we get it.
Polls fixed over at Hasbro
August 1, 2001 | 2:56 AM EST | John
Finally, Hasbro seems to have gotten the polls debugged over at the Fan Choice #3, and now Ephant Mon is winning again! Coming up in 2nd place is the Twi’lek Masseuse, and third is ol’ General Rieekan himself. Running up in fourth and fifth place within a point of each other are R1-G4 and Even Piell respectively. If you haven’t voted yet, get you heiney over there and do it! It’s more than 1/2 over, so vote for someone, even if it’s the largest loser on the poll. At least let Hasbro officially hear your voice!