Return to Oz, Disney’s 1985 dark take on Dorothy Gale (played by a then-9-year-old Fairuza Balk), shares its creative DNA with Star Wars. Not only that, George Lucas saved writer-director Walter Murch’s job after Disney fired Murch from the Oz shoot.
Lucas and Murch were old friends and collaborators, having met in the film department of the University of Southern California in the mid-1960s.
“My first memory of him was a shadowy figure behind me in the photograph developing room,” says Murch about Lucas on The Hollywood Reporter’s podcast It Happened in Hollywood. “I was trying unsuccessfully to develop one of the photographs that I had taken for an exercise, and there was this voice behind me that said, ‘You’re doing it wrong.’ And I turned around and I said, ‘Who is this guy?’ Of course, it turns out he was right. I was doing it wrong.
Lucas and Murch were old friends and collaborators, having met in the film department of the University of Southern California in the mid-1960s.
“My first memory of him was a shadowy figure behind me in the photograph developing room,” says Murch about Lucas on The Hollywood Reporter’s podcast It Happened in Hollywood. “I was trying unsuccessfully to develop one of the photographs that I had taken for an exercise, and there was this voice behind me that said, ‘You’re doing it wrong.’ And I turned around and I said, ‘Who is this guy?’ Of course, it turns out he was right. I was doing it wrong.
- 4/4/2024
- by Seth Abramovitch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
When people talk about "Star Wars," they often bring up creator George Lucas or one of its stars, but perhaps the greatest unsung hero of the franchise is Frank Oz. Oz is a puppeteer best known for his work on "Sesame Street" and "The Muppets," but in "Star Wars," he puppeteered and provided the voice of the sage Jedi, Yoda. Making Yoda come to life meant hiding beneath the sets so he could move the puppets' limbs, his work hidden offscreen while his performance appeared through Yoda's face and body. It's pretty thankless work that wasn't even considered acting when Lucas campaigned to get Oz nominated for an Oscar, and that didn't even account for some of the physical misery Oz had to endure in order to do his job -- specifically, dealing with snakes.
In a 2018 interview on The Star Wars Show, Oz revealed that one of the most...
In a 2018 interview on The Star Wars Show, Oz revealed that one of the most...
- 3/11/2024
- by Danielle Ryan
- Slash Film
It's not easy being a wampa. You're furry and pretty cute, and all you want is a nice frozen treat after a long, hard day hunting tauntauns on Hoth. You get yourself a snack and stick him to the ceiling for later, and what happens? He escapes! You did that work for nothing, and now you're dead. As it turns out, it wasn't exactly easy for the people playing the wampa in "Star Wars: Episode V -- The Empire Strikes Back," both the original and the shots added for the special edition release of the film. (Des Webb played him in the original and Ilm computer graphics modeler Howie Weed -- who has the nickname "wampa sir" -- in the special edition.)
According to "Star Wars Insider" issue #33 from 1997, the original plan for the wampa shots had to be abandoned because of the physical difficulties, the stilts, the snow, and...
According to "Star Wars Insider" issue #33 from 1997, the original plan for the wampa shots had to be abandoned because of the physical difficulties, the stilts, the snow, and...
- 12/27/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
George Lucas' "Star Wars" was a whole-cloth piece of world building. Inspired by gee-whiz sci-fi serials like "Flash Gordon," Lucas envisioned a sprawling saga that would stretch over multiple chapters. There was just one problem: the technology required to bring his vision to fruition didn't exist.
If you're any kind of "Star Wars" fan, you know about John Dykstra's revolutionary motion-control camera (the Dykstraflex), a pioneering piece of equipment that allowed Lucas to pull off the climactic trench run. You're also most certainly aware of how Rick Baker and Stuart Freeborn conjured up their groundbreaking creature effects. But do you know the story of how the lightsaber, the Jedi weapon of choice, was discovered?
While Lucas' idea for the lightsaber was brought to vivid life by the brilliant conceptual designer Ralph McQuarrie, someone had to either build or find the saber That someone was art director Roger Christian. And...
If you're any kind of "Star Wars" fan, you know about John Dykstra's revolutionary motion-control camera (the Dykstraflex), a pioneering piece of equipment that allowed Lucas to pull off the climactic trench run. You're also most certainly aware of how Rick Baker and Stuart Freeborn conjured up their groundbreaking creature effects. But do you know the story of how the lightsaber, the Jedi weapon of choice, was discovered?
While Lucas' idea for the lightsaber was brought to vivid life by the brilliant conceptual designer Ralph McQuarrie, someone had to either build or find the saber That someone was art director Roger Christian. And...
- 10/21/2023
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
Akira Kurosawa's 1975 film "Dersu Uzala," his only film not in Japanese, is about a team of Russian surveyors who are tasked with mapping a portion of the country's eastern wilderness. While on their mission, they come upon a small, elderly man who has been living off the land most of his life. He is peaceful, wise, and possessed of a gentle friendliness. Without much in the way of negotiation, this man, named Dersu Uzala (Maxim Munzuk), takes the Russian surveyors under his wing, and gently instructs them on how to complete their mission in harmony with nature. This involves surviving storms and avoiding trappers.
"Star Wars" creator George Lucas has gone on record with his affection for the films of Kurosawa, and how he based "Star Wars" on elements from Kurosawa's "The Hidden Fortress." Ever since, essayists have expounded extensively on the connection between the two filmmakers. I trust...
"Star Wars" creator George Lucas has gone on record with his affection for the films of Kurosawa, and how he based "Star Wars" on elements from Kurosawa's "The Hidden Fortress." Ever since, essayists have expounded extensively on the connection between the two filmmakers. I trust...
- 1/26/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Everyone loves Yoda. Sure, people go ga-ga for Grogu these days, but remember that we were all once calling him "Baby Yoda," because we don't even know their species' name. The original little green guy, voiced by the legendary Frank Oz, has made an appearance in all three of the "Star Wars" trilogies, and is one of the greatest creatures to ever wield the Force.
During his design phase, however, there was a version of Yoda that wasn't so lovable. In a recently-unearthed interview with creature creator Stuart Freeborn from July 1979, an original prototype puppet of Yoda was revealed, and he's one creepy-looking critter. The video was...
The post Long-Lost Star Wars Interview Reveals a Very Upsetting Early Design for Yoda appeared first on /Film.
During his design phase, however, there was a version of Yoda that wasn't so lovable. In a recently-unearthed interview with creature creator Stuart Freeborn from July 1979, an original prototype puppet of Yoda was revealed, and he's one creepy-looking critter. The video was...
The post Long-Lost Star Wars Interview Reveals a Very Upsetting Early Design for Yoda appeared first on /Film.
- 2/3/2022
- by Danielle Ryan
- Slash Film
On the 40th anniversary of Empire Strikes Back, arguably the greatest entry in the Skywalker Saga, series creator George Lucas sat down with StarWars.com to discuss everything from Death Star II to Vader, A New Hope to the birth of Lucasfilm.
It’s a fascinating interview about Hollywood’s best-loved sequel, and it includes a little bit of insight into the introduction of Yoda, the all-wise, all-knowing Star Wars legend who would help keep Luke Skywalker on the straight and narrow as he trained to defeat Vader and the dreaded Palpatine.
Indeed, it was Empire that pulled the rug out from all of us in 1980, when Lucas and director Irvin Kershner revealed Darth Vader to be the father of Luke Skywalker. It was a movie twist so secret that lead star Mark Hamill kept his silence for an entire year.
But on the topic of Yoda, George Lucas held...
It’s a fascinating interview about Hollywood’s best-loved sequel, and it includes a little bit of insight into the introduction of Yoda, the all-wise, all-knowing Star Wars legend who would help keep Luke Skywalker on the straight and narrow as he trained to defeat Vader and the dreaded Palpatine.
Indeed, it was Empire that pulled the rug out from all of us in 1980, when Lucas and director Irvin Kershner revealed Darth Vader to be the father of Luke Skywalker. It was a movie twist so secret that lead star Mark Hamill kept his silence for an entire year.
But on the topic of Yoda, George Lucas held...
- 5/25/2020
- by Michael Briers
- We Got This Covered
There are dozens of memorable alien species and worlds in the Star Wars films and even more in the series’ rich lore spanning video games, television shows and novelizations. Perhaps one of the most adorable and lovable, however, were first introduced in the third film of the Original Trilogy, Return of the Jedi. Yes, you guessed it, we’re talking about Ewoks.
These cute bear-like bipeds are native to the forest moon of Endor and live in huts high up in the trees. Equipped with spears and rocks, they show up near the final act of Return of the Jedi and help the heroes take down the encroaching Imperial forces during the film’s climactic battle on the planet.
What might be most interesting about the Ewoks though is what led to their inception. George Lucas has admitted to wanting a primitive species to help defeat the Empire in the final fight,...
These cute bear-like bipeds are native to the forest moon of Endor and live in huts high up in the trees. Equipped with spears and rocks, they show up near the final act of Return of the Jedi and help the heroes take down the encroaching Imperial forces during the film’s climactic battle on the planet.
What might be most interesting about the Ewoks though is what led to their inception. George Lucas has admitted to wanting a primitive species to help defeat the Empire in the final fight,...
- 3/8/2020
- by Billy Givens
- We Got This Covered
If every fandom community had a Mark Hamill, perhaps the world’s great questions would finally be answered.
It’s almost every day that the Star Wars icon gives his Twitter followers, and subsequently the planet, another behind-the-scenes story from the beloved franchise. On Wednesday, he explained a photo from The Empire Strikes Back of its director Irvin Kershner, and Yoda creator Stuart Freeborn. And he struck again (very early) this morning, this time detailing a touching, funny tale from his time working with the late Carrie Fisher on Return of the Jedi.
She Loved I was willing to look ridiculous! I squeezed into her white #Esb snow jumpsuit & she paraded me around the studio-Didn't want to wear the robe but isolated in the desert she said"No one will see you!"This is the exact moment she saw a photographer on a long-angle lens https://t.co/6ObRsjxJwr
— Mark...
It’s almost every day that the Star Wars icon gives his Twitter followers, and subsequently the planet, another behind-the-scenes story from the beloved franchise. On Wednesday, he explained a photo from The Empire Strikes Back of its director Irvin Kershner, and Yoda creator Stuart Freeborn. And he struck again (very early) this morning, this time detailing a touching, funny tale from his time working with the late Carrie Fisher on Return of the Jedi.
She Loved I was willing to look ridiculous! I squeezed into her white #Esb snow jumpsuit & she paraded me around the studio-Didn't want to wear the robe but isolated in the desert she said"No one will see you!"This is the exact moment she saw a photographer on a long-angle lens https://t.co/6ObRsjxJwr
— Mark...
- 7/12/2019
- by Luke Parker
- We Got This Covered
Mark Hamill’s always displayed a more-than-commendable level of patience and kindness towards the Star Wars community.
Most days, you can find the man behind Luke Skywalker engaging with fans on social media, especially Twitter, answering questions, correcting rumors, and cracking the occasional dad joke.
Most recently, a behind-the-scenes photo of Empire Strikes Back director Irvin Kershner and Stuart Freeborn, the creator of Yoda, popped up on Hamill’s feed. “Mark, @HamillHimself,” inquired a fan, “can you explain this picture?”
And as usual, the iconic actor answered with another witty display of insight on one of film’s most treasured franchises.
#EmpireStrikesBack director Irvin Kershner "touches up" make-up wizard Stuart Freeborn-sitting next to his famous puppet creation Yoda (who I think he resembles) Stuart kindly let me visit him whenever I wanted & even let me pour the foam into 1 of the Yoda head molds! #TrueStory https://t.co/Bf3gIPGirC...
Most days, you can find the man behind Luke Skywalker engaging with fans on social media, especially Twitter, answering questions, correcting rumors, and cracking the occasional dad joke.
Most recently, a behind-the-scenes photo of Empire Strikes Back director Irvin Kershner and Stuart Freeborn, the creator of Yoda, popped up on Hamill’s feed. “Mark, @HamillHimself,” inquired a fan, “can you explain this picture?”
And as usual, the iconic actor answered with another witty display of insight on one of film’s most treasured franchises.
#EmpireStrikesBack director Irvin Kershner "touches up" make-up wizard Stuart Freeborn-sitting next to his famous puppet creation Yoda (who I think he resembles) Stuart kindly let me visit him whenever I wanted & even let me pour the foam into 1 of the Yoda head molds! #TrueStory https://t.co/Bf3gIPGirC...
- 7/12/2019
- by Luke Parker
- We Got This Covered
The man inside Star Wars’ Wookiee suit may not have been instantly recognisable, but his skills helped lay the groundwork for current blockbuster movies
Like Anthony Daniels in the gold shell of C3PO, or Dave Prowse in the cloak and mask of Darth Vader, Peter Mayhew, who played the lovable but formidable Star Wars Wookiee Chewbacca, did not achieve the face recognition that actors usually yearn for, and an acting career was not in any case what Mayhew particularly wanted before George Lucas chose him for Star Wars. But it was Mayhew’s destiny to become known and adored by a passionate connoisseur fanbase, his charm and good nature made him loved by his colleagues and his actual presence did make itself felt in hundreds of fan conventions over the decades. These fan conventions themselves evolved as a new phenomenon, a kind of auxiliary theatrical platform for franchise movies alongside cinema,...
Like Anthony Daniels in the gold shell of C3PO, or Dave Prowse in the cloak and mask of Darth Vader, Peter Mayhew, who played the lovable but formidable Star Wars Wookiee Chewbacca, did not achieve the face recognition that actors usually yearn for, and an acting career was not in any case what Mayhew particularly wanted before George Lucas chose him for Star Wars. But it was Mayhew’s destiny to become known and adored by a passionate connoisseur fanbase, his charm and good nature made him loved by his colleagues and his actual presence did make itself felt in hundreds of fan conventions over the decades. These fan conventions themselves evolved as a new phenomenon, a kind of auxiliary theatrical platform for franchise movies alongside cinema,...
- 5/3/2019
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
9 random things that happened on this day, September 5th, in showbiz history...
1847 Outlaw Jesse James is born. 160 years later he'll be assassinated by Oscar nominated "supporting" actor Casey Affleck on the big screen.
← 1914 Stellar makeup artist Stuart Freeborn born in Leystone, London. You can thank him for the iconic looks of the original Star Wars trilogy (hello Chewbacca and Yoda) and the original Superman quadrilogy, and Peter Sellers transformations in Dr. Strangelove. He also worked on classics like 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Bridge on the River Kwai and Murder on the Orient Express. He was never Oscar nominated so how did he not even get an Honorary Oscar?...
1847 Outlaw Jesse James is born. 160 years later he'll be assassinated by Oscar nominated "supporting" actor Casey Affleck on the big screen.
← 1914 Stellar makeup artist Stuart Freeborn born in Leystone, London. You can thank him for the iconic looks of the original Star Wars trilogy (hello Chewbacca and Yoda) and the original Superman quadrilogy, and Peter Sellers transformations in Dr. Strangelove. He also worked on classics like 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Bridge on the River Kwai and Murder on the Orient Express. He was never Oscar nominated so how did he not even get an Honorary Oscar?...
- 9/5/2018
- by NATHANIEL R
- FilmExperience
Ryan Lambie Oct 12, 2017
For decades, the Ewoks have divided fan opinion, and with Star Wars: The Last Jedi, the Porgs look set to do the same...
They helped bring down the Empire, but for some, they helped ruin an entire franchise. When Return Of The Jedi arrived in 1983, its cuddly, mischievous Ewoks immediately divided opinion among Star Wars fans: for some, George Lucas' space opera ended not with a bang, but with a bunch of spear-waving teddy bears frolicking about in a forest.
See related Netflix's Stranger Things: Shawn Levy interview Netflix's Stranger Things: spotting the movie references
Almost 35 years later, and it might seem as though history's about to repeat itself. As footage from writer-director Rian Johnson's The Last Jedi emerged, debate over things like Rey's origins and Luke's grim utterances was joined by another conversation: what are those cute, wide-eyed things that look like...
For decades, the Ewoks have divided fan opinion, and with Star Wars: The Last Jedi, the Porgs look set to do the same...
They helped bring down the Empire, but for some, they helped ruin an entire franchise. When Return Of The Jedi arrived in 1983, its cuddly, mischievous Ewoks immediately divided opinion among Star Wars fans: for some, George Lucas' space opera ended not with a bang, but with a bunch of spear-waving teddy bears frolicking about in a forest.
See related Netflix's Stranger Things: Shawn Levy interview Netflix's Stranger Things: spotting the movie references
Almost 35 years later, and it might seem as though history's about to repeat itself. As footage from writer-director Rian Johnson's The Last Jedi emerged, debate over things like Rey's origins and Luke's grim utterances was joined by another conversation: what are those cute, wide-eyed things that look like...
- 10/11/2017
- Den of Geek
One of the reasons I was happy to bring the ongoing One Thing I Love Today column back was because it gives me a chance to simply sing the praises of something quickly, something that might not otherwise fit into the kind of coverage we do here at HitFix. A good example was when I put up the story about the Chewbacca mini-series from Marvel Comics by Gerry Duggan and Phil Noto. One of the strangest things about the first Star Wars for me was just how quickly I not only accepted the reality of the world that George Lucas created, but how deeply it sank into my own inner life. Star Wars figures were the key talisman of my childhood, and I spent many hours lost in private stories played out with those little plastic people. From that very first viewing of Star Wars in 1977, I have been head over heels for Chewbacca,...
- 3/8/2016
- by Drew McWeeny
- Hitfix
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In the Special Editions, the Rebo Band were big victims of George Lucas' digital wand. Here's how CGI changed them - seemingly forever...
In 1997, Star Wars began its ineluctable turn to the digital side. A New Hope, re-released in January that year, marked the first of George Lucas’s Special Edition revamps of his blockbuster saga; then 20 years old, the original 70s print was decaying. Effects shots were damaged. Darth Vader’s once imposing black mask and cloak had faded to a wan shade of pale blue.
To combat the ravages of time, Lucas embarked on an expensive and lavish restoration of the movies, improving the quality of the sound, re-balancing and correcting the colours and placing them back where they belonged: on the big screen. While fans were delighted at the prospect of seeing Star Wars in theatres again, Lucas’ reissues didn’t stop at...
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In the Special Editions, the Rebo Band were big victims of George Lucas' digital wand. Here's how CGI changed them - seemingly forever...
In 1997, Star Wars began its ineluctable turn to the digital side. A New Hope, re-released in January that year, marked the first of George Lucas’s Special Edition revamps of his blockbuster saga; then 20 years old, the original 70s print was decaying. Effects shots were damaged. Darth Vader’s once imposing black mask and cloak had faded to a wan shade of pale blue.
To combat the ravages of time, Lucas embarked on an expensive and lavish restoration of the movies, improving the quality of the sound, re-balancing and correcting the colours and placing them back where they belonged: on the big screen. While fans were delighted at the prospect of seeing Star Wars in theatres again, Lucas’ reissues didn’t stop at...
- 1/21/2016
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
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In 1980, the idea of having a puppet as a supporting actor was still untested. Ryan looks back at The Empire Strikes Back's big gamble...
"You will go to the Dagobah system. There you will learn from Yoda, the Jedi master who instructed me..."
George Lucas may have had a wider saga planned out in his head, but he couldn't have predicted just how much hunger there would be for more space adventures in the wake of Star Wars. But as audiences flocked to watch and rewatch the film through the summer of 1977, Lucas was already putting the groundwork in place for a sequel, with its title, The Empire Strikes Back, firmly in place by November that year.
Exhausted by the process of making Star Wars, Lucas decided to step back from the role of writer and director for its follow-up, assigning his old mentor Irvin Kershner...
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In 1980, the idea of having a puppet as a supporting actor was still untested. Ryan looks back at The Empire Strikes Back's big gamble...
"You will go to the Dagobah system. There you will learn from Yoda, the Jedi master who instructed me..."
George Lucas may have had a wider saga planned out in his head, but he couldn't have predicted just how much hunger there would be for more space adventures in the wake of Star Wars. But as audiences flocked to watch and rewatch the film through the summer of 1977, Lucas was already putting the groundwork in place for a sequel, with its title, The Empire Strikes Back, firmly in place by November that year.
Exhausted by the process of making Star Wars, Lucas decided to step back from the role of writer and director for its follow-up, assigning his old mentor Irvin Kershner...
- 11/24/2015
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
The Star Wars franchise is going strong 38 years later. But what about the artists and filmmakers who helped make the 1977 original a hit?
In theatres all over the world in 1977, audiences thrilled at the sights and sounds of Star Wars. Harking back to a bygone age of Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers, it also pointed forward to the coming age of ubiquitous computers and special effects-led blockbusters.
But while the triumphant fanfare of John Williams' score gave Star Wars a confident swagger, its success was far from preordained. George Lucas reworked his script time and again; studios turned his concept down; even the production was rushed and torturous.
By now, the contribution George Lucas, John Williams and Star Wars' cast made to cinema is well documented. But what about some of the other artists, technicians and fellow filmmakers who helped to make the movie such a success? Here's...
In theatres all over the world in 1977, audiences thrilled at the sights and sounds of Star Wars. Harking back to a bygone age of Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers, it also pointed forward to the coming age of ubiquitous computers and special effects-led blockbusters.
But while the triumphant fanfare of John Williams' score gave Star Wars a confident swagger, its success was far from preordained. George Lucas reworked his script time and again; studios turned his concept down; even the production was rushed and torturous.
By now, the contribution George Lucas, John Williams and Star Wars' cast made to cinema is well documented. But what about some of the other artists, technicians and fellow filmmakers who helped to make the movie such a success? Here's...
- 4/22/2015
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
Peter Mayhew has shared behind-the-scenes images from the original Star Wars trilogy.
The actor - who portrayed Chewbacca in the early movies - first began sharing the images on January 8, posting a "nostalgic" photo of himself sharing a joke with fellow cast members Harrison Ford (Han Solo), Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia) and Anthony Daniels (C-3Po).
#nostalgic so Im going to post some pics tonight. Like this 1 of Harrison, Anthony, Carrie & I sharing a laugh... pic.twitter.com/FblggUaU5e
— Peter Mayhew (@TheWookieeRoars) January 8, 2014
The 69-year-old has continued to treat fans over the following four days with more images, including Fisher sunbathing with her stunt double and the Princess Leia actress cuddling an 11-year-old Warwick Davis.
Ok, you lot really like pics of a certain princess! Here's one of Carrie and her stunt double. You're Welcome. pic.twitter.com/CmHYPPvIpM
— Peter Mayhew (@TheWookieeRoars) January 8, 2014
The most luscious princess in the...
The actor - who portrayed Chewbacca in the early movies - first began sharing the images on January 8, posting a "nostalgic" photo of himself sharing a joke with fellow cast members Harrison Ford (Han Solo), Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia) and Anthony Daniels (C-3Po).
#nostalgic so Im going to post some pics tonight. Like this 1 of Harrison, Anthony, Carrie & I sharing a laugh... pic.twitter.com/FblggUaU5e
— Peter Mayhew (@TheWookieeRoars) January 8, 2014
The 69-year-old has continued to treat fans over the following four days with more images, including Fisher sunbathing with her stunt double and the Princess Leia actress cuddling an 11-year-old Warwick Davis.
Ok, you lot really like pics of a certain princess! Here's one of Carrie and her stunt double. You're Welcome. pic.twitter.com/CmHYPPvIpM
— Peter Mayhew (@TheWookieeRoars) January 8, 2014
The most luscious princess in the...
- 1/13/2014
- Digital Spy
Over the past few days, Peter Mayhew, the actor who played Chewbacca in the original Star Wars, has shared a host of behind-the-scenes images from his days on the set of the iconic film franchise. "#nostalgic so Im going to post some pics tonight," Mayhew tweeted on Wednesday along with a picture of himself, Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher "sharing a laugh." This kick-started a captivating Twitter spree that lasted until the early morning hours on Friday.
See the 10 Star Wars Spinoffs We're Dying to See
Here are some of...
See the 10 Star Wars Spinoffs We're Dying to See
Here are some of...
- 1/10/2014
- Rollingstone.com
Via: Cbm
Here's a new bit of Star Wars news that I've never heard before. Apparently, Yoda was originally going to be played by a monkey, and there are a couple of rare behind the scenes photos from @mccrabb_will to prove it. According to him, the "Empire team initially hired a trainer and a Monkey to hold a cane & play Yoda."
The puppet was designed and built for Empire Strikes Back by Stuart Freeborn, with Jim Henson consulting. The monkey would have worn a Yoda mask. The plan was scrapped when the monkey kept pulling the mask off.
I've got to say, it would have been really weird to see a monkey play Yoda. I'm really glad that they ended up going with the puppet and Frank Oz. ...
Here's a new bit of Star Wars news that I've never heard before. Apparently, Yoda was originally going to be played by a monkey, and there are a couple of rare behind the scenes photos from @mccrabb_will to prove it. According to him, the "Empire team initially hired a trainer and a Monkey to hold a cane & play Yoda."
The puppet was designed and built for Empire Strikes Back by Stuart Freeborn, with Jim Henson consulting. The monkey would have worn a Yoda mask. The plan was scrapped when the monkey kept pulling the mask off.
I've got to say, it would have been really weird to see a monkey play Yoda. I'm really glad that they ended up going with the puppet and Frank Oz. ...
- 11/20/2013
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Today I learned, that before the Jedi master Yoda (performed by Frank Oz) puppet was designed and built by Stuart Freeborn (Jim Henson consulted) for Empire Strikes Back, the plan was to use a monkey wearing a Yoda mask. They even trained the monkey to use Yoda's cane. The plan was scrapped when the monkey kept pulling the mask off. Images: @mccrabb_will Touch My Monkey! sprockets germany's most disturbing videos by pentakatharidis After the rebels have been brutally overpowered by the Empire on their newly established base, Luke Skywalker takes advanced Jedi training with Master Yoda, while his friends are pursued by Darth Vader as part of his plan to capture Luke.
- 11/19/2013
- ComicBookMovie.com
George Lucas may not be directing the new Star Wars movies, but he’s still found ways to occupy his time. In an interview with CBS This Morning today, Lucas took a reporter around Skywalker Ranch and discussed how he intends to open an art museum in the next chapter of his life. “There is a world of young people who need to be inspired,” the prolific art collector explained.
Highlighting his love of Maxfield Parish and Norman Rockwell, Lucas discussed how he learned a lot about storytelling through art, because artists need to tell a whole story in just one frame.
Highlighting his love of Maxfield Parish and Norman Rockwell, Lucas discussed how he learned a lot about storytelling through art, because artists need to tell a whole story in just one frame.
- 3/5/2013
- by Erin Strecker
- EW - Inside Movies
Features, Reviews and Interviews Why Exactly Were Hundreds of VFX Artists Protesting the Oscars? How to Watch 'Wreck-It Ralph' and 'Rise of the Guardians' Before Disc 8 Great... Mythological Creatures That Desperately Need to Be in More Movies Remembering Stuart Freeborn, Robin Sachs and More Reel-Important People We Lost This Month The Best and Worst Hollywood Debuts by Asian Directors Watch: The Schmoes Review 'Jack the Giant Slayer', '21 and Over', 'Stoker' and 'Emperor' Columns Box Office Report: Is Oscar Weekend to Blame for Weak Box Office? Marvel Studios Countdown: 'Iron Man' Concept Art, New Posters and More 'Man of Steel' Countdown: Why Be a Superman? The Geek Beat...
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- 3/2/2013
- by Peter Hall
- Movies.com
His facial features will forever be a part of Hollywood history through his creation of Yoda for "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back." However the makeup artist himself behind the creation of Yoda, Stuart Freeborn, died on Feb. 5. He was 98. Besides Yoda, Freeborn also was part of the creation team that developed Chewbacca and Jabba the Hutt, according to Deadline.com. But he was already well-known long before joining the Star Wars teams in the 1970s. Freeborn got his start in 1936 as an uncredited makeup artist for the biopic "Rembrandt." As was the custom in film at the time, Freeborn would work on a half-dozen projects without credit until finally getting screen recognition in 1946 for the British drama "The Adventuress." He would go on to work on more than 75 films including ...
- 2/12/2013
- GeekNation.com
Makeup artist who created Yoda and Chewbacca for the Star Wars films
If there was a film made in Britain between the early 1940s and early 1980s that required innovations in makeup and prosthetics design, chances are that Stuart Freeborn, who has died aged 98, was involved in it in some capacity. The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp, David Lean's adaptation of Oliver Twist, 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Omen, Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back: all these benefited from Freeborn's pioneering approach to makeup. When audiences gaze with wonder upon the apes in the "dawn of man" sequence at the beginning of 2001, or fall under the spell of the 2ft tall guru Yoda and his gnomic proclamations, their response is a testament to Freeborn's persuasive artistry.
He was born in Leytonstone, east London, where it was assumed that he would follow in the footsteps of his father,...
If there was a film made in Britain between the early 1940s and early 1980s that required innovations in makeup and prosthetics design, chances are that Stuart Freeborn, who has died aged 98, was involved in it in some capacity. The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp, David Lean's adaptation of Oliver Twist, 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Omen, Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back: all these benefited from Freeborn's pioneering approach to makeup. When audiences gaze with wonder upon the apes in the "dawn of man" sequence at the beginning of 2001, or fall under the spell of the 2ft tall guru Yoda and his gnomic proclamations, their response is a testament to Freeborn's persuasive artistry.
He was born in Leytonstone, east London, where it was assumed that he would follow in the footsteps of his father,...
- 2/9/2013
- by Ryan Gilbey
- The Guardian - Film News
Special effects and creature effects artist Stuart Freeborn died on Wednesday. He was 98.
With a career that spanned over 50 years and nearly 100 projects, Freeborn was considered a master of his craft before taking on the project that would make him a legend: Star Wars. He worked on all three films in the original trilogy, and many thought that he worked his own impish features into one of his most important creations: Yoda. In addition to bringing Yoda to life, Freeborn and his team were responsible for Jabba the Hutt, Chewbacca, the Ewoks, tauntauns, wampas, and most of the creatures in the Mos Eisley Cantina.
Freeborn's other genre-related work included heading up the makeup department on the original The Omen; the ape-like creatures from 2001: A Space Odyssey; 1960's The Hands of Orlac; and four Superman films.
Source: CNN...
With a career that spanned over 50 years and nearly 100 projects, Freeborn was considered a master of his craft before taking on the project that would make him a legend: Star Wars. He worked on all three films in the original trilogy, and many thought that he worked his own impish features into one of his most important creations: Yoda. In addition to bringing Yoda to life, Freeborn and his team were responsible for Jabba the Hutt, Chewbacca, the Ewoks, tauntauns, wampas, and most of the creatures in the Mos Eisley Cantina.
Freeborn's other genre-related work included heading up the makeup department on the original The Omen; the ape-like creatures from 2001: A Space Odyssey; 1960's The Hands of Orlac; and four Superman films.
Source: CNN...
- 2/8/2013
- by Alyse Wax
- FEARnet
London, Feb 8: Stuart Freeborn, the make-up artist of Hollywood film "Star Wars", passed away here Friday due to age related problems. He was 98.
Freeborn's granddaughter Michelle Freeborn said the make-up legend died of a combination of age-related ailments, reports thesun.co.uk.
After joining the "Star Wars" team, he created characters including 7ft Chewbacca and Jabba.
In a career spanning six decades, he also worked with a number of stars, including Marlene Dietrich, Vivien Leigh and Alec Guinness, and on classics like "2001: A Space Odyssey".
"His artistry and craftsmanship will live on for ever in the.
Freeborn's granddaughter Michelle Freeborn said the make-up legend died of a combination of age-related ailments, reports thesun.co.uk.
After joining the "Star Wars" team, he created characters including 7ft Chewbacca and Jabba.
In a career spanning six decades, he also worked with a number of stars, including Marlene Dietrich, Vivien Leigh and Alec Guinness, and on classics like "2001: A Space Odyssey".
"His artistry and craftsmanship will live on for ever in the.
- 2/8/2013
- by Amith Ostwal
- RealBollywood.com
If you’re a fan of the saga, the news that Disney is making more Star Wars films will probably have elicited one of two reactions in you. Either you are rubbing your imitation lightsaber with glee, or you’re flushing your limited edition Boba Fett (complete with firing rocket pack) down the toilet in a pique of Sarlacc recreation style anger.
Me? I’m happy to see what fresh ideas new directors and producers can bring to the series, rather than that bearded chap who ended up obsessed with the taxation of trade routes. But now they’re talking spin off films, with the first being based around Yoda? I’m happy with an extended universe on screen, but not with Yoda thanks. Here’re my 10 reasons that a Yoda spin-off is something they should do not:
10. CGI Vs. Puppet
Probably the biggest stumbling block filmmakers have to face,...
Me? I’m happy to see what fresh ideas new directors and producers can bring to the series, rather than that bearded chap who ended up obsessed with the taxation of trade routes. But now they’re talking spin off films, with the first being based around Yoda? I’m happy with an extended universe on screen, but not with Yoda thanks. Here’re my 10 reasons that a Yoda spin-off is something they should do not:
10. CGI Vs. Puppet
Probably the biggest stumbling block filmmakers have to face,...
- 2/8/2013
- by Tim Colman
- Obsessed with Film
The film world has lost one of the giants of movie makeup and creature design. Stuart Freeborn, whose credits go back to the 1930s, died earlier this week from a combination of ailments due to his age, according to The Guardian. He was 98. He worked for David Lean on 1948's Oliver Twist, setting up Alec Guinness with his prosthetic teeth, and later worked with Guinness and Lean on The Bridge on the River Kwai.Freeborn was brought to my attention thanks to another series of films starring Guinness. As the principal artist behind the creature shop on the first Star Wars film, Freeborn was responsible for the team that created Chewbacca. The costume was designed based upon designs that had been created for Stanley Kubrick's earlier...
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[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 2/7/2013
- Screen Anarchy
'Star Wars' make-up artist Stuart Freeborn has died at the age of 98.
During his six-decade career, he was celebrated for creating characters such as Yoda, the 7ft tall wookie Chewbacca and the slug-like Jabba the Hutt.
He also worked on classic films such as Stanley Kubrick's '2001: A Space Odyssey', where he created the apelike human ancestors in the 'Dawn of Man' sequence.
'Star Wars' director George Lucas released a statement on Wednesday:
"He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy. His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created. His 'Star Wars' creatures may be reinterpreted in new forms by new generations, but at their heart, they continue to be what Stuart created for the original films."
Freeborn also worked on 'Oliver Twist,' 'The Bridge on the River Kwai,...
During his six-decade career, he was celebrated for creating characters such as Yoda, the 7ft tall wookie Chewbacca and the slug-like Jabba the Hutt.
He also worked on classic films such as Stanley Kubrick's '2001: A Space Odyssey', where he created the apelike human ancestors in the 'Dawn of Man' sequence.
'Star Wars' director George Lucas released a statement on Wednesday:
"He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy. His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created. His 'Star Wars' creatures may be reinterpreted in new forms by new generations, but at their heart, they continue to be what Stuart created for the original films."
Freeborn also worked on 'Oliver Twist,' 'The Bridge on the River Kwai,...
- 2/7/2013
- by The Huffington Post UK
- Huffington Post
Stuart Freeborn, the British pioneering movie makeup artist behind creatures such as Yoda and Chewbacca in the Star Wars films, has died. He was 98.
LucasFilm confirmed Wednesday that Freeborn had died, "leaving a legacy of unforgettable contributions".
Star Wars director George Lucas said in a statement that Freeborn was "already a makeup legend" when he started working on the space epic.
"He brought with him not only decades of experience but boundless creative energy," Lucas said. "His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created. His Star Wars creatures may be reinterpreted in new forms by new generations but at their heart they continue to be what Stuart created for the original films."
Freeborn's granddaughter, Michelle Freeborn, said he died on Tuesday in London from a...
LucasFilm confirmed Wednesday that Freeborn had died, "leaving a legacy of unforgettable contributions".
Star Wars director George Lucas said in a statement that Freeborn was "already a makeup legend" when he started working on the space epic.
"He brought with him not only decades of experience but boundless creative energy," Lucas said. "His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created. His Star Wars creatures may be reinterpreted in new forms by new generations but at their heart they continue to be what Stuart created for the original films."
Freeborn's granddaughter, Michelle Freeborn, said he died on Tuesday in London from a...
- 2/7/2013
- The Guardian - Film News
Another film legend has passed on, and though his name may not jump out at you, his contributions to the world of special effects will long be remembered and revered. It's with a heavy heart we report that Stuart Freeborn is no longer with us.
The Associated Press is reporting that Freeborn, a pioneering movie makeup artist behind creatures such as Yoda and Chewbacca in the Star Wars films, has died. He was 98. Within the horror genre Stuart served as chief makeup artist on 1976's The Omen, and he also contributed his genius to 2001: A Space Odyssey, See No Evil, the TV horror film Spectre, the Superman film franchise, and even the hilarious Haunted Honeymoon from 1986.
"He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy," said Star Wars' George Lucas. "His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created. His...
The Associated Press is reporting that Freeborn, a pioneering movie makeup artist behind creatures such as Yoda and Chewbacca in the Star Wars films, has died. He was 98. Within the horror genre Stuart served as chief makeup artist on 1976's The Omen, and he also contributed his genius to 2001: A Space Odyssey, See No Evil, the TV horror film Spectre, the Superman film franchise, and even the hilarious Haunted Honeymoon from 1986.
"He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy," said Star Wars' George Lucas. "His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created. His...
- 2/7/2013
- by Uncle Creepy
- DreadCentral.com
Stuart Freeborn, a pioneering movie makeup artist behind creatures such as Yoda and Chewbacca in the "Star Wars" films, has died. He was 98. LucasFilm confirmed Wednesday that Freeborn had passed away, "leaving a legacy of unforgettable contributions." "Star Wars" director George Lucas said in a statement that Freeborn was "already a makeup legend" when he started working on "Star Wars." "He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy," Lucas said. "His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created. His "Star Wars" creatures may be reinterpreted in new...
- 2/7/2013
- by Jill Lawless (AP)
- Hitfix
Stuart Freeborn, the make-up and effects artist who helped to create Star Wars characters such as Yoda, Chewbacca, Jabba the Hutt and the Ewoks, has died at the age of 98.
Freeborn's granddaughter Michelle confirmed that her grandfather passed away in London on Tuesday (February 5).
"Stuart was already a make-up legend when he started on Star Wars," said George Lucas in a statement. "He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy. His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created.
"His Star Wars creatures may be reinterpreted in new forms by new generations, but at their heart, they continue to be what Stuart created for the original films."
In addition to helping establish the look of many key figures in the Star Wars universe, Freeborn was also instrumental in designing the background characters in the Mos Eisley Cantina bar scenes.
Freeborn is...
Freeborn's granddaughter Michelle confirmed that her grandfather passed away in London on Tuesday (February 5).
"Stuart was already a make-up legend when he started on Star Wars," said George Lucas in a statement. "He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy. His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created.
"His Star Wars creatures may be reinterpreted in new forms by new generations, but at their heart, they continue to be what Stuart created for the original films."
In addition to helping establish the look of many key figures in the Star Wars universe, Freeborn was also instrumental in designing the background characters in the Mos Eisley Cantina bar scenes.
Freeborn is...
- 2/7/2013
- Digital Spy
Robin Sachs, the British actor who portrayed the evil Ethan Raynes in Joss Whedon's "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" TV series, has died in Los Angeles. He was 61. Details surrounding his sudden passing are scarce, his representative told TheWrap on Wednesday that Sachs was in good health and that no cause of death has been identified. Also read: 'Star Wars' Makeup Artist Stuart Freeborn Dead at 98 His official website first reported the news on Tuesday. "It is with great sadness that we have to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Robin Sachs," the...
- 2/6/2013
- by Greg Gilman
- The Wrap
Stuart Freeborn, the legendary British makeup artist who worked on films for Stanley Kubrick and David Lean and created such creatures as Yoda and Chewbacca for the Star Wars films, died Tuesday in London. He was 98. Freeborn transformed Alec Guinness into Fagin for Lean's 1948 version of Oliver Twist and aged Roger Livesay through the decades in another British film classic, Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp (1943). Photos: Hollywood's Notable Deaths of 2013 His other makeup credits include Powell’s The Thief of Bagdad (1940), Lean’s The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957),
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- 2/6/2013
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Disney recently confirmed that it's developing "Star Wars" spin-off films, focusing on specific characters, in addition to a new "Star Wars" trilogy, starting with "Star Wars: Episode VII" in 2015 that will be directed by Jj Abrams (Star Trek). We recently heard a rumor that one of the spin-offs will focus on Yoda, but Entertainment Weekly has learned that the first two stand-alone project will instead focus on Boba Fett and a young Han Solo. The movies are beign written by Lawrence Kasdan and Simon Kinberg and will hit theaters sometime after 2015. The adventures of Han Solo are the focus of the 1979 novel "Han Solo at Star's End," which is set two years before the events of the 1977 film. George Lucas was actually planning to use a 10-year-old Han Solo in "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith." The character appeared in the script and even had dialogue, but was eventually cut.
- 2/6/2013
- WorstPreviews.com
Stuart Freeborn, the makeup artist responsible for "Star Wars" characters Yoda and Chewbacca, has passed away in London at the age of 98. Lucasfilm confirmed the news to the Associated Press.
"He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy," says George Lucas of Freeborn. "His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created."
"Star Wars" frenzy is renewed with Disney taking over the franchise, as announcements keep coming about sequels and spinoff projects in the works. Still, Lucas says of Freeborn, "His 'Star Wars' creatures may be reinterpreted in new forms by new generations, but at their heart, they continue to be what Stuart created for the original films."
Freeborn's other film credits include Stanley Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "Doctor Strangelove" as well as the Christopher Reeve "Superman" film series.
Stuart's family says he died of complications related to old age.
"He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy," says George Lucas of Freeborn. "His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created."
"Star Wars" frenzy is renewed with Disney taking over the franchise, as announcements keep coming about sequels and spinoff projects in the works. Still, Lucas says of Freeborn, "His 'Star Wars' creatures may be reinterpreted in new forms by new generations, but at their heart, they continue to be what Stuart created for the original films."
Freeborn's other film credits include Stanley Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "Doctor Strangelove" as well as the Christopher Reeve "Superman" film series.
Stuart's family says he died of complications related to old age.
- 2/6/2013
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Pop2it
Stuart Freeborn, the makeup artist who designed Yoda, Chewbacca and a number of other memorable "Star Wars" characters, died Wednesday in England. He was 98. Freeborn began his six-decade career in the movie business with uncredited work on 1936's "Rembrandt" before creating makeup magic for 75 other films, including "Oliver Twist," "Dr. Strangelove," 2001: A Space Odyssey," four "Superman" films and the original "Star Wars" trilogy. Also read: Disney Planning 'Star Wars' Spin-Off Films "Stuart was already a makeup legend when he started on 'Star Wars,'" George Lucas said in a statement on StarWars.com.
- 2/6/2013
- by Greg Gilman
- The Wrap
News Ryan Lambie Feb 6, 2013
We're sad to learn that British makeup artist Stuart Freeborn, whose work included Star Wars and 2001, has passed away at the age of 98.
Yoda is surely among the most recognisable and loved characters in sci-fi cinema, and it says so much about the enduring fan affection for the old sage that, more than 30 years after he first appeared in The Empire Strikes Back, there are rumours that he may soon appear in his own Star Wars spin-off movie.
How sad, then, to hear that Stuart Freeborn, the makeup designer who created Yoda's distinctive green features, has passed away at the age of 98.
The credits in Freeborn's long career include The Life And Death Of Colonel Blimp, David Lean's Oliver Twist and The Bridge Over The River Kwai. He was responsible for the makeup effects in Stanley Kubrick's Dr Strangelove, which transformed Peter Sellers into an effete British army captain,...
We're sad to learn that British makeup artist Stuart Freeborn, whose work included Star Wars and 2001, has passed away at the age of 98.
Yoda is surely among the most recognisable and loved characters in sci-fi cinema, and it says so much about the enduring fan affection for the old sage that, more than 30 years after he first appeared in The Empire Strikes Back, there are rumours that he may soon appear in his own Star Wars spin-off movie.
How sad, then, to hear that Stuart Freeborn, the makeup designer who created Yoda's distinctive green features, has passed away at the age of 98.
The credits in Freeborn's long career include The Life And Death Of Colonel Blimp, David Lean's Oliver Twist and The Bridge Over The River Kwai. He was responsible for the makeup effects in Stanley Kubrick's Dr Strangelove, which transformed Peter Sellers into an effete British army captain,...
- 2/6/2013
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
British make-up great Stuart Freeborn has died. The prosthetics designer, the man who gave Yoda his distinctive look and worked closely with actors of the calibre of Alec Guinness and Peter Sellers, was 98.Born in East London as the Great War began, Freeborn was a pioneer in cinema whose refusal to follow a traditional career path led him to Alexander Korda's door in the 1930s. At the producer's Denham Studio he worked with Alec Guinness to create the haggard Fagin in David Lean's Oliver Twist, and with movie stars such as Marlene Dietrich and Vivien Leigh. "I never stopped from that moment," remembered Freeborn of a career that took in The Life And Death Of Colonel Blimp and Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey and Dr. Strangelove. He created the 'Dawn of Man' sequence on the former, and worked with the director to pinpoint Sellers' many looks in the latter.
- 2/6/2013
- EmpireOnline
Ever wondered how much it would cost to own a piece of "Star Wars" history? We thought so. Your wait is over—because last weekend a variety of props from the iconic franchise hit the auction block. Perhaps it should come as no surprise that the world's most famous wookiee commanded the highest price.
That's right, an original Chewbacca headpiece proved to be the item that avid fans and collectors simply could not live without. Profiles in History, who hosted the auction, described the prop as the finest "screen correct" Chewbacca headpiece in private hands.
It's made up of a screen-used full-head cowl finished with period-made facial pieces, including the front jaw, nose, teeth and tongue. The item also included signed photos from Peter Mayhew, who played Chewbacca, and Stuart Freeborn, who designed the costume. The prop sold for a whopping $172,000, which breaks down to $140,000 price tag plus a $32,000 buyer's premium.
That's right, an original Chewbacca headpiece proved to be the item that avid fans and collectors simply could not live without. Profiles in History, who hosted the auction, described the prop as the finest "screen correct" Chewbacca headpiece in private hands.
It's made up of a screen-used full-head cowl finished with period-made facial pieces, including the front jaw, nose, teeth and tongue. The item also included signed photos from Peter Mayhew, who played Chewbacca, and Stuart Freeborn, who designed the costume. The prop sold for a whopping $172,000, which breaks down to $140,000 price tag plus a $32,000 buyer's premium.
- 7/30/2012
- by Elizabeth Durand
- NextMovie
Who says the economy is in the toilet? At a Profiles in History prop auction over the weekend, one wannabe Han Solo purchased the head of Chewbacca for a cool $172,000. The item was expected to go for somewhere between $60,000 and $80,000.
As noted in the Dreier Collection catalogue -- where other famed movie props from "Superman: The Movie," "Gladiator," "X-Men" and "Austin Powers" were available -- the headpiece is the "finest full costume headpiece of Chewbacca from the original trilogy in private hands."
Continued the auction handbook:
It consists of a screen-used cowl hairpiece (which encompasses the entire head), and a period-made Stuart Freeborn facial appliance. Judging by the construction of the cowl, it was also most likely used in more than one of the original films of the trilogy. The facial appliance is attached to the cowl and mounted on a period Stuart Freeborn foam Chewbacca head so that the display retains its screen-used appearance.
As noted in the Dreier Collection catalogue -- where other famed movie props from "Superman: The Movie," "Gladiator," "X-Men" and "Austin Powers" were available -- the headpiece is the "finest full costume headpiece of Chewbacca from the original trilogy in private hands."
Continued the auction handbook:
It consists of a screen-used cowl hairpiece (which encompasses the entire head), and a period-made Stuart Freeborn facial appliance. Judging by the construction of the cowl, it was also most likely used in more than one of the original films of the trilogy. The facial appliance is attached to the cowl and mounted on a period Stuart Freeborn foam Chewbacca head so that the display retains its screen-used appearance.
- 7/30/2012
- by The Huffington Post
- Huffington Post
A Chewbacca headpiece used in the original Star Wars trilogy sold for $172,200 ($140,000 plus $32,200 buyer's premium) at a Profiles in History auction. Profiles described it as the finest "screen correct" Chewbacca headpiece in private hands. It comprises a screen-used full-head cowl finished with period-made facial pieces, such as the front jaw, nose, teeth and tongue. The item also included signed photographs from Peter Mayhew, who played Chewbacca, and Stuart Freeborn, who designed the costume. Other Star Wars items realizing high prices at the July 28 auction in the San Fernando Valley included
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- 7/30/2012
- by Andy Lewis
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
After thirty years, three terrible prequels and acres of spin-off material, the "Star Wars" brand has been somewhat tarnished. The fans are still legion, but it's become harder and harder to get excited about the series, and the highlights drift further and further from memory. That being said, we'll always a place for the original trilogy in our hearts, and much of that comes down to the second (or fifth) installment, 1980's "The Empire Strikes Back" Despite the success of the original, creator George Lucas seemed to have taken some of the criticism to heart, a took a back seat for the follow-up, handing over the directorial reins to his old film school professor Irvin Kershner ("The Eyes of Laura Mars," "The Flim-Flam Man") and hiring veteran screenwriter Leigh Brackett and bright young thing Lawrence Kasdan, who'd come to fame thanks to his as-yet-unmade scripts for "The Bodyguard" and "Continental Divide.
- 5/21/2012
- by Oliver Lyttelton
- The Playlist
Welcome back to eBay Prop-Watch! I hope you’ll all forgive my absence at the end of last week. While eBay is always popping with cool movie-related crap to buy, someone needs to be here to actually write it up. Not that today’s selection needs any real introduction.
“Star Wars” is one of those franchises that is particularly well-suited to pleasing prop collectors. For those who are willing to shell out often-considerable amounts of cash, there’s a lot out there to be had. The item I selected for today’s eBay Prop-Watch actually falls on the cheaper side of real-deal “Star Wars” props, though the “cool” factor renders it absolutely priceless as far as I am concerned. If I hadn’t just moved, you can bet I’d buy this one without a second’s thought.
It’s… Chewie’s Fur!!! Sure, it’s only a few strands.
“Star Wars” is one of those franchises that is particularly well-suited to pleasing prop collectors. For those who are willing to shell out often-considerable amounts of cash, there’s a lot out there to be had. The item I selected for today’s eBay Prop-Watch actually falls on the cheaper side of real-deal “Star Wars” props, though the “cool” factor renders it absolutely priceless as far as I am concerned. If I hadn’t just moved, you can bet I’d buy this one without a second’s thought.
It’s… Chewie’s Fur!!! Sure, it’s only a few strands.
- 7/6/2009
- by Adam Rosenberg
- MTV Movies Blog
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