Merced ‘Star Wars’ fans ready for Episode VII
The answers to the hints dropped in the “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” trailer months ago are mere hours away from being revealed, and area fans are clamoring to catch their first glimpse.
Regal Cinemas Hollywood Merced 13 and Los Banos Premiere Cinemas will premiere the seventh installment of the space opera with special showings Thursday evening. The tale of a princess, orphan, swashbuckler and their foe has permeated just about every corner of pop culture.
Chris George, 39, of Merced, described himself as a “Star Wars” aficionado, but others might think his fanaticism goes a bit farther than that. He’s a member of the Central Valley Garrison of the 501st Legion, a bevy of costumed volunteers who make appearances and raise money for worthy causes.
“The kids love it. We all love it,” he said. “The demand right now, of course, is through the roof.”
George, who said he has tickets for the first showing Thursday, is the kind of guy who could explain the intricacies of each military costume.
George Lucas borrowed from the Greek myths and archetypes. I think the fans identify with all the characters at some time in their life.
Chris George
39, on the timelessness of “Star Wars”George said he remembers being 3 or 4 years old and seeing the imposing figure that Darth Vader, the series’ most iconic villain, cast on the TV screen.
“I don’t think that anybody can think of a more striking character,” he said.
George takes a philosophical approach to questions about why the series from creator George Lucas has had such a significance.
“George Lucas borrowed from the Greek myths and archetypes,” he said. “I think the fans identify with all the characters at some time in their life.”
The latest story follows the orphaned dreamer in Rey (played by British newcomer Daisy Ridley). It has the disillusioned maverick in Finn (another British newcomer, John Boyega). The die-hard rebel fighter in Poe (Guatemalan-American actor Oscar Isaac).
Nathan Garcia, 35, of Merced, said he, too, saw the first film in the series on TV. “It was on a black-and-white TV with my dad,” he said.
He said he is most looking forward to being able to share the spectacle with his 8-year-old son, Ezra. “It’s something we get to share,” he said. “He’s pretty jazzed about the new villains and heroes.”
Garcia, who has tickets for a Saturday morning screening, described himself as a “diehard casual” fan. He said he even got excited for the second trilogy, which ultimately disappointed him.
“I just hope it lives up to the hype,” he said. “Even if it doesn’t, it’s still exciting to see it with my son.”
Thaddeus Miller: 209-385-2453, @thaddeusmiller
This story was originally published December 16, 2015 at 6:01 PM with the headline "Merced ‘Star Wars’ fans ready for Episode VII."