As I am writing this we are two days away from what could arguably be the biggest movie release in history.
That’s right, I am talking about the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. I’ve taken the day off. Cleared my schedule. Purchased my tickets and dusted off my Jedi Robes. (Yes, I own Jedi Robes, don’t judge.) The internet is abuzz with everything Star Wars, there are new Star Wars toys, new Star Wars games, and a whole new generation who will grow up wanting to be Han Solo. It is truly an exciting time to be a Star Wars fan.
The “all Star Wars, all the time” phenomena has gotten all of us here at the Malted Meeple in quite a stir. As you know we dedicated two entire months to Star Wars this year, hosted two Star Wars events, and regularly run Star Wars RPG sessions. We have engaged in numerous Star Wars discussions on podcasts and with our regular guests. To say we are excited would be a bit of an understatement!
We still know very little of the plot of The Force Awakens – and perhaps that’s ok. Personally, I have been purposely avoiding any news related to the new movie. I want to be surprised. I want to watch The Force Awakens through the eyes of the twelve year old boy who fell in love watching Star Wars on the silver screen. I am ready to see the continuation of the story that captured me as a child.
We have waited ten years to see the next chapter, yet we’re as excited today as we were back then. What is it about Star Wars that makes it so special? What is it that makes it magical?
The magic of Star Wars begins in its honesty and in its simplicity. It is a classic story of good vs evil. The good guys wear white, and bad guy wears black. The story is a hero’s journey where a farm boy leaves his home and all that he knows to fight against the Empire. Along the way he meets new allies, gains new skills, finds the courage to overcome his fears, and finally fulfills his destiny. And of course, Star Wars also introduced us to the mysteries of the Force.
Star Wars contains a cast of characters who can only be described as iconic. The new film brings back many familiar faces, and promises to create a whole new generation of iconic heroes and villains. Star Wars: The Force Awakens promises to be everything we hope it will be and more.
I hope everyone enjoys the film.
May the Force be with you.
Karington Hess is a lifelong gamer whose passions for hospitality and all things game-related led him to Ravenwood Castle, where he served as an Innkeeper before joining The Malted Meeple. When not pouring beers, crafting milkshakes, or teaching boardgames, Karington can be found behind the DM’s screen, weaving intricate stories for his fellow gamers.