Star Wars Celebration Europe

Star Wars fans from across the globe will be pouring into London for the Star Wars celebration Europe, taking place on July 13th, 14th and 15th. This international convention will be held at the Excel London conference centre, offering an exciting programme for lovers of Princess Leia and the Jedi.

The beginning of the saga dates back to the 1970s, in a galaxy far, far away, when its creator George Lucas unveiled plans to make a film version of the popular 1930s science fiction comic strip Flash Gordon, originally drawn by Alex Raymond. However, Italian movie producer Dino De Laurentiis secured the production rights beforehand, which lead to Lucas creating his own saga. Although Lucas missed out on the rights to produce Flash Gordon, the first trilogy of Star Wars films does contain some obvious references to the 1930's hero.

Lucas put forward his ideas in 1975, yet the project was initially rejected by Universal Studios and United Artists because it was considered too risky and expensive. However, the first Star Wars film was released in 1977, simply titled Star Wars. The sequel followed two years later, titled The Empire Strikes Back, and in 1983 the saga was completed with the release of The Return of the Jedi.

In 1997, the three films were re-mastered and re-released as Special Editions, each with better sound and picture quality. Lucas then announced plans to make three new Star Wars films; The Phantom Menace was released in 1999, followed by the Attack of the Clones in 2002 and finally Revenge of the Sith in 2005.

Being present at the Star Wars Celebration convention is a dream date for many Star Wars fans. The event, organised by the official Star Wars fan club, has become a tradition for fans worldwide, with members of the club having special privileges. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the convention; to celebrate, six cast members will be present, signing autographs and chatting to diehard fans. And if that´s not enough, the first triology will be screened, along with the orginal archives from Lucas Arts. A three-day pass to the event will cost 53.50 pounds.

For more information, visit the official website at www.celebrationeurope.com

(Photo by Tostie14)