On the latest episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss Chapters 20 to 24 of The Mandalorian, the five episodes comprising the middle and end of Season Three. (In our previous episode we talked about Chapters 17 to 19, the trio that began the season.) Overall, the theme of our analysis is the inconsistencies that seem to pervade Season Three from start to finish. Despite that dynamic, we found much to enjoy and praise in Season Three. After the first three episodes focused on themes of identity, the remaining five episodes carried them forward on multiple levels. Bo-Katan’s character arc reaches fulfillment in her alliance with the Armorer, reacquisition of the Darksaber, regaining leadership of her erstwhile fleet, and leading the reconquest of the planet Mandalore. The Darksaber is destroyed, but a new symbol of unity is found: Bo-Katan, fulfilling her declaration to Moff Gideon that “Mandalorians are stronger together” during their climactic showdown, joins the Armorer to reignite the Great Forge. The discordant factions have set aside their differences for a greater collective purpose. Grogu, too, has synthesized his Jedi training and Mandalorian family, breaking up a fight between Mandalorians, using the Force for defense in combat, and formalizing his adoption as Din Djarin’s son (with the Armorer bestowing the name Din Grogu in recognition). In other ways, however, Season Three struggles with inconsistency in the plotlines and character arcs. Although Din nominally retains the role of titular character in The Mandalorian, he is given a passive role with no meaningful character development after Chapter 18. Perhaps this season would have been better titled as The Book of Bo-Katan to more accurately convey the story being told. Similarly, we evaluate inconsistencies in the portrayals of Bo-Katan and Grogu over these five episodes, as well as problems with the chronology of the series (both in-universe and through creator interviews), especially in conjunction with Chapters 5 and 6 of The Book of Boba Fett. From these dynamics within the story itself, we speculate about the creative process behind these episodes and wonder if key ideas were modified, eliminated, or significantly reworked during the development or production process following the conclusion of Season Two of The Mandalorian. Ultimately, while Season Three of The Mandalorian offered a good story and some fun episodes, it would have benefited from stronger writing and more consistency in the storytelling. With Andor demonstrating how skillful Star Wars series on Disney+ can be, The Mandalorian and related shows must do better to measure up. Related Links:  Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 23.7: Best of Star Wars Celebration Europe Fangirls Going Rogue Priority Transmission #27: Star Wars Visions Volume 2 Press Conference Skywalking Through Neverland Episode 415: Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023 Recap  Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023: Disney Parks (FANgirl Blog)  Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023: Young Jedi Adventures (FANgirl Blog)  Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023: The Bad Batch (FANgirl Blog)  Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023: Star Wars Visions Volume 2 (FANgirl Blog)  Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023: The Women of Ahsoka (FANgirl Blog) 

On the latest episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss Chapters 20 to 24 of The Mandalorian, the five episodes comprising the middle and end of Season Three. (In our <a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/03/hyperspace-theories-the-mandalorian-season-three-begins-by-exploring-identity/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">previous episode</a> we talked about Chapters 17 to 19, the trio that began the season.) Overall, the theme of our analysis is the inconsistencies that seem to pervade Season Three from start to finish. Despite that dynamic, we found much to enjoy and praise in Season Three. After the first three episodes focused on themes of identity, the remaining five episodes carried them forward on multiple levels. Bo-Katan’s character arc reaches fulfillment in her alliance with the Armorer, reacquisition of the Darksaber, regaining leadership of her erstwhile fleet, and leading the reconquest of the planet Mandalore. The Darksaber is destroyed, but a new symbol of unity is found: Bo-Katan, fulfilling her declaration to Moff Gideon that “Mandalorians are stronger together” during their climactic showdown, joins the Armorer to reignite the Great Forge. The discordant factions have set aside their differences for a greater collective purpose. Grogu, too, has synthesized his Jedi training and Mandalorian family, breaking up a fight between Mandalorians, using the Force for defense in combat, and formalizing his adoption as Din Djarin’s son (with the Armorer bestowing the name Din Grogu in recognition). In other ways, however, Season Three struggles with inconsistency in the plotlines and character arcs. Although Din nominally retains the role of titular character in The Mandalorian, he is given a passive role with no meaningful character development after Chapter 18. Perhaps this season would have been better titled as The Book of Bo-Katan to more accurately convey the story being told. Similarly, we evaluate inconsistencies in the portrayals of Bo-Katan and Grogu over these five episodes, as well as problems with the chronology of the series (both in-universe and through creator interviews), especially in conjunction with Chapters 5 and 6 of The Book of Boba Fett. From these dynamics within the story itself, we speculate about the creative process behind these episodes and wonder if key ideas were modified, eliminated, or significantly reworked during the development or production process following the conclusion of Season Two of The Mandalorian. Ultimately, while Season Three of The Mandalorian offered a good story and some fun episodes, it would have benefited from stronger writing and more consistency in the storytelling. With Andor demonstrating how skillful Star Wars series on Disney+ can be, The Mandalorian and related shows must do better to measure up. Related Links: <ul> <li>Fangirls Going Rogue <a href="https://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2023/04/16/ep-23-7-best-of-star-wars-celebration-europe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 23.7: Best of Star Wars Celebration Europe</a></li> <li>Fangirls Going Rogue <a href="https://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2023/05/03/star-wars-vision-season-2-press-conference-priority-transmission-27/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Priority Transmission #27: Star Wars Visions Volume 2 Press Conference</a></li> <li>Skywalking Through Neverland <a href="https://skywalkingthroughneverland.com/415-star-wars-celebration-europe-2023/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 415: Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023 Recap</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/04/star-wars-celebration-europe-2023-disney-parks/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023: Disney Parks</a> (FANgirl Blog)</li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/04/star-wars-celebration-europe-2023-young-jedi-adventures/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023: Young Jedi Adventures</a> (FANgirl Blog)</li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/04/star-wars-celebration-europe-2023-the-bad-batch/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023: The Bad Batch</a> (FANgirl Blog)</li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/04/star-wars-celebration-europe-2023-star-wars-visions-volume-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023: Star Wars Visions Volume 2</a> (FANgirl Blog)</li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/04/star-wars-celebration-europe-2023-the-women-of-ahsoka/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023: The Women of Ahsoka</a> (FANgirl Blog)</li> </ul>

What Happened to The Mandalorian Season 3?

The Mandalorian is back on Disney+ to kick off Season Three. On this episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss the characterization and storytelling developments unfolding across Chapter 17 (“The Apostate”), Chapter 18 (“The Mines of Mandalore”), and Chapter 19 (“The Convert”). By the end of these three episodes, we’ve learned a lot more about our central characters, yet each of them still faces profound questions about how they will choose to define, and possibly reshape, their individual identities going forward. For this season, Katee Sackoff is credited as a co-lead with Pedro Pascal, and the prominent role of Bo-Katan in these episodes definitely warrants that billing. For Din Djarin, these episodes showcase his commitment to his understanding of the Mandalorian Creed. Despite other opportunities and obligations, he insists on fulfilling his quest to bathe in the Living Waters on Mandalore to redeem himself for having removed his helmet during the events of Season Two. He succeeds, and upon returning to the covert receives confirmation from the Armorer. What remains very much an open question, however, is what Din will do next. Bo-Katan Kryze, on the other hand, experiences a very different journey. She begins the season without a purpose: she has lost her fleet, the Darksaber, and any people or place to rule – and, it seems, she has long since lost her faith in the value of the Creed. Once she departs her castle to rescue Grogu’s dad, she still talks to the foundling mostly about what she has lost, rather than what she still has to live (or fight) for. Even in the chamber with the Living Waters, she can barely hold back her derision when reading the ancient plaque. Then in s short span of time she sees the Mythosaur, loses her home to Imperial bombers, and is bestowed with her own redemption under the Armorer’s interpretation of the Creed. Suddenly everything has changed. Yet, like Din, Bo-Katan faces many questions about what she will choose for her path forward. In addition to the lead characters, we also examine what these episodes show the audience about Grogu and his journey, as well as the Coruscant-based storyline with Doctor Pershing, Elia Kane, the New Republic’s amnesty program, and the lingering shadow of the Empire. Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com 

The Mandalorian is back on Disney+ to kick off Season Three. On this episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss the characterization and storytelling developments unfolding across Chapter 17 (“The Apostate”), Chapter 18 (“The Mines of Mandalore”), and Chapter 19 (“The Convert”). By the end of these three episodes, we’ve learned a lot more about our central characters, yet each of them still faces profound questions about how they will choose to define, and possibly reshape, their individual identities going forward. For this season, Katee Sackoff is credited as a co-lead with Pedro Pascal, and the prominent role of Bo-Katan in these episodes definitely warrants that billing. For Din Djarin, these episodes showcase his commitment to his understanding of the Mandalorian Creed. Despite other opportunities and obligations, he insists on fulfilling his quest to bathe in the Living Waters on Mandalore to redeem himself for having removed his helmet during the events of Season Two. He succeeds, and upon returning to the covert receives confirmation from the Armorer. What remains very much an open question, however, is what Din will do next. Bo-Katan Kryze, on the other hand, experiences a very different journey. She begins the season without a purpose: she has lost her fleet, the Darksaber, and any people or place to rule – and, it seems, she has long since lost her faith in the value of the Creed. Once she departs her castle to rescue Grogu’s dad, she still talks to the foundling mostly about what she has lost, rather than what she still has to live (or fight) for. Even in the chamber with the Living Waters, she can barely hold back her derision when reading the ancient plaque. Then in s short span of time she sees the Mythosaur, loses her home to Imperial bombers, and is bestowed with her own redemption under the Armorer’s interpretation of the Creed. Suddenly everything has changed. Yet, like Din, Bo-Katan faces many questions about what she will choose for her path forward. In addition to the lead characters, we also examine what these episodes show the audience about Grogu and his journey, as well as the Coruscant-based storyline with Doctor Pershing, Elia Kane, the New Republic’s amnesty program, and the lingering shadow of the Empire. Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

The Mandalorian Season Three Begins By Exploring Identity

In the previous two recordings of Hyperspace Theories, we discussed the two story arc comprising the first six episodes of Season Two of The Bad Batch. In this recording, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester analyze the next four episodes, which bring the story through episode 10 (of 16) in this season. Building on our previous consideration of the Hero’s Journey story structure in The Bad Batch, we examine how episodes 7 to 10 bring Clone Force 99 into an emotional abyss that typifies the conclusion of the second stage of the journey and the transition into the third stage. In “The Clone Conspiracy” and “Truth and Consequences,” we witness the broader political ramifications of the end of the Clone Wars and the rise of a new Imperial military as Clone Force 99 is brought into a web of secrets and intrigue through Captain Rex, along with allies Senator Riyo Chuchi and Bail Organa. Yet the stakes are also personal, including a mysterious clone assassin with no identifying number, the fate of all of their clone brothers as the clone army will be decommissioned, and the final revelation that Emperor Palpatine has schemed all along to discredit the clones and replace them with Imperial stormtroopers. These events are sure to influence how Clone Force 99 views their place in the changing galaxy. Despite the significance of that experience, in “The Crossing” and “Retrieval” the squad has reverted to their postwar baseline: another mundane assignment from Cid. Once again, the mission goes awry and endangers the squad far more than intended – and this time the Marauder is stolen in the process. Yet Cid is nonplussed by their distress call, showing no urgency to assist them. When Clone Force 99 tracks down the ship, they discover an ipsium mine run by a greedy and exploitative owner who manipulates and lies to his desperate employees. The squad reacquires the Marauder, but also makes a difference in improving the lives of the miners. The squad has made it past the worst of their ordeals, gaining more information and experience to prompt a recognition of the true nature of their relationship with Cid and how they can make a contribution in the galaxy. The Bad Batch are at their best when they’re helping people – they just need to see that for themselves at last. This episodes concludes with a short discussion of storytelling analysis and speculation for Season Three of The Mandalorian, which premieres on March 1st. Related Links:  REVIEW: The Bad Batch Season Two  Hyperspace Theories: The Separatists in The Bad Batch Is “Faster” Filler?  The Bad Batch “Tribe” and The Clone Wars Tales Told and Untold  Hyperspace Theories: Story Structure and Character Development in The Bad Batch Season Two The Hero’s Journey (discussing Campbell and Vogler story structures)  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com 

In the previous two recordings of Hyperspace Theories, we discussed the two story arc comprising the first six episodes of Season Two of The Bad Batch. In this recording, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester analyze the next four episodes, which bring the story through episode 10 (of 16) in this season. Building on our previous consideration of the Hero’s Journey story structure in The Bad Batch, we examine how episodes 7 to 10 bring Clone Force 99 into an emotional abyss that typifies the conclusion of the second stage of the journey and the transition into the third stage. In “The Clone Conspiracy” and “Truth and Consequences,” we witness the broader political ramifications of the end of the Clone Wars and the rise of a new Imperial military as Clone Force 99 is brought into a web of secrets and intrigue through Captain Rex, along with allies Senator Riyo Chuchi and Bail Organa. Yet the stakes are also personal, including a mysterious clone assassin with no identifying number, the fate of all of their clone brothers as the clone army will be decommissioned, and the final revelation that Emperor Palpatine has schemed all along to discredit the clones and replace them with Imperial stormtroopers. These events are sure to influence how Clone Force 99 views their place in the changing galaxy. Despite the significance of that experience, in “The Crossing” and “Retrieval” the squad has reverted to their postwar baseline: another mundane assignment from Cid. Once again, the mission goes awry and endangers the squad far more than intended – and this time the Marauder is stolen in the process. Yet Cid is nonplussed by their distress call, showing no urgency to assist them. When Clone Force 99 tracks down the ship, they discover an ipsium mine run by a greedy and exploitative owner who manipulates and lies to his desperate employees. The squad reacquires the Marauder, but also makes a difference in improving the lives of the miners. The squad has made it past the worst of their ordeals, gaining more information and experience to prompt a recognition of the true nature of their relationship with Cid and how they can make a contribution in the galaxy. The Bad Batch are at their best when they’re helping people – they just need to see that for themselves at last. This episodes concludes with a short discussion of storytelling analysis and speculation for Season Three of The Mandalorian, which premieres on March 1st. Related Links: <ul> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/01/review-the-bad-batch-season-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REVIEW: The Bad Batch Season Two</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/01/hyperspace-theories-the-separatists-in-the-bad-batch/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Hyperspace Theories: The Separatists in The Bad Batch</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/01/is-faster-filler/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Is “Faster” Filler?</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/02/the-bad-batch-tribe-and-clone-wars-tales-told-and-untold/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Bad Batch “Tribe” and The Clone Wars Tales Told and Untold</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/02/hyperspace-theories-story-structure-and-character-development-in-the-bad-batch-season-two/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Hyperspace Theories: Story Structure and Character Development in The Bad Batch Season Two</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/the-heros-journey/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Hero’s Journey</a> (discussing Campbell and Vogler story structures)</li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

Facing the Ordeal: The Bad Batch Season 2 Episodes 7 - 10

On the latest episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester consider the second set of three episodes in Season Two of The Bad Batch. These episodes – “Faster,” “Entombed,” and “Tribe” – present a trio of independent, self-contained missions for Omega and her brothers: accompanying Cid for an ill-fated gambling excursion involving riot racing, a dangerous adventure to seek an artifact in an ancient tomb with Phee, and an unexpected encounter with Gungi, a young Wookiee Jedi survivor of Order 66, that leads Clone Force 99 to conflict-scarred Kashyyyk. Although some fans have expressed confusion about the purpose of these episodes in The Bad Batch Season Two, we discuss how classic elements of Star Wars story structure help to explain the character development goals underlying these episodes – and why our protagonists seem to meet less than successful outcomes for their endeavors. As Clone Force 99 struggles to find a new identity and purpose in the galaxy, these episodes provide them with important information and experiences that can influence their thinking and decisions going forward. Along the way, we also describe why these episodes of The Bad Batch are not “filler episodes” or “bottle episodes” as those terms are used in serial television storytelling, drawing on Tricia’s post about “Faster” and filler and an insightful post by Kathryn VanArendonk at Vulture. Finally, we use B.J.’s post about “Tribe” to briefly step back into the storytelling origins of The Clone Wars with George Lucas and examine how The Bad Batch pulls forward some decade-old unused ideas. This episodes concludes with our reactions to the recently released trailer for Season Three of The Mandalorian, which premieres on March 1st. Related Links:  REVIEW: The Bad Batch Season Two  Hyperspace Theories: The Separatists in The Bad Batch Is “Faster” Filler?  The Bad Batch “Tribe” and The Clone Wars Tales Told and Untold  It’s Time for a Departure From ‘Bottle Episode’ (Vulture) The Hero’s Journey (discussing Campbell and Vogler story structures) The Mandalorian Season Three trailer (YouTube) The Mandalorian Season Three featurette “Phenomenon” (YouTube)  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com 

On the latest episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester consider the second set of three episodes in Season Two of The Bad Batch. These episodes – “Faster,” “Entombed,” and “Tribe” – present a trio of independent, self-contained missions for Omega and her brothers: accompanying Cid for an ill-fated gambling excursion involving riot racing, a dangerous adventure to seek an artifact in an ancient tomb with Phee, and an unexpected encounter with Gungi, a young Wookiee Jedi survivor of Order 66, that leads Clone Force 99 to conflict-scarred Kashyyyk. Although some fans have expressed confusion about the purpose of these episodes in The Bad Batch Season Two, we discuss how classic elements of Star Wars story structure help to explain the character development goals underlying these episodes – and why our protagonists seem to meet less than successful outcomes for their endeavors. As Clone Force 99 struggles to find a new identity and purpose in the galaxy, these episodes provide them with important information and experiences that can influence their thinking and decisions going forward. Along the way, we also describe why these episodes of The Bad Batch are not “filler episodes” or “bottle episodes” as those terms are used in serial television storytelling, drawing on Tricia’s post about <a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/01/is-faster-filler/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">“Faster” and filler</a> and an insightful post by Kathryn VanArendonk <a href="https://www.vulture.com/article/last-of-us-long-long-time-bottle-departure-episode.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">at Vulture</a>. Finally, we use B.J.’s post <a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/02/the-bad-batch-tribe-and-clone-wars-tales-told-and-untold/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">about “Tribe”</a> to briefly step back into the storytelling origins of The Clone Wars with George Lucas and examine how The Bad Batch pulls forward some decade-old unused ideas. This episodes concludes with our reactions to the recently released trailer for Season Three of The Mandalorian, which premieres on March 1st. Related Links: <ul> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/01/review-the-bad-batch-season-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REVIEW: The Bad Batch Season Two</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/01/hyperspace-theories-the-separatists-in-the-bad-batch/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Hyperspace Theories: The Separatists in The Bad Batch</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/01/is-faster-filler/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Is “Faster” Filler?</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/02/the-bad-batch-tribe-and-clone-wars-tales-told-and-untold/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Bad Batch “Tribe” and The Clone Wars Tales Told and Untold</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.vulture.com/article/last-of-us-long-long-time-bottle-departure-episode.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> It’s Time for a Departure From ‘Bottle Episode’</a> (Vulture)</li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/the-heros-journey/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Hero’s Journey</a> (discussing Campbell and Vogler story structures)</li> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Znsa4Deavgg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Mandalorian Season Three trailer</a> (YouTube)</li> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bpk2k1ug3M" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Mandalorian Season Three featurette “Phenomenon”</a> (YouTube)</li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

The Trials of Bad Batch Season 2

The new year kicked off with the return of The Bad Batch for Season Two of the animated series. Although some time has passed since the destruction of Kamino at the end of Season One, Clone Force 99 and the galaxy as a whole are still very much living in the aftermath of the end of the Clone Wars and amid the early days of the Galactic Empire. In this context, it makes sense that the Separatists, although defeated militarily in the war, continue to have a lingering impact on the story. In this episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester examine the role of the Separatists in the world-building and character development of The Bad Batch in the first three episodes of Season Two. The premise of “Spoils of War” and “Ruins of War” involves Clone Force 99 trying to steal a small portion of Dooku’s “war chest” from his home base of Serreno. Along the way, Omega and her brothers learn important new information about the Separatist leaders, the Empire, and the impact of the war on everyday people on Separatist worlds. The third episode, “The Solitary Clone,” unfolds a similar eye-opening scenario for Crosshair. Reunited with fan-favorite Commander Cody, Crosshair can fall back into the familiar routine of blasting “clankers” and following orders to complete the mission. But he also learns first-hand that the new Empire is not interested in peace, only power, and ends the episode weighing Cody’s words about choices and consequences. Related Links:  REVIEW: The Bad Batch Season 2  Brad Rau and Jennifer Corbett Share Insights Into The Bad Batch Season 2 (Fangirls Going Rogue)  The Bad Batch’s Michelle Ang on Omega’s Journey (Fangirls Going Rogue)  The Bad Batch’s Dee Bradley Baker (Fangirls Going Rogue)  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com 

The new year kicked off with the return of The Bad Batch for Season Two of the animated series. Although some time has passed since the destruction of Kamino at the end of Season One, Clone Force 99 and the galaxy as a whole are still very much living in the aftermath of the end of the Clone Wars and amid the early days of the Galactic Empire. In this context, it makes sense that the Separatists, although defeated militarily in the war, continue to have a lingering impact on the story. In this episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester examine the role of the Separatists in the world-building and character development of The Bad Batch in the first three episodes of Season Two. The premise of “Spoils of War” and “Ruins of War” involves Clone Force 99 trying to steal a small portion of Dooku’s “war chest” from his home base of Serreno. Along the way, Omega and her brothers learn important new information about the Separatist leaders, the Empire, and the impact of the war on everyday people on Separatist worlds. The third episode, “The Solitary Clone,” unfolds a similar eye-opening scenario for Crosshair. Reunited with fan-favorite Commander Cody, Crosshair can fall back into the familiar routine of blasting “clankers” and following orders to complete the mission. But he also learns first-hand that the new Empire is not interested in peace, only power, and ends the episode weighing Cody’s words about choices and consequences. Related Links: <ul> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2023/01/review-the-bad-batch-season-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REVIEW: The Bad Batch Season 2</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2023/01/04/brad-rau-jennifer-corbett-interview-the-bad-batch-season-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Brad Rau and Jennifer Corbett Share Insights Into The Bad Batch Season 2</a> (Fangirls Going Rogue)</li> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2023/01/02/michelle-ang-omega-interview-the-bad-batch-season-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Bad Batch’s Michelle Ang on Omega’s Journey</a> (Fangirls Going Rogue)</li> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2023/01/04/dee-bradley-baker-interview-the-bad-batch-season-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Bad Batch’s Dee Bradley Baker</a> (Fangirls Going Rogue)</li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

Face-off: The Bad Batch and Separatists

Across three story arcs in the first ten episodes, Andor has delivered top-notch Star Wars storytelling. In the latest episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester analyze the two-part finale. Written by showrunner Tony Gilroy, who also wrote the first three episodes, the finale brings the first season of Andor to an exciting and dramatic conclusion. Gilroy started Cassian’s story in Andor on Ferrix, and the finale returns to the planet by bringing almost all of the major characters to the same location for the climactic events. Only Mon Mothma, trapped in her own tightening vise by the Empire, remains stuck on Coruscant. Starting with Cassian himself and extending to the other characters drawn into the gravity well of his story by the events of the series, each of the character arcs in Andor receives a fitting and impactful culmination. Without a doubt, Andor has raised the bar for Star Wars stories on Disney+ in the years ahead. Related Links:   Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.14: Let’s Get Ready for Andor  Andor’s Diego Luna and Genevieve O’Reilly On Fangirls Going Rogue  Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.16: Andor’s Adria Arjona Roundtable  Andor: Striving To Get Back To Star Wars’ Political Roots REVIEW: Andor Hyperspace Theories: Andor Begins Andor: Fascism and Star Wars Hyperspace Theories: Andor: Where Is It Going?  Hyperspace Theories: Andor: The Heist and Its Aftermath  Hyperspace Theories: Everyone’s in Prison in Andor 

Across three story arcs in the first ten episodes, Andor has delivered top-notch Star Wars storytelling. In the latest episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester analyze the two-part finale. Written by showrunner Tony Gilroy, who also wrote the first three episodes, the finale brings the first season of Andor to an exciting and dramatic conclusion. Gilroy started Cassian’s story in Andor on Ferrix, and the finale returns to the planet by bringing almost all of the major characters to the same location for the climactic events. Only Mon Mothma, trapped in her own tightening vise by the Empire, remains stuck on Coruscant. Starting with Cassian himself and extending to the other characters drawn into the gravity well of his story by the events of the series, each of the character arcs in Andor receives a fitting and impactful culmination. Without a doubt, Andor has raised the bar for Star Wars stories on Disney+ in the years ahead. Related Links: <ul> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2022/08/24/episode-22-14-andor-tony-gilroy-diego-luna-interviews/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.14: Let’s Get Ready for Andor</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/andors-diego-luna-and-genevieve-oreilly-on-fangirls-going-rogue/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Andor’s Diego Luna and Genevieve O’Reilly On Fangirls Going Rogue</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2022/09/20/episode-22-16-andor-adria-arjona/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.16: Andor’s Adria Arjona Roundtable</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/08/andor-striving-to-get-back-to-star-wars-political-roots/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Andor: Striving To Get Back To Star Wars’ Political Roots</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/review-andor/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REVIEW: Andor</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/hyperspace-theories-andor-begins/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hyperspace Theories: Andor Begins</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/andor-fascism-and-star-wars/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andor: Fascism and Star Wars</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/10/andor-where-is-it-going/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hyperspace Theories: Andor: Where Is It Going?</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/11/hyperspace-theories-andor-the-heist-and-its-aftermath/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Hyperspace Theories: Andor: The Heist and Its Aftermath</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/11/hyperspace-theories-everyones-in-prison-in-andor/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Hyperspace Theories: Everyone’s in Prison in Andor</a></li> </ul>

ANDOR: Ferrix Finale

Episodes eight to ten of Andor center on a common theme: everyone is trapped in a literal or metaphorical prison. In this episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss how writer Beau Willimon used this theme as the keystone for all of the characters in this story arc. Cassian, of course, spends this arc in the Narkina 5 prison facility, where the Empire uses convict labor in a prison-industrial complex to produce countless components necessary for the military-industrial complex necessary to sustain its galactic tyranny. Kino Loy, played by the amazing Andy Serkis, is both a literal inmate and a metaphorical prisoner of the gamified labor regime within the facility. Others play along too, at least until they realize the game is rigged and they can never “win” their freedom. Beyond Narkina 5, the theme pervades the other characters’ stories, too. On Ferrix, we see the ways Bix, Paak, Brasso, and Maarva suffer under Imperial occupation. On Coruscant, Syril thinks his connection with Dedra and the ISB are his ticket upward, only to discover how trapped he remains. Dedra perceives her upward trajectory continuing, but she remains bound within an ISB mindset. Elsewhere on the capital planet, Mon Mothma confronts the reality of her seemingly inescapable personal situation, including a demand for a terrible family sacrifice, and her newly revealed cousin Vel faces a similar personal toll. Luthen Rael, the “axis” of the burgeoning rebellion, struggles to unite the disparate factions of the incipient Rebellion, personified in Saw Gerrera’s certainty that he is the only one with clarity of purpose. Despite his machinations and his successful Aldhani heist, Luthen admits that he is trapped by the obligations and burdens of his unbreakable commitment to sacrifice everything for the Rebellion. Cassian, at least, ends the arc by escaping the prison and swimming to shore. Whether any of the other characters can break free of their confinement remains to be seen. Related Links:   Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.14: Let’s Get Ready for Andor  Andor’s Diego Luna and Genevieve O’Reilly On Fangirls Going Rogue  Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.16: Andor’s Adria Arjona Roundtable  Andor: Striving To Get Back To Star Wars’ Political Roots REVIEW: Andor Hyperspace Theories: Andor Begins Andor: Fascism and Star Wars Hyperspace Theories: Andor: Where Is It Going? Hyperspace Theories: Andor: The Heist and Its Aftermath 

Episodes eight to ten of Andor center on a common theme: everyone is trapped in a literal or metaphorical prison. In this episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss how writer Beau Willimon used this theme as the keystone for all of the characters in this story arc. Cassian, of course, spends this arc in the Narkina 5 prison facility, where the Empire uses convict labor in a prison-industrial complex to produce countless components necessary for the military-industrial complex necessary to sustain its galactic tyranny. Kino Loy, played by the amazing Andy Serkis, is both a literal inmate and a metaphorical prisoner of the gamified labor regime within the facility. Others play along too, at least until they realize the game is rigged and they can never “win” their freedom. Beyond Narkina 5, the theme pervades the other characters’ stories, too. On Ferrix, we see the ways Bix, Paak, Brasso, and Maarva suffer under Imperial occupation. On Coruscant, Syril thinks his connection with Dedra and the ISB are his ticket upward, only to discover how trapped he remains. Dedra perceives her upward trajectory continuing, but she remains bound within an ISB mindset. Elsewhere on the capital planet, Mon Mothma confronts the reality of her seemingly inescapable personal situation, including a demand for a terrible family sacrifice, and her newly revealed cousin Vel faces a similar personal toll. Luthen Rael, the “axis” of the burgeoning rebellion, struggles to unite the disparate factions of the incipient Rebellion, personified in Saw Gerrera’s certainty that he is the only one with clarity of purpose. Despite his machinations and his successful Aldhani heist, Luthen admits that he is trapped by the obligations and burdens of his unbreakable commitment to sacrifice everything for the Rebellion. Cassian, at least, ends the arc by escaping the prison and swimming to shore. Whether any of the other characters can break free of their confinement remains to be seen. Related Links: <ul> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2022/08/24/episode-22-14-andor-tony-gilroy-diego-luna-interviews/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.14: Let’s Get Ready for Andor</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/andors-diego-luna-and-genevieve-oreilly-on-fangirls-going-rogue/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Andor’s Diego Luna and Genevieve O’Reilly On Fangirls Going Rogue</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2022/09/20/episode-22-16-andor-adria-arjona/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.16: Andor’s Adria Arjona Roundtable</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/08/andor-striving-to-get-back-to-star-wars-political-roots/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Andor: Striving To Get Back To Star Wars’ Political Roots</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/review-andor/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REVIEW: Andor</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/hyperspace-theories-andor-begins/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hyperspace Theories: Andor Begins</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/andor-fascism-and-star-wars/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andor: Fascism and Star Wars</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/10/andor-where-is-it-going/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hyperspace Theories: Andor: Where Is It Going?</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/11/hyperspace-theories-andor-the-heist-and-its-aftermath/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hyperspace Theories: Andor: The Heist and Its Aftermath</a></li> </ul>

Everyone's In Prison in ANDOR

After its first three episodes launching Cassian’s character journey, Andor quickly propels him into a plotline drawn from his ultimate fate in Rogue One: a risky heist from a secure Imperial facility that plays a crucial role in the fate of the Rebellion against the Empire. In this episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester examine the fourth through seventh episodes of Andor and break down what the heist storyline means for all of the key characters in the series. For Cassian, his interactions with the other six members of the heist team teach him important lessons about himself, the possibilities for his future, and the personal and galactic nature of rebellion. As we had speculated, he ends the heist still unwilling to commit to the Rebel cause – but his return to Ferrix and his tourism to Niamos quickly show him that Nemik was correct: the pace of the Empire’s oppression has outpaced his ability to comprehend it. In the Imperial subplot, the success of the Aldhani heist changes the opportunities and possibilities for Dedra Meero and the ISB. In the Rebellion subplot, it reinforces that the price of rebellion will not only be personal for Luthen Rael and Mom Mothma, but also galaxy-wide as the Empire cracks down. Amid her political struggle against tyranny, Mon faces another kind of oppressive environment at home. Related Links:   Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.14: Let’s Get Ready for Andor  Andor’s Diego Luna and Genevieve O’Reilly On Fangirls Going Rogue  Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.16: Andor’s Adria Arjona Roundtable  Andor: Striving To Get Back To Star Wars’ Political Roots REVIEW: Andor Hyperspace Theories: Andor Begins Andor: Fascism and Star Wars Hyperspace Theories: Andor: Where Is It Going? 

After its first three episodes launching Cassian’s character journey, Andor quickly propels him into a plotline drawn from his ultimate fate in Rogue One: a risky heist from a secure Imperial facility that plays a crucial role in the fate of the Rebellion against the Empire. In this episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester examine the fourth through seventh episodes of Andor and break down what the heist storyline means for all of the key characters in the series. For Cassian, his interactions with the other six members of the heist team teach him important lessons about himself, the possibilities for his future, and the personal and galactic nature of rebellion. As we had speculated, he ends the heist still unwilling to commit to the Rebel cause – but his return to Ferrix and his tourism to Niamos quickly show him that Nemik was correct: the pace of the Empire’s oppression has outpaced his ability to comprehend it. In the Imperial subplot, the success of the Aldhani heist changes the opportunities and possibilities for Dedra Meero and the ISB. In the Rebellion subplot, it reinforces that the price of rebellion will not only be personal for Luthen Rael and Mom Mothma, but also galaxy-wide as the Empire cracks down. Amid her political struggle against tyranny, Mon faces another kind of oppressive environment at home. Related Links: <ul> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2022/08/24/episode-22-14-andor-tony-gilroy-diego-luna-interviews/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.14: Let’s Get Ready for Andor</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/andors-diego-luna-and-genevieve-oreilly-on-fangirls-going-rogue/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Andor’s Diego Luna and Genevieve O’Reilly On Fangirls Going Rogue</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2022/09/20/episode-22-16-andor-adria-arjona/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.16: Andor’s Adria Arjona Roundtable</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/08/andor-striving-to-get-back-to-star-wars-political-roots/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Andor: Striving To Get Back To Star Wars’ Political Roots</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/review-andor/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REVIEW: Andor</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/hyperspace-theories-andor-begins/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hyperspace Theories: Andor Begins</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/andor-fascism-and-star-wars/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andor: Fascism and Star Wars</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/10/andor-where-is-it-going/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hyperspace Theories: Andor: Where Is It Going?</a></li> </ul>

ANDOR: The Heist and Its Aftermath

On September 21, Star Wars: Andor launched on Disney+ with a three-episode premiere. On Hyperspace Theories, we analyzed how those episodes set in motion the character journey for Cassian Andor from his life on Ferrix, and the preceding years in flashbacks, to become the Rebel operative and hero we see in Rogue One. The fourth episode of Andor, released on September 28, greatly expands the scope of the series and broadens the character arcs and plotlines far beyond the personal path of the titular character. On today’s episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester revisit the roots of the podcast in Star Wars speculation. We analyze the first four episodes of Andor, the scenes in the official trailers that did not occur in those episodes, the publicly available list of writers and directors for all twelve episodes, and Tony Gilroy’s prior Star Wars storytelling in Rogue One. Examining these sources, we consider what they suggest about the story structure, themes, and character arcs in the remaining eight episodes of the first season. Knowing that the series was thoroughly planned before entering production, and overseen throughout by Gilroy as showrunner, provides more confidence than other recent Star Wars live-action productions that speculation from the early episodes and other evidence creates the opportunity to accurately draw inferences and make predictions that align with the storyteller’s carefully developed tale. Related Links:   Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.14: Let’s Get Ready for Andor  Andor’s Diego Luna and Genevieve O’Reilly On Fangirls Going Rogue  Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.16: Andor’s Adria Arjona Roundtable  Andor: Striving To Get Back To Star Wars’ Political Roots REVIEW: Andor Hyperspace Theories: Andor Begins Andor: Fascism and Star Wars 

On September 21, Star Wars: Andor launched on Disney+ with a three-episode premiere. On Hyperspace Theories, <a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/hyperspace-theories-andor-begins/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">we analyzed</a> how those episodes set in motion the character journey for Cassian Andor from his life on Ferrix, and the preceding years in flashbacks, to become the Rebel operative and hero we see in Rogue One. The fourth episode of Andor, released on September 28, greatly expands the scope of the series and broadens the character arcs and plotlines far beyond the personal path of the titular character. On today’s episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester revisit the roots of the podcast in Star Wars speculation. We analyze the first four episodes of Andor, the scenes in the official trailers that did not occur in those episodes, the publicly available list of writers and directors for all twelve episodes, and Tony Gilroy’s prior Star Wars storytelling in Rogue One. Examining these sources, we consider what they suggest about the story structure, themes, and character arcs in the remaining eight episodes of the first season. Knowing that the series was thoroughly planned before entering production, and overseen throughout by Gilroy as showrunner, provides more confidence than other recent Star Wars live-action productions that speculation from the early episodes and other evidence creates the opportunity to accurately draw inferences and make predictions that align with the storyteller’s carefully developed tale. Related Links: <ul> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2022/08/24/episode-22-14-andor-tony-gilroy-diego-luna-interviews/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.14: Let’s Get Ready for Andor</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/andors-diego-luna-and-genevieve-oreilly-on-fangirls-going-rogue/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Andor’s Diego Luna and Genevieve O’Reilly On Fangirls Going Rogue</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2022/09/20/episode-22-16-andor-adria-arjona/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.16: Andor’s Adria Arjona Roundtable</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/08/andor-striving-to-get-back-to-star-wars-political-roots/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Andor: Striving To Get Back To Star Wars’ Political Roots</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/review-andor/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REVIEW: Andor</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/hyperspace-theories-andor-begins/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hyperspace Theories: Andor Begins</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/andor-fascism-and-star-wars/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andor: Fascism and Star Wars</a></li> </ul>

ANDOR: Where Is It Going?

The newly premiered Andor is the biggest and most ambitious Star Wars Disney+ streaming series yet. Created by showrunner Tony Gilroy, who oversaw the rewrites and reshoots that salvaged the theatrical release of Rogue One, Andor is a prequel to a prequel: beginning five years before that film, it will bring its principal characters to the events of Rogue One, which itself leads directly into A New Hope and the Original Trilogy. The first season of Andor includes 12 episodes, with 12 more planned for a second (and final) season that enters production later this year. From the trailers, interviews, press conference, and other promotion, it seems clear that Andor is intended to mark the entry of the Star Wars franchise into the “prestige television” space alongside series such as The Crown, Game of Thrones, or The Expanse. For its premiere on September 21, 2022, however, Andor released a trio of episodes focused almost entirely on the titular character, Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), and the immediate desperate aftermath of a particular incident. In this episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss how these episodes reintroduce Cassian to the audience at a very different point in his life compared to the seasoned Rebel Alliance operative from Rogue One. The episodes also make effective use of flashbacks to reach even farther back in his past – before, we learn, he even went by the name Cassian Andor – to lay the groundwork for the character arc that begins to develop in these early episodes of the series. In addition to the core story about Cassian, we consider the many new characters introduced in Andor, some of whom appear destined to play important roles in the series beyond the initial episodes. If you missed it during the early rounds of publicity and promotion in late August, be sure to catch up on the Andor coverage at Fangirls Going Rogue and FANgirl Blog now that series has launched into its weekly release schedule for the remaining nine episodes of the first season. Related Links   Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.14: Let’s Get Ready for Andor  Andor’s Diego Luna and Genevieve O’Reilly On Fangirls Going Rogue  Andor: Striving To Get Back To Star Wars’ Political Roots  Tony Gilroy discusses Rogue One on The Moment podcast 

The newly premiered Andor is the biggest and most ambitious Star Wars Disney+ streaming series yet. Created by showrunner Tony Gilroy, who oversaw the rewrites and reshoots that salvaged the theatrical release of Rogue One, Andor is a prequel to a prequel: beginning five years before that film, it will bring its principal characters to the events of Rogue One, which itself leads directly into A New Hope and the Original Trilogy. The first season of Andor includes 12 episodes, with 12 more planned for a second (and final) season that enters production later this year. From the trailers, interviews, press conference, and other promotion, it seems clear that Andor is intended to mark the entry of the Star Wars franchise into the “prestige television” space alongside series such as The Crown, Game of Thrones, or The Expanse. For its premiere on September 21, 2022, however, Andor released a trio of episodes focused almost entirely on the titular character, Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), and the immediate desperate aftermath of a particular incident. In this episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss how these episodes reintroduce Cassian to the audience at a very different point in his life compared to the seasoned Rebel Alliance operative from Rogue One. The episodes also make effective use of flashbacks to reach even farther back in his past – before, we learn, he even went by the name Cassian Andor – to lay the groundwork for the character arc that begins to develop in these early episodes of the series. In addition to the core story about Cassian, we consider the many new characters introduced in Andor, some of whom appear destined to play important roles in the series beyond the initial episodes. If you missed it during the early rounds of publicity and promotion in late August, be sure to catch up on the Andor coverage at Fangirls Going Rogue and FANgirl Blog now that series has launched into its weekly release schedule for the remaining nine episodes of the first season. Related Links <ul> <li><a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2022/08/24/episode-22-14-andor-tony-gilroy-diego-luna-interviews/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fangirls Going Rogue Episode 22.14: Let’s Get Ready for Andor</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/09/andors-diego-luna-and-genevieve-oreilly-on-fangirls-going-rogue/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Andor’s Diego Luna and Genevieve O’Reilly On Fangirls Going Rogue</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2022/08/andor-striving-to-get-back-to-star-wars-political-roots/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Andor: Striving To Get Back To Star Wars’ Political Roots</a></li> <li><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tony-gilroy-scott-frank-11-27-18/id814550071?i=1000519286812" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Tony Gilroy discusses Rogue One on The Moment podcast</a></li> </ul>

ANDOR Begins

On Hyperspace Theories the team from FANgirl Blog discuss elements that impact Star Wars storytelling. Each month hosts Tricia Barr, BJ Priester and Kay Serna take a deep dive into creative individuals who impact the franchise, from George Lucas and Kathleen Kennedy to William Shakespeare and Hayao Miyazaki, then break down storytelling from worldbuilding to character development. Tricia Barr is co-author of Ultimate Star Wars, the definitive guide to Star Wars from DK Publishing, featured writer for Star Wars Insider magazine and author of the award-winning space opera WYNDE. BJ Priester is editor of FANgirl Blog; his writings on the Heroine's Journey is widely referenced by educators. Kay Serna writes book and movie reviews for FANgirl and is a regular on Disney Vault Talk's Rebel Yell.

On Hyperspace Theories the team from FANgirl Blog discuss elements that impact Star Wars storytelling. Each month hosts Tricia Barr, BJ Priester and Kay Serna take a deep dive into creative individuals who impact the franchise, from George Lucas and Kathleen Kennedy to William Shakespeare and Hayao Miyazaki, then break down storytelling from worldbuilding to character development. Tricia Barr is co-author of Ultimate Star Wars, the definitive guide to Star Wars from DK Publishing, featured writer for Star Wars Insider magazine and author of the award-winning space opera WYNDE. BJ Priester is editor of FANgirl Blog; his writings on the Heroine's Journey is widely referenced by educators. Kay Serna writes book and movie reviews for FANgirl and is a regular on Disney Vault Talk's Rebel Yell.

Hyperspace Theories

Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss the storytelling behind The Clone Wars Bad Batch arc.

Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss the storytelling behind The Clone Wars Bad Batch arc.

The Clone Wars Bad Batch 

For the latest episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss the first three episodes of Star Wars: The Mandalorian, now available on the Disney+ streaming service. The untitled premiere episode, Chapter Two: The Child, and Chapter Three: The Sun collectively form the introductory story arc for the as-yet-unnamed titular character. In addition to the character development of the Mandalorian, we consider his interactions with the Bounty Hunter Guild and his Mandalorian clan, as well as his backstory flashback to the Clone Wars. And no conversation about these episodes would be complete without addressing the small green alien in the room: Baby Yoda. We conclude our discussion by looking ahead to the final five episodes of the first season, in particular anticipating the arrival of Gina Carano’s Cara Dune and Ming Na Wen’s Fennec Shand. Related Links:  ‘The Mandalorian’ Director: Baby Yoda ‘Steals the Show’ (New York Times, Nov. 22, 2019) Why ‘The Mandalorian’ episodes are short and arrive on Disney+ once a week (CNBC, Nov. 26, 2019) The Armorer: Unmasking The Mandalorian‘s Mysterious Blacksmith (Vanity Fair, Nov. 22, 2019) The Mandalorian: Deborah Chow Reveals the Inspiration For the Baby Yoda Rescue (Vanity Fair, Nov. 22, 2019) Baby Yoda Has Conquered the World (Vanity Fair, Nov. 26, 2019) Fangirls Going Rogue: Priority Transmission #14: The Mandalorian Interviews: Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni Fangirls Going Rogue: Priority Transmission #15: The Mandalorian Cast Interviews Fangirls Going Rogue: Priority Transmission #16: The Mandalorian Press Conference  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

For the latest episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia Barr and B.J. Priester discuss the first three episodes of Star Wars: The Mandalorian, now available on the Disney+ streaming service. The untitled premiere episode, Chapter Two: The Child, and Chapter Three: The Sun collectively form the introductory story arc for the as-yet-unnamed titular character. In addition to the character development of the Mandalorian, we consider his interactions with the Bounty Hunter Guild and his Mandalorian clan, as well as his backstory flashback to the Clone Wars. And no conversation about these episodes would be complete without addressing the small green alien in the room: Baby Yoda. We conclude our discussion by looking ahead to the final five episodes of the first season, in particular anticipating the arrival of Gina Carano’s Cara Dune and Ming Na Wen’s Fennec Shand. Related Links: <ul> <li>‘The Mandalorian’ Director: Baby Yoda ‘Steals the Show’ (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/11/22/arts/television/the-mandalorian-star-wars-baby-yoda.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">New York Times, Nov. 22, 2019</a>)</li> <li>Why ‘The Mandalorian’ episodes are short and arrive on Disney+ once a week (<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/11/26/why-the-mandalorian-episodes-are-short-and-arrive-on-disney-once-a-week.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CNBC, Nov. 26, 2019</a>)</li> <li>The Armorer: Unmasking The Mandalorian‘s Mysterious Blacksmith (<a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/11/the-armorer-the-mandalorian-emily-swallow" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vanity Fair, Nov. 22, 2019</a>)</li> <li>The Mandalorian: Deborah Chow Reveals the Inspiration For the Baby Yoda Rescue (<a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/11/deborah-chow-director-episode-three-the-mandalorian" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vanity Fair, Nov. 22, 2019</a>)</li> <li>Baby Yoda Has Conquered the World (<a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/11/the-mandalorian-star-wars-baby-yoda" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vanity Fair, Nov. 26, 2019</a>)</li> <li>Fangirls Going Rogue: <a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2019/10/29/priority-transmission-14-the-mandalorian-filoni-favreau/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Priority Transmission #14: The Mandalorian Interviews: Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni</a></li> <li>Fangirls Going Rogue: <a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2019/10/30/priority-transmission-15-the-mandalorian-cast-interviews/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Priority Transmission #15: The Mandalorian Cast Interviews</a></li> <li>Fangirls Going Rogue: <a href="http://fangirlsgoingrogue.com/2019/11/05/priority-transmission-16-the-mandalorian-press-conference/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Priority Transmission #16: The Mandalorian Press Conference</a></li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

The Mandalorian: Chapters 1 - 3

Editors at FANgirl Blog, BJ Priester and Tricia Barr, share their reactions to The Rise of Skywalker final trailer.  Social Media  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

Editors at FANgirl Blog, BJ Priester and Tricia Barr, share their reactions to The Rise of Skywalker final trailer.  Social Media <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

The Rise of Skywalker Final Trailer Reactions

While we love Star Wars at FANgirl Blog, we have many passions. Tricia and Kay share thoughts on Netflix's She-Ra and the Princesses of Power.

While we love Star Wars at FANgirl Blog, we have many passions. Tricia and Kay share thoughts on Netflix's She-Ra and the Princesses of Power.

She-Ra and The Princesses of Power

This month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories takes us from books to fashion to movies, with plenty in between. Six months out from the release of The Rise of Skywalker, Tricia, B.J., and Kay look ahead to what might come next for Star Wars and its fans. We begin, though, in the present: discussing the recently released novel Alphabet Squadron by Alexander Freed. Taking place shortly after the defeat of the Empire, the book is the first in a trilogy telling the story of a group of pilots, each flying a different type of starfighter, who are tasked with tracking down an elite Imperial starfighter wing. We evaluate the book on its own terms, how it works to kick off a trilogy, and its relationship to Freed’s other work. As big fans of the X-Wing novel series in the Expanded Universe (Legends) era – featuring the tales of Rogue Squadron by Mike Stackpole and Wraith Squadron by Aaron Allston – we also consider how Alphabet Squadron compares and contrasts with those beloved stories. (For more, you can check out Kay’s review of the novel, too.) Earlier this month, Tricia and B.J. had the opportunity to attend San Diego Comic-Con as credentialed media for Fangirls Going Rogue, and they share some of their insights and reactions from the convention here on Hyperspace Theories, too. We start with the Her Universe Fashion Show, which Kay was able to follow along thanks to livestreams and social media. The work of the designers was impressive as always! Tricia talks about some of the other geek fashion she covered at the convention, as well. We also talk about the Star Wars panels at SDCC, including the Lucasfilm Publishing panel and a bit of Star Wars comics news, along with several other panels examining the role of women in pop culture and the entertainment industry. One of the SDCC panels Tricia attended gathered a group of experts to discuss how fans and fandoms display their reactions and emotions when long-running stories end. We take this idea as a starting point to look at the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Star Wars, both of which reach highly anticipated endpoints this year. With Avengers: Endgame and Spider-Man: Far From Home, the MCU drew to close a ten-year, 22-movie epic storyline and resolved the fates of a number of prominent characters from the series. In December, The Rise of Skywalker will conclude a nine-movie, four-decade Skywalker Saga story told in the Star Wars films. We note the similarities and differences in the two franchises, and consider how the reactions to the end of the MCU’s Phase Three may or may not necessarily transpose to the aftermath of Episode IX. In particular, the Phase 4 slate of new films and Disney+ series announced at SDCC keeps the MCU moving forward at a fast pace, and with great strides in improving the diversity of the talent on screen and behind the scenes at Marvel Studios. By contrast, Lucasfilm currently is scheduled to have a three-year break before the next film and has only two Disney+ series announced for that time period; on the other hand, Star Wars tells stories in animation, books, and comics that continue to advance the same singular storyline in a way that Marvel does not. Although both the MCU and Star Wars will pivot in new directions, we expect to see some significant differences in how the franchises and their fandoms react and adapt going forward. Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

This month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories takes us from books to fashion to movies, with plenty in between. Six months out from the release of The Rise of Skywalker, Tricia, B.J., and Kay look ahead to what might come next for Star Wars and its fans. We begin, though, in the present: discussing the recently released novel Alphabet Squadron by Alexander Freed. Taking place shortly after the defeat of the Empire, the book is the first in a trilogy telling the story of a group of pilots, each flying a different type of starfighter, who are tasked with tracking down an elite Imperial starfighter wing. We evaluate the book on its own terms, how it works to kick off a trilogy, and its relationship to Freed’s other work. As big fans of the X-Wing novel series in the Expanded Universe (Legends) era – featuring the tales of Rogue Squadron by Mike Stackpole and Wraith Squadron by Aaron Allston – we also consider how Alphabet Squadron compares and contrasts with those beloved stories. (For more, you can <a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/06/alphabet-squadron-review/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out Kay’s review of the novel</a>, too.) Earlier this month, Tricia and B.J. had the opportunity to attend San Diego Comic-Con as credentialed media for Fangirls Going Rogue, and they share some of their insights and reactions from the convention here on Hyperspace Theories, too. We start with the Her Universe Fashion Show, which Kay was able to follow along thanks to livestreams and social media. The work of the designers was impressive as always! Tricia talks about some of the other geek fashion she covered at the convention, as well. We also talk about the Star Wars panels at SDCC, including the Lucasfilm Publishing panel and a bit of Star Wars comics news, along with several other panels examining the role of women in pop culture and the entertainment industry. One of the SDCC panels Tricia attended gathered a group of experts to discuss how fans and fandoms display their reactions and emotions when long-running stories end. We take this idea as a starting point to look at the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Star Wars, both of which reach highly anticipated endpoints this year. With Avengers: Endgame and Spider-Man: Far From Home, the MCU drew to close a ten-year, 22-movie epic storyline and resolved the fates of a number of prominent characters from the series. In December, The Rise of Skywalker will conclude a nine-movie, four-decade Skywalker Saga story told in the Star Wars films. We note the similarities and differences in the two franchises, and consider how the reactions to the end of the MCU’s Phase Three may or may not necessarily transpose to the aftermath of Episode IX. In particular, the Phase 4 slate of new films and Disney+ series announced at SDCC keeps the MCU moving forward at a fast pace, and with great strides in improving the diversity of the talent on screen and behind the scenes at Marvel Studios. By contrast, Lucasfilm currently is scheduled to have a three-year break before the next film and has only two Disney+ series announced for that time period; on the other hand, Star Wars tells stories in animation, books, and comics that continue to advance the same singular storyline in a way that Marvel does not. Although both the MCU and Star Wars will pivot in new directions, we expect to see some significant differences in how the franchises and their fandoms react and adapt going forward. Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

Star Wars ABCs: From Alphabet Squadron to SDCC

We have the future, the past, and the present to discuss in this month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories. With Celebration Chicago in the rear-view mirror and December’s movie still half a year away, Kay, Tricia, and B.J. still have plenty of Star Wars to talk about. We begin with the Vanity Fair cover story on The Rise of Skywalker, featuring an article by Lev Grossman and photographs by Annie Leibowitz. As is typical for these pieces, we learned a few new character and planet names, but very little other new information – especially following so closely on the heels of similar interview answers given at Celebration. Likewise, Leibowitz’s composite style provides imagery presumably intended to convey the tone and spirit of the film, but they are traditional behind-the-scenes snapshots or on-set stills. But we did get much better looks at the costumes for Rey and Zorri Bliss, much to Kay’s excitement. Our storytelling segment travels over sixty years back in time on the Star Wars in-universe chronology, to the era when the Jedi Knights were the guardians of peace and justice in the Old Republic – though the seeds of the Order’s demise already had begun to grow. The novel Master &amp; Apprentice by Claudia Gray focuses on the teacher-pupil relationship between Qui-Gon Jinn and a teenage Obi-Wan Kenobi a number of years before The Phantom Menace. She spins a tale of trust and friendship, as well as prophecy, ethical dilemmas, and the political power of governments, leaders, corporations, and the Jedi. One of the new characters is Rael Averross, also an iconoclast to the Jedi Order – but in a quite different manner than Qui-Gon. What they have in common is that both are former apprentices to Dooku, who appears only briefly in flashbacks in Master &amp; Apprentice. The fallen Jedi turned Sith Lord is central figure of the full-cast audiobook Dooku: Jedi Lost by Cavan Scott, released two weeks after Gray’s novel, which also includes Rael and Asajj Ventress from The Clone Wars. Between the two stories, the backstory to Episode I gains a considerable amount of new perspective. This month’s world-building segment takes us to Anaheim, California, where Tricia attended the official grand opening of the Galaxy’s Edge expansion at Disneyland. She shares her reactions to the new land, including the setting, inhabitants, food and drink, and of course the ride Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run. She also gives a behind-the-scenes peek at the dedication ceremony and formal opening of the ride, with VIPs in attendance including Star Wars animation guru Dave Filoni and Captain Marvel’s Brie Larson. One prominent new character in Galaxy’s Edge is Resistance spy Vi Moradi, who appears in Delilah Dawson’s novel Phasma and August’s upcoming Black Spire. In the park, Vi is portrayed by cast member Alex Marshall-Brown, who has been sharing her experience on Instagram and Twitter.   Vanity Fair‘s Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Links   Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, The Ultimate Preview (Lev Grossman)  Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Photos: Meet the Characters and Go on Set (Cover Shoot / Photographs by Annie Leibowitz)  Everything New Revealed in Vanity Fair’s The Rise of Skywalker Cover Story (Joanna Robinson)  Star Wars: The Truth About Kylo Ren and Rey’s Connection (Joanna Robinson)  Star Wars: Keri Russell Is the Roguish Zorri Bliss (Joanna Robinson)  Star Wars: The Knights of Ren Make Their Long-Awaited Return (Joanna Robinson)  Star Wars: Richard E. Grant’s Villainous Character, Revealed (Joanna Robinson)  Star Wars: Why Billie Lourd Asked to Share Scenes with Her Late Mother, Carrie Fisher (Joanna Robinson)  A Lot of the Final Skywalker Film Has Been Planned “from the Very Beginning” (Joanna Robinson)  In Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, C-3PO Will Surprise Everybody (Joanna Robinson)  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

We have the future, the past, and the present to discuss in this month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories. With Celebration Chicago in the rear-view mirror and December’s movie still half a year away, Kay, Tricia, and B.J. still have plenty of Star Wars to talk about. We begin with the Vanity Fair cover story on The Rise of Skywalker, featuring an article by Lev Grossman and photographs by Annie Leibowitz. As is typical for these pieces, we learned a few new character and planet names, but very little other new information – especially following so closely on the heels of <a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-2019-the-franchise-talking-points/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">similar interview answers</a> given at Celebration. Likewise, Leibowitz’s composite style provides imagery presumably intended to convey the tone and spirit of the film, but they are traditional behind-the-scenes snapshots or on-set stills. But we did get much better looks at the costumes for Rey and Zorri Bliss, much to Kay’s excitement. Our storytelling segment travels over sixty years back in time on the Star Wars in-universe chronology, to the era when the Jedi Knights were the guardians of peace and justice in the Old Republic – though the seeds of the Order’s demise already had begun to grow. The novel Master &amp; Apprentice by Claudia Gray focuses on the teacher-pupil relationship between Qui-Gon Jinn and a teenage Obi-Wan Kenobi a number of years before The Phantom Menace. She spins a tale of trust and friendship, as well as prophecy, ethical dilemmas, and the political power of governments, leaders, corporations, and the Jedi. One of the new characters is Rael Averross, also an iconoclast to the Jedi Order – but in a quite different manner than Qui-Gon. What they have in common is that both are former apprentices to Dooku, who appears only briefly in flashbacks in Master &amp; Apprentice. The fallen Jedi turned Sith Lord is central figure of the full-cast audiobook Dooku: Jedi Lost by Cavan Scott, released two weeks after Gray’s novel, which also includes Rael and Asajj Ventress from The Clone Wars. Between the two stories, the backstory to Episode I gains a considerable amount of new perspective. This month’s world-building segment takes us to Anaheim, California, where Tricia attended the official grand opening of the Galaxy’s Edge expansion at Disneyland. She shares her reactions to the new land, including the setting, inhabitants, food and drink, and of course the ride Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run. She also gives a behind-the-scenes peek at the dedication ceremony and formal opening of the ride, with VIPs in attendance including Star Wars animation guru <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina/status/1134254693348102144" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dave Filoni</a> and Captain Marvel’s <a href="https://twitter.com/ThatChrisA/status/1134287397275832320" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brie Larson</a>. One prominent new character in Galaxy’s Edge is Resistance spy Vi Moradi, who appears in Delilah Dawson’s novel Phasma and August’s upcoming Black Spire. In the park, Vi is portrayed by cast member Alex Marshall-Brown, who has been sharing her experience on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByGI0sspkyC/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/amarshallbrown/status/1134164161833951233" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. Vanity Fair‘s Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Links <ul> <li><a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/05/star-wars-cover-story" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, The Ultimate Preview</a> (Lev Grossman)</li> <li><a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/photos/2019/05/star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker-exclusive-photos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Photos: Meet the Characters and Go on Set</a> (Cover Shoot / Photographs by Annie Leibowitz)</li> <li><a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/05/everything-new-revealed-in-vanity-fairs-the-rise-of-skywalker-cover-story?verso=true" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Everything New Revealed in Vanity Fair’s The Rise of Skywalker Cover Story</a> (Joanna Robinson)</li> <li><a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/05/the-truth-about-kylo-ren-and-reys-connection" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars: The Truth About Kylo Ren and Rey’s Connection</a> (Joanna Robinson)</li> <li><a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/05/star-wars-keri-russell-is-the-roguish-zorri-bliss?verso=true" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars: Keri Russell Is the Roguish Zorri Bliss</a> (Joanna Robinson)</li> <li><a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/05/star-wars-the-knights-of-ren-make-their-long-awaited-return" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars: The Knights of Ren Make Their Long-Awaited Return</a> (Joanna Robinson)</li> <li><a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/05/star-wars-richard-e-grants-villainous-character-revealed" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars: Richard E. Grant’s Villainous Character, Revealed</a> (Joanna Robinson)</li> <li><a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/05/billie-lourd-asked-to-share-scenes-with-her-late-mother-carrie-fisher" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars: Why Billie Lourd Asked to Share Scenes with Her Late Mother, Carrie Fisher</a> (Joanna Robinson)</li> <li><a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/05/the-final-skywalker-film-has-been-planned-from-the-very-beginning" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> A Lot of the Final Skywalker Film Has Been Planned “from the Very Beginning”</a> (Joanna Robinson)</li> <li><a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/05/in-star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker-c-3po-will-surprise-everybody" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> In Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, C-3PO Will Surprise Everybody</a> (Joanna Robinson)</li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

45: To The Galaxy's Edge

On Episode 44 of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia, B.J. and Kay discuss Star Wars Celebration in Chicago and share our reactions to, and favorite moments from, the convention. The convention was definitely a busy one: we didn’t even have time to record the episode live at the con, but hopefully the clearer audio quality is a worthwhile tradeoff. We begin, of course, with the Episode IX panel that kicked off the convention on Friday morning, April 12. In addition to the panel itself, we give our initial impression of the movie’s title, The Rise of Skywalker, and the teaser trailer unveiled at the conclusion of the panel – including a surprise appearance by the Emperor’s Ian McDiarmid on the Celebration stage. We then talk about a wide range of other experiences from the convention. Panels discussed include The Clone Wars, The Mandalorian, Galaxy’s Edge, and Claudia Gray’s writer workshop. Other topics include merchandise, cosplay, the fan-organized Ahsoka Lives picture, and the fun of socializing with friends from all over the country and around the world. We also offer some constructive criticism on several of the logistical problems that arose before and during the convention, in the hope that these issues can be resolved for Celebration Anaheim in 2020. We conclude the show with our favorite moments from the convention. For each of us, these were more personally important than anything else – but that’s what conventions like Celebration are really all about.   FANgirl Coverage of Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019:   Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: Episode IX Panel  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: Bringing Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to Life at Disney Parks  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Clone Wars Sneak Peek  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Mandalorian Panel  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Phantom Menace 20th Anniversary Panel  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Music of The Phantom Menace With David Collins  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: Logistical Problems and Areas for Improvement  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Franchise Talking Points  Fangirls Going Rogue: Basking In Celebration Afterglow  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: Marvel Comics Presents: Star Wars  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Meaning of Community: My First Star Wars Celebration  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Freemaker Adventures and Star Wars: All-Stars Panel  Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: Star Wars Resistance Season Two Sneak Peek  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

On Episode 44 of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia, B.J. and Kay discuss Star Wars Celebration in Chicago and share our reactions to, and favorite moments from, the convention. The convention was definitely a busy one: we didn’t even have time to record the episode live at the con, but hopefully the clearer audio quality is a worthwhile tradeoff. We begin, of course, with the Episode IX panel that kicked off the convention on Friday morning, April 12. In addition to the panel itself, we give our initial impression of the movie’s title, The Rise of Skywalker, and the teaser trailer unveiled at the conclusion of the panel – including a surprise appearance by the Emperor’s Ian McDiarmid on the Celebration stage. We then talk about a wide range of other experiences from the convention. Panels discussed include The Clone Wars, The Mandalorian, Galaxy’s Edge, and Claudia Gray’s writer workshop. Other topics include merchandise, cosplay, the fan-organized Ahsoka Lives picture, and the fun of socializing with friends from all over the country and around the world. We also offer some constructive criticism on several of the logistical problems that arose before and during the convention, in the hope that these issues can be resolved for Celebration Anaheim in 2020. We conclude the show with our favorite moments from the convention. For each of us, these were more personally important than anything else – but that’s what conventions like Celebration are really all about. FANgirl Coverage of Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: <ul> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/04/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-episode-ix-panel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: Episode IX Panel</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/04/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-bringing-star-wars-galaxys-edge-to-life-at-disney-parks/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: Bringing Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to Life at Disney Parks</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/04/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-the-clone-wars-sneak-peek/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Clone Wars Sneak Peek</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/04/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-the-mandalorian-panel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Mandalorian Panel</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-the-phantom-menace-20th-anniversary-panel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Phantom Menace 20th Anniversary Panel</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-the-music-of-the-phantom-menace-with-david-collins/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Music of The Phantom Menace With David Collins</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-logistical-problems-and-areas-for-improvement/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: Logistical Problems and Areas for Improvement</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-2019-the-franchise-talking-points/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Franchise Talking Points</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/fangirls-going-rogue-basking-in-celebration-afterglow/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Fangirls Going Rogue: Basking In Celebration Afterglow</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-marvel-comics-presents-star-wars/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: Marvel Comics Presents: Star Wars</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-the-meaning-of-community-my-first-star-wars-celebration/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Meaning of Community: My First Star Wars Celebration</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-the-freemaker-adventures-and-star-wars-all-stars-panel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: The Freemaker Adventures and Star Wars: All-Stars Panel</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-star-wars-resistance-season-two-sneak-peek/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019: </a><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-star-wars-resistance-season-two-sneak-peek/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Star Wars Resistance</a><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/05/star-wars-celebration-chicago-2019-star-wars-resistance-season-two-sneak-peek/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Season Two Sneak Peek</a></li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

Star Wars Celebration Chicago Wrap

Many Star Wars fans, including the team here at FANgirl, have long urged the franchise to release a novel centered on Padmé and her political career. That moment has finally arrived from Disney Lucasfilm Press, in the form of the Young Adult novel Queen’s Shadow by E.K. Johnston, who previously wrote the YA novel Ahsoka. As usual, we begin with our meta segment, in which we consider influential forces and figures that have shaped the Star Wars franchise. Part of what makes this Padmé novel special is that Johnston is one of the first Star Wars creators from the Prequel Trilogy generation to attain the opportunity to contribute as a professional. In interviews, she shares that she first saw The Phantom Menace on her fifteenth birthday, and immediately built her fandom around Padmé, Sabé, and the rest of Amidala’s handmaidens. From fanfic to her career as a published author to books about Ahsoka and Padmé, Johnston brings priorities, values, and emphases to her Star Wars work that differ greatly from most contributors from the Original Trilogy generation. As even more peers from her generation join the franchise, Star Wars will broaden with new perspectives from new voices. We share our reactions to Queen’s Shadow in the storytelling segment. Padmé and Sabé are the principal characters, but the book has a lot of other elements to discuss, as well. In addition to the handmaidens from the Prequel Trilogy films, the novel includes appearances from characters in The Clone Wars animated series and connections to Claudia Gray’s novel Leia: Princess of Alderaan. Also noteworthy are several of Johnston’s new characters, as well as the variety of different forms of representation she includes in the story. For the world-building segment, we discuss the recently revealed details about Black Spire Outpost on Batuu, opening later this year at that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge expansions at Disneyland (May 31) and Disney World (August 29). From cast member costumes to food and beverage options, in-universe toys and attire for purchase, the Imagineers have developed an impressive range of immersive qualities for the theme parks. Fortunately, Disney has anticipated the high demand for the openings, and has several guest-flow control measures prepared to keep the experience from being overwhelmed by dense crowds. April brings the Star Wars Celebration convention in Chicago. Hyperspace Theories will be there, so check back for our coverage from the event. Related Links   E.K. Johnston interview at starwars.com  Lots of New Details in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Press Previews (FANgirl post, with links to coverage at starwars.com, Nerdist, io9, and more)  Galaxy’s Edge Opening Dates Confirmed (FANgirl post) 

Many Star Wars fans, including the team here at FANgirl, have long urged the franchise to release a novel centered on Padmé and her political career. That moment has finally arrived from Disney Lucasfilm Press, in the form of the Young Adult novel Queen’s Shadow by E.K. Johnston, who previously wrote the YA novel Ahsoka. As usual, we begin with our meta segment, in which we consider influential forces and figures that have shaped the Star Wars franchise. Part of what makes this Padmé novel special is that Johnston is one of the first Star Wars creators from the Prequel Trilogy generation to attain the opportunity to contribute as a professional. In interviews, she shares that she first saw The Phantom Menace on her fifteenth birthday, and immediately built her fandom around Padmé, Sabé, and the rest of Amidala’s handmaidens. From fanfic to her career as a published author to books about Ahsoka and Padmé, Johnston brings priorities, values, and emphases to her Star Wars work that differ greatly from most contributors from the Original Trilogy generation. As even more peers from her generation join the franchise, Star Wars will broaden with new perspectives from new voices. We share our reactions to Queen’s Shadow in the storytelling segment. Padmé and Sabé are the principal characters, but the book has a lot of other elements to discuss, as well. In addition to the handmaidens from the Prequel Trilogy films, the novel includes appearances from characters in The Clone Wars animated series and connections to Claudia Gray’s novel Leia: Princess of Alderaan. Also noteworthy are several of Johnston’s new characters, as well as the variety of different forms of representation she includes in the story. For the world-building segment, we discuss the recently revealed details about Black Spire Outpost on Batuu, opening later this year at that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge expansions at Disneyland (May 31) and Disney World (August 29). From cast member costumes to food and beverage options, in-universe toys and attire for purchase, the Imagineers have developed an impressive range of immersive qualities for the theme parks. Fortunately, Disney has anticipated the high demand for the openings, and has several guest-flow control measures prepared to keep the experience from being overwhelmed by dense crowds. April brings the Star Wars Celebration convention in Chicago. Hyperspace Theories will be there, so check back for our coverage from the event. Related Links <ul> <li><a href="https://www.starwars.com/news/celebrating-padme-and-her-handmaidens-in-queens-shadow" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> E.K. Johnston interview</a> at <a href="http://starwars.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">starwars.com</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/03/lots-of-new-details-in-star-wars-galaxys-edge-press-previews/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Lots of New Details in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Press Previews</a> (FANgirl post, with links to coverage at <a href="http://starwars.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">starwars.com</a>, Nerdist, io9, and more)</li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2019/03/galaxys-edge-opening-dates-confirmed/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Galaxy’s Edge Opening Dates Confirmed</a> (FANgirl post)</li> </ul>

43: Queen's Shadow & Galaxy's Edge

Hyperspace Theories visits The Dark Side in this month’s episode. That’s right, Tricia Barr has a new Star Wars book, which just released in French and Spanish language editions. Before we talk about the book, though, Tricia, B.J., and Kay share our reactions to the latest announcements about the live-action television series for the Disney+ streaming service set to launch next year. Diego Luna returns to play Cassian Andor is a series set prior to the events of Rogue One. Considering Cassian has been in the fight since he was six years old, there’s a lot of story potential in his backstory. In addition, Lucasfilm announced the principal cast for The Mandalorian, including Pedro Pascal in the titular role and a variety of other familiar faces. Each episode, our meta segment is based on the theme of how to speculate wisely about upcoming Star Wars tales. Sometimes that means knowing when to be careful not to draw any big storytelling inferences from material that doesn’t warrant it. This month, that idea definitely applies to a tweet from director – and trusted advisor to J.J. Abrams – Ava DuVernay, who tweeted a photograph of her friend Victoria Mahoney, second unit director on Episode IX, in her office at Pinewood Studios. On the wall behind Mahoney is a “mood board” of imagery, most of which has no direct connection to Star Wars – although the picture of Mahoney in a pink fluffy coat and Vader helmet is certainly the centerpiece. The inspiration on the mood board ranges from Patty Shepard in the spaghetti western The Man Called Noon (1973) to a book of portraits by painter Kehinde Wiley. Though it may not tell us any details about Episode IX, the tweet does give us a stronger sense of Mahoney’s visual eye and the talent she brings to the film. Our storytelling segment features Tricia sharing her thoughts about writing The Dark Side, a new title from Hachette Heroes. Written from an in-universe perspective, the book examines the dark side of the Force through the lens of the characters who wield it, including the Sith, fallen Jedi, the Nightsisters of Dathomir, and the Empire’s Inquisitors. In addition to movie characters like Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, and Count Dooku, the book also addresses characters featured in animation and other stories, such as Asajj Ventress, Mother Talzin, the Seventh Sister, and the extended story of Maul, formerly Darth. Although an English edition has not yet been announced, the French (ISBN 978-2017003809) and Spanish (ISBN 978-8416857418) editions are on sale now. Our world-building segment spins off from the news of the Cassian Andor television series. We consider how the Star Wars franchise over time has involved a balance between open-ended stories with no inherent conclusion and closed-ended tales constrained, at least to some extent, by known endpoints. The Mandalorian and Episode IX are examples of the former, while the Cassian series and The Queen’s Shadow fall into the latter, and some stories, such as Star Wars Rebels and Star Wars Resistance, have elements of both. In the first six to seven years of the Disney era, the franchise has leaned heavily on backstory and closed-ended stories. While this makes sense to steer clear of the Sequel Trilogy during its development, we consider the implications for the franchise and the fandom that choice has created.   Related Links:   Cassian Andor Live-Action Series Announced (starwars.com) Stephen Schiff hired as showrunner for Cassian series (Deadline and  The Hollywood Reporter)  Pedro Pascal Revealed as The Mandalorian (starwars.com)  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

Hyperspace Theories visits The Dark Side in this month’s episode. That’s right, Tricia Barr has a new Star Wars book, which just released in French and Spanish language editions. Before we talk about the book, though, Tricia, B.J., and Kay share our reactions to the latest announcements about the live-action television series for the Disney+ streaming service set to launch next year. Diego Luna returns to play Cassian Andor is a series set prior to the events of Rogue One. Considering Cassian has been in the fight since he was six years old, there’s a lot of story potential in his backstory. In addition, Lucasfilm announced the principal cast for The Mandalorian, including Pedro Pascal in the titular role and a variety of other familiar faces. Each episode, our meta segment is based on the theme of how to speculate wisely about upcoming Star Wars tales. Sometimes that means knowing when to be careful not to draw any big storytelling inferences from material that <a href="https://twitter.com/ava/status/1068202351994040323" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">doesn’t warrant it</a>. This month, that idea definitely applies to a tweet from director – and trusted advisor to J.J. Abrams – Ava DuVernay, who <a href="https://twitter.com/ava/status/1068186834411360257" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">tweeted a photograph</a> of her friend Victoria Mahoney, second unit director on Episode IX, in her office at Pinewood Studios. On the wall behind Mahoney is a “mood board” of imagery, most of which has no direct connection to Star Wars – although the picture of <a href="https://twitter.com/ava/status/1068202206804000769" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mahoney</a> in a pink fluffy coat and Vader helmet is certainly the centerpiece. The inspiration on the mood board ranges from Patty Shepard in the spaghetti western The Man Called Noon (1973) to a book of portraits by painter Kehinde Wiley. Though it may not tell us any details about Episode IX, the tweet does give us a stronger sense of Mahoney’s visual eye and the talent she brings to the film. Our storytelling segment features Tricia sharing her thoughts about writing The Dark Side, a new title from Hachette Heroes. Written from an in-universe perspective, the book examines the dark side of the Force through the lens of the characters who wield it, including the Sith, fallen Jedi, the Nightsisters of Dathomir, and the Empire’s Inquisitors. In addition to movie characters like Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, and Count Dooku, the book also addresses characters featured in animation and other stories, such as Asajj Ventress, Mother Talzin, the Seventh Sister, and the extended story of Maul, formerly Darth. Although an English edition has not yet been announced, the French (ISBN 978-2017003809) and Spanish (ISBN 978-8416857418) editions are on sale now. Our world-building segment spins off from the news of the Cassian Andor television series. We consider how the Star Wars franchise over time has involved a balance between open-ended stories with no inherent conclusion and closed-ended tales constrained, at least to some extent, by known endpoints. The Mandalorian and Episode IX are examples of the former, while the Cassian series and The Queen’s Shadow fall into the latter, and some stories, such as Star Wars Rebels and Star Wars Resistance, have elements of both. In the first six to seven years of the Disney era, the franchise has leaned heavily on backstory and closed-ended stories. While this makes sense to steer clear of the Sequel Trilogy during its development, we consider the implications for the franchise and the fandom that choice has created. Related Links: <ul> <li><a href="https://www.starwars.com/news/cassian-andor-live-action-series-announced" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Cassian Andor Live-Action Series Announced</a> (<a href="http://starwars.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">starwars.com</a>)</li> <li>Stephen Schiff hired as showrunner for Cassian series (<a href="https://deadline.com/2018/11/star-wars-series-diego-luna-taps-stephen-schiff-showrunner-disney-plus-streaming-1202511875/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Deadline</a> and <a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-stephen-schiff-named-showrunner-disney-series-1165545" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Hollywood Reporter</a>)</li> <li><a href="https://www.starwars.com/news/pedro-pascal-revealed-as-the-mandalorian" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Pedro Pascal Revealed as The Mandalorian</a> (<a href="http://starwars.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">starwars.com</a>)</li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

42: Playing In The Sandbox

Thanks to Darth Real Life, it’s been a while since our last episode. Hyperspace Theories returns with a conversation about the exciting new developments in Star Wars television. First, though, we briefly discuss some of the other recent Star Wars news. Episode IX has begun filming, and several new cast members were announced. Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy’s contract has been extended through 2021, though Disney CEO Bob Iger confirmed a slowdown in the pace of Star Wars movie production following Episode IX. There may be fewer films in the works for the moment, but Star Wars television is surging ahead. Our meta segment considers the announcement of The Mandalorian, a live-action series for the upcoming direct-to-consumer streaming service from Disney. The show’s creator, executive producer, and writer is Jon Favreau, whose extensive body of work includes Iron Man and Iron Man 2 for Marvel, the live-action Jungle Book and The Lion King for Disney, his own project Chef, and directing episodes of Revolution and The Orville for television. He also has a history with Star Wars, voicing Mandalorian Death Watch leader Pre Viszla on The Clone Wars. Another figure from that series, Dave Filoni, has a prominent part in The Mandalorian: he is an executive producer and will direct its first episode. We speculate about the influences Favreau and Filoni will bring to the live-action show, and how its release on the streaming service might affect the tone and content of its episodes. We also share our thoughts on the other episodic directors announced for the project: Deborah Chow (Jessica Jones), Rick Famuyiwa (Dope), Bryce Dallas Howard (Solemates), and Taika Waititi (Thor: Ragnarok). Like Lucasfilm, our storytelling segment revisits The Clone Wars after the news from the summer that twelve more episodes are in production. We speculate about which remaining untold story arcs might appears in these new episodes, based on information previously revealed at Star Wars Celebration panels and some arcs already produced in other formats, such as Dark Disciple and Son of Dathomir. Based on the trailer, the long-awaited “Siege of Mandalore” story appears to be included, which will create connections with existing arcs of The Clone Wars, Revenge of the Sith, the Ahsoka novel, and Star Wars Rebels. We also share in the fandom’s excitement to see more stories from The Clone Wars and the return of the fan-favorite voice cast. For our world-building segment we analyze the premiere episodes of Star Wars Resistance, the new animated series airing on the Disney Channel. We start with the galaxy-level world-building in the series, including the New Republic, the Resistance, and the First Order at a point in time six months before The Force Awakens. We then turn to the Colossus, the fuel depot and its residents that serve as the location for the first season, and discuss how the characters and their story arcs are constructed with that environment in mind. (Note: if you have not yet seen the show, this part of our discussion includes major spoilers for the opening episode, “The Recruit,” and some references to the following episodes, “The Triple Dark” and “Fuel for the Fire,” which are available for early viewing through DisneyNOW, Hulu, and other providers.) Direct Download | Libsyn embed Related Links   Star Wars: Episode IX Cast Announced (StarWars.com)  'Star Wars' Chief Kathleen Kennedy's Lucasfilm Deal Extended for Three Years (Exclusive) (The Hollywood Reporter)  Bob Iger Talks Disney's Streaming Service, 'Roseanne,' James Gunn and a Coming 'Star Wars' "Slowdown" (The Hollywood Reporter) The Mandalorian First Image, Directors Revealed (StarWars.com) SDCC 2018: Star Wars: The Clone Wars to Return with New Episodes (StarWars.com) The Clone Wars Saved trailer (YouTube)  Star Wars Celebration Anaheim [2015]: The Clone Wars Tales Yet Untold  Star Wars Celebration Europe 2016: Ahsoka’s Untold Tales  Star Wars Celebration Orlando 2017: Animated Origins and Unexpected Fates Panel  How the Star Wars Resistance cartoon threads the needle of Disney’s movie trilogy (Polygon)  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

Thanks to Darth Real Life, it’s been a while since our last episode. Hyperspace Theories returns with a conversation about the exciting new developments in Star Wars television. First, though, we briefly discuss some of the other recent Star Wars news. Episode IX has begun filming, and several new cast members were announced. Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy’s contract has been extended through 2021, though Disney CEO Bob Iger confirmed a slowdown in the pace of Star Wars movie production following Episode IX. There may be fewer films in the works for the moment, but Star Wars television is surging ahead. Our meta segment considers the announcement of The Mandalorian, a live-action series for the upcoming direct-to-consumer streaming service from Disney. The show’s creator, executive producer, and writer is Jon Favreau, whose extensive body of work includes Iron Man and Iron Man 2 for Marvel, the live-action Jungle Book and The Lion King for Disney, his own project Chef, and directing episodes of Revolution and The Orville for television. He also has a history with Star Wars, voicing Mandalorian Death Watch leader Pre Viszla on The Clone Wars. Another figure from that series, Dave Filoni, has a prominent part in The Mandalorian: he is an executive producer and will direct its first episode. We speculate about the influences Favreau and Filoni will bring to the live-action show, and how its release on the streaming service might affect the tone and content of its episodes. We also share our thoughts on the other episodic directors announced for the project: Deborah Chow (Jessica Jones), Rick Famuyiwa (Dope), Bryce Dallas Howard (Solemates), and Taika Waititi (Thor: Ragnarok). Like Lucasfilm, our storytelling segment revisits The Clone Wars after the news from the summer that twelve more episodes are in production. We speculate about which remaining untold story arcs might appears in these new episodes, based on information previously revealed at Star Wars Celebration panels and some arcs already produced in other formats, such as Dark Disciple and Son of Dathomir. Based on the trailer, the long-awaited “Siege of Mandalore” story appears to be included, which will create connections with existing arcs of The Clone Wars, Revenge of the Sith, the Ahsoka novel, and Star Wars Rebels. We also share in the fandom’s excitement to see more stories from The Clone Wars and the return of the fan-favorite voice cast. For our world-building segment we analyze the premiere episodes of Star Wars Resistance, the new animated series airing on the Disney Channel. We start with the galaxy-level world-building in the series, including the New Republic, the Resistance, and the First Order at a point in time six months before The Force Awakens. We then turn to the Colossus, the fuel depot and its residents that serve as the location for the first season, and discuss how the characters and their story arcs are constructed with that environment in mind. (Note: if you have not yet seen the show, this part of our discussion includes major spoilers for the opening episode, “The Recruit,” and some references to the following episodes, “The Triple Dark” and “Fuel for the Fire,” which are available for early viewing through DisneyNOW, Hulu, and other providers.) Direct Download | Libsyn embed Related Links <ul> <li><a href="https://www.starwars.com/news/star-wars-episode-ix-cast-announced" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars: Episode IX Cast Announced</a> (<a href="http://StarWars.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">StarWars.com</a>)</li> <li><a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-chief-kathleen-kennedys-lucasfilm-deal-extended-three-years-1147653" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> 'Star Wars' Chief Kathleen Kennedy's Lucasfilm Deal Extended for Three Years (Exclusive)</a> (The Hollywood Reporter)</li> <li><a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/bob-iger-disneys-streaming-service-james-gunn-star-wars-slowdown-1145493" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Bob Iger Talks Disney's Streaming Service, 'Roseanne,' James Gunn and a Coming 'Star Wars' "Slowdown"</a> (The Hollywood Reporter)</li> <li><a href="https://www.starwars.com/news/the-mandalorian-revealed" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Mandalorian First Image, Directors Revealed</a> (<a href="http://StarWars.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">StarWars.com</a>)</li> <li><a href="https://www.starwars.com/news/sdcc-2018-the-clone-wars-to-return" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SDCC 2018: Star Wars: The Clone Wars to Return with New Episodes</a> (<a href="http://StarWars.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">StarWars.com</a>)</li> <li>The Clone Wars Saved <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RI7WyhWZkzk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">trailer</a> (YouTube)</li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2015/04/star-wars-celebration-anaheim-the-clones-war-tales-yet-untold/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Anaheim [2015]: The Clone Wars Tales Yet Untold</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2016/07/star-wars-celebration-europe-2016-ahsokas-untold-tales/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Europe 2016: Ahsoka’s Untold Tales</a></li> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2017/04/star-wars-celebration-orlando-2017-animated-origins-and-unexpected-fates-panel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Star Wars Celebration Orlando 2017: Animated Origins and Unexpected Fates Panel</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.polygon.com/2018/10/3/17929868/star-wars-resistance-cartoon-force-awakens-episode-9-story-gaps" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> How the Star Wars Resistance cartoon threads the needle of Disney’s movie trilogy</a> (Polygon)</li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

41: Resistance Aces Fly

There’s much to discuss on this month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories. Tricia, B.J., and Kay begin with a quick look at the recent Star Wars news since our last episode, including reports of  Keri Russell and  Billy Dee Williams joining the cast of Episode IX, updates to the Lucasfilm corporate website, and the  delay of Indiana Jones 5. For the meta segment, we revisit a foundational topic in Star Wars – the Force – from the perspective of the third storytelling trio in The Last Jedi: Rey, Luke, and Kylo Ren. In addition to those characters, the movie and other recent Star Wars tales reveal more insight into the nature of the light side and dark side, and the role of the Jedi Order as an institution in serving, sometimes unsuccessfully, the principle of balance in the Force. We also share our thoughts on some points raised in discussions among online Star Wars fandom on these topics. The storytelling segment centers on the Hero’s Journey for Han in Solo: A Star Wars Story. Unlike the other films of the Disney era, Solo draws upon the classical monomyth framework described by Joseph Campbell, rather than the modern cinematic model developed by Christopher Vogler. This has interesting implications for the structure of the story as well as the portrayals of the main characters. Our world-building segment focuses on an article from Tom &amp; Lorenzo analyzing Rey’s costumes in The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. Their insights include the symbolism of the colors and clothing styles, as well as interconnections with costumes in previous Star Wars movies for Luke, Han, and Leia.   Related Links   The Hero’s Journey for Han in SOLO (FANgirl Blog)  Redefining The Hero: The Referential Star Wars Costumes of Rey in “The Force Awakens” &amp; “The Last Jedi” (Tom &amp; Lorenzo)  Redefining the Hero: The Extrapolated Costume Design of “Wonder Woman” (Tom &amp; Lorenzo)  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

There’s much to discuss on this month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories. Tricia, B.J., and Kay begin with a quick look at the recent Star Wars news since our last episode, including reports of <a href="https://variety.com/2018/film/news/star-wars-episode-ix-keri-russell-1202861343/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Keri Russell</a> and <a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-billy-dee-williams-returning-as-lando-calrissian-xi-1125818" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Billy Dee Williams</a> joining the cast of Episode IX, updates to the Lucasfilm corporate website, and the <a href="https://variety.com/2018/film/news/indiana-jones-5-release-date-spielberg-harrison-ford-1202861005/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> delay of Indiana Jones 5</a>. For the meta segment, we revisit a foundational topic in Star Wars – the Force – from the perspective of the third storytelling trio in The Last Jedi: Rey, Luke, and Kylo Ren. In addition to those characters, the movie and other recent Star Wars tales reveal more insight into the nature of the light side and dark side, and the role of the Jedi Order as an institution in serving, sometimes unsuccessfully, the principle of balance in the Force. We also share our thoughts on some points raised in discussions among online Star Wars fandom on these topics. The storytelling segment centers on the Hero’s Journey for Han in Solo: A Star Wars Story. Unlike the other films of the Disney era, Solo draws upon the classical monomyth framework described by Joseph Campbell, rather than the modern cinematic model developed by Christopher Vogler. This has interesting implications for the structure of the story as well as the portrayals of the main characters. Our world-building segment focuses on an article from Tom &amp; Lorenzo analyzing Rey’s costumes in The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. Their insights include the symbolism of the colors and clothing styles, as well as interconnections with costumes in previous Star Wars movies for Luke, Han, and Leia. Related Links <ul> <li><a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2018/07/the-heros-journey-for-han-in-solo/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Hero’s Journey for Han in SOLO</a> (FANgirl Blog)</li> <li><a href="https://tomandlorenzo.com/2018/07/star-wars-the-force-awakens-the-last-jedi-costume-analysis-movie-reviews/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Redefining The Hero: The Referential Star Wars Costumes of Rey in “The Force Awakens” &amp; “The Last Jedi”</a> (Tom &amp; Lorenzo)</li> <li><a href="https://tomandlorenzo.com/2018/07/wonder-woman-movie-reviews-costumes-analysis/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Redefining the Hero: The Extrapolated Costume Design of “Wonder Woman”</a> (Tom &amp; Lorenzo)</li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

40: Rey the Grey...Jedi?

Last month Solo: A Story Wars Story hit theaters, and the newest episode of Hyperspace Theories features Tricia Barr, B.J. Priester, and Kay sharing our reactions and analysis. Needless to say, the episode is chock full of spoilers for Solo. You have been warned!

Last month Solo: A Story Wars Story hit theaters, and the newest episode of Hyperspace Theories features Tricia Barr, B.J. Priester, and Kay sharing our reactions and analysis. Needless to say, the episode is chock full of spoilers for Solo. You have been warned!

39: Solo Reaction Show

With the home-video release already reaching our personal screens, Tricia Barr, B.J. Priester, and Kay Serna continue our analysis of The Last Jedi. First, though, we make a brief detour for a “Spoilers Beware” segment to share our reactions to the series finale episodes of Star Wars Rebels and the teaser trailer for Solo: A Star War Story, both of which aired since the three of us recorded together. We begin our discussion on The Last Jedi with the “Expanded Edition” story contained in the novelization of the film by Jason Fry. We consider how the novelization adds to the story of the movie, including new scenes and character points-of-view. We also examine the ways in which the book avoids elaborating or clarifying on story points where the film is best left to speak for itself, or where fan speculation and opinion is better kept unrestricted. For the world-building segment we discuss the impact of Snoke’s death on the First Order and the progress of the story going forward into Episode IX. Both Kylo Ren and Hux are portrayed as characters with significant disadvantages in leading such a large entity, including their inexperience and personal traits. This is potentially a weakness the Resistance could exploit, but the instability in the First Order also could make its leaders very dangerous. In our storytelling segment, we analyze another character triangle envisioned by Rian Johnson in writing the script, as noted on page 111 of The Art of The Last Jedi by Phil Szostak. This month we consider the triangle centered on Poe Dameron, and how his interactions with General Leia Organa and Vice Admiral Amilyn Holdo shape his path from hotshot flyboy to Resistance leader.   Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

With the home-video release already reaching our personal screens, Tricia Barr, B.J. Priester, and Kay Serna continue our analysis of The Last Jedi. First, though, we make a brief detour for a “Spoilers Beware” segment to share our reactions to the series finale episodes of Star Wars Rebels and the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNW0B0HsvVs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">teaser trailer</a> for Solo: A Star War Story, both of which aired since the three of us recorded together. We begin our discussion on The Last Jedi with the “Expanded Edition” story contained in the novelization of the film by Jason Fry. We consider how the novelization adds to the story of the movie, including new scenes and character points-of-view. We also examine the ways in which the book avoids elaborating or clarifying on story points where the film is best left to speak for itself, or where fan speculation and opinion is better kept unrestricted. For the world-building segment we discuss the impact of Snoke’s death on the First Order and the progress of the story going forward into Episode IX. Both Kylo Ren and Hux are portrayed as characters with significant disadvantages in leading such a large entity, including their inexperience and personal traits. This is potentially a weakness the Resistance could exploit, but the instability in the First Order also could make its leaders very dangerous. In our storytelling segment, we analyze another character triangle envisioned by Rian Johnson in writing the script, as noted on page 111 of The Art of The Last Jedi by Phil Szostak. This month we consider the triangle centered on Poe Dameron, and how his interactions with General Leia Organa and Vice Admiral Amilyn Holdo shape his path from hotshot flyboy to Resistance leader. Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

#38: God Speed, Rebels

The wait is over, and The Last Jedi has arrived! Even having seen the movie only a few times each, we already have so much to analyze and discuss from Episode VIII. Before we delve into any of that, though, we share our initial reactions to the movie. Tricia Barr, B.J. Priester, and Kay Serna are joined by Looking For Leia producer and director Annalise Ophelian to break down our rollercoasters of emotion from experiencing The Last Jedi. Naturally, this episode carries a massive SPOILER WARNING, as we do not hesitate to get into the biggest and most surprising moments in the movie. We begin by considering whether the talking points, trailers, and other promotion for The Last Jedi provided fans with accurate guidance on what the movie ultimately would unfold. We then talk about the themes and influences that first caught our attention in watching the film. From the big picture we transition to our reactions to the arcs for the principal characters, including Rey and Kylo Ren, Rose and Finn, Poe and Holdo, Leia, and Luke. We conclude by picking our favorite moments from The Last Jedi. Needless to say, this movie will provide topics for discussion on the podcast for many months to come.   Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com Annalise: Twitter @LookingForLeia or @Dr_Ophelian 

The wait is over, and The Last Jedi has arrived! Even having seen the movie only a few times each, we already have so much to analyze and discuss from Episode VIII. Before we delve into any of that, though, we share our initial reactions to the movie. Tricia Barr, B.J. Priester, and Kay Serna are joined by <a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2017/10/looking-for-leia-preview-reel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Looking For Leia </a>producer and director Annalise Ophelian to break down our rollercoasters of emotion from experiencing The Last Jedi. Naturally, this episode carries a massive SPOILER WARNING, as we do not hesitate to get into the biggest and most surprising moments in the movie. We begin by considering whether the talking points, trailers, and other promotion for The Last Jedi provided fans with accurate guidance on what the movie ultimately would unfold. We then talk about the themes and influences that first caught our attention in watching the film. From the big picture we transition to our reactions to the arcs for the principal characters, including Rey and Kylo Ren, Rose and Finn, Poe and Holdo, Leia, and Luke. We conclude by picking our favorite moments from The Last Jedi. Needless to say, this movie will provide topics for discussion on the podcast for many months to come. Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Annalise: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/LookingForLeia" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@LookingForLeia</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Ophelian" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Dr_Ophelian</a></li> </ul>

#35: The Last Jedi Is Here!

This month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories marks our final show of speculation before the release of The Last Jedi, which no doubt will bring months of analysis – and future speculation – to the Star Wars fandom galaxy. Excitement and anticipation abounds!   Before turning to the imminent Episode VIII, though, Tricia, B.J., and Kay first consider the recent announcement that Lucasfilm has hired Rian Johnson to develop more Star Wars films. “In shepherding this new trilogy, which is separate from the episodic Skywalker saga,” the press release said, “Johnson will introduce new characters from a corner of the galaxy that Star Wars lore has never before explored.” We share our thoughts on the possibilities offered by this new direction in Star Wars movies, as well as how they may relate to the other films in development at Lucasfilm. In addition, the announcement clarified Johnson’s role in the trilogy of films as “the first of which he is also set to write and direct.” We express our hope that the remaining two movies will provide opportunities for more diversity in the screenwriting and directing positions in the Star Wars franchise, especially in light of the commercial and critical success of Patty Jenkins’ Wonder Woman and Taika Waititi’s Thor: Ragnarok. Promotion for The Last Jedi has been in full swing, with more hints about the direction of the story and characters. We break down our thoughts on the international trailer, which takes a more story-driven approach than last month’s U.S. trailer, as well as additional footage seen in various television advertisements for the movie and the cover story on The Last Jedi in the Thanksgiving week issue of Entertainment Weekly. Tricia shares her insights from the media preview of the newest version of the Star Tours ride at Walt Disney World, which includes the battle sequence on Crait as well as several characters from the movie. While a variety of new glimpses from the film have emerged, we conclude that most of the story’s key developments and secrets remain hidden. Fortunately, it’s time for The Last Jedi speculation to end. It seems clear that the nature of the Force, the light side and the dark side, and the role of the Jedi in the galaxy will be significant themes in The Last Jedi. With that in mind, our worldbuilding segment considers some of the recent lore and themes about the Force revealed in other materials, including Star Wars Rebels. Finally, the storytelling segment evaluates a prominent trend in recent Star Wars publishing: the use of in-universe storytelling as a mechanism to tell fun Star Wars tales without pinning down specific facts or events as any form of objective truth. Delilah Dawson’s novel Phasma, for example, has a frame story with an unreliable narrator, leaving open the possibility that any part of the story could be incorrect or misunderstood by its participants. Similarly, The Legends of Luke Skywalker by Ken Liu uses a frame story – deckhands on a ship sharing the tall tales they have been told about Luke – as a mechanism to deliver some fantastical adventures for the Jedi Knight. At the same time, each tale in the book illustrates a core aspect of what makes Luke an heroic figure in the galaxy, showing that even the most outrageously improbable legends still have a grain of truth at their core. The anthology From A Certain Point of View also contains a number of short stories that likely don’t hold up as having actually happened, at least the way they’re told in the book, but nevertheless contain key themes and morals to the story that fit right in with the Star Wars galaxy.   Related Links  The Last Jedi international trailer (YouTube) “Directing The Last Jedi” (YouTube) The Last Jedi television ad: “Awake” (YouTube) The Last Jedi television ad (15 seconds) (YouTube) The Last Jedi television ad: “Heroes” (YouTube) The Last Jedi television ad: “Kylo Failed You” (YouTube) The Superweirdo Behind “Thor: Ragnarok” (New York Times feature on Taika Waititi) The Rise of Rose: How A Badass Nerd Became The New “Star Wars” Lead (Buzzfeed) The Last Jedi: Venture into the Star Wars galaxy with four new EW covers (Entertainment Weekly) 14 new Star Wars: The Last Jedi images from a galaxy far, far away (Entertainment Weekly) Kylo Ren vs. Rey: In The Last Jedi, the danger is becoming allies instead of enemies (Entertainment Weekly)  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

This month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories marks our final show of speculation before the release of The Last Jedi, which no doubt will bring months of analysis – and future speculation – to the Star Wars fandom galaxy. Excitement and anticipation abounds! Before turning to the imminent Episode VIII, though, Tricia, B.J., and Kay first consider the <a href="http://www.starwars.com/news/rian-johnson-writer-director-of-star-wars-the-last-jedi-to-create-all-new-star-wars-trilogy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">recent announcement</a> that Lucasfilm has hired Rian Johnson to develop more Star Wars films. “In shepherding this new trilogy, which is separate from the episodic Skywalker saga,” the press release said, “Johnson will introduce new characters from a corner of the galaxy that Star Wars lore has never before explored.” We share our thoughts on the possibilities offered by this new direction in Star Wars movies, as well as how they may relate to the other films in development at Lucasfilm. In addition, the announcement clarified Johnson’s role in the trilogy of films as “the first of which he is also set to write and direct.” We express our hope that the remaining two movies will provide opportunities for more diversity in the screenwriting and directing positions in the Star Wars franchise, especially in light of the commercial and critical success of Patty Jenkins’ Wonder Woman and Taika Waititi’s Thor: Ragnarok. Promotion for The Last Jedi has been in full swing, with more hints about the direction of the story and characters. We break down our thoughts on the international trailer, which takes a more story-driven approach than last month’s U.S. trailer, as well as additional footage seen in various television advertisements for the movie and the cover story on The Last Jedi in the Thanksgiving week issue of Entertainment Weekly. Tricia shares her insights from the media preview of the newest version of the Star Tours ride at Walt Disney World, which includes the battle sequence on Crait as well as several characters from the movie. While a variety of new glimpses from the film have emerged, we conclude that most of the story’s key developments and secrets remain hidden. Fortunately, it’s time for The Last Jedi speculation to end. It seems clear that the nature of the Force, the light side and the dark side, and the role of the Jedi in the galaxy will be significant themes in The Last Jedi. With that in mind, our worldbuilding segment considers some of the recent lore and themes about the Force revealed in other materials, including Star Wars Rebels. Finally, the storytelling segment evaluates a prominent trend in recent Star Wars publishing: the use of in-universe storytelling as a mechanism to tell fun Star Wars tales without pinning down specific facts or events as any form of objective truth. Delilah Dawson’s novel Phasma, for example, has a frame story with an unreliable narrator, leaving open the possibility that any part of the story could be incorrect or misunderstood by its participants. Similarly, The Legends of Luke Skywalker by Ken Liu uses a frame story – deckhands on a ship sharing the tall tales they have been told about Luke – as a mechanism to deliver some fantastical adventures for the Jedi Knight. At the same time, each tale in the book illustrates a core aspect of what makes Luke an heroic figure in the galaxy, showing that even the most outrageously improbable legends still have a grain of truth at their core. The anthology From A Certain Point of View also contains a number of short stories that likely don’t hold up as having actually happened, at least the way they’re told in the book, but nevertheless contain key themes and morals to the story that fit right in with the Star Wars galaxy. Related Links <ul> <li>The Last Jedi international trailer (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEraJBiTIUY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a>)</li> <li>“Directing The Last Jedi” (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHgBk2fLLHY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a>)</li> <li>The Last Jedi television ad: “Awake” (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4CB5SeBGkI" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a>)</li> <li>The Last Jedi television ad (15 seconds) (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaFAyioYvk4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a>)</li> <li>The Last Jedi television ad: “Heroes” (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znKxu09P_H8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a>)</li> <li>The Last Jedi television ad: “Kylo Failed You” (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEOFVz3-J1E" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a>)</li> <li>The Superweirdo Behind “Thor: Ragnarok” (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/19/magazine/the-superweirdo-behind-thor-ragnarok.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">New York Times feature</a> on Taika Waititi)</li> <li>The Rise of Rose: How A Badass Nerd Became The New “Star Wars” Lead (<a href="https://www.buzzfeed.com/keelyflaherty/the-rise-of-rose?utm_term=.rjJQBAY2m#.go6GxB1Er" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Buzzfeed</a>)</li> <li>The Last Jedi: Venture into the Star Wars galaxy with four new EW covers (<a href="http://ew.com/movies/2017/11/19/star-wars-the-last-jedi-ew-cover/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Entertainment Weekly</a>)</li> <li>14 new Star Wars: The Last Jedi images from a galaxy far, far away (<a href="http://ew.com/movies/star-wars-the-last-jedi-new-photos/rey-and-kylo-ren" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Entertainment Weekly</a>)</li> <li>Kylo Ren vs. Rey: In The Last Jedi, the danger is becoming allies instead of enemies (<a href="http://ew.com/movies/2017/11/19/star-wars-kylo-ren-vs-rey-the-last-jedi/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Entertainment Weekly</a>)</li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

34: The Last Jedi Approaches

The theatrical trailer for The Last Jedi is here! The evening after its premiere, Tricia Barr, B.J. Priester, and Kay recorded a special episode of Hyperspace Theories with our reactions and analysis. We consider the visuals, dialogue, and music in the trailer, as well as connections to the previously released teaser and behind-the-scene reel. Although the trailer is strong at conveying tone and themes and light on story details, we also incorporate some (spoiler-free/rumor-free) informed speculation about what might happen in The Last Jedi.   Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

The theatrical trailer for The Last Jedi is here! The evening after its premiere, Tricia Barr, B.J. Priester, and Kay recorded a special episode of Hyperspace Theories with our reactions and analysis. We consider the visuals, dialogue, and music in the trailer, as well as connections to the previously released teaser and behind-the-scene reel. Although the trailer is strong at conveying tone and themes and light on story details, we also incorporate some (spoiler-free/rumor-free) informed speculation about what might happen in The Last Jedi. Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

The Last Jedi Trailer Reaction Show

Tricia Barr, BJ Priester and Kay discuss Entertainment Weekly's Fall Movie Preview cover article on The Last Jedi.

Tricia Barr, BJ Priester and Kay discuss Entertainment Weekly's Fall Movie Preview cover article on The Last Jedi.

#32: The Last Jedi Approaches

On this month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia, B.J., and Kay delve into the Star Wars news revealed at Disney’s D23 Expo in Anaheim. We begin with our reactions to the Behind the Scenes reel for The Last Jedi shown during the Star Wars segment of the Live Action Movies panel, then break down our highlights and favorite moments from the video. As usual, we also speculate about what the reel might reveal about the film, its story, and the character arcs.  Next we turn to the teaser posters revealed online shortly after the panel presentation ended. The color red is certainly a noticeable theme in the art, along with the obscured faces. After talking about The Last Jedi, we talk about the other big Star Wars news from D23: the Disney Parks announcements of the official name for “Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge” at Disneyland and Hollywood Studios, as well as a luxury resort hotel in Florida. Star Wars entertainment will be part of our real world sooner than we think. The Battlefront II videogame and Star Wars fiction publishing also were included in the D23 presentations. Finally, since our last episode the new director for the untitled Han Solo movie, Ron Howard, was officially announced by Lucasfilm. We share our thoughts on Howard as a director and his role in bringing the movie to its culmination. Related Links:  Star Wars: The Last Jedi Behind the Scenes on YouTube Star Wars: The Last Jedi teaser posters via @starwars on Twitter: set one and set two Gallery of panel presentation images via Star Wars on Facebook GMA clips: Rian Johnson on Luke, Leia, the movie’s title, Benicio Del Toro’s DJ, ; Daisy Ridley on gray themes; Gwendoline Christie on Phasma Variety clips: Rian Johnson; Benicio Del Toro; Laura Dern; Daisy Ridley; John Boyega; Gwendoline Christie; Kelly Marie Tran Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge announcement at Disney Parks Blog Star Wars luxury resort hotel immersive experience at Disney Parks Blog Star Wars Battlefront II: Behind the Story on YouTube kid performing shouting Hux on Rian Johnson’s Instagram  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

On this month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories, Tricia, B.J., and Kay delve into the Star Wars news revealed at Disney’s D23 Expo in Anaheim. We begin with our reactions to the Behind the Scenes reel for The Last Jedi shown during the Star Wars segment of the Live Action Movies panel, then break down our highlights and favorite moments from the video. As usual, we also speculate about what the reel might reveal about the film, its story, and the character arcs. Next we turn to the teaser posters revealed online shortly after the panel presentation ended. The color red is certainly a noticeable theme in the art, along with the obscured faces. After talking about The Last Jedi, we talk about the other big Star Wars news from D23: the Disney Parks announcements of the official name for “Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge” at Disneyland and Hollywood Studios, as well as a luxury resort hotel in Florida. Star Wars entertainment will be part of our real world sooner than we think. The Battlefront II videogame and Star Wars fiction publishing also were included in the D23 presentations. Finally, since our last episode the new director for the untitled Han Solo movie, Ron Howard, was officially announced by Lucasfilm. We share our thoughts on Howard as a director and his role in bringing the movie to its culmination. Related Links: <ul> <li>Star Wars: The Last Jedi Behind the Scenes on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ye6GCY_vqYk&amp;list=PL148kCvXk8pBkwTHhNQhEuWgYxc2vIpeZ&amp;index=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a></li> <li>Star Wars: The Last Jedi teaser posters via @starwars on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/starwars/status/886353025954004992" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">set one</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/starwars/status/886353131596005377" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">set two</a></li> <li>Gallery of panel presentation images via Star Wars on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/StarWars/photos/?tab=album&amp;album_id=1585717958146466" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a></li> <li>GMA clips: Rian Johnson on <a href="https://twitter.com/GMA/status/886645878747832320" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Luke</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/GMA/status/886646869849366528" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Leia</a>, the movie’s <a href="https://twitter.com/GMA/status/886646386552328193" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">title</a>, Benicio Del Toro’s <a href="https://twitter.com/GMA/status/886645371895652353" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">DJ</a>, ; Daisy Ridley on <a href="https://twitter.com/GMA/status/886644868134559744" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">gray themes</a>; Gwendoline Christie on <a href="https://twitter.com/GMA/status/886643362966585344" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Phasma</a></li> <li>Variety clips: <a href="https://twitter.com/Variety/status/886329019750166528" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rian Johnson</a>; <a href="https://twitter.com/Variety/status/886315648795648000" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Benicio Del Toro</a>; <a href="https://twitter.com/Variety/status/886321745644277761" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Laura Dern</a>; <a href="https://twitter.com/Variety/status/886335601502375936" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Daisy Ridley</a>; <a href="https://twitter.com/Variety/status/886333881623789568" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">John Boyega</a>; <a href="https://twitter.com/Variety/status/886324662686187520" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gwendoline Christie</a>; <a href="https://twitter.com/Variety/status/886319741941407744" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kelly Marie Tran</a></li> <li>Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge announcement at <a href="https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2017/07/star-wars-galaxys-edge-announced-as-name-for-star-wars-lands-at-disney-parks/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disney Parks Blog</a></li> <li>Star Wars luxury resort hotel immersive experience at <a href="https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2017/07/plans-unveiled-for-star-wars-inspired-themed-resort-at-walt-disney-world/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disney Parks Blog</a></li> <li>Star Wars Battlefront II: Behind the Story on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pryBP4K-_34" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a></li> <li>kid performing shouting Hux on Rian Johnson’s <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BWlWqG1DdNB/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a></li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

#31: D23 Expo The Last Jedi Impressions

Tricia Barr, B.J. Priester, and Kay had the pleasure of attending Star Wars Celebration in Orlando last week, so of course we couldn't pass up the opportunity to record this month's episode of Hyperspace Theories in person from the convention. What better topic for discussion, too, than the first teaser trailer for The Last Jedi, which was revealed on Friday morning by director  Rian Johnson at the conclusion of the movie's panel. In the episode we share our first reactions to the teaser trailer. We consider the imagery shown, the dialogue included, and the themes and connections to The Force Awakens and other Star Wars stories that resonated with us in the teaser.  At the time we recorded this episode, we had viewed the trailer twice at the panel and several more times on a laptop on YouTube. Upon closer review with better equipment, we had more success with determining the words spoken by the whispering in the background audio:  just before Rey says, "Light," and underneath the flute motif that introduces Rey's theme: Princess Leia saying, "help me, Obi-Wan." just before Rey says, "Darkness," and underneath Kylo Ren's theme in horns: Ben Kenobi saying, "seduced by the dark side." just before Rey says, "the Balance," accompanied by violins holding a note: Yoda saying, "surrounds us ... binds us"  Celebration delivered much more content than The Last Jedi teaser, and we'll be breaking it all down in detail on upcoming episodes of Hyperspace Theories.   Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

Tricia Barr, B.J. Priester, and Kay had the pleasure of attending Star Wars Celebration in Orlando last week, so of course we couldn't pass up the opportunity to record this month's episode of Hyperspace Theories in person from the convention. What better topic for discussion, too, than the first teaser trailer for The Last Jedi, which was revealed on Friday morning by director <a href="http://fangirlblog.com/2016/11/hyperspace-theories-episode-23-rian-johnson-storytelling-camp/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Rian Johnson</a> at the conclusion of the movie's panel. In the episode we share our first reactions to the teaser trailer. We consider the imagery shown, the dialogue included, and the themes and connections to The Force Awakens and other Star Wars stories that resonated with us in the teaser. At the time we recorded this episode, we had viewed the trailer twice at the panel and several more times on a laptop on YouTube. Upon closer review with better equipment, we had more success with determining the words spoken by the whispering in the background audio: <ul> <li>just before Rey says, "Light," and underneath the flute motif that introduces Rey's theme: Princess Leia saying, "help me, Obi-Wan."</li> <li>just before Rey says, "Darkness," and underneath Kylo Ren's theme in horns: Ben Kenobi saying, "seduced by the dark side."</li> <li>just before Rey says, "the Balance," accompanied by violins holding a note: Yoda saying, "surrounds us ... binds us"</li> </ul> Celebration delivered much more content than The Last Jedi teaser, and we'll be breaking it all down in detail on upcoming episodes of Hyperspace Theories. Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

The Last Jedi Trailer #1: Reactions From Celebration Orlando

This month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories continues our discussion of storytelling lessons to be learned from Rogue One. In addition, we look ahead to the next Star Wars film and share our thoughts on the legacy of Carrie Fisher. We begin with our reactions to the newly revealed title of Episode VIII: The Last Jedi. The title has connections to The Force Awakens, of course, as well as to familiar themes from other Star Wars stories and the Legends tales. We also ponder the potential implications of the red lettering used in the title announcement. In our meta segment on speculating wisely, we evaluate the role of movie trailers in speculation on future Star Wars films. For both that film and The Force Awakens, Lucasfilm has released trailers which seek to convey the tone, themes, and feel of the story but which include scenes and dialogue that do not appear in the final film. We discuss the merits and risks of this approach, particularly if the franchise is trying to maintain a lockdown on spoilers. On the other hand, it is now clear that both The Force Awakens and Rogue One were undergoing major editing, reshoots and pickups, dialogue replacement, and others changes in the months, even final weeks, before the films’ releases. With Rogue One in particular, some of the seeming inconsistencies in the characterization of Jyn Erso in the early trailers compared to the later trailers and advertisements may have arisen from the changes made during Tony Gilroy’s significant reworking of the story. This raises a comparison to Star Wars Rebels, which, like The Clone Wars before it, has a consistent track record of trailers that include scenes and dialogue matching the final episodes to air. We wonder whether Rian Johnson’s The Last Jedi, which already is deep into editing and seems to have avoided the mad dash revising of the previous two films, will have trailers and marketing more comparable to Rebels than those movies. Our segment on world-building also revisits the production process of Rogue One and its ramifications on the story and characters. Relying on the information revealed in The Art of Rogue One, as well as a number of recent interviews by the film’s editors, we discuss major shifts in the development process. The stage of development for the characters and story of Rogue One include the initial treatment and sizzle reel by John Knoll, creative development in 2014 led by Gareth Edwards and Gary Whitta culminating in a screenplay by Whitta, a script rewrite by Chris Weitz (including, among other things, the creation of Chirut and Baze), principal photography by Edwards in 2015, extensive script revisions and reshoots from Tony Gilroy in the summer of 2016, and then final editing of the film into its ultimate form. We discuss how these instances of significant rethinking, over a relatively short span of time, impacted the tone, feel, and internal consistency of the plot and characters. This month’s storytelling segment is dedicated to Carrie Fisher. In addition to talking about her importance as Leia Organa, both within the story and to fandom and the real world, we also share our thoughts on Carrie Fisher as a storyteller herself. From her script doctoring to Postcards from the Edge and The Princess Diarist, Carrie Fisher could make us laugh and cry, and sometimes both at the same time. Related Links  John Gilroy and Colin Goudie interview with  Yahoo Movies UK John Gilroy interview with  io9 John Gilroy interview with  com John Gilroy interview with  Yahoo Movies Ben Mendelsohn remarks  via io9 Gareth Edwards remarks  via Vulture Jenny Nicholson YouTube video "Top 10 Worst Reasons You Liked Rogue One" ABC’s Nightline coverage  via io9 Photographs showing deleted content via Slashfilm  Contact Information:  Hyperspace Theories: Twitter @HyperspacePod Tricia Barr: Twitter @FANgirlcantina; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com B.J. Priester: Twitter @RedPenofLex; email Lex@fangirlblog.com Kay: Twitter @Geek_Kay; email Kay@fangirlblog.com 

This month’s episode of Hyperspace Theories continues our discussion of storytelling lessons to be learned from Rogue One. In addition, we look ahead to the next Star Wars film and share our thoughts on the legacy of Carrie Fisher. We begin with our reactions to the newly revealed title of Episode VIII: The Last Jedi. The title has connections to The Force Awakens, of course, as well as to familiar themes from other Star Wars stories and the Legends tales. We also ponder the potential implications of the red lettering used in the title announcement. In our meta segment on speculating wisely, we evaluate the role of movie trailers in speculation on future Star Wars films. For both that film and The Force Awakens, Lucasfilm has released trailers which seek to convey the tone, themes, and feel of the story but which include scenes and dialogue that do not appear in the final film. We discuss the merits and risks of this approach, particularly if the franchise is trying to maintain a lockdown on spoilers. On the other hand, it is now clear that both The Force Awakens and Rogue One were undergoing major editing, reshoots and pickups, dialogue replacement, and others changes in the months, even final weeks, before the films’ releases. With Rogue One in particular, some of the seeming inconsistencies in the characterization of Jyn Erso in the early trailers compared to the later trailers and advertisements may have arisen from the changes made during Tony Gilroy’s significant reworking of the story. This raises a comparison to Star Wars Rebels, which, like The Clone Wars before it, has a consistent track record of trailers that include scenes and dialogue matching the final episodes to air. We wonder whether Rian Johnson’s The Last Jedi, which already is deep into editing and seems to have avoided the mad dash revising of the previous two films, will have trailers and marketing more comparable to Rebels than those movies. Our segment on world-building also revisits the production process of Rogue One and its ramifications on the story and characters. Relying on the information revealed in The Art of Rogue One, as well as a number of recent interviews by the film’s editors, we discuss major shifts in the development process. The stage of development for the characters and story of Rogue One include the initial treatment and sizzle reel by John Knoll, creative development in 2014 led by Gareth Edwards and Gary Whitta culminating in a screenplay by Whitta, a script rewrite by Chris Weitz (including, among other things, the creation of Chirut and Baze), principal photography by Edwards in 2015, extensive script revisions and reshoots from Tony Gilroy in the summer of 2016, and then final editing of the film into its ultimate form. We discuss how these instances of significant rethinking, over a relatively short span of time, impacted the tone, feel, and internal consistency of the plot and characters. This month’s storytelling segment is dedicated to Carrie Fisher. In addition to talking about her importance as Leia Organa, both within the story and to fandom and the real world, we also share our thoughts on Carrie Fisher as a storyteller herself. From her script doctoring to Postcards from the Edge and The Princess Diarist, Carrie Fisher could make us laugh and cry, and sometimes both at the same time. Related Links <ul> <li>John Gilroy and Colin Goudie interview with <a href="https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/rogue-ones-editors-reveal-scenes-added-in-the-star-wars-standalone-reshoots-exclusive-110124381.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Yahoo Movies UK</a></li> <li>John Gilroy interview with <a href="http://io9.gizmodo.com/putting-together-rogue-ones-ending-was-an-epic-balancin-1791050753" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> io9</a></li> <li>John Gilroy interview with <a href="http://comicbook.com/starwars/2017/01/19/rogue-one-a-star-wars-story-editor-says-last-act-was-much-more-f/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> com</a></li> <li>John Gilroy interview with <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/movies/how-darth-vader-got-his-groove-back-in-rogue-one-thanks-to-last-minute-tweak-123552848.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Yahoo Movies</a></li> <li>Ben Mendelsohn remarks <a href="http://io9.gizmodo.com/ben-mendelsohn-says-rogue-one-could-have-been-many-diff-1790596505" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> via io9</a></li> <li>Gareth Edwards remarks <a href="http://www.vulture.com/2016/12/rogue-ones-original-ending-was-very-different.html?mid=twitter_vulture&amp;mid=twitter_vulture" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> via Vulture</a></li> <li>Jenny Nicholson <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P3gf6qyAHOw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube video</a> "Top 10 Worst Reasons You Liked Rogue One"</li> <li>ABC’s Nightline coverage <a href="https://io9.gizmodo.com/this-video-may-show-alternate-death-scenes-for-rogue-on-1791089668" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> via io9</a></li> <li>Photographs showing deleted content <a href="http://www.slashfilm.com/rogue-one-deleted-scene-images/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">via Slashfilm</a></li> </ul> Contact Information: <ul> <li>Hyperspace Theories: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperspacePod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HyperspacePod</a></li> <li>Tricia Barr: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirlcantina" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FANgirlcantina</a>; email Tricia@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>B.J. Priester: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/RedPenofLex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@RedPenofLex</a>; email Lex@fangirlblog.com</li> <li>Kay: Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_Kay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Geek_Kay</a>; email Kay@fangirlblog.com</li> </ul>

#25: The Last (Rogue One) Jedi

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