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Know your legends: Marka Ragnos

December 20, 2010July 28, 2020 Soeren Kamper

Marka Ragnos was a half-breed Dark Lord of the Sith who was immensely powerful, both physically and in the Force. He defeated Simus in combat, proving himself worthy of the mantle of Dark Lord. The tomb of Ragnos on Korriban appears in the games Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic and Star Wars: Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy. However, the tombs in each game are dissimilar to the other. This was likely for reasons of game structure, rather than a suggestion of the tombs being at different locations. The same phenomenon is seen with the Valley of the Dark Lords as a whole. Another theory is that his tomb underwent a renovation after being desecrated by Revan and his followers. While a figure of importance in Sith history, Marka Ragnos has actually never appeared in a story in which he was alive, much like another influential Sith Lord, Freedon Nadd….

Know your Lore: Atris

December 5, 2010July 27, 2020 Soeren Kamper

Atris was a female Jedi Master and Jedi historian who sat on the Jedi High Council during both the Mandalorian Wars and Jedi Civil War. She viewed the Jedi Order as a symbol of light, justice, and perfection. All this changed, however, when the Jedi Exile defied the council and participated in the Mandalorian Wars alongside Revan and Malak. Having one whom she cared about defy everything she believed in shook Atris to her very core. During the First Jedi Purge, Atris arranged a Jedi conclave on Katarr in the hope of drawing out the Sith. The plan failed, and many Jedi died. She went into seclusion, surrounding herself with those who could not feel the Force. Influenced by Sith holocrons she had been collecting, Atris gradually fell to the dark side. She was eventually confronted by the Jedi Exile, and after a heated lightsaber duel, Atris was defeated. The…

Know your Lore: Vandar Tokare

May 2, 2010July 28, 2020 Soeren Kamper

Vandar Tokare was a male Jedi Master who was the head of the Jedi Enclave on Dantooine during the Mandalorian Wars and Jedi Civil War, holding a seat on both the Jedi High Council and the Council of the Jedi academy during this time span. He was friends with fellow Council member Vrook Lamar, usually having the last word in their frequent disagreements, most notably on the choice to train Revan once again in the ways of the Jedi after his fall to the dark side of the Force. One of the attendees of the Conclave on Katarr, Tokare was killed during an attack from the Sith Lord Darth Nihilus in which the entire Miraluka colony and many of the survivors of the First Jedi Purge were lost. Biography Tokare took Derrica Praji and another person as Jedi Padawans and trained them on Ossus. In 4,225 BBY Tokare and his…

Know your lore: Brianna (The Last Handmaiden)

April 18, 2010July 28, 2020 Soeren Kamper

Brianna, also known as “The Last Handmaiden,” or simply “Handmaiden,” was a half-Echani fighter, and illegitimate daughter to the famous Echani General Yusanis and Jedi Master Arren Kae, who both fought in the Mandalorian Wars. She later served along with her five half-sisters as a handmaiden to Jedi Master Atris in the period following the Jedi Civil War. During her service to Atris at the Jedi Academy on Telos IV, Brianna met the Jedi Exile, and was subsequently tasked with accompanying her on her mission to seek out the Jedi Masters who survived the First Jedi Purge. As the Exile’s companion, Brianna helped battle against numerous adversaries, including the resurgent Sith. During the journey, Brianna trained the Exile in Echani techniques and eventually received Jedi training from the Exile in return, becoming one of first new members of the Jedi Order after the Purge. In accepting such training, however, she…

Know your lore: Kreia

November 15, 2009August 14, 2024 Soeren Kamper

Kreia is one of the most complex and fascinating characters in the Star Wars universe, standing out not just for her deep philosophical insights but also for her intricate ties to key events and characters across the galaxy. From her mysterious origins in the Old Republic era to her enduring influence in the Star Wars Expanded Universe, Kreia remains a character shrouded in both mystery and wisdom. In this article, we’ll explore the lore surrounding Kreia, her connections to Revan, her pivotal role in Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords (KOTOR II), and her lasting impact on the Star Wars universe, including more recent appearances in comics and books. Chapter 1: Kreia’s Origins and Early Life Let’s talk about Kreia—because when it comes to mysterious backstories in the Star Wars universe, she’s got one of the best (or most frustrating, depending on how you look at it)….

Robert Duvall and George Lucas tribute image highlighting Duvall’s role in THX 1138 and his legacy as Lucas’ first leading actor

Robert Duvall, George Lucas’ First Leading Man, Has Passed Away at 95

February 17, 2026February 17, 2026 Matt "ObiWaN" Hansen

Hollywood has lost one of its most legendary actors. Robert Duvall — a towering presence in film for more than seven decades — has passed away at the age of 95. And while many will remember him for The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, and Tender Mercies, Star Wars fans have a unique reason to reflect on his legacy: Duvall was George Lucas’ very first leading man. Before lightsabers, before the Death Star, and long before a galaxy far, far away took over pop culture, there was THX 1138. George Lucas’ First Leading Man Released in 1971, THX 1138 was George Lucas’ first full-length feature film and a bold, experimental entry into science fiction cinema. At its center was Robert Duvall, who played the film’s titular character — a worker in a dystopian future society stripped of identity, emotion, and freedom. The film wasn’t a mainstream blockbuster, but it became a cult…

Awards trophies on a table with headline about Kathleen Kennedy’s Lucasfilm era awards history

Kathleen Kennedy’s Lucasfilm Era Was Polarizing — But the Awards History Is Hard to Ignore

January 19, 2026January 19, 2026 gingetattoo

Kathleen Kennedy’s time as president of Lucasfilm will probably be debated forever — mostly on the internet, mostly loudly, and mostly with way too much confidence. But there’s one angle that cuts through the noise: Awards. Real ones. Industry ones. The kind you don’t win by having a loud fandom. And according to a new breakdown, the Kathleen Kennedy era at Lucasfilm has built a pretty serious awards track record — across Star Wars films, Disney+ series, and Lucasfilm’s broader output. So whether you view her as the architect of modern Star Wars or the reason your group chat still argues about The Last Jedi… This is what the awards history actually looks like. ✅ TV Shows — Total Awards Wins & Nominations (all award bodies) Here’s the scoreboard — total award wins and nominations across all major bodies during the Kathleen Kennedy era: TV Show Total Awards Wins Total…

Star Wars saga movie posters promoting theatrical screenings in Los Angeles during winter 2026

A Month of Star Wars Mornings Is Coming to Los Angeles — And the Timing Matters

December 30, 2025December 30, 2025 gingetattoo

There’s a quiet, deliberate kind of magic in watching Star Wars on the big screen before the year really gets going. No hype cycles. No spoilers. Just a darkened theater, a familiar score, and a story you already know—but somehow still want to revisit. That’s exactly what’s happening in Los Angeles this winter. Starting Saturday, January 3, 2026, the Ted Mann Theater on Wilshire Boulevard is hosting a steady run of Star Wars theatrical screenings—one film per week, all beginning at 11:00am. It’s a simple idea, executed well, and it lands at a very specific moment in the franchise’s timeline. What’s Screening, and When The program opens with The Empire Strikes Back on Saturday, January 3, followed by Return of the Jedi on January 10. From there, the schedule moves backward and forward across the saga: Every screening starts at 11:00am. No evening rush. No marathon fatigue. Just a consistent…

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Introduces Its First Lightsaber with a Comedic Twist

Skeleton Crew Scores 17 Children’s & Family Emmy Nominations — A Huge Win for Star Wars Storytelling

November 19, 2025November 19, 2025 gingetattoo

The Force is definitely strong with Skeleton Crew. Lucasfilm’s coming-of-age Star Wars series has officially been nominated for 17 Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, making it one of the most recognized shows of the entire season. For a series that blends Amblin-style adventure with Star Wars spirit, this level of acclaim is a huge moment — not just for the show, but for the future of young-audience storytelling in the galaxy far, far away. Here’s a breakdown of the categories Skeleton Crew was nominated for — and why each one matters. A Full Breakdown of the Nominations Skeleton Crew racked up nominations across nearly every major category, including: • Best Young Teen Series• Best Lead Actor – Jude Law• Best Younger Performer – Ravi Cabot-Conyers• Best Writing for a Young Teen Series• Best Directing for a Live Action Series• Best Cinematography• Best Editing• Best Sound Mixing & Editing – Live…

Star Wars: The Clone Wars Video Game Was Released on This Day in 2002!

October 28, 2025October 28, 2025 Matt "ObiWaN" Hansen

Before The Clone Wars became one of the most beloved animated series in Star Wars history, it was a video game that let fans jump into the chaos of the galactic conflict firsthand. Released on October 28, 2002, Star Wars: The Clone Wars arrived for PlayStation 2, GameCube, and Xbox, giving players their first taste of large-scale Republic vs. Separatist warfare long before the TV series expanded the saga. A Forgotten Gem from the Early 2000s Developed by Pandemic Studios (the same team that would later create Star Wars: Battlefront), The Clone Wars video game dropped players into the cockpit of iconic vehicles like the AT-TE, Republic Gunship, and Speeder Bikes, as well as letting them take control of Jedi heroes such as Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Mace Windu. Unlike many games of its era, it focused heavily on vehicular combat and large-scale battles, making players feel like they…

Scenic digital artwork of Tython from Star Wars: The Old Republic, featuring ancient Jedi temples, lush valleys, and twin suns in the sky.

Patch 7.7 Shakes Things Up: Dynamic Encounters Get Ranked and Ruled

August 12, 2025August 12, 2025 Matt "ObiWaN" Hansen

If you’re returning to the galaxy of Star Wars: The Old Republic, patch 7.7 just added a galaxy of fresh content—and one fan dragged out a ruler to rank them all. A recent post at SWTOR Commando lays out a definitive list of the planets hosting 7.7’s dynamic encounters, splitting them into “capital worlds”, “starter planets”, and the icy realm of Ilum. Capital Worlds Take the Crown: Dromund Kaas and Coruscant Dromund KaasTopping the chart is Dromund Kaas. Why? It’s the variety champion. With over 20 unique dynamic encounters, this Sith capital pulls off themed chaos—from lightning-spired attacks to spaceport meltdowns. One cheeky NPC even shouts “What is Xarion hiding?”—a nice nod to timeline lore. And with encounters conveniently placed along travel routes, grinding out those conquest points becomes more a joy ride than a chore.Minor gripe: a few encounters—like “Shock and Awe”—feel over-tuned, and some voice lines play out…

SWG Legends Empire Day and Remembrance Day 2025 promotional banner with Galactic Empire and Rebel Alliance symbols

SWG Legends Empire Day & Remembrance Day 2025: Loyalty, Legacy, and Laser Blasts

June 28, 2025June 28, 2025 Matt "ObiWaN" Hansen

Empire Day. Remembrance Day. Two sides of one galaxy-sized coin. One celebrates the iron grip of the Galactic Empire and its glorious propaganda machine; the other remembers the billions lost to tyranny and the hope that rebellion still kindles in the dark. In the SWG Legends 2025 Empire/Remembrance Day Friday Feature source, the devs serve up a month-long spectacle full of badges, speeches, combat quests, and shiny new rewards for both Imperials and Rebels alike. Whether you’re raising a glass to the Emperor or throwing sabacc dice with Princess Leia, there’s something here for every alignment. Let’s dissect both halves of the event like a proper protocol droid. Empire Day: Glory to the Emperor 📍 Location: Theed, Naboo (-5469 4410) Celebrated across the galaxy, Empire Day marks the rise of Emperor Palpatine and the fall of the Jedi Council. It’s the Empire’s biggest PR moment—complete with propaganda posters, statues, and…

5 Star Wars Characters That Would Be Right at Home in Feudal Japan

April 15, 2025April 15, 2025 Soeren Kamper

Because some Jedi were already halfway to samurai. As we continue our 5-part series leading up to Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025 (happening April 18–20 in Tokyo), we’re diving into the cultural and visual DNA that connects Star Wars to Japanese history. The connections run deeper than lightsabers and robes—at its core, the galaxy far, far away shares archetypes, values, and mythologies with the world of feudal Japan. The Jedi echo the discipline of the samurai. The Sith carry the tragic pride of fallen warlords. Even the Force itself resonates with Zen-like duality and cosmic harmony. This time, we’re going full speculative fiction: imagining iconic Star Wars characters reimagined as figures from feudal Japan. If George Lucas drew from Kurosawa’s lens, let’s step all the way through the torii gate and recast the galaxy as if it were ruled by shogun and shinobi. We’re not just swapping outfits—we’re reinterpreting these…

A dramatic panoramic scene blending the aesthetics of feudal Japan and Star Wars. In the foreground, a Jedi and a samurai stand side by side on a misty ridge at sunrise—one holding a lightsaber, the other a katana—both in contemplative poses. Behind them, a futuristic skyline merges with traditional Japanese architecture—Jedi temples rising next to pagodas, starships flying above tiled rooftops. Cherry blossoms drift through the air, while distant twin suns cast a soft glow. The atmosphere is reverent and epic, symbolizing the timeless bridge between samurai tradition and the Star Wars galaxy.

Top Star Wars Moments That Feel Straight Out of a Samurai Movie

April 13, 2025April 13, 2025 Soeren Kamper

From Kurosawa’s Shadow to the Edge of the Outer Rim As we gear up for Star Wars Celebration Japan (April 18–20, 2025), we continue our 5-part editorial series exploring the roots of Star Wars in Japanese culture. This installment is all about what you feel when watching a lightsaber duel unfold in silence, when a Jedi lowers their blade instead of striking, or when a warrior stands alone against impossible odds. These moments aren’t just cinematic choices—they’re spiritual, philosophical, and visual echoes of samurai storytelling. Drawing deeply from Akira Kurosawa’s films, Bushidō ethics, and Zen Buddhist principles, these scenes resonate with the ancient traditions of Japan. Let’s examine the most powerful Star Wars moments that feel straight out of a samurai movie—and why they still hit just as hard today. The Samurai Legacy That Reached Hollywood Before we dive in, it’s worth remembering that Star Wars didn’t emerge in a…

Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall to Be Honored at the Oscar Wilde Awards

February 3, 2025February 3, 2025 gingetattoo

When it comes to shaping blockbuster film history, few names command more attention than Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall. This powerhouse couple has had a career trajectory that feels like a Hollywood script—except in this case, it’s real life. Now, their immense contributions to the entertainment industry are being celebrated with an honor fit for legends: they’ll be receiving recognition at the prestigious Oscar Wilde Awards on March 1, 2025. Let’s talk about why this matters, especially for anyone who’s ever experienced that “galaxy far, far away.” Who Are Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall? You’ve probably seen Kennedy and Marshall’s names in movie credits even if you didn’t realize it at the time. Kennedy, as the current president of Lucasfilm, is responsible for leading the Star Wars universe into its latest chapters. Yes, that includes blockbuster films like The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, and The Rise of Skywalker. She…

George Lucas and the Bantam Era: Shaping the Expanded Star Wars Universe

George Lucas and the Bantam Era (Part II)

January 16, 2025January 16, 2025 gingetattoo

he Bantam era of Star Wars publishing (1991–1999) wasn’t just about storytelling—it was an intricate balancing act between creativity and approval processes. George Lucas, the creator of this sprawling galaxy, maintained a curious relationship with this era. While Lucas wasn’t directly involved in every project, his shadow loomed large over the Expanded Universe (EU). As we continue this exploration into the Bantam era, Part II delves deeper into the creative processes behind some of the most notable works of this period. The Approval Gauntlet: Lucas at the Helm of Outlines For every novel published during the Bantam era, an outline had to go through rigorous scrutiny. As noted by Michael P. Kube-McDowell, author of The Black Fleet Crisis trilogy, no story could move forward without Lucas’s blessing. This process ensured that each book stayed aligned with Lucas’s vision of the galaxy, even if that vision sometimes seemed… opaque. “Lucas Says…

Star Wars Outlaws Hits a High Note: DICE Awards Nomination for Outstanding Music Composition

January 10, 2025January 10, 2025 Matt "ObiWaN" Hansen

The galaxy far, far away has delivered countless unforgettable moments, from epic space battles to deeply personal stories of redemption, rebellion, and revenge. Now, Star Wars Outlaws—a highly anticipated video game—has hit a high note in an entirely different way. It’s been nominated for Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Composition at the prestigious DICE Awards! Yes, the Force is strong with this one, especially in the music department. A Score Worthy of the Stars Creating a memorable soundtrack for the Star Wars universe is no easy task. With legendary compositions like John Williams’ iconic scores setting the gold standard, the pressure to craft something original yet familiar is immense. Star Wars Outlaws rises to the challenge with music that evokes a sense of adventure, tension, and grandeur while standing confidently on its own. The nomination for Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Composition at the DICE Awards isn’t just a nod…

How Did Biggs Darklighter Die? A Tale of Friendship, Sacrifice, and the Star Wars Tragedy

October 15, 2024October 15, 2024 gingetattoo

If you’re a Star Wars fan, chances are you’ve come across the name Biggs Darklighter—a beloved, though somewhat lesser-known, character in the original trilogy. He wasn’t the one to swing a lightsaber, rescue princesses, or change the course of the galaxy with mystical powers. No, Biggs was simply a friend—a loyal, courageous pilot whose life and death made a lasting impact on the story of Star Wars. But the burning question remains: How did Biggs Darklighter die? Let’s take a deep dive into the character, his journey, and ultimately, his tragic death that still stings fans today. Who Was Biggs Darklighter? Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of how Biggs Darklighter died, let’s rewind a bit. Biggs, portrayed by actor Garrick Hagon, was a native of Tatooine, much like his childhood buddy Luke Skywalker. The two friends dreamed of escaping their desolate, sand-filled homeworld to join the stars, but while…

Sabine Wren: The Mandalorian Rebel and Warrior Artist

Know your lore: Sabine Wren

September 25, 2024September 25, 2024 Soeren Kamper

Sabine Wren is one of the most complex and dynamic characters in Star Wars. First introduced in Star Wars: Rebels and later taking on a larger role in Ahsoka, she defies the traditional warrior archetype by blending Mandalorian combat skills with a rebellious flair for art. Throughout her journey, Sabine transitions from a young Mandalorian rebel to a leader who carries the weight of her people’s future. In Ahsoka, her story takes a new direction as she steps into the role of a Jedi-in-training, showing her willingness to constantly evolve and embrace new challenges. Sabine’s story is one of transformation—she goes from battling the Empire as part of the Ghost crew to confronting her Mandalorian past and ultimately taking up the mantle of leadership. Along the way, she faces tough choices, inner conflicts, and an ever-present desire to redeem herself for her past. Her journey reflects the deeper themes of…

Remembering James Earl Jones: The Iconic Voice of Darth Vader (1931–2024)

September 10, 2024September 10, 2024 Soeren Kamper

The world has lost a true legend with the passing of James Earl Jones, who died yesterday at the age of 93. Best known for his deep, resonant voice that gave life to one of cinema’s greatest villains, Darth Vader, Jones had an illustrious career that spanned over seven decades. His contributions to film, television, and theater are immeasurable, and his legacy as a performer will be remembered for generations to come. A Voice That Defined Generations Born in 1931 in Arkabutla, Mississippi, James Earl Jones developed an iconic voice that would go on to define his career. Yet, in his early years, he struggled with a debilitating stutter, a challenge that ironically pushed him toward the power of speech and communication. Over time, he overcame his speech impediment and discovered his extraordinary vocal talent—a gift that would take him from the theater stage to the silver screen and into…

Ahsoka: The Ultimate Star Wars Icon

September 4, 2024September 4, 2024 Soeren Kamper

When you think of Star Wars, certain names pop up immediately: Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Yoda… and then there’s Ahsoka Tano. For those who haven’t been keeping up with the galaxy far, far away, Ahsoka might just be the most important Star Wars character you’ve never heard of. Or, if you’re a die-hard fan, she’s probably your favorite. In either case, let’s break down the story of this fierce, independent, and incredibly resilient Togruta who has taken the Star Wars universe by storm. Chapter 1: The Unlikely Beginning of Ahsoka Tano Ahsoka Tano’s journey in the Star Wars universe started with one of the most unexpected and, frankly, rocky introductions. This young Togruta apprentice was supposed to be the Jedi that no one saw coming—especially since she wasn’t mentioned in the prequel trilogy. Yet, when she first graced the screen in Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008), fans didn’t quite…

Angela Morley: The Transgender Pioneer Behind Star Wars' Iconic Music

Angela Morley: The Transgender Pioneer Behind Star Wars’ Iconic Sound

June 17, 2024June 17, 2024 gingetattoo

Have you ever wondered about the creative minds behind the legendary Star Wars soundtrack? While John Williams is a household name, there’s another unsung hero who played a pivotal role in bringing the galaxy far, far away to life through music. Meet Angela Morley, a transgender pioneer who broke barriers and orchestrated some of the most iconic scores in cinematic history. Let’s dive into her remarkable journey and explore how she left an indelible mark on the world of music and film. Early Life and Career Angela Morley was born Walter Stott in Leeds, England, in 1924. From an early age, Morley showed a prodigious talent for music, quickly mastering the clarinet and saxophone. Her career began in the 1950s when she became known as Wally Stott. During this time, she made significant contributions to British radio and television, composing music for popular shows like “The Goon Show.” Morley’s early…

The Impact of John Williams on Star Wars: Insights from Amandla Stenberg on The Acolyte

May 21, 2024June 3, 2024 gingetattoo

John Williams is a name synonymous with cinematic music, and nowhere is his impact more profound than in the Star Wars franchise. The legendary composer has created some of the most memorable and iconic themes in film history. Recently, Amandla Stenberg shared her thoughts on the influence of Williams’ music in a video discussing her upcoming role in “The Acolyte,” a new Star Wars series. This article explores the legacy of John Williams’ music in Star Wars, its impact on the franchise, and what insights Stenberg has offered about the new series. John Williams and His Legacy in Star Wars John Williams’ contribution to the Star Wars saga cannot be overstated. His music has not only defined the franchise but has also become an integral part of its identity. From the opening crawl to the dramatic climaxes, Williams’ compositions have provided the emotional backbone of Star Wars. The Importance of…

Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025: Unveiling a Stellar Lineup and Exclusive Events

May 1, 2024May 1, 2024 Novara Skuara

Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025 is gearing up to be an extraordinary event for fans of the beloved saga, set to unfold at the Makuhari Messe from April 18-20, 2025. This year’s lineup boasts an impressive array of talent from across the Star Wars universe, promising unforgettable experiences for attendees. Iconic Guests and Legendary Appearances Anthony Daniels, renowned for his portrayal of C-3PO across all 11 Star Wars feature films, is set to make a grand appearance. As the only actor to have worked on every installment of the main Star Wars saga, Daniels holds a special place in the hearts of fans, symbolizing a living bridge between the franchise’s past, present, and future. Joining Daniels will be Temuera Morrison, who is celebrated for his roles as Jango Fett and the resurrected Boba Fett in both classic and new-age Star Wars series, including “The Mandalorian” and “The Book of Boba…