SEPTEMBER 2005 ARCHIVE

26th - 30th September '05

EP3 GUIDE AND VADER GUIDE OFFER

Final calls for a special offer to own the Official Episode III Souvenir Movie Guide and VADER: The Ultimate Guide for only US$16 - a savings of 20% off! Of note is the Vader Guide features of an Exclusive short story by Karen Traviss (see below) and 16 pieces of exclusive, original artwork from such notables as Jan Duursema, Joe Corroney, and Chris Trevas

' The Trooper was a stranger. Vader had now served long enough beside the remnant of what had been the  Republic's Grand Army to know exactly how tall a cloned soldier would stand in relation to him. The crowns on their white helmets were consistently level with the mouthpiece of his mask, always, every single one of them, always, without variance. This one barely reached his jaw.

"Take off your helmet", said Vader........ ' but you will have to get VADER: The Ultimate Guide to find out more on how the Dark Lord likes his new image.

29th September  2005, MSE-6

UNSEEN QUEEN SURPRISE ATTACK

The insectoid Killiks have been given new worlds, but have not found peace. Their new colonies are under attack from a mysterious foe and the furious Killiks blame the Jedi. The Skywalkers and Solos discover a threat more familiar and terrifying than they had ever expected. Worse, the Dark Nest wants to kill Mara Jade.

Will Jacen's apocalyptic vision create yet another galactic war or prevent one? Most mysterious and deadly of all, the Killiks are hiding a deadly secret. Find out by reading Dark Nest II: Unseen Queen, available from Galaxy Bookshop for only $16.95 plus shipping. Read the Prologue at Star Wars.com

28th September  2005, WA-7

IRONMAN TAKES ON DARTH VADER

Information obtained from a prisoner captured on Jabiim has set Darth Vader on the trail of the Rebel Fleet. No Alliance defense can divert Vader from his target. Ironman writer John Jackson Miller joins the Star Wars team with this one-shot story of duty, honor, and betrayal within the Empire. An All Darth Vader issue in EMPIRE #35.

28th September  2005, WA-7

BATTLEPACK TRILOGY RELEASE

Looking for some standout display pieces for your collection? Hasbro has recently release three more Battlepacks for fans to collect. Choose from EP2 Jedi vs. Separatist, CLONE WARS Jedi vs. Sith, or the EP4 Rebels vs. Empire packs. Each pack includes 5 figures plus accessories, all presented in a movie themed battle presentation.

The Jedi vs. Separatist pack includes; Mace Windu, Jango Fett, Darth Maul, Padwan Anakin & Obi-wan. Rebel vs. Empire has Luke, Darth Vader, Han, Chewbacca and Stormtrooper fighting it out on the Death Star. The Jedi vs Sith pack features; General Kenobi, Assajj Ventress, Yoda, Anakin and General Grevious plus bonus Obi-wan armour.

You can get all three Battlepacks plus preorder the Coruscant Attack Clone Trooper Pack from Case Fresh. Be sure to check out there site over the next 2 weeks they continue to release details of forthcoming product for 2005/06.

27th September  2005, MSE-6

STAR WARS DVDs - EP1 to EP6

Just about everyone knows that the Star Wars Episode III - Revenge of the Sith DVD will be released locally on 2nd November. Pre-orders are available from our favorite Aussie video retailer EZYDVD. Plus, if you are yet to pick up any of the past Star Wars DVD releases i.e. Episodes 1,2,4,5 or 6 then they also have some amazing pre-order pricing for these too!!

Star Wars - Episode 1- The Phantom Menace (2 Disc Set) - $16.83 (Dec 07)
Star Wars - Episode 2- Attack Of The Clones (2 Disc Set) - $16.83 (Dec 07)
Star Wars - Episode 3- Revenge Of The Sith (2 Disc Set) - $29.83 (Nov 02)
Star Wars Trilogy - Episodes 4-6 (3 Disc Box Set) - $59.83 (Dec 07)

27th September  2005, WA-7

NEXUS FAIR IN WA

A quick reminder to all those fans in Western Australia that the Nexus Collectibles Fair is on again this Saturday. Featuring 30 individual sellers from genuine small collectors, to organized traders, the fairs focus is heavily on Sci-Fi plus lots more. Head to the MOUSEDROID EVENTS section for more information.

27th September  2005, WA-7

INSIDER CLONE TROOPER SUPPLEMENT

Head over the the Hyperspace site to read all the goodies in the Star Wars Insider Magazine Online Supplement #84. More Clone info, Dark Lord and Unseen Queen excerpts, plus all the regular goodies members know to expect.

26th September  2005, MSE-6

19th - 25th September '05

LIMITED RELEASE FOR DVD?

First they tell us 'No VHS release', now it appears the stock of the Episode III DVD will be limited. From Video Business Online comes this news "In the wake of the high volume of returns of 'hit DVD titles', 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment is clamping down on shipments of Star Wars: Episode III—Revenge of the Sith." ...[Read More]

25th September  2005, MSE-6

SITH LORD OF THE RINGS

Our favourite Cartoon site, Sev.com.au has updated with a cracker of a crossover featuring two trilogy villains, both meeting a flaming, molten demise: Gollum and Anakin Skywalker. Check out the cartoon as well as the hundreds of submitted punchlines plus other great cartoon pieces in the archives at Sev.com.au

24th September  2005, WA-7

TROOPER ARMOR WITH EXTRA STARCH

The toystore is no longer a safe place since Darth Tatter unleashed his armed forces across all isle. Yes, those evil fiends at Hasbro have mutated yet another Mr Potato Head into legions of SPUD TROOPERS. Forum member Backwardblessing has Posted Pictures of the first sighting of the costumed starchy cranium wonder.

Expect a bounty of spring harvest Star Wars items to be arriving very very soon.

23rd September  2005, Backwardlessing

FORUMS MAINTENANCE COMPLETE

Notice to Forum Members. Problems with the Posts since last visit function have now been restored. Thank you for your patience during our maintenance & upgrade.

As a bonus 6 new Avatar Galleries have been added for you to choose from.

22nd September  2005, MSE-6

OFLC RATING PETITION

Are you angry at the new Office of Film & Literature Classification markings? Well, you are not the only one. The guys at Australian run DVDBITS.com have set up an online Petition so you can voice your concerns regarding the vandalism of our DVD covers with rating logos. So, if you ever want a nice clean Episode III cover Sign the Petition Here.

If you are so inclined, you could also email your polite and articulate comments direct to the OFLC via a personal email at oflcswitch@oflc.gov.au. While you are visiting the DVDBits, also check out their article entitled "Region 4 vs the World". A brilliant piece showing how poorly treated us region 4 views are in comparison to our friends in the UK (region 2) and the USA (Region 1).

22nd September  2005, WA-7

STAR WARS IS JUST A SIDESHOW

"The 17" Luke Skywalker is the most film-accurate statue of the character ever produced." It museum quality figurine composed of polystone, metal, and expertly tailored clothing, capturing  Luke stares off into the twin sunset on Tatooine. Limited to only 2500. $475 including free shipping & securely tracked from Case Fresh to you from next week.

Whilst on the topic of Sideshow Collectibles, be sure to visit the official site to cast your vote on which Expanded Universe Character Sideshow will work their magic on first. (MSE-6: My favourite is Kir Kanos). Voting closes Nov 4.

21st September  2005, MSE-6

WHICH DVD WILL YOU GET?

It should come as no surprise that 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment Australia has confirmed Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith will be available in Widescreen Format only. Unfortunately, no details pertaining to local release 'Bonus Disc' promotion or 'Slip Case' editions were able to be released today.  Stay tuned for more info as it comes in.

21st September  2005, MSE-6

GET YOUR HANS OF MY BUST

The Empire is after him, Jabba the Hutt has placed a price on his head, and every bounty hunter in the galaxy is looking for him too. So you better be quick to secure your Gentle Giant Han Solo Minibust today. Limited to only 8000 worldwide, he is being followed by several squads of Sandtroopers (Sergeants and Squad Leaders) due for release next month.

21st September  2005, MSE-6

THE EMPIRE TAKES OVER THE INSIDER

Execute Order 66...the clone have now taken over the Star Wars Insider Magazine. In issue #84 we see the return of the Galactic Holonet, descriptions of the various Clone units in Episode III, as well as the exotic creature mounts from across the galaxy. Available in 3 collectible covers ( 1, 2, 3 - we received #2). Preorder yours today from Kings Comics.

Or contact our Webmaster (WA-7) if you would like to find out details on how to subscribe to the Star Wars Insider Magazine direct from the USA. If you are interested in some more details on the various Clone Commanders in Episode III, then check out This Entry in the Wikipedia Database.

21st September  2005, MSE-6

KOTOBUKIYA PRICE ASSAULT

Looking to expand your display with some truly amazing Star Wars Statues won't cost the earth. Then this is the week for you to begin your Kotobukiya Collection, starting with the new Episode III Darth Vader figure. This sculpt of the Dark Lord has an interlocking lava themed base which combines with the December Darkside Anakin. It is evil at its best.

Visit Case Fresh in this week for some truly outstanding Bargain Prices on the Han Solo AU$75, Chewbacca AU$65 and Luke/Stormtrooper AU$95 Koto Statues. Looks like it is time to install some more display shelving. ;-)

20th September  2005, WA-7

SUPANOVA APPROACHES SYDNEY

With under 4 weeks until Supanova returns to Sydney, you had better book your tickets online to ensure entry to the first Preview Night Event and Special Deals. Here are just some of the Guests for Sydney; John Rhys-Davies, Richard Taylor, Jay Laga'aia, Imogen Bailey plus heap more TV, Movie, Comic, Anime and Manga personalities

Visit the Supanova.com.au for more info & book your tickets at Ticketek.

19th September  2005, WA-7

12th - 18th September '05

FORCE BATTLERS #3 AT MAJOR RETAIL

This coming week will see the release of the Force Battlers wave 3 assortment at various Major Retailers. Wave 3 includes; Luke Skywalker with Backpack/Skiff and 6 missiles, Han Solo in Stormtrooper disguise with quick draw action plus a second version of Darth Vader, this time with a cool missile launching glider cape. And with the Xmas sales approaching, be on the look out for discounts for even cheaper prices.

18th September  2005, MSE-6

TITANIUM WAVE 3 SPOTTED

News reports in form three states today to say that the latest release of the Titanium Micro Machine Vehicles are finally available here in Australia. Wave 3 spans the entire Saga and Trilogy movies with the Naboo Fighter, Swamp Speeder, ARC-170 Fighter, Tie Bomber and Luke Landspeeder. Plus each vehicle has a surprise action feature.

Thanks To Brent Flynn and David Sharp for their BIG-W store reports. Plus Adam Maitke for the image pointing out Hasbro inclusion of the Micro Machines and Galoob logos on the card backs of the Wave 3.

19th September  2005, WA-7

SANTA VADER OR HASBRO GRINCH?

He's making a list and checking it twice.....but will Santa Vader be on your Star Wars Want List this Xmas? We can confirm that Australia will be seeing stock of the Holiday Season Darth Vader 2005 at selected specialty retailers with an estimated RRP$30. This is the first Holiday Season figure NOT to be based on past Lucas Film artwork.

So, is a red Vader going to find it into your collection this Xmas? Coming with a 'Specially  Designed" cardback and including a unique Greeting Card ... Is he really worth the price??? Leave your feedback in Here for Hasbro to read.

15th September  2005, MSE-6

NEW CARDS FOR AUSTRALIA?

Australians just can not get enough Revenge of the Sith Action Figures as we have received some unusual reports of both Japanese and Canadian carded version appearing in Retail Stores. It appears that Hasbro has had to get in Additional stock from other markets to keep up with local demand, especially coming up to the Xmas season.

15th September  2005, MSE-6

EMPIRE #34

For History may repeat itself for the Skywalkers on Jabiim. First Anakin was forced to abandon the Loyalist Jabiimi troops to the mercy of the Separatists. Now, Luke Skywalker, whose presence there has attracted the attention of Darth Vader, must decide whether to stay and fight  or escape, leaving the Jabiimi freedom fighters to face Vader's wrath.

Find out more in Empire #34 available now at your local comic shop or online from King's comics. And don't forget to place your standing order for the Star Wars Insider Magazine while your there.

14th September  2005, WA-7

COLOURFUL RATINGS

Forum members have reported seeing pre-sale posters for the soon to be release, Revenge of the Sith DVD. The posters sport the new Rating Marking from the Office of Film and Literature Classification. The new logos has many collectors complaining about its aesthetic impact to the DVD cover. Some people are so unimpressed with the cover art that they plan to by the 'Clean' Region 1 version. Read  more about "Ratings and New Marking" requirements here.

13th September  2005, WA-7

MONASH MAYA 3D COMPETITION

The Faculty of Information Technology Monash University is currently running a Maya 3D Competition. The Competition is broken up into two divisions. The first for students attending Tafe or Secondary School in Australia. The entry can be either a still image or a short animation no longer then 3 minutes. Prizes will awarded to the Top Ten Entries.

Second Division is Open Category. This is open to all Non Secondary/Tafe Students in Australia. The entry is to be a short animation no longer then 3 minutes. Prizes will awarded to the Top three entries. For further information please go to www.infotech.monash.edu.au and look under Competitions. So, for all you budding Modelers out there, show Australia your creative Star Wars flare and enter today. Entries close 31st October 2005.

12th September  2005, MSE-6

1st - 11th September '05

WEEKEND OF SCI-FI

Looking to expand your Sci-Fi horizons this weekend? There are two great events you can attend. In Sydney this Sunday head over to Lidcombe and attend the Friends of Science Fiction monthly meeting. or if you are in Melbourne, then get to the Victorian State Library for the Andromeda Event, where Star Walking Inc will be in attendance.

9th September  2005, WA-7

UNLEASHED CANCELLED FOR 2005

Hasbro has 'Officially' confirmed their decision regarding the Unleashed line of 7" figures. As previously reported here, the next wave of Unleashed (Han, Wookiee, Shock Trooper) have not been offered to retailers this year (i.e. cancelled for 2005). But Hasbro has added that there are 'plans' to return to the 7" line in 12 months time.

9th September  2005, MSE-6

ONE MORE TIME...WITH FEELING

This Saturday The Astor Theatre in Melbourne, they will be screening 'Star Wars Episode III Revenge of the Sith'. Star Walking Inc. will be in attendance, having a table and people in costume from 1pm onwards. So come along and say hello to the SWI Team and watch 'Revenge of the Sith' again. Session time include 2pm, 5pm and 8pm. More info Here.

8th September  2005, MSE-6

JUST HOW SUCCESSFUL WERE THE STAR WARS MOVIES???

Now, we all know that Star Wars was huge at the box office, but have you every wondered just how big? Well, our favorite movie magazine, EMPIRE has come up with the goods. They have generated The Biggest 100 Movies of all Time, by taking each movies US box Office takings and indexing them with inflation.  It makes for a very interesting read.

All 6 Star Wars movies are in the top 100 but you are just going to have to buy a copy of the October Empire Magazine to find out. But we can tell you that 20th Century Fox had the most movies in the top 100 than any other studio.

7th September  2005, WA-7

WOOKIEE PELT HUNTER

NEWS FLASH!!! Our Friends at Case Fresh have finished breaking down their latest palates of figure and have a pleasant surprise for all of those variation hunter here in Australia. Yes, the Dark Brown Wookiee Warrior is now in stock and ready for shipment to your door. At only $13.50 a figure get  your Fresh Wookiee Pelts Today.

 5th September  2005, WA-7

EA IMAGINE 2005

Friday 2nd Sept 2005. A glorious day on Sydney Harbour, Electronic Arts held their annual EA Imagine event to showcase their games line up for the 2005/06 season, and it wouldn't be a true gaming event if we didn't see at least one Lucasarts product. In fact the Lucasarts team were able to preview two very different but amazing upcoming titles.

Head into Mousedroid.com EA Imagine 2005 report for all the photos and gossip on Star Wars Battlefront II and Star Wars: Empire at War. To quote an old friend, these titles looks nothing short of "Impressive". Also of note is that Lucasarts has re-launched their Battlefront II site (Flash required) along with a new company logo.

 5th September  2005, MSE-6

NEW EPISODE III FIGURES OUT NOW

If you have been following the release of the Revenge of the Sith Figure line on your Exclusive Toys R Us Poster then we are pleased to announce that the 'Final Three' figures will be available from this Monday 5the September. Some figures have be sold out on release, but we did warn you to get your pre-orders in early.

It seems that fans just can not get enough Clones, so expand your army with an AT-RT Driver. Add Red Leader to your fighter squadron with Obi-Wan Kenobi in Pilot Gear. Or if you are working on a Mustafar Diorama you can never get enough Mustafar Sentries. But never fear, this is not the end of the EP3 line up as there is still more figures before Dec.

4th September  2005, WA-7

HOTH BATTLE PACKS AT TRU

There is a cool breeze blowing thru the isles at Toys R Us Stores this month as Hasbro Releases the second Battle Pack...Assault on Hoth. These packs brilliantly display the five frosty figures inside. General Veers, two standard Snowtroopers, One Snowtrooper with E-web cannon and a Probot . Available in Australia exclusively thru TRU.

 4th September  2005, WA-7

HOW EVOLVED ARE YOU?

Evolution, the survival of the fittest. But for Star Wars Evolutions it is Survival of the Fastest as you will need to ensure you get your orders locked as the next two Evolution Sets are release on CaseFresh.com this week. Add both the Clone to Stormtrooper and the Sith Apprentice to Master sets to your collection.

Sure to be a huge hit will be the Clone Trooper to Stormtrooper packs. With numerous accessories and removable helmet, these are a customizers dream. But don't forget the dark side of the Force, with The Sith pack. Depicting the prequel Triad of Evil from Apprentice to Sith Lord and finally Sith Master. Great value at only AU$49 each,

 3rd September  2005, MSE-6

UNLEASHED FINAL WAVE CANCELLED - WORLDWIDE

HOT NEWS ! ! ! Our Spy network has confirmed from Hasbro sources that the Final Wave of Unleashed figures, including Shock Trooper, Stormtrooper Han Solo and EP3 Wookiee Warrior, are now CANCELLED WORLDWIDE. They have not  been produced and will not be released this year as Hasbro focus on the new 2" Unleashed line.

We can only hope the large scale figures will return some time in the future.

 3rd September  2005, Bogan Spy

AUSTRALIAN EP3 STAMP SHEET OFFER

Australia Posts Philatelic Bureau is running a special offer on Star Wars Stamp Sheets this month. You can get the Star Wars Episode III Revenge of the Sith Souvenir Stamp Sheet ($15.95), Star Wars 25th Anniversary Souvenir Stamp Sheet Pack ($49.95) or Both Sets for only $50.90 with free postage and handling within Australia.

Visit Auspost for more details or call 1800 331 794 to order. But hurry as this offer ends 7th October 2005

1st September  2005, MSE-6

FAREWELL ADMIRAL OZZEL

Michael Sheard, who played Admiral Ozzel in The Empire Strikes Back, died today at the age of 65 after suffering from cancer. Mike also played Adolf Hitler five times, including in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade plus the U-Boat Captain in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Sheard appeared in more than 40 feature films.

1st September  2005, WA-7