Star Wars: The Force Awakens {Spoiler Free}

I am the Maven® attended a press screening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

In May of 1977, my parents called my attention to a picture in the newspaper. A picture that still remains to me one of the most iconic of the Star Wars universe. I’m sure you know the one. Two droids standing in a stark, futuristic hallway. That photo instantly ignited my imagination. I knew I had to know the story behind it all.

Along with the picture came a question:

“Do you think you would be interested in going to see the movie if we can get tickets?”

I didn’t know it then, and regardless of my excitement, the answer to this question has given context to a large portion of my life since.

Fast forward to December 2015.

Despite what we’ve been told, we’re all about to be given the opportunity to return to a galaxy far, far away. Given an opportunity to see the story continue, and even grow.

Time has passed in the Star Wars universe, and a lot of questions beg to be answered. What happened after the fall of the Empire? What have our heroes been doing during the intervening years? Do Ewoks become the mascot of the New Republic? Ok… not that last one.

Of course questions are answered, though the answers may surprise you. Our old friends have changed much, or probably not at all. Perhaps grown is a better way to put it.

Even more than reconnecting with these old friends, The Force Awakens introduces a new cast of heroes and rogues, villains and hotshots. The stories are compelling in their humor, action, and even heartbreak. They leave you wanting, needing to know more. Ultimately, these stories serve that expand and enhance the universe that’s already inspired much wonder in so many lives.

As you line up on Thursday, do yourself a favor. Ignore all of the speculation. Let go of your prequel-induced fear. Avoid the spoilers and the inconsiderate that disseminate them. Everyone deserves to experience the story in the moment, with an open sense of wonder.

When you go to the theatre on Thursday, remember how you felt that first time you heard the fanfare, and watched the opening scroll. Even more, take the opportunity to introduce a new generation to Star Wars. You won’t be disappointed, and you may just let yourself be that kid again.

About Alan: When he’s not attending movie premieres with his wife, or playing with Star Wars toys, Alan is an industrial systems integrator (plays with real, if a little more down to earth, robots) for a living.

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STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS arrives in theaters everywhere on December 18th!