Post by The Ultimate Nullifier on Jul 21, 2014 18:02:14 GMT -6
In a new video from the set of “Star Wars: Episode VII,” director J.J. Abrams showed off a first look at what Lucasfilm and Disney describe as the new X-Wing starfighter that will appear in the film.
The teaser gives a good look at the one-person spacecraft, with Abrams’ vehicle — battered from battle — clearly meant to reference George Lucas’ existing sci-fi universe.
While “Star Wars” fans were quick to point out that the vehicle in the video is the Z-95 Headhunter seen or referenced in the “Star Wars” books and animated TV shows, Lucasfilm confirmed that the spacecraft seen is in fact, an X-Wing.
It’s already been revealed that Han Solo’s Millennium Falcon also appears in the seventh film.
Either way, the reveal is the final push in Disney, Lucasfilm and Bad Robot’s “Star Wars: Force for Change,” a fundraiser to support UNICEF Innovation Labs and Programs, benefitting children in need.
To participate, individuals must donate at least $10 in order to enter a chance to win a trip to London to be Abrams’ guest on the Pinewood Studios set of “Episode VII” and appear in a scene in the film.
The project, organized by Omaze, raised $1 million within 24 hours when it launched in May. Donors from more than 119 countries have participated so far. Disney, itself, has committed $1 million to support the cause.
Because of “Force for Change’s” success so far, Abrams announced early Monday that he will offer a second top prize: an advanced screening of the movie in a winner’s hometown for 20 of their friends a week before the film debuts on Dec. 18, 2015.
Other rewards for those who donate include limited edition posters; t-shirts; a lightsaber hilt; concept art and film stills from “Episode VII.”
The fundraiser ends Friday.
The introduction of the new starfighter is the second video from the set of Abrams’ “Star Wars: Episode VII.”
In announcing “Force for Change,” Abrams provided a look at a creature from Tatooine, the desert home of Anakin and Luke Skywalker’s dusty home planet, recreated in Abu Dhabi for “Episode VII.”
Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert also supported the event last week with their own video in which the two talkshow hosts argue over who knows the most “Star Wars” trivia.
Omaze has previously raised funds for charity by offering the chance for donors to attend the finale of “Breaking Bad” with Aaron Paul, or have dinners with George Clooney, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, as well as the opportunity to crush a car with a tank with Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The “Force for Change” fundraiser is the third that’s raised over $1 million for the company this year.