BeforeTheDarkTimes.com - Your Source For Star Wars And MORE!

SEP 30, 2006

May The Force Be With You. And Your Banjo.

You've heard it in techno- You've heard it in disco- But how about on banjo?

The circle (and the cheese) is now complete. Now, if he only knew Spoonman..

FETT | 3:00PM - EST

BTDT Flashback - Burger King ESB Contest 1981

   Back in the day, when the Star Wars saga was dominating the scifi community,
  Atari was still reigning champion in the home gaming industry.  The above pic
  highlights a contest that promoted both Atari and ESB simultaneously.  Up for
  grabs is this wall poster that commemorated the event.  This is a must-see for
  you fellow paper collectors.

FETT | 9:00AM - EST

Move Over Star Trek - Dr. Who Makes Guinness Book

  With 43 years and 723 episodes under its belt, the infamous Dr. Who has laid
  its claim in the Guinness Book of World Records as TVs longest-running scifi
  show.  More here.

FETT | 9:00AM - EST

Indy In Aspen

  Harrison Ford will be in Aspen Colorado this evening, to accept the
  Fest's Independent by Nature Award.  No doubt some questions regarding
  Indy IV will be asked tonight.

More on the event here.

FETT | 9:00AM - EST

SEP 26, 2006

AZ Gets Raided

  For those of you hoping for an opportunity to see ROTLA on the big screen this
  year, the film is scheduled for showings on September 29 and 30 as part of The
  Loft's Late Night Cult Classics series. For more information, check out The Loft
  Cinema's official website or call the theater at (520) 795-0844.

FETT | 3:00PM - EST

Let's Get Ready To...... Oh Wait.

  Sad news for those folks waiting for the debut of PS3- According to this article,
  prior lawsuits and other red tape will most likely prevent the release of a rumble
  pack or similar unit with the debut of the new console from Sony.  Check it out.

FETT | 3:00PM - EST

SEP 25, 2006

The Face of Mars revealed

Looks like the "Face of Mars" that was originally photographed by the 1976 Viking mission has been properly mapped.

OutRage | 8:00PM - EST

SEP 24, 2006

PS3 Gran Turismo HD: Cars Sold Separately

According to this article, cars for the new Gran Turismo HD will need to be
purchased via microtransactions online.

It kind of reminds me of that Steven Wright skit: "I bought batteries and they
weren't included."

FETT | 11:00AM - EST

SEP 23, 2006

Impress[ion].. MOST Impress[ion]..

If you've ever seen ONE movie in the theatre in the past 10 years, you have to watch this comedian.

FETT | 9:00PM - EST

SEP 21, 2006

"We Shall Double Our Efforts!"

You better, or that driver's gonna get lapped!

FETT | 7:30PM - EST

One Coin You DON'T Want To Flip..

  Or do anything with, for that matter- on eBay is a nice POTF coin that doesn't
  pop up too often. Why does it always have to the stuff on MY favorite character
  that has to be the rare one? Sheesh.

FETT | 6:45PM - EST

Lego Star Wars II: 1.1 Milliion Copies Sold
Source: gamesradar.com

After just one week, the new Lego Star Wars II game has surpassed the 1-million
mark.

I may be biased, but I think TrooperGirl's review of the game had something to
do with it..

Forum Thread | FETT | 1:30PM - EST

I See Your Schwartz Is As Big As Mine.. Even Animated.
Source: Variety/Cinescape

  Looks like Star Wars isn't the only big screen film going to a TV series-
  MGM TV has just joined forces with Mel Brooks to turn Spaceballs into a
  13-episode animated TV series, beginning next Fall.  More on the release here.

Eat your heart out, Clone Wars...

Forum Thread | FETT | 1:00PM - EST

SEP 20, 2006

On A Parade Float Far Far Away

George Lucas has been selected as Grand Marshal for the 2007 Tournament
of Roses. More on the story here.

Forum Thread | TrooperGirl | 3:00PM - EST

SEP 19, 2006

BTDT Flashback: Revenge Of The Jedi Admiral Ackbar

  It's always fun to re-visit the 80s, to a time when the third film of the Original
  Trilogy was slated for the name, "REVENGE Of The Jedi". We all know that was
  changed at the very last minute, and here's some proof: a mail-away ad that
  slipped through past the last minute update..  Enjoy.

FETT | 10:00PM - EST

What Nezzjo Know..

BTDT Forum member Nezzjo had the opportunity to check out classic guitar
rocker Jeff Beck over the weekend- Go here to see his take on the show.

FETT | 10:00PM - EST

Who's Not Traveling?
Source: bbc.co.uk

  Even though gas prices are finally coming back down, it appears that Dr. Who
  will be staying within our solar system until further notice.  Due to "budget
  constraints", Who will be staying local for his adventures, rather than traveling
  to far off worlds.

  Funny thing is, my fondest memories of Dr. Who were with Tom Baker, when
most of the costumes and props looked like something I'd done in my backyard.
  You can't tell me the dollars were flowing then!  Oh well, at least he's still on
  the air...

FETT | 7:00PM - EST

SEP 18, 2006

Next Transformers Trailer: Winter 2006
Source: transformersthemovie.com

  The next scheduled trailer for the new Transformers live action film will appear
  on movie screens sometime between Thanksgiving and Christmas, sources are
  reporting.  Stay tuned for more updates on this.

FETT | 10:00PM - EST

BTDT Review: Lego Star Wars II

Check out our review of the newest Star Wars release here.

Forum Thread | TrooperGirl | 5:00PM - EST

Insider: ESB Flashback

  The latest issue of the SW Insider contains a great writeup on the filming of the
  ESB Cloud City sequence, including some neat little details the average fan
  wouldn't know about unless they were actually there.  Considering this film is
  my favorite of the OT, I thought this was worth highlighting.

  Sadly, there are no details regarding the forthcoming TV series. However there is
a nice blip on the next Indiana Jones game, due out in Summer 2007.  It's
  currently slated for the PS3 and XBox 360 platforms, and is to be set in the
  timeline of one year after IJ: The Last Crusade.  There is also mention of an
  event happening October 13-15 in Milford, MA, known as Memorabiliafest.
  This year's guests include Billy Dee Williams, Ray Park, Daniel Logan, and many
  others.  Be sure to check it out if you're in the area.

FETT | 8:00AM - EST

Gayden?

  In the most recent issue of Us Weekly, there is an article indicating that rumors
  have reached the Outer Rim territories that Hayden might be more interested
  in the male community than the hoardes of females currently chasing him from
  movie set to movie set.

You can see a copy of the article here, and you can speak your thoughts here
in our Forums. Thanks to Queen AmiDana for the heads up!

Forum Thread | FETT | 8:00AM - EST

SEP 15, 2006

Barbara Hambly Book Signing 9/16

Barbara Hambly, author of Children Of The Jedi and Planet Of The Twilight will be
signing books tomorrow at 2pm at:

Mysterious Galaxy Books
7051 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Suite #302
San Diego, CA 92111

FETT | 12:00PM - EST

Wii Update: Europe Release 12/8
Source: BBC.co.uk

  At launch, Nintendo expects the console to cost 249 euros (£179) and will come
  bundled with the Wii Sports series of games.  Nintendo also said about 20 games
  would be available on launch date including The Legend of Zelda: Twilight
  Princess.

FETT | 12:00PM - EST

A Wing And A Prayer

Astronauts have successfully unfolded the new solar array panels, or "wings",
for the international space station yesterday.

There is footage available of this deployment and other shuttle events here.

FETT | 7:00AM - EST

SEP 14, 2006

Wii Be Comin'

The newest Nintendo console system will hit store shelves in Japan on 12/2.
More info here.

FETT | 8:30PM - EST

Hayden, Samuel L Jackson Return To Trilogy Work

It appears that Hayden Christensen and Samuel L. Jackson will be involved in
another 3-movie deal, as their latest project, Jumper, is actually 1 of a
3-book series.

More on the story here.

FETT | 12:00PM - EST

In Memory Of...

Our thoughts go out to the victims of 9/11/2001 and their families.

Forum Thread | FETT | --:--

SEP 10, 2006

Aliens: 20 Years Later

  The Alien series is eternally honored by the folks here at BTDT.  Funny thing is,
  the "part II" of the series is still revered by many today as being better than
  the initial film.  Check out this article, on the sequel to the film which boasted
  that noone can hear you scream in Space..

FETT | 9:00PM - EST

Was Ist Das? Das Ist Racer Arcade

For those of you near Germany, here's a great opportunity to pick up a nice
piece to add to your Star Wars collection: an Episode I Racer arcade game!

I never got to play this when it was out here in the States, but the graphics
look great. Zieg.. LUCAS!

FETT | 9:00PM - EST

There Is Another...

  As a child, my parents repeatedly told me that I should be myself. Then they'd
  clarify that I should be "my best self". Much to their dismay, I was a geek in its
  purest form. I was always drawn to the intelligent and imaginative.

  Science fiction and fantasy were irresistible. My "best self" apparently wasn't
  supposed to like these dirty geekish things. My parents tried to understand.
  When that failed, they tried talking me out of it. They tried telling me that
  nobody likes a nerd. Despite their best efforts, they never did convince me
  that I needed to change. Here I am, a proud geek. I think we'll get along
  just fine.

  You may be wondering why I am now part of the staff of beforethedarktimes?
  I'm hoping that I can offer some extra insights to the world of Star Wars
  fandom. I'm an active member of the 501st Legion , which is arguably the top
  Star Wars costuming organization worldwide. Due to my connections
  there, I have access to tips and news quicker than most fans. I would love
  to be able to pass on those little tidbits. I also hope to be able to help
  with any costuming questions any of you may have. I have experience with all
  sorts of materials and if there is anything I can't answer, I can likely point you in
  the direction of where next to look. As a fan of most science fiction and fantasy
  films, I also hope to be able to offer reviews of the films I see and upcoming
  movies that I'm excited or horrified about.

I'm very excited for this opportunity and look forward to contributing what I know.

TrooperGirl

Forum Thread | TrooperGirl | 4:00PM - EST

SEP 9, 2006

Jumper Set Pics

You can check out set pics from Hayden Christensen's latest film, Jumper, here.
Thanks to the gang at desiringhayden.net for posting the images.

FETT | 11:30PM - EST

If Speeder Bikes Were Used On Hoth..

They would probably look something like this-

FETT | 11:00PM - EST

"We Have Top Men Working On It Right Now...... Top.. Men."

For some unknown reason, the digital download of ROTLA via Amazon.com has
been yanked..

  It debuted on 9/6 for just $9.99 to download, but as of today it is no longer
  available.  Personally, smells like server issues to me...
  Story courtesy of SpielbergFilms.com.

FETT | 10:00PM - EST

GamesRadar - Lego OT In 2 Minutes

  GamesRadar.com has a great consolidated highlight of the Lego Original Trilogy,
  coming in at 2 minutes in length (actually 1:58 if you wanna get anal about it).
  You can check it out here.

FETT | 7:00PM - EST

Star Wars Lego II : Build Your Character

  In honor of the forthcoming DVD release this Tuesday, there is also a great
  Lego Star Wars II demo here, where you can build your own character and
  do some other cool stuff.

Thanks goes out to Southern Sith for the heads up.

FETT | 7:00PM - EST

Episode IV - The Real Ending

It is speculated that this may have been the way Episode IV was supposed to
end, before George decided to provide the Cinderella ending we all know today.

FETT | 2:00PM - EST

SEP 6, 2006

PS3 - Sorry Euro Gamers...

  According to this update, Sony has come forward and stated that the PS3
  will not reach Europe, Russia, Middle East, Africa and Australasia until March
  2007.

Current dates of 11/11 and 11/17 are still apparently accurate however for
the Japan and U.S. releases. But who knows, it's only September! Stay tuned.

FETT | 8:00PM - EST

SEP 5, 2006

Technicron - For All Your Transformer Needs

  A new site has made its way to the World Wide Web, designed specifically for
  you Transformers collectors.  It is an auction page which deals with one line
  of inventory: transformers and transformer parts.

If you're looking for an old book or a used blender, try "the other leading
auction site".

FETT | 8:00AM - EST

BTDT Flashback: Batman and Robin Alarm Clock

  Dunno if it's the rainy weather, or the recurring problem of the loose ribbon
  cable in my skull, but a flashback of one of my first alarm clocks popped into
  my head.  The Batman and Robin alarm clock from 1974 was probably one of
  my first introductions to the Dark Knight.

Got a favorite toy or memory you'd like to share? Tell us in our new Forums.

Forum Thread | FETT | 8:00AM - EST

SEP 4, 2006

Jonesin' To Collect

The latest issue of Toy Shop magazine currently on store shelves, highlights the
collection of Craig Cacciola of Fort Collins, Colorado.

  His collection includes over 700 pieces of Indiana Jones memorabilia, including
  MOC figures, rare Euro posters, and even an Indiana Jones pinball machine!
  These pics (1, 2, 3, 4) are those displayed in the magazine.

UPDATE: 25 more color pics here from Craig himself. Looks great Craig!

Forum Thread | FETT | 10:00PM - EST

Crikey!! The Croc Hunter Is No More

Croc hunter Steve Irwin has died, apparently while filming something for his
daughter's show. More on the event here.

Forum Thread | FETT | 4:00PM - EST

BTDT Forum Updates

Please take a moment to register yourself in our new Forums!

FETT | 4:00PM - EST

SEP 2, 2006

Mixmaster... Vader?

For anyone who hasn't seen this before, this guy's got skillz. Guaranteed you'll
watch this more than once.

And you can check out the guy's official site here.

FETT | 5:00PM - EST

Finally. A Mini Van Worth Having.

For those of you who perpetually battle against the ongoing Minivan Wars,
here's one I might actually consider driving..

The company is called Power Studios, and they are located 'down un-dah'
in good ole Australia. Check them out.

FETT | 5:00PM - EST

Reminder: DragonCon On NOW

For those of you who have not already heard, DragonCon in Atlanta is underway
this weekend. More on the event here.

And for a glimpse back to their 2002 event, check out the BTDT coverage.

FETT | 5:00PM - EST

Check My Props Yo

  With Halloween just around the corner, I know many of you are probably
  working like mad on your custom Star Wars costumes.  Check out this link for
  a list of how-to's to create the most accurate props possible.  The more
  accurate your costume, the more it will be appreciated.

FETT | 5:00PM - EST

SEP 1, 2006

Indiana Jones Back On The Big Screen

The Indiana Jones trilogy is back on the big screen in Rochester NY this month,
commemorating the 25th anniversary of ROTLA. Check out the schedule here.

FETT | 8:00AM - EST

Jin Roh Costume On eBay

For any fellow fans of the Jin Roh japanime film, there is a Stray Dog Armor Suit
up for bid on eBay. This suit would rock for your upcoming Halloween Party.

And you can pick up a copy of the Jin Roh DVD here.

FETT | 8:00AM - EST

Max Payne 2 For 2 Clams. Including Shipping.

  If you own a PS2, XBox, or XBox 360, GameStop has Max Payne 2 (PS2) for $2.
  Apply coupon code SAVER for free shipping. Xbox version (Xbox 360 compatible)
  is also available for the same price.

And ya can't beat dat witha bat.

FETT | 8:00AM - EST

How To Look Like Yak Face

Just buy one of these. It's even in scale!

(sad part is, they went through all that trouble to capture every detail on the
prop, and then they go and spell the poor guy's name wrong)

FETT | 8:00AM - EST

Somebody Call Taun We.

  As hurricane/tropical depression/big@$$ rainstorm Ernesto (olé) enters the scene
  in the Northeast, folks plan for power outages, flooding, and an all-around
  wet weekend.  If you've been looking for a reason to set up your Kamino diorama,
  now's the time.

FETT | 8:00AM - EST

BTDT Event Spotlight

Toy and collectible events are happening at the following locations this weekend:

Sacramento, CA - sacramentocomics.com
IL - Hot Wheels show
North Dartmouth, MA - www.3csshop.com
Wayne, NJ- toy show @ #1 Firehouse (973-726-9897)
New Hope, PA - toy and collectibles show (ha he said New Hope)

Details courtesy of our friends at Toy Shop magazine.

FETT | 8:00AM - EST

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