J.J. just dropped another juicy Ep. VII detail in the form of a new Omaze charity video.
In the video, J.J. reveals the new X-wing design for Ep. VII, and it looks sweet!
However, I can’t help but think that there’s more to these teases than just raising money for charity. These Omaze videos show just how brilliant the marketing for Ep. VII has been thus far for 2 reasons:
1. The videos show a focus on practical effects.
It’s no secret that many fans think the prequels focused way too much on the visual effects at the expense of the story. You’ll notice that a blue screen is nowhere to be found in either of these videos. This is no accident. I believe that J.J. and Co. are coming as close to apologizing for the prequels as they can without outright doing so. Seeing puppets reminiscent of Jabba’s-Palace and a real-life X-wing speaks volumes as to what Lucasfilm/Disney are trying to showcase from this film.
2. The videos showcase a sense of humor.
Another crowning aspect of the Original trilogy was comic relief. Whether it’s 3PO during the Carbon Freezing sequence, or Han Solo’s interactions with the Ewoks, humor has always played a large role in Star Wars. Interestingly, both of the Omaze videos feature a comical moment where J.J. is momentarily distracted from his charity pitch. In my view, this is most certainly intentional. Having a little laugh-moment indicates the style they want for marketing Ep. VII.
These charity videos have given fans a sense (though a small one) of the style and feel of the return of Star Wars to the big screen.
