As you are aware by now, the age of remade Star Wars films in 3D is almost upon us. Jar Jar in stunning 3D, er Phantom Menace, the first episode (or the fourth depending on how you look at it) will be out on Friday, February 10th. But AMC Theaters wants to make it far more memorable than just getting a ticket and sitting down with the usually ugly 3D glasses. Instead, participating locations will be giving away collectibles (with purchase) and customized glasses, while 10 places are even having cool events and activities on Saturday, the 11th.
First of all, let’s start with the collectible stuff. While it wasn’t listed which theaters would be doing the promotion that runs from Feb. 10-12th, some will be giving out Anakin Skywalker pod racing 3D glasses and a Hasbro Star Wars Pod Racing Toy (if you purchased a RealID 3D ticket). Not a bad haul for going to just see a movie, eh?
But for those lucky enough to be in or near one of the 10 cities across the country, keep your Saturday of the premiere weekend open as there is a whole lot of Star Wars fun for you. These include a play area with Lego Star Wars, a chance to play the demo of Kinect Star Wars, get a photo taken with various characters from the movie (not the stars themselves though) and Darth Maul face painting. The locations are AMC Southlake 24 in Atlanta, AMC Liberty Tree Mall 20 in Boston, Chicago’s AMC South Barrington 30, Denver’s AMC Highlands Ranch 24, two spots in Los Angeles (AMC Tustin 24 and AMC Ontario Mills 30), another two in New York City (AMC Empire 25 and AMC Garden State 16), Pheonix at the AMC Mesa Grand 24 and San Francisco’s AMC Emeryville Bay Street 24.
Notably absent is Orlando’s AMC 24 at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World. Given the tight history they’ve had with Lucas and Star Wars, recently even updating the Star Tours ride for the prequels, it seems an odd omission. But then Disney may be planning their own special celebration. We will try to find out and let you know.
But in the meantime it sounds like a great day to spend for Star Wars fans and families. Have fun.
