Rebel Force Radio: Star Wars Podcast
Film Commentary: Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith

In another Rebel Force Radio ExclusiveSam Witwer returns for the long-awaited conclusion of our prequel trilogy commentaries with Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith and this time, David Collins is along for the ride with Jason & Jimmy Mac. Sam always blows our minds with his insightful and educated analysis of any Star Wars film, and Sith is no different. Plus, David has some incredible stories to tell about working at Lucasfilm while Episode III was in production. And of course, we have a ton of laughs along the way.  As always, you can watch the film along with us or simply listen to the show. It might be your last present of the holidays, but it's probably the best, as RFR presents our film commetary track for Revenge of the Sith with Sam Witwer.

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_122614_ROTSCommentar.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:25pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: December 19, 2014

The holiday season is upon us and the Star Wars spirit is in the air. Coming off a week filled with tons of news about The Force Awakens, Star Wars Rebels, and more, we have a lot to say. We have more analysis of the new character names revealed for The Force Awakens, including exclusive information about the inspiration for Poe Dameron's surname.  Plus, Mark Hamill, Frank Oz, and Bob Iger speak. And don't forget to stay tuned for a mega-sized The Force Awakens Spoiler Alert filled with juicy rumors and wild speculation.  Join Jason & Jimmy, along with in-studio guest Cris Macht (The Force Among Us), for Star Wars holiday cheer!  

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS from REBELFORCE RADIO 

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_121914_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:29pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: December 12, 2014

What's in a name?  Plenty if you are a Star Wars fan! And this show is all about the newly released character names for Star Wars: The Force Awakens.  From Po to Rey to Finn...We talk about it all. And we have a ton of listener voice mail featuring your fresh opinions of these new character names. Plus, SNL parodies the trailer, Twitter reacts to TFA, and more! 

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_121214_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:43pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: The Force Awakens Trailer Reaction Show II: The Fans

Following the amazing debut of the first teaser trailer for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, loyal RFR listeners flooded our voice mail inbox with their own reactions, opinions and commentary. For this special episode, the spotlight shines on you and your feedback - unedited and unscreened - on a historic day for the Star Wars saga. Plus, exclusive reaction from filmmaker Kevin Smith that you can only hear here, courtesy of The Comlink  Join us in the trenches as we bask in the first Star Wars film footage in almost 10 years with this bonus show from RebelForce Radio!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_112914_TFAListenerFe.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 6:40pm CDT

The eagerly anticipated trailer for Star Wars: The Force Awakens debuted at movie theaters and online this morning. RebelForce Radio is proud to bring you immediate reaction to the trailer with our friends Kyle Newman, Paul Bateman, F.J. Desanto, and J.C. Reifenberg. We cover it all, from the sights to the sounds, and we even reveal the identity of the mysterious narrator. Join us now for a historic day for Star Wars fans and come back later for an upcoming show featuring wall-to-wall listener feedback. Check your feeds later this weekend for more! 

Black Friday Special - CLICK HERE to save 10% off your RebelForce Radio T-Shirt order. Limited sizes remain. This weekend only. 

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_112814_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 4:09pm CDT

Star Wars Rebels: Declassified: "Gathering Forces"

Season One of Star Wars Rebels comes to the halfway point with the mid-season finale "Gathering Forces". Picking up immediately following last week's episode "Empire Day", "Gathering Forces" features the crew of The Ghost on the run once again, and Ezra facing his demons. Joining moderator Jason Swank & Jimmy Mac are esteemed panelists Steve Glosson (Geek Out Loud) and Teresa Delgado (Fangirls Going Rogue).

Direct download: SWRebelsDeclassified_112714_Gatherin.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 11:39pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: November 21, 2014

It's our annual Thanksgiving show when we show appreciation to our listeners as we feature your voice mail - unscreened and unedited. As always, you guys have a lot to say!  Join us as we celebrate the 36th anniversary of the cult fave Star Wars Holiday Special with memories from Mark Hamill and more. Plus, we have The Force Awakens spoiler discussion with rumors about the trailer and Luke Skywalker,  Tarkin talk,  the Billy Dee Quote of the Week and more. Stuff your bird with Star Wars & RFR this Thanksgiving!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_112114_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:20am CDT

Star Wars Rebels: Declassified: "Empire Day"

Feeling patriotic? Celebrate "Empire Day" with RebelForce Radio!  Adam Bray, author of the Star Wars Rebels Visual Guide and Fangirls Going Rogue co-host Tricia Barr join Jason & Jimmy Mac for conversation about what "Empire Day" is and it's impact on the crew of The Ghost. From the odd Tseebo, to the mystery of Ezra's parents, to the cliffhanger ending...We cover it all on Declassified

Direct download: SWRebelsDeclassified_112014_EmpireDa.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 11:41am CDT

RebelForce Radio: November 14, 2014

Star Wars: The Clone Wars Season 6, aka "The Lost Missions", was released on disc this week and to celebrate the occasion, actor Matt Lanter (Anakin Skywalker) joins us for a look back at the season & the series. We have a great time catching up with Matt and we have a lot of laughs along the way. Plus, we examine the fallout from last week's big title announcement for "The Force Awakens", "Chewbacca" finds himself in an Unthinkable event in Hollyweird,  Daniel Radcliffe talks about visiting the Star Wars set, Mark Hamill's beard is history, and we have a juicy Fifteen Minute Spoiler Alert filled with the latest rumors about Star Wars: The Force Awakens!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_111414_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:06pm CDT

Star Wars Rebels: Declassified: "Out of Darkness"

Sabine reveals a little about her past, Hera gets off the ship, and the mysterious "Fulcrum" works in the shadows in the latest episode of Star Wars Rebels, "Out Of Darkness". Joining Jason Swank & Jimmy Mac at the Declassified roundtable this week are the hosts of Shotglass Digital's Techno Retro Dads, Stuart "Shazbazzar" Tullis & Josh "Jedi Shua" Stolte.  Among the topics discussed include Sabine's background, the identity of the mysterious "Fulcrum", and space waffles.

 

Direct download: SWRebelsDeclassified_111214_OutOfDar.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 4:36pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: November 7, 2014

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" gets revealed as the title of the next film in the saga, firing up the imagination of fans and critics alike. Upon hearing this news, RebelForce Radio  conducted an emergency recording session to bring you the analysis, speculation and discussion you expect from us.  We talk about stuff like the shift away from the episodic roman numbering convention and what that really means. We put the logo under the microscope, speculate about a future trailer, and dig deep beneath the surface to  decipher the meaning of the title. David Collins joins us to weigh in on significance of "The Force Awakens" and we go behind the scenes to chat about a catastrophic RFR technical meltdown. And, we aren't forgetting Rebels! The fabulous Tiya Sircar, voice of Sabine Wren from Star Wars Rebels makes her RFR debut visit In The Cantina.  Tiya give us the lowdown on a few things we can expect from Sabine and we learn what makes the young star tick, both as a professional and as a Star Wars fan.  All this, plus more Kitster, this week  on RebelForce Radio.

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_110714_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 2:48am CDT

Star Wars Rebels: Declassified: "Breaking Ranks"

Ezra goes undercover to retrieve top-secret information from Agent Kallus's office and gets some help along the way from some a couple of unlikely sources. "Breaking Ranks" takes us into the heart of Imperial cadet training and Star Wars Rebels: Declassified is back to discuss, dissect, and analyze this cool season one episode. Joining Jason Swank & Jimmy Mac at the Roundtable is noted Star Wars concept artist & co-host of Star Wars Influences, Paul Bateman.

Direct download: SWRD_110516_BreakingRanks.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 3:43pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: October 31, 2014

The long-awaited animated series Star Wars Rebels is underway and we have Dave Filoni joining us this week to provide us with insider info about what we've seen and what we will be seeing. It's always a good time when Dave stops by RFR and this visit is no exception. And if that isn't enough to satisify any Star Wars Rebels fan, we have Hera Syndulla herself, Vanessa Marshall, joining us In The Cantina for a fun conversation about her role in the saga and fandom in general. Plus, Darth Vader returns, The Billy Dee Quote of the Week and cool Halloween stuff!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_103114_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:05pm CDT

Star Wars Rebels: Declassified: "Rise of the Old Masters"

Join us at the Roundtable as we analyze and dissect the Star Wars Rebels season one episode "Rise of the Old Masters". For this editon of Declassified, film director Kyle Newman (Fanboys / Barely Lethal) joins us and, as usual, he has a lot to say. Everyone has been wondering what Kyle thinks of Star Wars Rebels thus far, and we got him this week to give us the low down.  "Rise of the Old Masters" contains threads to tie together the prequel era with the dark times, the return of a Jedi Master, and a strange twist we didn't see coming. Plus, The Inquisitor gets into the action and more. We talk about it all on Star Wars Rebels: Declassified.

Direct download: SWRDeclassified_102914_RiseoftheOldM.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 4:50pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: October 24, 2014

Freddie Prinze Jr. joins us this week for his RebelForce Radio network debut! We go In The Cantina to talk about his cool character Kanan Jarrus from Star Wars Rebels, his interests, his influences, and his fandom. George Lucas appeared in Chicago last Friday at the Chicago Ideas Week and Dave Filoni spoke at the MIPCOM conference in Cannes, France. We have audio highlights from both events! Plus, we get pumped up for Darth Vader's debut on Star Wars Rebels this weekend and more!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_102414_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:23am CDT

Star Wars Rebels: Declassified: "Fighter Flight"

As we continue to work our way through Season 1 of Star Wars Rebels, we find ourselves learning more and more about our group of core characters, as well as the state of the galaxy on a whole. In "Fighter Flight", Zeb & Ezra are sent on a simple errand to pick up some fruit in a Lothal town, but what happens next is anything but ordinary.  Joining us at the Roundtable this week to provide analysis are movie producer/writer F.J. Desanto and Star Wars collecting guru Dan Curto

Direct download: SWRebelsDeclassifed_102214_FighterFl.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 3:56pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: October 17, 2014

James Earl Jones is back as the voice of Darth Vader, Palpatine gets a first name, and whispers of a possible Obi-Wan Kenobi trilogy are in the air. Thank the Maker RebelForce Radio is here, just in time, to provide our own brand of commentary & discussion! We talk about all the latest Star Wars news, rumors, and Episode VII speculation. Star Wars Oxygen host David W. Collins and Hughes The Force director J.C. Reifenberg join us to talk about their new YouTube show for Kevin Smith's See Smod channel - The Comlink. Plus, hear exclusive audio from The Comlink with special guests James Arnold Taylor and Kevin Smith himself!  Plus, Mark Hamill's beard, Carrie Fisher on "Ankle-Gate", and our almost-famous 15 Minute Episode VII Spoiler Alert!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_101714_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:59am CDT

Star Wars Rebels: Declassified - "Droids In Distress"

Season one of Star Wars Rebels is officially underway with the first "proper" episode, "Droids In Distress".  Our crew of rebels cross paths with some very familiar characters from the rich history of the Saga. How did they get along and where did their adventures take them?  We talk all about on Declassified! Joining moderator Jason Swank & Jimmy Mac are our pals J.C. Reifenberg (Hughes The Force) and Star Wars Oxygen's David W. Collins.

Check out David & F.J. new show THE COMLINK - New webisodes weekly!

Direct download: SWRebelsDeclassified_101514_DroidsIn.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 3:32pm CDT

Star Wars Influences #9: The Hero's Journey

Paul Bateman is back for another round of Star Wars Influences. For this episode, we attack some of the most-requested subject matter for Influences - The impact of Joseph Campbell's  on the plot of Star Wars.  Join Jimmy Mac as he picks Paul's mind on the effect of Joseph Campbell on the saga and the oft-mentioned "Hero's Journey".  Paul breaks down the philosophies and teachings of Campbell in a straight-forward and conversational style as he applies the aspects of  "The Hero's Journey" to the story of Star Wars: A New Hope - From beginning to end.  Plus, we talk about images revealed from Star Wars Episode VII including the now-famous Bad Robot "Hunka Junk" Millennium Falcon video and more!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_StarWarsInfluences_009.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:19am CDT

Star Wars Rebels: Declassified: Spark of Rebellion

The next era of Star Wars animation has finally begun! Star Wars Rebels successfully blasted out into hyperspace with the TV movie event Spark of Rebellion. To honor the occasion, RebelForce Radio returns to the original Star Wars Roundtable with Star Wars Rebels: Declassified . Join stalwart moderator Jason Swank with Jimmy Mac as they are joined by noted Star Wars & feature film concept artist Paul Bateman and Star Wars podcast pioneer Pete Nadel for an informative, insightful and sometimes hilarious look at the premiere of Star Wars Rebels

Direct download: SWRebelsDeclassified_100314_S102_Spa.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 11:53am CDT

In a surprise move last week, starwars.com released Clone Wars Legacy bonus content in the form of a four-part story reel.  "Crystal Crisis on Utapau" presents a brand-new chapter into the mythology of Star Wars. Albeit in a raw and unfinished format, the story itself shines. For this special roundtable, Jimmy & Jason are joined by film maker Kyle Newman (Barely Lethal) with a special surprise visit from Jaime King (Hart of Dixie) to discuss this important addition to The Clone Wars saga.

 

Direct download: RFR_CWDeclassified_CrystalCrisisOnUt.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:53pm CDT

Star Wars Rebels: Declassified: Series Premiere Press Conference

This week is Star Wars Rebels week as the long-awaited animated series premieres on Disney Channel this Friday. To kick the week off right, RebelForce Radio is  excited to bring you our coverage of the Star Wars Rebels premiere press conference that happened last Saturday in Beverly Hills. Jimmy Mac talks to RFR's man-on-the-scene, J.C.Reifenberg (Hughes The Force) who attended the event and has a full report .  Hear from Executive Producer Dave Filoni, Freddie Prinze Jr. (Kanan), Vanessa Marshall (Hera), Taylor Gray (Ezra), Tiya Sircar (Sabine) and Steve Blum (Zeb) as they fill you in on the newest addition to the Star Wars saga.

Direct download: SWRebelsDeclassifed_092914_PremiereP.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 4:23pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: September 26, 2014

Star Wars director of the future Rian Johsnon speaks! We review audio of  a candid conversation between the Episode VIII director and Monty Python's Terry Gilliam.  Also this week, Roger Moore visits Pinewood,  a close up look at the Millennium Falcon, and we ask the question:  Why didn't Qui Gon Jinn return as a Force Spirit in Revenge of the Sith? Filmmaker F.J. Desanto joins us to decipher the evidence. Plus, Star Wars meets SharknadoStar Wars radio Easter eggs, and more from the Greenham Common Episode VII shooting location in England.

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_092614_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 5:52pm CDT

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_091914_WeeklyRFR.mp3
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RebelForce Radio: September 12. 2014

You've seen the incredible aerial photography of the Millennium Falcon set go viral online this week.  Join us on RFR as we catch up with the man who shot the first amazing pix and exposed an active Star Wars Episode VII shooting location in England. In a conversation recorded the day the news broke, pilot/photographer Matthew Myatt gives us his first-hand account of how he discovered the real-life Millennium Falcon, and a few X-Wings too, while on a routine flight. Plus, more Star Wars casting rumors, The N'Sync Star Wars cameo that almost was, Listener Feedback, Qui-Gon's ghost,  Granny A-Wing, The Billy Dee Quote of the Week and more!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_091214_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 2:53pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: September 5, 2014

Satisfy your fandom with RebelForce Radio. This week: Star Wars Episode VII updates including casting, rumors and spoilers! Cool tidbits about the upcoming Disney XD show Star Wars Rebels! Plus, Dave Filoni & Simon Kinberg at SDCC; Jaime King visits Conan, and Star Wars celebs take the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. Plus, hilarious travel stories as Jason attempts to board an airplane with a giant cardboard Death Star filled with action figures.  Kick off your weekend, Star Wars-style, with RFR!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_090514_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 11:32am CDT

RebelForce Radio: August 29, 2014

We're back in the palatial RFR studios to review all the latest Star Wars news, rumors, and more.  From Star Wars Rebels to Episode VII, we cover it all.  Is there an unaltered release of The Original Trilogy on the horizon?  Why was the Phineas & Ferb Star Wars special released and Star Wars Detours postponed? Why do the Lightsabers in Rebels look the way they do?  Listen this week to find out!  Plus, Simon Kinberg, Star Wars Commander, and a rapid-fire  Episode VII  Spoiler segment that will blow you away. Get all this and The Billy Dee Quote of the Week on RebelForce Radio.

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_082914_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 11:18pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: August 15, 2014

We are picking up where we left off last week on the road to Rancho Obi-Wan.  We recap our amazing trip to visit Steve Sansweet and the crew at the world-famous Star Wars museum. Hear about everything we did and saw, including a hilarious sit down with Steve Sansweet himself in his office.  Plus, we pay tribute to Robin Williams with a look back at the Star Wars connections in his career and rare audio of his incredible interview with George Lucas recorded back in 2000. And, a Billy Dee Williams / Star Wars Rebels update that makes the upcoming Lucasfilm animated series even cooler!   

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_081514_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:16pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: August 8, 2014

RebelForce Radio is on the road to Rancho Obi-Wan. Join us as we fly into San Francisco, grab a car and hit the 101 North to Petaluma. But before we can see Steve Sansweet, we have a couple of stops along the way. First, we visit Executive Producer of Star Wars Rebels Dave Filoni for an exclusive interview recorded at Lucasfilm headquarters. Dave give us the lowdown on his blueprint for Rebels, the legacy of The Clone Wars, his thoughts on the prequels and more. Then, we chat with Pablo Hidalgo about the history of Lucasfilm, Star Wars Celebration and even some Star Wars RPG!  Plus, ILM, Skywalker Ranch, The Billy Dee Quote of the Week and much more! 

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_080814_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 10:50am CDT

.RebelForce Radio: August 1, 2014

Star Wars Rebels made a big splash at last week's San Diego Comic Con as the entire cast of the upcoming Lucasfilm Animation show was there.   This week on RFR, we've got Rebels panel moderator David W. Collins joining us with a full recap of everything that went down.  Plus, James Arnold Taylor stops by to talk about Obi-Wan's return in Rebels along with a complete report from Disney's Star Wars Weekends.  And if that weren't enough, we have the latest news coming from the set of Star Wars Episode VII, including filming happening on location in Ireland, an upbeat Harrison Ford Ankle-Gate update, and Mark Hamill talks about returning to the Galaxy Far, Far Away.

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_080114_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 11:48pm CDT

Film Commentary with Sam Witwer: Attack of the Clones

Sam Witwer is back to join Jimmy & Jason in the RFR screening room as our film commentary series continues with Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones.  Listen in as we have a great time watching the second prequel film with tons of observation, analysis, and a few laughs along the way.  If you are looking for a prequel-bashing hate fest, go somewhere else.  Sam always brings incredible insight whenever we get together to watch a Star Wars flick and our discussions always have elements of discovery, enlightenment, and on occasion, shock! But all in all, a great time. Watch along with us or just listen to this as a stand-alone show.  You know the film so well yet you will feel like you are watching it through a different lens when you join us for our commentary track for Attack of the Clones! 

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_072514_EP2Commentary.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 11:33am CDT

This week we saw the reveal of the Star Wars Episode VII X-Wing in a Force for Change video featuring J.J. Abrams, an X-Wing Pilot, and a Mouse Droid. We discuss our thoughts on this old-yet-new design and explore the Ralph McQuarrie./Joe Johnston influence on it's look. Also, we discover some artistic inspirations for the Wookiee, AT-AT, Bespin, Hoth, and R1-G4. Use the photo gallery below while you listen to Paul Bateman and Jimmy Mac discuss Star Wars Influences!
Direct download: RebelForceRadio_StarWarsInfluences_008.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 5:52pm CDT

RebelForce Radio is back to talk Tarkin with actor Stephen Stanton who joins us this week for an in-depth conversation about his life as a prolific voice actor and all his contributions to Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Plus, the latest Star Wars Episode VII news including recent casting announcements, a fresh Harrison Ford "Ankle-Gate" update, and Kevin Smith recounts his visit to the Star Wars set.  Plus, the Forest of Dean becomes an Ep 7  shooting location, bratty little sisters question the "nerd thing", hardcore parcour, and free RebelForce Radio T-Shirts!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_071814_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 3:08am CDT

Celebrate the 4th of July with RebelForce Radio! Fire up the grill as we bring you the latest on Harrison Ford's injury with an explosive "Ankle-Gate" update, we study some fresh Episode VII casting rumors that keep it all in the family, and Andy Serkis threatens to "spill the beans" concerning his involvement in the Star Wars sequels.  Plus...A Stormtrooper walking down the street shuts down business in a small Kansas town? Yep, really happened and we catch up with Stormtrooper Sam to hear his side of an Outrageous Unthinkable Story that will have you laughing it up like a fuzzball.  The fireworks continue as Jimmy Mac & Steve Sansweet report from the exclusive PfieferCon, your chance to win a free RFR t-shirt, and Billy Dee goes to prison. All this and tons more Star Wars stuff for your Independence Day celebration this week  on RebelForce Radio.

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_070414_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 2:41am CDT

RebelForce Radio: June 27, 2014

Star Wars Episode VII news is coming fast and furious these days as production continues on the next feature film set in a Galaxy Far Far Away. This week, Jimmy & Jason are joined by Steve Glosson (Geek Out Loud) for the latest updates on Harrison Ford's leg injury and we speculate on what the impact will be on the production of the film. Directors Round-Up! We spotlight each of the three new directors hired to work on future Star Wars movies and analyze their past works.  And, The George Lucas Museum has found a future home...Chicago! We provide our opinions and reaction to this big news.  Plus, Tom Cruise Episode VII rumors,  Warwick Davis' Disney show A Ewok's Tale: My Short Story gets invaded, and Billy Dee gets bricked! All this and much more this week on RFR!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_062714_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:13am CDT

RebelForce Radio: June 20, 2014

Being scruffy-lookin' is the least of his worries as Harrison Ford suffers an injury on the set of Star Wars Episode VII!  We look closely at all the info made public in the wake of this unfortunate accident including behind-the-scenes stories, comments from Harrison's son Ben Ford and more.  A new Ralph McQuarrie book is on the way! We get all the deets on the upcoming Art of Ralph McQuarrie: ARCHIVES with an update from Ralph's right hand man Stan Stice from Dreams & Visions Press.  Mark Hamill invades Disney's Star Wars Weekends, and we have audio highlights along with news about a higher profile for The Wars at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Plus, Simon Pegg shoots off his mouth, the Millennium Falcon dice swing once again, and we introduce the Lupito Nyong'o Name Game! How do we fit so much Star Wars awesomeness into one show? You have to listen for yourself to find out!  So,  kick off your weekend, Star Wars-style, with RFR!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_062014_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:43am CDT

RebelForce Radio: June 13, 2014

This week on RebelForce Radio: A new director has been added into the Star Wars Universe, and we discuss the possibility of too much Star Wars (!!!) along with tons of speculation about the future of Episode VII and the stand-alone films.  Plus, updates on the upcoming Star Wars Battlefront video game, the status of new Star Wars canon,  and a report from Star Wars Day in Joliet, Illinois...with music!  If that wasn't enough, George Lucas takes on TMZ,  a Tracy Morgan update, and we introduce you to Billy GLEE Williams (?). All this and much more Star Wars stuff this week on RebelForce Radio!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_061314_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 2:30am CDT

Star Wars Episode VII casting announcements add two talented actresses to the ensemble and Abu Dhabi set photos have been leaked.  We provide speculation about how these sets, creatures, ships, and props will fit into the final film.  Carrie Fisher is on a media tour and you never know what she will say next! We gather up some of her best quotes and audio from recent interviews.  And The Empire Strikes Back was voted "The Greatest Movie of All Time" in a recent poll.  We tell you what we think!  All this plus Billy Dee gets in a fender bender, Boba Beer, and Hoggsquattle this week on RFR!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_060614_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:21pm CDT

Paul Bateman joins Jimmy Mac for an analysis of the recently leaked Star Wars Episode VII set photos from Abu Dhabi and discusses in detail what influenced the art design for everything revealed in those pix. Plus, we revisit our conversation with Roger Christian and discuss his involvement in the Ridley Scott version of Dune that was sadly never made. And, we take a close look at Paul's final "McQuarrie Revisited" feature in Star Wars Insider #149 which spotlights Darth Vader, Boba Fett, and never-before-seen bounty hunters based on the concepts of Ralph McQuarrie.

Please check out Roger Christian's Black Angel, available now at iTunes!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_StarWarsInfluences_007.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:44am CDT

We are back from Disney's  Star Wars Weekends with a full report from our listener meet-up and celebrity interviews!  Hear from Warwick Davis, Jeremy Bulloch, James Arnold Taylor and a few surprises! Leaving no fan behind, we will take you there with audio recorded live at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Orlando. Plus, Star Wars Episode VII news including the introduction of the first alien from the film, and the Star Wars: Force For Change campaign. And, a controversy is brewing surrounding online comments made by the writer of a future Star Wars stand-alone film, Gary Whitta. We analyze his remarks and discuss the potential impact they may have on the future of the franchise. All this and Boba Beer this week on RebelForce Radio!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_053014_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:16pm CDT

He's the Oscar-winning Set Decorator from the original Star Wars film from 1977. The man who physically built the first-ever  lightsaber hilt, the Millennium Falcon hold, and even ole Artoo Detoo himself!  Roger Christian joins Jimmy Mac & Paul Bateman In The Cantina for a hardcore discussion about the amazing work he did on the props and sets of the film that started it all.  Roger also talks about developing the iconic "used universe" of Star Wars, his working relationship with George Lucas, and info about his own film, Black Angel.  Also this week, Jason & Jimmy review the first full trailer for Star Wars Rebels and some of the latest Star Wars news.  Plus, Simon Kinberg, Denis Lawson, details about our first-ever Disney Star Wars Weekends listener meet up and much more!

Be sure to download Roger Christian's legendary film "Black Angel", coming to iTunes on May 20th!

And, as always, please support our amazing sponsors Little Debbie and Dorkside Toys!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_051614_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 7:31am CDT

This week on RFR: Jimmy Mac takes you behind the scenes as he appears on Chicago's WGN Radio to discuss The 'Wars.  Paul Bateman weighs in on the Star Wars Episode VII cast announcement, title rumors, and the Expanded Universe.  And Steve Glosson talks about the latest Star Wars news and Disney's Star Wars Weekends. Plus, we wait in line for Jedi with The Goldbergs, a May the Fourth Be With You recap, Billy Dee and much more!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_050914_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:45pm CDT

The momentous Episode VII cast announcement from earlier this week gets in-depth analysis from Jimmy & Jason...The Expanded Universe becomes Legend and Erich Schoeneweiss and Joe Scalora from Star Wars Books join us for a discussion recorded live at the Del Rey booth at C2E2. Also in Chicago, we get caught up with Ashley Eckstein to discuss The Clone Wars Lost Missions, Disney's Star Wars Weekends and more. And as if that isn't enough, Star Wars Rebels actress Vanessa Marshall makes her RFR debut and fills us in with deets about her new character Hera Syndulla. How do we contain so much amazing Star Wars content into one show? You gotta listen to find out!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_050214_WeReeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 6:49am CDT

BREAKING NEWS: Star Wars Episode VII cast announcement! Join Jimmy Mac, David Collins and Kyle Newman for immediate reaction, speculation and analysis. "This will be a day long remembered"

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_042914_SpecialReport.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:14pm CDT

Star Wars Rebels took center stage at last weekend's WonderCon. Lucasfilm stage host and RFR's own David Collins gives us his first-hand report from the event including the big announcement that Kevin Kiner will return to Star Wars as the composer for Rebels.  Then, we get a surprise phone call from Kevin Kiner himself who talks about creating the music of Star Wars Rebels, working with the music of John Williams, and his experiences on The Clone Wars.  And, Jason & Jimmy review recent comments about Episode VII made by Disney's Alan Horn along with audio highlights. Plus, more from Billy Dee's appearance on Arsenio,  Cris Macht has the deets about a cool "May The Fourth" event in the Chicago area and more!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_042514_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 3:32pm CDT

This week on RFR,  Jimmy & Jason begin the countdown to Celebration Anaheim including a BIG announcement in the latest issue of Star Wars Insider, Steve Sansweet joins us with an update on all the cool things happening at Rancho Obi-Wan, and Geek Out Loud's Steve Glosson sits in on the news, including Episode VII updates, The George Lucas Cultural Arts Museum, and Star Wars connections in Captain America Winter Soldier.  Plus,  Star Wars In Pop Culture, The Billy Dee Quote of the Week and much more!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_041814_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:56pm CDT

Christian Taylor, head writer of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, joins us In The Cantina to talk about the Lost Missions Yoda arc, The Mortis Trilogy, and the experience of working at Skywalker Ranch with George Lucas himself. Plus, based on a hot rumor, we discuss the likelihood of the world's most famous Wookiee returning for Episode VII, Disney's Alan Horn give us some Star Wars sequel pre-production clues, and This Is Madness comes to a conclusion. Plus, Billy Dee, Little Debbie giveaways, and tons more awesome Star Wars stuff!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_041114_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 9:07am CDT

The final four episodes of Star Wars: The Clone Wars dig deep into the nature of The Force and Jedi immortality as Yoda embarks on a mission unlike any he has ever been on before. Along with our "A-Team" of Kyle Newman & Paul Bateman, we have two very special guests from the cast of The Clone Wars: Jaime King and a surprise visit from Sam Witwer. This is in-depth discussion and behind-the-scenes info you will not find anywhere else. So listen in as we gather around the original roundtable one last time for our epic conversation about The Yoda Arc: "The Lost One", "Voices", "Destiny", and "Sacrifice".

Direct download: RFR_CWDeclassified_610-613_YodaArc.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 2:10pm CDT

The unlikely duo of Mace Windu and Jar Jar Binks take center stage in the Lost Missions two-parter "The Disappeared, and we are here to discuss and analyze this wild adventure. Joining Jason at the roundtable are concept artist Paul Bateman, Star Wars artist Grant Gould and Fangirls Going Rogue host Tricia Barr. From Masterin Mace to Mother Talzin, Declassified digs deep into a Clone Wars tale of intrigue, action and unabashed Gungan love.

Direct download: RFR_CWDeclassified_608-609_TheDisapp.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:00pm CDT

Clone Wars Actor Tom Kane (Yoda) joins us to talk about the incredible Lost Missions of Season six. Plus, a solid Episode VII casting rumor, Star Wars March Madness, and the 501st recognizes the man who gave the "green light" to Star Wars. And of course, Billy Dee on Dancing with the Stars, Listener Feedback and more!  

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_032814_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:58am CDT

Paul Bateman is back to talk about everything and anything that inspired, contributed and INFLUENCED the creation of the Star Wars Saga. This month, we discuss the Inquisitor from Star Wars Rebels, where the distinctive look of his helmet came from and who was responsible for it. And, we have an in-depth discussion about  Paul's latest feature for Star Wars Insider, "McQuarrie Revisited", and Darth Vader's Castle. Will Episode VII mark the Star Wars return to an ice planet? We talk about it! Plus, Paul shares his memories from his work on the set of Revenge of the Sith and explains why the duel on Mustafar reminds him of the classic arcade video game Frogger!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_SWInfluences_006.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 4:49pm CDT

Lucasfilm's Dave Filoni returns to RebelForce Radio to dig deep into The Clone Wars Lost Missions and talk about the upcoming Star Wars Rebels.  And, the latest info about Star Wars Episode VII, this time via comments from Disney head honcho Bob Iger. Plus, one of the creative forces behind the now-shelved Star Wars live action TV show breaks his silence, Billy Dee survives the first week of Dancing with the Stars, our theories on how Episode VII was conceived, and more!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_032114_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:00am CDT

Clone Wars Declassified is back to dissect and analyze The Rush Clovis Arc from the season six Lost Missions. Joining us at the RFR Roundtable this week are videogame sound lead David W. Collins, film producer F.J. Desanto and artist Paul Bateman. Listen as we dig deep beneath the surface of the entire Clovis story as seen in the episodes "An Old Friend", "The Rise of Clovis" and "Crisis at the Heart".

Direct download: RFR_CWDeclassified_605-607_RushClovi.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 5:20pm CDT

Sam Witwer is back to join us once again for our Star Wars Film Commentary series as we shift our focus to The Prequels starting with Episode 1: The Phantom Menace. For this episode, we are watching the BluRay release of the 1999 film with a box of popcorn in one hand, lightsaber in the other. As with all of our commentary tracks, this can be listened to while you watch the film, or it can stand-alone as audio-only. So join us as we look back at TPM and be sure to check out the rest of our commentary series for the Original Trilogy at www.rebelforceradio.com

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_031414_TPMCommentary.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 5:58pm CDT

Almost a year to the day following the announcement that The Clone Wars would be winding down production, finally, the long anticipated "Bonus Content" episodes have been released. Star Wars: The Clone Wars Season Six: The Lost Missions have debuted and RebelForce Radio's tradition of roundtable discussions continue with the return of Clone Wars:Declassified. We have gathered the A-Team of Kyle Newman and Paul Bateman for an interesting and enlightning conversation about the first four Lost Mission episodes: The Unknown, Conspiracy, Fugitive, and Orders aka The Order 66 Arc.

Direct download: RFR_CWDeclassified_601-604_Order66_A.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:21pm CDT

The Clone Wars Season 6:  The Lost Missions finally debuted today and it's time to take a break from your binge watching marathon to spend a little time with your pals here at RFR! This week to celebrate, we are featuring some great Clone Wars audio moments, featuring actors  Ashley Eckstein, Stephen Stanton, Meredith Salenger, Tom Kane, and writer Christian Taylor. Plus, George Lucas himself with Dave Filoni and a shout-out to fans from Matt Lanter. And if that wasn't enough, we have #CloneWarsLives listener voice mails and big Billy Dee Williams news to go along with The Quote of the Week and much more!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_030714.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 8:11am CDT

Topher Grace (That 70's Show) give us all the deets about his new website CerealPrize.com and makes an exclusive announcement that will be of interest to Star Wars fans. Bonus: Kyle Newman is along for the ride! Plus, a new trailer for The Clone Wars Lost Missions was released this week and we take you through it shot-by-shot; Dave Filoni weighs in on the Jango Fett: Mando or no debate; David Allen Grier opens up about his involvement in the Star Wars NPR Radio Dramas, and Chris Rock celebrates Black History Month with Billy Dee Williams! All this and much more this week on RFR!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_022814_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 2:55am CDT

What a busy week for Lucasfilm and Star Wars Rebels!  Just about everyday this week, we were treated to reveals of the entire core cast of characters set to inhabit their ship The Ghost in the highly-anticipated animated series. We discuss each new character and consider the potential impact they may have on the Saga. And, as we continue to tackle the Boba Fett reboot rumors, we are joined by actor Daniel Logan to get his take. It's a RebelForce Radio EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW you will not want to miss! Plus, Clone Wars Lost Missions, a Lego Movie Star Wars cameo, and "Jango Fett: Mando or no"... What do we think? You have to listen to find out! So much Star Wars goodness in one show might seem impossible, but yet we pull it off again this week on RebelForce Radio.

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_022114_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:54am CDT

This week...BREAKING NEWS! The Clone Wars Lost Missions aka "The Bonus Content" aka Season Six will be made available on Netflix in March! Hear what we think about this long-anticipated announcement. Plus, a major player from the upcoming Star Wars Rebels is announced, Episode VII news, and Samuel L. Jackson is involved in an "Outrageous, Unthinkable" case of mistaken identity. Plus, meet The Raiders Guys: Eric - Two friends who grew in the 80's, and, as kids, filmed an ambitious shot-by-shot remake of Raiders of the Lost Ark.  You will be blown away by their amazing story!  It's Valentines Day with your favorite weekly Star Wars show, RebelForce Radio!

Thanks to this week's show sponsors: Audible.com, Little Debbie, and Dorkside Toys!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_021414_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 3:07am CDT

The concept of Boba Fett being killed by a stranger who then takes the bounty hunter's armor & identity was first presented on our airwaves by Star Wars artist Paul Bateman. Now, the concept has turned into a rumor about the plot of a future Boba Fett standalone film, courtesy of the Latino Review. This month on Star Wars Influences, Paul discusses his original concept and why it's always been something on his Star Wars wish list. We also talk about the origin of Boba as a character created by Ralph McQuarrie & Joe Johnston. Plus, Paul reveals some of his desires for the plot of Episode VII and more!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_StarWarsInfluences_05.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:18pm CDT

Sam Witwer returns to RebelForce Radio to bring his insight, humor, and perspective on Return of the Jedi. Join us for our long-awaited commentary track for the Blu Ray edition of Star Wars Episode VI.  Watch along as you watch the film, or just listen along! It's been one of the most anticipated and requested shows we've ever done! The circle is now complete, at least in terms of the Original Trilogy, as we proudly bring you this Star Wars Commentary for Return of the Jedi!

Don't forget to check out our other Film Commentaries with Sam Witwer: Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope and Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_020714_RoTJCommentar.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:13pm CDT

A new character from Star Wars Rebels has been announced! Hear what we think about the droid Chopper, what inspired his look and who he reminds us of.  Also, Jimmy Mac reports about his trip to the Sundance Film Festival and the screening of the Roger Ebert documentary Life Itself which features voice work by Clone Wars alum Stephen Stanton (Capt. Tarkin), including an exclusive interview with Stephen himself. Plus, we received a ton of feedback about the hot topics presented in last week's show: The popularity of Han Solo and a potential Boba Fett reboot. You guys certainly let your opinions be known!  All this along with the first winner of our Little Debbie giveaway, Key & Peele's Lando's Pal, and the debut of "Jimmy Mac: Star Wars Vigilante"!

Support our sponsors: Little Debbie Snack Cakes & Dorkside Toys!

Thank you loyal RFR listener Brian Snook for the awesome artwork for this week's episode!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_013114_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:27am CDT

RebelForce Radio: January 24, 2014

Jason is back and we get caught up with all the latest & best Star Wars Episode VII news & rumors including info directly from director J.J. Abrams himself, a Boba Fett rebirth, and news about the highly anticipated Clone Wars Lost Missions. Plus, a plea to Darth Vader actor David Prowse, no Star Wars in NYC, and is Han Solo the most popular character in the Saga? You will find our hosts have very differing opinions! And listen to learn how you can win a supply of Little Debbie snackcakes! All this and more on the weekly RebelForce Radio!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_012414_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:38pm CDT

RebelForce Radio: January 17, 2014

RebelForce Radio is BACK for 2014! Star Wars news and rumors have been flying fast and furiously here in the first two weeks of the year, and we have a lot to say about everything. From Episode VII casting rumors, to comic book news, to canon hierarchy, and even Boba Fett, Jimmy Mac and guest co-host Steve Glosson (Geek Out Loud)  have much to discuss. Get well soon Jason Swank! Plus, Kyle Newman passionately stands up against potential irresponsible marketing of the Star Wars mythology,we catch up on all the Star Wars activities and experiences we had over the holidays, and Chicago Blackhawk superstar Patrick Kane as Anakin Skywalker? Thanks Dave Filoni!  All this and more this week on RebelForce Radio!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_011714_WeeklyRFR.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:53am CDT

Paul Bateman joins Jimmy Mac for reaction to the news that Star Wars comics will be going back to Marvel starting in 2015.  We talk about our personal favorite highlights of Dark Horse Comics past two-plus decades of Star Wars stories and we look forward to what we want to see happen with the franchise in the hands of Marvel.  Paul provides some behind-the-scenes info about his latest McQuarrie Revisited feature for Star Wars Insider Magazine which showcases a Ralph McQuarrie-inspired look at the streets of Tatooine's Mos Eisley.  Plus, revelations about McQuarrie's involvement and eventual departure from Star Wars during the pre-production of Return of the Jedi.

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_StarWarsInfluences_004.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 4:04pm CDT

Lightspeed is back, this time focusing on conversations with the great Mark Hamill! We caught up with Mark for a pair of exclusive interviews and we are happy to present them both to you in one special program. First, Jimmy Mac sits down with the Luke Skywalker actor at Star Wars Celebration Japan in 2008.  Then, Jason Swank talks to the Jedi Master himself at Star Wars Celebration V in 2010 (while Jimmy Mac sits on the sidelines with a case of laryngitis!). AND, as a special bonus, enjoy rarely-heard highlights from Mark's panel in Orlando at CV.  So, put off that trip to Tosche Station to pick up some power converters and enjoy The Best of Mark Hamill, courtesy of RebelForce Radio!

Join us next week as RFR kicks off the 2014 "Year of Star Wars" with the return of our weekly show! 

Check out our Lightspeed Series featuring George Lucas, David Prowse & Anthony Daniels

Don't forget to visit our friends at Dorkside Toys for the latest Star Wars toys & collectibles!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_011014_Lightspeed_Ma.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 11:00pm CDT

Lightspeed: The Best of Anthony Daniels

Our series of favorite moments continues with the spotlight pointing to the man who brought Goldenrod to life! Anthony Daniels has played the eccentric See-Threepio since Day One and over the years, we have had the opportunity to hang out with the man behind the droid.  We are happy to present you with this collection of great conversation, insight, and opinion from the one and only Anthony Daniels!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_010714_Lightspeed_An.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 3:16pm CDT

Happy New Year and welcome to part 2 of our 2013 Star Wars Year-In-Review. Joining us once again is director Kyle Newman (Fanboys/Barely Lethal) for an entertaining recap of all the important Star Wars news and happenings from the second part of 2013, including discussion about Star Wars Rebels, Hasbro's "Black Series" line of action figures, changes made to the Episode VII script writing team, and more!

Direct download: RebelForceRadio_010314_2013-YearInReviewPt2.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:32am CDT

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