Nerd Tutorial Podcast

Ep 43: Gundam Unicorn Review

Topic: Gundam Unicorn review

This week, we discussed Gundam Unicorn, an ‘approachable’ entry in to the Gundam franchise.  Now granted, there is quite a bit of previous knowledge that would be helpful coming in to this, but it’s possible to follow along without knowing all the details.  I know because I only intended for Mom to watch a little bit of it, but instead, she watched it all.

  

Fan Wiki

Before getting started, we wanted to talk about fan wiki’s.  Wiki themselves are large knowledge bases on a website that is user created and managed.  The largest, best known Wiki being Wikipedia.  Fan wiki’s are no different, but rather than focus on a broad topic, they often only focus on one fandom or topic at a time, covering all the details of it to the best of their ability.  Some great Fan Wiki include:

Wookieepedia – Star Wars

Alpha Memory – Star Trek

MTG Wiki – Magic: the Gathering

Marvel Wiki – Marvel

Gundam Wiki - Gundam

 

Highly recommend visiting the Gundam Wiki, particularly the article on Gundam Unicorn to follow along with the characters as best as possible.

https://gundam.fandom.com/wiki/Mobile_Suit_Gundam_Unicorn

 

Gundam Unicorn

 

Takes place in 0096 UC, 3 years after the events of the movie: Char’s Counter Attack.

 

Char’s Counter Attack

An event where Char Aznable, AKA the Red Comet, attempted to launch a colony in to earth.  He is stopped by Arumo Ray and his Nu Gundam.

 

 

Characters

Banager Links

As a student of the Anaheim Engineer Academy, he is roped in to a series of events that that finds him in command of the Unicorn Gundam.  Well mannered, he cares too much about others and would prefer her never received the Gundam.  In actuality, he is the son of the Vist Foundation’s chairman, and is gifted the Gundam Unicorn as his father knew he was a good person and would use the Gundam for good reasons.

 

Audrey Burne (Mineva Lao Zabi)

Going by Audrey Burne when first introduced to Banager Links, she is reality the granddaughter of DegwinZabi, leader of the Principality of Zeon. Born during the one year war, her entire family legacy has been killed save for her, as the lone heir to the leadership of the Principality of Zeon.  She a pacifist by nature and does not actively pursue her family’s legacy, nor that of her people, but takes action when she realizes she has the opportunity to save as many lives as possible through her actions.  She seeks to convenience the Vist Foundation in to not giving the Gundam to Neo Zeon forces.

 

Full Frontal

A mysterious leader of the Neo Zeon Forces, he is described as the Second coming of the Red Comet.  His charming, intelligent, and highly skilled mobile suit pilot.  In reality, he is a cyber newtype, genetic clone of Char, and inherited the ‘Will’ of Char from space.  He believes his purpose is to be the leader the Neo Zeon forces need and continue on in Char’s capacity in his absence. 

 

 

Newtype

A type of human that have evolved in space.  The belief is that they have expanded mental awareness, allowing special abilities including: High degree of Focus, spatial awareness to a 6^th sense level, communication with other Newtypes, and even communicate/direct actions of machines through Pyscho-frame material.  Newtypes are similar to Mutants in X-men, little is truly known about them, and are greatly feared by segments of the population.Newtypes and other individuals born in space are treated similar to second class citizens and can’t partake in the government.

 

 

 

RX-0 Gundam Unicorn

The title Gundam, it is a suit that hold many different abilities and purposes.  The suit can be classified as an experimental/prototype unit, as the main core of the Gundam’s entire frame is created using Psycho-frame material, increasing reaction time of the pilot, and even making it like an extension of their own body.  The Gundam is also unique in that it hosts two different modes.  The first is a default unicorn mode, appearing as a standard GM(General Model) Mobile suit with a unicorn horn.  When in the presence of a Newtype, and later by the pilots will, the systems NT-D system kicks in.  NT-D stands for Newtype Destroyer, with the intent on the machine being used to hunt Newtypes.  When in this mode, the suit’s limiters are turned off, exposing several new thrusters and various armor pieces expand to reveal the glowing pink Psycho-frame underneath.  The main head switches faces to a more typical Gundam Face and its horn opens to reveal the typical Gundam Fins.  The other key element is that the Gundam’s Operating system contains the map/key to discovering the Laplace Box.

 

 

Laplace Box

A mysterious object held in trust by the Vist Foundation.  The object has allowed the Vist Foundation to command respect, funds, and power within the Earth Federation, since revealing the object to the world would cause the Earth Federation to lose a great deal of its power.  Vist Foundation is in the process revealing the box’s contents, but is thwarted by all side by Zeon, Earth Federation, and people in the foundation.

 

 

 

Ep 42: Gundam Tutorial

Topic: Gundam Franchise Tutorial

So no more Star Wars, okay a little, but we promise to be Brief. Thanks to a generous Christmas present from a younger brother, we have our Next topic for this week and the next. We’re talking about one of the most popular franchise of giant robots series, We’re talking about GUNDAM.

Tutorial

To understand Gundam, you must know about the history of Giant/Super Robo/Robot series and Real Robot Series
• Giant/Super Robo/Robot series have their giant robots in a more fantastical element, where the physics and logic are not explained and are not treated with in realistic or believable sense. It’s the argument, “Magic Happens.” Star Wars as an example.
• Real Robot series, as originated by Gundam, attempts to explain/rationalize their physics and universe. Aside from a leap in technology or finding some kind of new element or power source, the series is treated as though it could happen. Star Trek as an example.

 

Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)

Also known as (Gundam 0079)

During the Universal Century, Human have created colonies in space, but there is unease as spacenoids feel that the Earth Federation won’t allow equal representation, thus Spacenoid rally around the Principality of Zeon and declare their freedom from Earth Federation, starting the “One Year War”. Zeon has mobile suits, which are a ‘HUGE’ tactical advantage. Earth Federation Create the White Base and goes to pick up the new RX-78 Gundam, but Zeon is in tow and attacks the colony, killing most civilians and Federation crew. Amuro Ray becomes pilot for Gundam and the White Base launches out to defend against Zeon on their way home to Earth.

• Gundam = White Devil
• V-fin helmet
• Samurai look/motif
• Recurring themes
• Start in space, head to Earth, return to space to end
• Space Mobile Suits = 1 eye/ mono eye
• Earth/Federation Mobile Suits = glass visor for eyes
• Major Base to launch From, usually white in color
• Char Aznable – Villain, recurring theme of villain in Mask

Initially not popular, canceled at 39 of 45 episodes. Rebroadcast as trilogy of movies in 1983

 

Gundam Primarily takes place in one of two different modes:
Universal Century or Spin Offs.

Universal Century is a primary Gundam timeline.
The actions in Universal Century Show often impact later series and reference previous events in other Universal Century Shows
Long Standing War between Earth Federation and Zeon/Neo-Zeon affiliated groups

Spin offs:
Universal Century
Zeta (1985)
ZZ (1986)
0083(1991)
Victory (1993)
08 MS Team (1996)
Unicorn (2010)
Thunderbolt (2015)
The Origin (2015)

Spinoffs are series that have the Gundam Name, but don’t take place in the Universal Century.
These are series which pay homage to the Universal Century, but change elements, locations, time frames, and even local logics.
Spinoffs allow for more unique themes and ideas, while still playing with the Gundam lineage.

G Gundam (1994) – Professional fighting Tournament
Gundam Wing (1995)– Gundams are terrorists for the colonies
Gundam X (1996) – After the end of the fighting
Turn-a-Gundam (1999) – What if the bad guys won and set earth back to the 17th century
Gundam Seed (2002) – Like Universal Century, but not Colorful
Gundam 00 (2007) – Set in modern world, but 100 years in the future, mixing politics
Gundam Age (2011) – Set over multiple generations
Gundam Iron Blooded Orphans (2015) – What if Gundams were like Knights in space

 

Ep 41: 2019 Topics in Review

Topic: 2019 Topics in Review

 

It’s been a wonderful year, 2019.  We saw a lot great movies, cosplayed together, found out that mom’s a Dinklette, even went to Japan for two weeks to see what that was all about.  This time around, we’re reviewing our favorite things we learned about this last year.  Some of the topics might surprise you.

 

 

#3 Mom : Prowrestling

• Surprise by the skill necessary
• Loves the acting and athleticism
• Overpowered by the crowd’s activity in the show.

 

#3 George : World of Warcraft

• Loved showing Mom one of his Favorite Games
• Found happiness in watching Mom’s reactions to the world
• Fun to be able to share a game together, excited for when she has more time to play

 

#2 Mom: World of Warcraft

• Surprised by how fun it was to create a character and play
• Enjoyed escaping in to another world, leaving this one behind
• Something she’d definitely do again when more free time opens up

 

#2 George: Cosplay

• Has always wanted to try doing Drag, happy to have the opportunity.
• Always enjoyed Cosplay and how it opens up the world to people
• Always enjoys couples/partner cosplays

 

#1 Mom: Marvel MCU Movies

• Tickled at how much she could get in to the characters
• Excited to see the next offering in movies
• How involved all the actors were in the movies

 

#1 George: Anime/Manga

• Always loves sharing Anime or Manga recommendations and showing the power of story telling
• Liked seeing mom’s reactions to stuff she wasn’t expecting.
• Can’t wait to share more in this topic in the future, since new stuff always comes out

Ep 40: Star Wars Episode 9 Review + Future

Topic: Star Wars Episode 9 Review + Future of Franchise

 

It’s finally here, we spent the entire month of December getting to this moment, so we welcome the new year with the long awaited review of episode 9, The Rise of Skywalker.  First thing outside of the theater, we were trying to figure out what happens next?  Does the Story continue?  Does it pause for a while?  Where does Rey and crew go from here on out?  Mom’s got opinions, come find out.

 

Spoilers for Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

 

Ep9

The Rise of Skywalker

 

1. Emperor Palpatine is alive? Kylo Ren finds him and learns that the Emperor had been building a huge fleet of star destroyers.  Kylo Ren Agrees to kill Rey as the Emperor requests, leaning that he created & manipulated Snoke.
2. Rey is training with Leia, when they learn that Palpatine intends on launching his fleet in the next 16 hours. Rey, Poe, Finn, and Chewy go to find a Sith beacon that will lead to Palpatine.
3. Crew a clue in a dagger that has Sith language, but learn that C-3PO can’t translate due to programming. They attempt to escape on a ship that Rey remembers seeing before, but First Order capture Chewy.  In trying to save him, Rey and Kylo Ren are fighting for the transport, but Rey accidentally shoots out Lightning from her fingers and destroys the transport. 
4. Crew leave to planet Kajimi Poe knows to crack C-3PO and learn the clue on the dagger. Rey learns that Chewy is alive and on Kylo Ren’s ship that has followed them.  Crew discover that they need to go to Endor to the remains of the Death Star to find the Sith beacon.
5. Crew head to Kylo Ren’s ship, Poe and Finn rescue Chewy, but are captured themselves. They are saved by General Hux, who reveals is a spy against Kylo Ren.  Rey finds the dagger and has a vision from Kylo Ren, who informs her that she is Palpatine’s Granddaughter. They all escape to Endor.
6. On Endor, Rey travels to the remains of the Death Star to find the Sith Beacon. She finds it, but is confronted by a force vision of an evil version of herself.  Kylo Ren catches up to her and destroys the beacon.  The two fight, with Kylo Ren about to kill Rey.  Leia stops Kylo Ren by using the force to distract him, causing Rey to stab Kylo Ren. This causes Leia to die.
7. Rey heals Kylo Ren and escapes to the planet where Luke was at, destroying the ship so she can’t leave. Luke confronts Rey that he was wrong and offers her Leia’s lightsaber to help her.  Rey leaves to fight Palpatine.  Kylo Ren speaks with his father, a force ghost(?) and he throws away his red lightsaber, no longer following the darkside of the force.
8. Finn and Poe return to base, learning that Rey is sending them markers on how to get to Palpatine. They send Lando in Millennium Falcon to rally support.  Poe leads attack on Star Destroyers while Finn launches a ground assault to disable the satellites, stopping the Star Destroyers.  Eventually Lando arrives with hundreds of people and their own ships, to fight the Star Destroyers.
9. Rey confront Palpatine, who tells her that she will kill him, then he will flow in to her and she will become Empress of the Empire. Rey agrees and prepares to strike him down, but Ben Solo is nearly caught up to her.  Through the force, she passes on Luke’s lightsaber to Ben, while she takes up Leia’s lightsaber.  The two stand side by side to confront Palpatine.
10. Palpatine knocks both Rey and Ben down, draining some of their Force, and realizing they are a Dyad in the Force, regenerating Palpatine. Palpatine sucks the Force out of them, returning to his former power and attacking the resistance fleet with Lightning.  He knocks Ben away to die.
11. Rey hears the voices of the Jedi speak to her, and she takes up both Luke’s and Leia’s lightsabers to fight Palpatine. She is successful in destroying Palpatine, but dies in the process.  Ben returns to Rey and give his force to her, reviving her.  Ben dies and joins the Force.
12. Rey reunites with Finn and Poe, and gives them a big hug. Rey travels to Luke’s home on Tatooine, and buries Leia’s and Luke’s saber under the sand.  A passerbuy wonders who Rey is, Rey remarks, after seeing Luke and Leia as Force Ghosts, that she is Rey Skywalker.

 

Trivia:

• Leia is created using unused footage from past two movies.
• When George Lucas laid out plans for 12 movies, C-3PO and R2D2 were only characters to exist in all movies. Anthony Daniels (C-3PO) is only actor to be in all 9 movies, and makes cameo in movie outside of the C-3PO Costume.
• With a gap of thirty-six years, the return of the characters Lando Calrissian and Wedge Antilles marks the longest time for any original actors to reprise his role.
• During scene where Rey hears voices, multiple Jedi are heard, including:
  • Ewan McGregor and Alec Guinness as Obi-Wan Kenobi
  • Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker
  • Ashley Eckstein as Ahsoka Tano(Star Wars Rebels)
  • Freddie Prinze Jr. as Kanan Jarrus(Star Wars Rebels)
  • Olivia d'Abo as Luminara Unduli(Prequel Movies)
  • Frank Oz as Yoda
  • Liam Neeson as Qui-Gon Jinn
  • Jennifer Hale as Aayla Secura(Prequel Movies & Star Wars Clone Wars)
  • Samuel L. Jackson as Mace Windu
  • Angelique Perrin as Adi Gallia(Prequel Movies & Star Wars Clone Wars)

 

Where to Next?

Ep 39: Star Wars Episode 7+8 + Solo Review

Topic: Star Wars Episode 7 + 8 + Solo Review

 

The Month of Star Wars continues, and we move on the most recent collection of movies.  We’re discussing Solo: A Star Wars Story, Episodes 7 and 8, and we’re watching Episode 9 this weekend.  Mom shares her distinct objective going in to Star Wars this time around.  She’s such a nerd now… it’s awesome.  Come hear Our thoughts of this, and leading up to Episode 9!

 

Solo: A Star Wars Story

1. Orphans Han Solo and Qi’ra(Kira) are trying to escape Corella and Gangster life. They bribes the Empire to escape, but Qi’ra gets apprehended. Han vows to return and enlists with the Empire.
2. Han fails to become a pilot and becomes an Imperial infantry man. He meets a group of criminals and tries to convince them to let him join up. He fails and is arrested and thrown in to a prison with Chewbacca.  They eventually get recruited by the criminals
3. Criminals try to steal Coaxium, starship fuel, but fail due to interference from pirates and most of the team dies.
4. Han and Chewbacca learn that Beckett was to steal the Coaxium on orders from Dryden Vos, a dangerous Gangster. They go to him and purpose to get the Coaxium from a different venue. Qi’ra is found to be working for Vos and is assigned to help Criminals
5. Criminals go to recruit Lando Calrissan, L3-37, and the Millennium Falcon to assist with getting Coaxium from Kessel.
6. They successfully infiltrate and steal Coaxium from Kessel, but lose L3-37, who is installed in to the Millennium Falcon. They are stopped by the Empire and escape by traveling throughuncharted/dangerous space leading to Kessel.
7. Upon Landing to offload Coaxium for refinement, Lando leaves in Millennium Falcon and criminals are visited by the Pirates and learn they are part of the Rebels fighting the Empire.
8. Han and Chew go to deliver Coaxium to Vos, but are double crossed by Beckett, who explains that the Coaxium that Chew and Han brought it a fake, but the real stuff is with the Pirates. Han later explains that it is the real Coaxium as the pirates don’t have it. 
9. Beckett takes Chewy at gunpoint and leaves with Coaxium. Han fights and kills Vos, and then goes after Beckett to save Chewy. Han saves Chewy by killing Beckett, while Qi’ra takes over gangsters, talking to Darth Maul and returning to him.
10. Chewy and Han meet with Lando and end up winning the Millennium Falcon. They Travel to Tatooine for business with the Hutts.

 

Trivia

• Harrison Ford liked the movie, but declined to go to the premier as he didn’t want to overshadow cast.
• First film to never mention Jedi.
• Joonas Suotamo first movie after taking over role of Chewbacca from Peter Mayhew.
• When discussing where to steal Coaxium From, Scarif is mentioned. Scarif is where the Death Star was being developed in Rogue One.

 

Ep7

Force Awakens

1. 30+ years after Battle of Endor, the First Order has taken the place of the Galactic Empire and wants to destroy the Republic. Poe Dameron a part of the Resistance and is on Jakku, trying to find the where-abouts of Jedi Master Luke Skywalker.  Kylo Ren finds Poe Dameron and takes him, but leaves behind his droid BB-8
2. On the Star Destroyer, Stormtrooper Finn is having issues and defects, rescuing Poe and escaping with him back to Jakku to recover BB8. They crash and Poe is separated from Finn, who leaves to find shelter.
3. Rey is a scrapper who finds BB-8 and offers to take him to find his master. They meet with Finn who lies and says he’s a part of the Resistance. They commandeer the Millennium Falcon and escape to space.
4. Rey and Finn are found by Han Solo and Chewbacca, who take back the Millennium Falcon and offer to take them somewhere where they can reach the Resistance.
5. Crew on Millennium Falcon fly to Takodana. Han offers Rey a place on his ship while Finn seeks to find work to escape the First Order.  Rey discovers Luke’s Lightsaber(Formerly Anakin’s) and has a Force vision.  She drops the lightsaber, running away, but Finn Picks up light saber.
6. The Cantina where the crew are at is attacked by First Order, but are later rescued by the Resistance. Kylo Ren kidnaps Rey, and takes her to his ship. 
7. Kylo Ren has difficulty using the Force against Rey and she is discovered to be Force user.
8. Han, Chewy, Finn, and Leia return to Resistance Base to discover First Order’s new Death Star, the Star Killer. Han, Chewy, and Finn will fly Millennium Falcon to Star Killer base and deactivate shields for X-wings to target.  Poe found alive and will lead X-wing fighters.
9. Han, Chewy, and Finn break in to Star Killer Base to rescue Rey, but find her along the way. Han and Chewy go to planet explosives to destroy shield generator, but Han is stopped by Kylo Ren.  Han says he wants to save his Son, but Kylo Ren (Ben Solo) relents, saying he needs to kills the thing holding him back.  He kills Han Solo.
10. Chewy blows the up shield generator, giving Poe a chance to attack. Kylo Ren chases Finn and Rey in to forest and Finn fights Kylo Ren with lightsaber.  Finn loses badly, but Rey pulls Lightsaber to her and fights Kylo Ren, beating him.
11. Star Killer base destroyed, everyone returns to the Resistance. Poe continues to help Finn recover from injuries alongside Leia.  Rey and Chewy get the map to Luke Skywalker so that Rey and start her training to become a Jedi.

 

Trivia

• Harrison Ford got top Billing in movie, and is the first non-Jedi character to do so.
• Oscar Issac‘s (Poe Dameron) uncle was a huge Star Wars fan and asked director if he could visit set. Director agreed and after tour offered the uncle a chance to be an extra. He was on Jakku with his nephew during opening scene.
• Rey’s outfit was designed around original sketches for Luke during development of original 1977 film. These sketches led to discussion of Luke character being a woman, but was ultimately discarded.
• 3^rd movie after Avatar and Titanic to break $2 billion in box-office.

 

Ep8

The Last Jedi

1. The First Order has found the Resistance, and after Poe leads a successful, but with heavy casualty, fight to escape with Leia and Finn. Kylo Ren’s master, Snoke, mocks Kylo Ren for trying to be like his Grandfather, Darth Vader.
2. Rey offers the light saber to Luke but Luke tosses it aside. Rey eventually gets Luke to give three lessons on the Jedi/Force. 
3. Poe, Finn, and Leia learn that the First Order is tracking them through HyperSpace. In an attack, much of the Resistance leaders are killed, but Leia barely survives by using the Force. Finn and Rose leave to find a hacker to deactivate the tracking device.  Leia is replaced by Admiral Holdo who tells Poe to relax and follow her orders.
4. Rey has visions with Kylo Ren and they talk. After explaining the Force, Luke eventually explains that he felt the Dark Side of the Force in Kylo Ren and considered killing him. Kylo Ren woke up after Luke realized what he was thinking was wrong, but it was too late.  Rey leaves to go help friends and redeem Kylo Ren
5. Luke goes to destroy remaining Jedi material, but is stopped by Force Ghost Yoda, who sets Luke right and tells him what he should have done.
6. After Finn and Rose recruit a hacker, they travel to Snoke’s Capital ship, which is chasing the Resistance. Holdo is try to escape to nearby planet in shuttles, but Poe starts a mutiny and takes control of the fleet.  He is stopped by Leia, but only after Finn and Rose are captured by the First Order and about to be killed.
7. Rey makes it on to Snokes ship, but is immediately captured by Kylo Ren. Snoke interrogates her to learn Luke’s location, but Kylo Ren kills Snoke.  Rey and Kylo Ren fight local guards and then fight over Luke’s Lightsaber.  Lightsaber breaks and Rey escapes.
8. Holdo used remaining capital ship to ram in to Snoke’s Ship, saving Finn and Rose, who join up with Poe and Leia on nearby Planet. Poe, Rose, Finn, and Leia old off First Order while they look for help.  Rey comes in Millennium Falcon to save them.
9. Luke arrives on the planet to save everyone. He distracts Kylo Ren in Lightsaber battle, but is later revealed to be there via the Force Projection.  Everyone escapes the First Order, but Luke dies, but becomes one with the Force.  Resistance barely survives, and is now on the run from the First Order.

 

Trivia

• Mark Hamill did not like the direction that Luke Skywalker took, but maintained his professionalism and respect for the director during filming.
• Actor Laura Dern (Admiral Holdo) said pew every time she shot her blaster. This is a mimic of when people with lightsaber would make the lightsaber noise when swinging the lightsaber around.
• Porgs in the film were created because of various Puffins on the island and being unable to remove them due to local laws. Porgs where a way to cover them up.
• Ewan McGregor expressed interested in reprising his role as Obi-wan, but couldn’t due to not having a place for him in the story.

Ep 38: Star Wars Episode 4-6 + Rogue One Review

Topic: Star Wars Episode 4-6 + Rogue One Review

 

This week, we’re on to the original trilogy that started it all off.  We’re on to the original trilogy, the ones that it all off for myself and my mom.  Unlike the last ones, we both had more favorable feelings about these movies.  I can’t wait to show her the next set of movies and see her reaction to those movies, see if she likes them or not.

 

 

Rogue One

1. Young JynErso is in hiding with her parents, father who is a lead engineer on the Death Star, but the Empire comes and takes Jyn’s Father away to finish the Death Star.
2. Years Later, Jyn is picked up by the Rebels, seeking her father who is helping build the Death Star.
3. Cassian Andor and K-2SO take her to the planet of Jedha to find Saw Gerrera, who just so happens to have a message from her father, mentioning an exploit. They pick up Chirrut Imwe and Baze Malbus in the process.
4. Death Star above, led by Director Krennic, fires on the planet to test the Death Star. Grand Toff Tarkin takes over Death Star after test
5. Rebel crew head to planet of Eadu to rescue Jyn’s Father, but fail and leave in stolen Imperial Transport ship.
6. Director Krennic goes to Darth Vader to take command of the Death Star back, but fails and is told to clean up his mess.
7. Rebels go to planet of Scarif to retrieve the Death Star Plans. The Main fleet of the Rebels eventually join to help with the fight.
8. Jyn gets the stolen plans to the rebels, but not before Vader nearly has them in his grasp.
9. Last scene leads directly in to Star Wars – A New Hope.

 

Ep 4

Star Wars – A New Hope

1. Princess Leia is on the run from Darth Vader with plans for the Death Star. She gives them to R2D2
2. R2D2 escape to planet Tatooine with C3PO, but are captured and sold to Luke Skywalker
3. Luke meets Obiwan Kenobi
4. Luke leaves with Obiwan to give the stolen plans to the rebels, in the Millennium Falcon, Piloted by Han Solo and Chewbacca.
5. Vader interrogates Leia on the Death Star and blow up Leia’s Planet of Alderan.
6. Luke, Han, Obiwan, and Chewbacca arrive at Alderan and are captured by the Empire.
7. They rescue Leia and escape the Death Star, but not before Obiwan sacrifices himself to allow them to do so.
8. Death Star tracks the rebels to Yavin 4, and Luke agrees to fight the Empire in an X wing.
9. Rebels are able to blow up the Death Star with Han and Chew’s help.
10. Big ceremony at the end.

 

Trivia

• Luke Skywalker originally Starkiller
• Lucas opted for less pay on the movie in order own the merchandising rights
• Obiwan never says, “May the Force be with You”
• Ewan McGregor(Young Obiwan)’s uncle Was in Star wars, denis Lawson (Wedge Antillies)

 

Ep 5

Empire Strikes Back

1. Rebels are in hiding on ice planet Hoth, Luke gets attacked and injured, seeing Obiwan as a ghost, but is saved by Han.
2. Empire finds the Rebels and sends down an army to capture the Rebels.
3. Han, Chewbacca, and Leia are running away from the Empire, can’t go to Hyperspace because Millennium Falcon is damaged
4. Luke go to meet Yoda so Luke can learn to be a Jedi.
5. Han, Chewbacca, and Leia go to meet Lando Calrissian, but the crew have been sold out to Darth Vader and Bobo Fett
6. Han is frozen in Carbonite, but Lando switches sides and helps Chewbacca and Leia escape on Millennium Falcon.
7. Luke goes to save his friends, but fights Darth Vader. Loses his right hand and learns that Vader is his father.
8. Luke is saved by Millennium Falcon and they all escape. Lando promises to find Han and Luke agrees to go and help save him.

 

Trivia

• Shots of Luke using the Force to retrieve his lightsaber were accomplished by Mark Hamil throwing his light saber and film being reversed.
• Carrie Fisher stood on a box for many scene with Harrison Ford due to their height difference, Fisher at 5’1”, Ford at 6’1”
• When Mark Hamill was having problems shooting scenes with Yoda, Frank Oz would bring out his Miss Piggy Puppet to make him laugh
• Scene where Leia says, “I love you.” And Han says, “I know.” Was adlibbed by Harrison Ford.

 

 

Ep6

Return of the Jedi

1. Luke, Leia, Lando, and Chewbacca save Han on Tatooine.
2. Luke learns Leia is sister, gets final training from Yoda
3. Rebels learn of new Death Star, send Han, Luke, Leia, and Chewbacca to moon Endor to turn off shield generator so Empire can destroy new Death Star.
4. Vader visits Death Star with Emperor to ensure the Rebels are defeated.
5. Luke hands himself over to Darth Vader, intending on convincing his father to reform, he is brought to death Star
6. Han, Leia, and Chewbacca go to destroy the Shield generator, helped by Ewoks.
7. Lando leads Rebel Fleet to attack the New Death Star. They Succeed
8. Luke and Darth Vader Fight, Luke wins, Vader kills Emperor.
9. Vader dies, redeemed, Crew with Ewoks celebrate end of the Empire.

 

Trivia

• Harrison Ford only sign contract for two movies, but George Lucas convinced him to sign for a 3^rd, believing that Han Solo still had more heroic stuff to do.
• Actor Ian McDiarmid would play the Emperor, and reprise his role 15+ years later in the prequel trilogy.
• Carrie Fisher complained that her costumes in previous movies were too long and people could not tell she was a woman. This led to the infamous Slave costume worn during early parts of the movie.  Costume was made of metal and had shots had to be redone due to wardrobe malfunctions.
• Mark Hamill opined that Luke should don Vader’s helmet after Vader’s death, leaving the ending of Luke character ambigious or ominous. George Lucas disagreed and went with the happy ending.

 

 

 

 

Ep 37: Star Wars Episodes 1-3 Review

Topic: Star Wars Review, Episodes 1-3

 

This week starts our first review of the Star Wars Movies.  This week, as we’re watching them in the intended order of 1-8, we’re watching the Prequel Trilogy, which came out in 1999-2005.  Fair Warning, Mom did not enjoy these movies, and we get to talk about it.

 

Warning, Spoilers in Bound

Ep 1: The Phantom Menace

• Obiwan Kenobi & Qui GonJin are sent to Planet of Naboo regarding a blockade by the Trade Federation
• Obiwan& Qui Gon meet Jar-jar Binks and rescue princess Padme’ Amadala from planet.
• Their ship is damage and they land on Tatooine.
• Quigon, Padme, and Jar Jar meet Anakin Skywalker and participate in a Pod Race for parts and Anakin’s ownership.
• Quigon Fights Darth Maul before leaving Tatooine.
• Everyone travels to Corusaunt, Padme tries to get Senate to intervene on her planet, while Quigon asks for Anakin to become a Jedi.  Council declines.
• Everyone goes back to Naboo.  Jar Jar leads a Gungan army, while Padme goes to capture the trade federation representatives.  Anakin flies a star fighter, and Jedi fight sith.
• Padme captures trade federation, Anakin blows up droid ship, Quigon dies, but Obiwan kills Darth Maul.
• Anakin allowed to become a Jedi, New Chancellor for senate, Peace on Naboo.

 Trivia-

• Ahmed Best played Jar Jar on set, but was later digitally removed in favor of Special Effects due to being easier and less costly.
• Natalie Portman portrayed Queen Padme Amadala, Kira Knightely also portrays Padme Amadala
• Liam Neesonwas so eager to be in the film that he signed on without having read the script.
• Natalie Portman(Queen Amidala) missed the premiere party in New York City because she had to go home to study for her high school final exams.
• In 1997, a fierce sandstorm destroyed several of the Tatooine sets in the desert outside Tozeur, Tunisia. Filming resumed two days later. George Lucasconsidered this a good omen, as the same thing had happened during filming of Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977).

 

 

Ep 2: Attack of the Clones

1. Padme now senator, but trying to be assassinated.  Obiwan and Anakin sent to be bodyguards.
2. Obiwan finds a lead and decides to follow it, while Anakin and Padme retreat to Naboo for protection.
3. Obiwan learns of a Clone army that shouldn’t exist; Anakin and Padme make googly eyes at each other.
4. Obiwan fights with Jango Fett, and tracks him to a Droid factory planet.  Padme and Anakin go to Tatooine to rescue Anakin’s mom.
5. Obiwan capture by Droids and Count Dooku, so Padme and Aankin go to rescue, but they are also captured.
6. Jedi come to save Obiwan, Padme, and Anakin.
7. Obiwan and Anakin go to stop Count Doku, Anakin loses an hand, and Yoda saves them.
8. Start of Clone Wars

 Trivia-

• When Jango Fett gets into his ship after his fight with Obi-Wan, he bangs his head on the partially open door. This was intentional, and is a reference to a famous goof from Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope(1977), where a stormtrooper accidentally bangs his head on a door.
• During rehearsals and filming of Count Dooku's light-saber battle scenes, a small model of Yoda was used as a reference point for Sir Christopher Lee. The model, however, was slightly altered to have vampire fangs, to which Lee's amused response was "I will not comment on that. I didn't think you would do this to me, George!" The fangs were likely a joke at Lee's expense for his performance as Count Dracula in Horror of Dracula(1958) and several other Hammer Studios horror films.
• With an estimated budget of $120 million, this was the most expensive Star Wars film until Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015), with an estimated budget of $200 million.

  

Ep 3: Revenge of the Sith

1. Obiwan and Anakin go to rescue Chancellor, kill Count Dooku.
2. Padme tells Anakin she’s pregnant, they’re married.
3. Chancellor Palpatine appoints Anakin to Jedi Council, but council does not give him rank of Master.  Anakin is meant to be agent of Chancellor but also for Jedi council.
4. Obiwan sent to find General Grievous, to which he defeats.
5. Palpatine tells Anakin he is a Sith and he can save Anakin’s Wife.  Anakin reports to council.
6. Council goes to Palpatine to arrest, but with Anakin’s help, kills the council members.  Anakin become Darth Vader.  Palpatine becomes Emperor.
7. Palpatine executes Order 66, killing all Jedi. Anakin goes to Jedi Temple and kills all Jedi.
8. Obiwan and Yoda return to Jedi temple to find in ruins, realizes Anakin has fallen to Dark Side.
9. Obiwan goes to Padme to learn of Anakin’s fate.  Obiwan follows Padme to fire planet.
10. Obiwan and Anakin fight on fire planet, Anakin loses other arm and legs, and catches on fire. Obiwan goes in to hiding.
11. Yoda goes to fight Palpatine, Palpatine wins, so Yoda goes in to hiding.
12. Obiwan and Yoda watch twins Luke & Leia be born.  Luke goes to tatooine with Obiwan, Leia goes to Alderan as adopted child.
13. Anakin puts on full Darth Vader suit.  Fade to construction of Death Star.

 Trivia-

• Ewan McGregorand Hayden Christensen trained for two months in fencing and fitness in preparation for their epic battle. As a result of their practice, the speed at which Kenobi and Vader engage the duel (in the completed movie) is the speed in which it was filmed, and was not digitally accelerated.
• Liam Neesonhas said that he recorded a cameo as Qui-Gon Jinn, which was to feature in a scene with Yoda, further explaining the concept of a Jedi communicating from beyond the grave. In the script, the dialogue (in which Qui-Gon is heard, not seen) appeared in the scene in which Yoda is meditating on the secret asteroid base, just before Bail Organa informs him of Obi-Wan's return with Padmé. The scene does not appear in the deleted scenes section of the DVD; however, an unfinished version was included in the Blu-ray release box set.
• Chancellor Palpatine's strategy for maintaining power is known to political scientists, and is called Perpetual War. He comes to power through conflict with the Trade Federation, gains greater privileges through the Clone War, and solidifies his position through war on the Jedi.
• Every clone trooper in the film is CGI. Not a single real clone costume or helmet was featured in the movie.

Ep 36: Star Wars Tutorial

Topic: Star Wars

 

This week, we’re starting our Month long discussion on Star Wars, with the anticipation of the new Movie ‘Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker’.  Get out your light sabers, prepare your wookie roar, and remember that “It’s a Trap!”  Let’s talk Star Wars!

 

 

AIDS Life Cycle

This upcoming June, our Co-Host, Mom, will be participating in a cycling event, aimed at raising money for charity to support AIDS research and treatments.  This 7 day, 545 mile trek will start in San Francisco, Ca and end in Los Angeles, CA, winding up and down hills and valleys.  My mom’s goal is raising $10,000 and I’m hopeful our audience can help.  If you can assist with her ride and learn more, please visit my Mom’s AIDS Life Cycle Page.

 

 

Tutorial

 

Origins

Created by George Lucas in 1977

Originally, George Lucas wanted to do Flash Gordon movie, but couldn’t secure the rights.

Element of Joseph Campbells The Hero with a Thousand Faces

Secured sequel rights before first film ever released

 

Science Fiction vs Science Fantasy

Science Fiction = Less Fantastical, More realistic based off the universe. Could actually exist in theory

Science Fantasy = More Fantastical, Less emphasis on explaining how things work, unlikely to ever really happen/exist.

 

Key Features of Star Wars

• The Force
• Jedi / Sith
• Light Sabers
• Blasters
• Republic
• Universe seems a lot like the Wild West/Pirates
• Droids
• Aliens / Language
• Mix of Sci-fi and Fantasy elements

 

Movies

 

Prequel Trilogy

• The Phantom Menace (1999)
• Attack of the Clones (2002)
• Revenge of the Sith (2005)

 

Star Wars Story:

• Solo (2018)
• Rogue One (2016) 

 

Original Trilogy:

• A New Hope (1977)
• The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
• Return of the Jedi (1983)

 

Sequel Trilogy

• The Force Awakens (2015)
• The Last Jedi (2017)
• The Rise of the Skywalker (2019)

 

TV Series

• Ewoks
• Clone Wars
• Rebels
• Resistance
• Mandalorian

 

Other Media

Expanded Universe / Also known as the Legends

Books, Lots of books

Lots of games

                TIE Fighter / X-Wing

                Jedi Knight series (Jedi Outcast)

                Knights of the Old Republic

                Force Unleashed

                Battle Front

                Fallen Order

                MMOs (Old Republic / Galaxy)

Theme Parks

 

 

FANS

Trooping / 501^st

Wookipedia

Concern over Tim.

 

Ep 35: Nerd Tutorial Gift Giving Guide

Topic: Gift Giving Guide

With the holidays coming up shortly, and the big chance to buy gifts, we wanted to offer some idea and advice when shopping for your fellow nerds.  Some of this will be relevant to some, while others, maybe less so, but the intent is to give a direction to those shopping for their beloved, and professional, nerds.

Knowing your Nerd

Buying a great present for a nerd can be difficult some times, but the most important thing to know when buying is to understand what the nerd is in to or would like.  Research and talking with your nerd will be a major hurtle to figure out what would be an ideal gift.  If you want to be secretive about it, you might want to try to couch the request as a gift someone else, a cousin, colleague, or something like that.  The better you know the nerd, the easier it will be to pick a present out.

 

Basic/Necessities

Subscriptions

• Netflix
• Hulu
• Crunchyroll
• Subscriptions

 

Gift Cards

• Amazon
• ThinkGeek
• Card Kingdom
• Local Stores
• Game Currency

 

Loot Boxes

• https://bensbargains.com/thecheckout/guides/20-awesome-subscription-boxes-like-loot-crate/

 

 

Indulgence

Game Systems

Playstation 4

• Lots of Games, aiming more toward Japanese culture
• Great graphics
• Playstation VR
• Potential 4k systems/games

 

Xbox One

• Lots of Games, more geared toward American/western
• Good Multimedia tools/Services
• Great Graphics

 

Nintendo Switch

• Good Game Library, heavy on First Party Support
• Portable
• Aimed toward family friendly
• Good for multiplay/local

 

Clothing/Accessories

• Shirts are easy to get, no nerd will turn down a shirt usually.  Try to find stuff they’ll want to wear all the time, or great for special occasions.  Even better if they can camouflage it at work!

 

Game/Computer Hardware

• Aim to get them Games they don’t already have if possible.  Better to buy closer to the date you’re giving the gift as they may not have it at that point.
• If getting electronics, aim to get high end or biggest bang for buck.  Computer parts/hardware can age poorly over the years, so aiming for better early on will mean it lasts longer.

 

Collections

• Nerds enjoy their collections, so if you’re able to add to it, all the better.  Knowing your nerd will help a lot here. 

 

Tickets

• If you have local convention or events happening, tickets are a great option.  Wrestling is all the time, usually 2-3 times a year.  There is often a touring orchestra that does video game or pop-culture music.  If you have a local convention, buying their pass for the convention can also work well too. 

 

 

Specialty

Etsy / Craft

If you’re looking for a one of a kind, never seen before item, this might be where you look.  Etsy has lots of great makers and ideas to give you the most unique gift.

 

Memorabilia

• Personal to them.

 

Time

• As we discussed, sometimes, your time with a nerd can be more than enough.  Finding something there in to and joining it, or simply giving them a chance to talk about their nerdy passions might be worth it.

 

Ep 34: World of Warcraft Review/Play

Topic: World of Warcraft

 

This week, we're trying something different.  Because it's a Video Game, and the magic of technology allowed us, we recorded the whole Episode on film!  Okay not real film, but still, we recorded the adventure of Mom learning and trying to play World of Warcraft.  Come find out how we did.

 

We're uploading the video to Youtube as well, so while the podcast might be a bit misleading if you don't see what we're doing, for those who can't watch us play, you can atleast listen to us play.