In early 2024, Empire Magazine released a highly anticipated “Hello There” Special Issue, dedicated to celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Star Wars prequel trilogy. The issue is a deep dive into the making, impact, and lasting legacy of The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones, and Revenge of the Sith. With exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, never-before-seen concept art, and collectible covers, this special edition serves as a nostalgic tribute for long-time fans and a fresh perspective for newer audiences. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Empire Magazine’s “Hello There” Special Issue a must-read for every Star Wars enthusiast.
The Legacy of the Star Wars Prequels
When The Phantom Menace debuted in 1999, it marked the beginning of a new era for Star Wars. However, the prequel trilogy received mixed reviews at the time, with many criticizing its CGI-heavy effects, political themes, and character portrayals.
Over the years, the trilogy has undergone a re-evaluation, with fans and critics gaining a deeper appreciation for its storytelling, world-building, and emotional depth. Today, the prequel era is celebrated for its iconic characters, intense lightsaber duels, and contributions to the Star Wars lore.
With this in mind, Empire Magazine’s “Hello There” Special Issue takes readers on a journey through the evolution of the prequel trilogy, highlighting its initial reception, cultural impact, and redemption among fans.
Exclusive Interviews with the Cast and Crew
A highlight of Empire Magazine’s “Hello There” Special Issue is its exclusive interviews with the stars and creators of the prequel trilogy.
1. Ewan McGregor (Obi-Wan Kenobi)
The special issue includes an in-depth conversation with Ewan McGregor, who played Obi-Wan Kenobi in all three prequel films. McGregor reflects on:
- His journey from Episode I to Episode III
- The iconic “Hello there” line from Revenge of the Sith
- His return to the role in Disney+’s Obi-Wan Kenobi series
2. Hayden Christensen (Anakin Skywalker / Darth Vader)
Another standout interview is with Hayden Christensen, who discusses:
- The complexity of playing Anakin Skywalker
- His character’s fall to the dark side
- His experience returning in Obi-Wan Kenobi
3. Natalie Portman (Padmé Amidala)
Natalie Portman shares insights into:
- Padmé’s political strength and leadership
- The tragic love story between Padmé and Anakin
- The legacy of her character
4. George Lucas and the Creative Team
Empire Magazine’s “Hello There” Special Issue also includes insights from:
- George Lucas (Star Wars creator) on the vision behind the prequels
- Doug Chiang (concept artist) on designing Naboo, Coruscant, and Mustafar
- Nick Gillard (stunt coordinator) on choreographing lightsaber fights
Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Concept Art
One of the most exciting features of Empire Magazine’s “Hello There” Special Issue is its rare concept art and never-before-seen set photos.
1. Evolution of Iconic Characters
The issue showcases early designs of:
- Darth Maul, who originally had feathers and robotic elements
- General Grievous, who was initially more insect-like
- Padmé Amidala’s royal wardrobe, influenced by Asian and Renaissance fashion
2. World-Building and Set Designs
Readers will also find concept sketches of:
- The Jedi Temple on Coruscant
- The vibrant underwater world of Otoh Gunga
- The fiery landscapes of Mustafar
3. Lightsaber Duel Choreography
- A breakdown of Anakin vs. Obi-Wan’s Mustafar battle, revealing how it took months of intense training
- Details on Yoda vs. Count Dooku, including how CGI helped bring Yoda’s agility to life
Collectible Covers: Light Side vs. Dark Side
To cater to all Star Wars fans, Empire Magazine released multiple collectible covers for the “Hello There” Special Issue:
- Light Side Cover – Featuring Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker, Yoda, and Padmé Amidala
- Dark Side Cover – Showcasing Darth Maul, Count Dooku, Emperor Palpatine, and General Grievous
- Subscriber-Exclusive Cover – A nostalgic collage of prequel-era action figures, designed by Bill McConkey
These collectible covers have become highly sought-after among Star Wars collectors.
Fan Reactions and Online Hype
Before its release, Empire Magazine teased the “Hello There” Special Issue on social media with the phrase:
“Hello there…”
This simple yet legendary quote from Revenge of the Sith sparked massive speculation among fans. Many believed it hinted at a new Star Wars project, but once revealed, the excitement shifted to the special issue itself.
On Reddit, Twitter, and Star Wars fan forums, reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with fans praising:
- The in-depth interviews
- The stunning concept art
- The nostalgic appreciation for the prequels
Some collectors even reported pre-orders selling out quickly, making this a must-have for any Star Wars fan.
Why This Issue Matters: The Lasting Legacy of the Prequels
Empire Magazine’s “Hello There” Special Issue serves as a reminder of how the Star Wars prequels have grown in popularity over time.
The prequels introduced key elements that continue to shape the franchise today, including:
- The political complexity of the Galactic Republic and Separatist conflict
- The tragedy of Anakin Skywalker and the Sith’s rise to power
- The importance of Obi-Wan Kenobi’s mentorship
Beyond just celebrating the 25th anniversary, this issue proves that the prequels have secured their place as an essential chapter in the Star Wars saga.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Star Wars Fans
Empire Magazine’s “Hello There” Special Issue is more than just a retrospective—it’s a love letter to the Star Wars prequel trilogy. With its exclusive cast interviews, rare behind-the-scenes insights, and stunning concept art, this special edition is a must-read for both hardcore fans and newcomers alike. Whether you grew up with the prequels or are rediscovering them today, this issue is a perfect tribute to 25 years of storytelling, adventure, and lightsaber duels. So, if you’re a Star Wars fan, don’t miss out—grab a copy of Empire Magazine’s “Hello There” Special Issue and relive the magic of the prequels!
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