Author - NerfHerder

Pew, Pew – How the iconic Star Wars blaster sound was created

December 6, 2017
NerfHerder
Games and Novelties
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The blaster sound effect from Star Wars is immediately recognisable. While real laser devices emit very little sound, those handy firearms from “a long time ago” produced a distinctive “pew” that showed they meant business; even in the hands of notoriously off-target Storm Troopers.

How was this iconic sound created? As it turns out, foley artists working on the original Star Wars stumbled upon the high tension wires that extend down from AM radio transmission towers. Hitting one with a metallic wrench provided a sound that started with a high pitch, before quickly descending into a lower frequency. This is caused by acoustic dispersion.

Just how does the science of sound explain this phenomenon? Watch this explanatory video to find out:

Pretty cool, no?

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ROGUE ONE – The Trailer Has Arrived!

April 7, 2016
NerfHerder
Star Wars Stories & Spin-offs
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When Disney acquired LucasFilm, the stated plan for a series of spin-off movies exploring the expanded Star Wars Universe was one of the most promising plans to emerge. At the same time, the idea of a thoroughly “milked” universe resulting in annual cinematic releases has been a source of apprehension for some fans.

No doubt, the widely celebrated quality of The Force Awakens calmed some nerves, but that film being a fully-qualified “Episode” installment still cast uncertainty over whether the smaller spin-off productions would live up to the high expectations that the brand commands.

Fortunately, any worries are likely to be put to rest by the stunning Rogue One trailer that was unveiled today. This first spin-off charts the activity of a band of rebels in events that took place between the timelines of Episode III and Episode IV, during the development of the Death Star and the mobilisation of the Empire. There are storm troopers a-plenty, AT-AT warfare and no doubt will feature cameos by a few familiar characters, such as Vader himself.

Check it out and let us know your thoughts.

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John Williams brings musical magic to The Force

March 29, 2016
NerfHerder
Episode VII - The Force Awakens
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As far as cinematic composers go, few come close to John Williams in terms of the emotion he’s able to deliver. From his subtle, creeping background simmers through to his soaring operatic crescendos, Mr Williams has a knack for creating sounds and melodies that strike a powerful chord. His work on the original Star Wars trilogy, E.T. The Extra Terrestrial, Jaws, Indiana Jones and Superman ranks among the most memorable and moving music to ever grace the silver screen.

At 83 years of age, John Williams hasn’t lost any of his magic, as this video from 60 Minutes indicates.

Only the first couple of minutes of the video relate to Mr Williams directly, but what follows is also a fascinating insight into lessons JJ Abrams took from co-writer Lawrence Kasdan.

It’s no doubt through the input of classic talents such as Williams, Kasdan and the original cast that Star Wars – The Force Awakens felt so special.

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Why George Lucas has no interest in directing more Star Wars movies

March 29, 2016
NerfHerder
Episode IV - A New Hope, Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back, Episode VI - Return of the Jedi, News and Views
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Many of the most iconic pieces of pop culture from the 1980s sprang from the vivid imagination of George Lucas. Those who grew up in that era were no doubt heavily influenced by the original Star Wars trilogy, by Indiana Jones and perhaps even George’s smaller fantasy works, such as Willow.

If the following video is any indication, however, it seems that George is still reeling from the hammering he received from fans upon the release of the prequel trilogy. Those films, while visually spectacular, suffered from a lack of charm, heart and evocative performances, so it’s understandable that fans of the original series felt that the saga had lost some of its magic. At the same time, it’s unfortunate if the lack of love shown towards Jar-Jar Binks is what has deflated George’s passion for the Star Wars Universe.

Take a look and let us know your thoughts below.

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Emo Kylo Ren is the best thing on Twitter right now

December 29, 2015
NerfHerder
Episode VII - The Force Awakens, Star Wars Funnies
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Adam Driver Emo Kylo Ren

SOME SPOILERS AHEAD. Please read only if you have already seen The Force Awakens.

Kylo Ren was billed as the new “big bad” to lead the forces of darkness against the Jedi and Resistance, and he didn’t disappoint. The character, portrayed with complexity by Adam Driver, was the embodiment of inner conflict. It’s unclear as to where his motivations truly lie, with some fan theories suggesting he could be driven by a desire to end the dark side by taking out Snoke, while others point to his role in destroying five planets and a certain hero as a pretty clear indication that he is moving towards pure darkness.

Whatever the case, his family history and lack of control over his base emotions point to an angst-ridden soul. This, plus the dark, broody physical appearance of the unmasked Kylo, have led many to draw connections between Master Ren and moody, hormonal adolescents.

The finest embodiment of this notion is a new Twitter account – suitably named “Emo Kylo Ren” (username KyloR3n) that serves as a pseudo journal for the character during his teen years; revealing the inner drama he faces dealing with his parents, school mates and challenging relationship with Nazi-inspired Hux. It’s a parody piece, of course, with its author identified as witty Washington Post contributor Alexandra Petri.

Below is a sampling of some of Kylo’s most emo – and borderline hipster – journal entries.

What do you think? Will Ben ever emerge from this emotional rut?

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