Jon Waterhouse and his son, Max, went to see "Star Wars" today. The entire series.
Regal Atlantic Station is among several theaters across the country to host an "ultimate fan experience" where guests will be able to watch all six of the previously-released movies before a 3-D screening of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."
Credit: Jennifer Brett
Credit: Jennifer Brett
Jon, an AJC correspondent, related his experience in between screenings:
My son Max, 20, and I awoke at 3 a.m. I slipped on my Boba Fett onsie and headed downstairs to find he had a steamy cup of coffee waiting for me in a Stormtrooper mug.
We arrived at Atlantic Station thinking we would waltz into a fairly open theater at 4 a.m. Like when Luke found out Vader was his father, we were shocked. The place was packed, even for the oft loathed "Episode I." The only open seats were in the first four rows.
Credit: Jennifer Brett
Credit: Jennifer Brett
People reportedly began lining up well before midnight. At midnight, they let folks in and approximately 100 fans headed to the theater to claim seats and more soon followed. To give my neck a rest, I've been occasionally walking around the theater. On the very back row, some folks made makeshift beds with pillows and blankets on the floor just behind their seats.
Of course, some people are donning costumes. Plenty of Jedi and Sith robes, and at least one full-on Han Solo have been spotted. No face paint, helmets, masks or prop weapons are allowed.
Credit: Jennifer Brett
Credit: Jennifer Brett
Like countless kids, the originals really helped not only jump start my passion for film and pop culture, but helped fuel my imagination. After seeing the first one in 1977, the characters became like family. I sincerely cared about them and developed a deep rooted love for the series.
When my wife Andrea and I adopted our son Max 15 years ago when he was 5, I sat him down in front of the TV on a snow day and showed him the entire original trilogy. He was instantly hooked. A couple months later at his 6th birthday party we rented out a theater, screened Ep 4 and Jim Stacy showed up dressed as Darth Vader.
To be sitting with him 15 years later and celebrating Star Wars for more than 17 hours is priceless. Serious father/son memories being made.
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