There is arguably not a more iconic Starship in the entire Star Wars universe, than the very first Starship shown in a Star Wars film. No, I’m not talking about the Imperial Star Destroyer, but the ship that leads that Star Destroyer on a merry chase across the screen — the Blockade Runner. First seen in Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, carrying Princess Leia, C-3PO and R2-D2 away from the clutches of Darth Vader, the Blockade Runner stands as the the pioneer for every other ship shown in every Star Wars film since.
Well…the Blockade Runner is coming to the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con. From the MJK Public Relations Press Release:
"Profiles in History will pay tribute and honor to special effects master Grant McCune as they present McCune Masterworks at the 2015 Comic-Con International: San Diego, July 8 – 12. Profiles in History will devote its entire Comic-Con booth (#1605) to McCune’s work, highlighted by the original, screen-used, Star Wars IV: A New Hope 18″ miniature “Blockade Runner,” the ship that set the tone for the entire Star Wars franchise, creating an epic cultural phenomenon that would capture audiences worldwide for generations to come. The “Blockade Runner” was the first flying ship audiences around the world saw hurtling through space in the opening sequence of the first Star Wars film, carrying Princess Leia, C-3PO and R2-D2 among its crew. Comic-Con fans will be treated to a rare opportunity to see this iconic piece of movie history up close, as it hasn’t been seen or displayed publicly for nearly 40 years! Mr. McCune, as Chief Model Maker, was one of the primary members of the Team that won the 1978 Academy Award® for Best Visual Effects for the film-and his Oscar® will also be on display."
This is a rare opportunity for Star Wars fans to get an up close and personal look at the Tantive IV (Princess Leia’s personal Blockade Runner) from A New Hope, and hear from the team that created the iconic ship. This is just one of many Star Wars themed panels and booths dedicated to Disney’s newly acquired Star Wars/Lucasfilms. However, with this being such a rare display of the ship that started it all, I would strongly urge Star Wars fans in attendance at SDCC to get over to that booth and soak in the history.