Star Wars Rebels at Comic-Con

Star Wars Rebels was definitely in the spotlight at this year's San Diego Comic-Con. The upcoming animated series was the focus of the Lucasfilm pavilion inside the exhibit hall, and Chopper the droid was everywhere. If you haven't heard about Chopper, he's been described as the family cat. If R2-D2 is the family dog, Chopper is the cat who doesn't do what you want him to do and is a little grumpy. Amazing, right? I met him in person at a party and saw two statues of him in the exhibit hall as well as a LEGO version. For being a bit of a curmudgeon, he gets around:

 

There was also a panel focusing on the heroes of Rebels, and something even more special: they screened the first episode. I was able to attend, and though I didn't have low expectations, the expectations I did have were surpassed. When the episode ended, I was giddy. There's nothing like seeing new Star Wars for the first time, and when it's as good as Rebels was? I was over the moon. The series has a lot of heart, and if you're worried about Disney making it too childish, just stop. It captures the same dark overtones of the original trilogy, and there's still witty banter and fun.

Yes, it's possible to strike a balance, and they've done that here. I discussed some quick, spoiler-free impressions on IGN with Eric Goldman:



I also wrote an article about the screening at IGN: SDCC 2014: Thoughts on the First Episode of Star Wars Rebels

I can't wait for everyone to see this series in October.