Ever wondered what it would be like to be a Jedi Knight? Or maybe a bounty hunter? The Star Wars Identities exhibition in Tokyo offered a unique opportunity to explore your own Star Wars destiny, and I was eager to join the adventure.
The Exhibition:
The exhibition was housed in a warehouse in Tennozu Isle, just a stone’s throw from where I witnessed England’s defeat in the blind football World Cup Final. It was my birthday, and the first day of my school holidays, so a Star Wars treat was definitely in order!
Booking My Galactic Journey:
Securing tickets for my friend Matt and myself was a bit of a challenge, as the online process was very intricate. Registration with a username and password, selecting an arrival time, and credit card-only payment (a common practice in Japan) were just the first hurdles. We also had to download and present tickets on our smartphones, and even register our companion’s phone number. Although a bit troublesome, it was all part of the experience!
Bracelets and Headsets:
Upon entering, we were given special wristbands and one-ear headsets. The headsets provided commentary depending on your location within the exhibition, but I found it somewhat distracting and unnecessary. The wristbands were the key to unlocking the exhibition’s interactive elements.
Creating Your Star Wars Identity
The exhibition’s main attraction was the interactive journey to create your own unique Star Wars identity. It was like a personalized Star Wars personality test that allowed you to build a character inspired by the beloved universe.
From Species to Destiny:
The interactive journey started by selecting your species, then you moved on to defining your abilities, companions, key experiences, and values. It was a fascinating exploration of who you are and what shapes your destiny within the Star Wars universe.
A Galaxy of Treasures
Beyond the interactive experience, the exhibition showcased a remarkable collection of over 200 objects from the Lucas Cultural Arts Museum, including props, models, costumes, and artwork.
From Classic to Concept Art:
Familiar faces like Stormtroopers and droids were on display, along with various alien species. But the real gems were the early concept art for characters like Chewbacca and Ahsoka Tano, revealing alternate visions of these beloved figures.
Starships and More:
A large glass display case showcased a variety of starships in miniature forms, alongside helmets and artwork.
Costume and Legacy:
As a die-hard Star Wars fan, I was particularly excited to see real costumes and props from the films. I’ve donned my X-Wing fighter pilot costume for conventions and Halloween parties, but nothing compares to the authenticity and craftsmanship of the pieces on display. The exhibition featured Anakin’s Jedi robe, Owen Lars’s swoop bike, and various Padmé Amidala outfits.
The Dark Side Beckons:
Darth Vader, arguably the most iconic Star Wars character, made his grand entrance at the end of the exhibition. You were then presented with a crucial decision – join the Emperor on the dark side or stay true to the light? After choosing your path, your personalized Star Wars identity was displayed on the wall in the concluding room.
50 Million Possibilities:
The exhibition boasted 50 million different possible identities, making each journey unique and personal. My character, along with Matt’s, added to the millions of potential Star Wars stories that emerged from this immersive experience.
The Force Is Strong in Souvenirs
No visit to Japan is complete without a souvenir shop, and this one offered a tempting selection of exclusive Star Wars Identities merchandise.
A Must-See for Fans
The Star Wars Identities exhibition offered a rare glimpse into the heart of the Star Wars universe, allowing fans to create their own story and experience the galaxy like never before. It was a unique and unforgettable adventure that I highly recommend to any Star Wars enthusiast.
Don’t miss this chance to explore your own Star Wars destiny!
Visit the Star Wars Identities exhibition at Warehouse Terrada G1-5F, Higashi Shinagawa 2-6-4, Tokyo. It runs until January 13th, 2020, and is open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
