As a longtime Star Wars enthusiast who’s also been fortunate enough to work on some amazing projects within the galaxy far, far away, I must say that “LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy” is indeed an excellent opportunity for newcomers to dive into this epic universe. However, I can’t help but wonder if it would be equally entertaining to witness a confused reaction from someone who hasn’t seen the original films, watching our show first and then going back to watch the classics!
Today marks the debut of LEGO Star Wars: Reassemble the Galaxy on Disney+, and it’s one of the most unusual, engaging ideas to have surfaced from the Star Wars universe in a while. The story revolves around Sig Greebling, a young, family-oriented Nerf herder who becomes entangled in much larger events that ultimately cause the LEGO Star Wars universe as we know it to flip on its head. At its core, fun is a key component, and it aims to take fans on an extraordinary adventure they’ll never forget.
Game Rant recently chatted with main actor Gaten Matarazzo, known for portraying Sig Greebling, about the LEGO Star Wars undertaking at length. In this conversation, the Stranger Things star shared his enduring affection for the Star Wars series as a whole, named his preferred film from the Saga, and elaborated on why voice-acting roles align perfectly with his hectic timetable. For the sake of clarity and conciseness, some parts of the interview have been condensed.
LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy is By Fans, For Fans
Q: You’re a huge Star Wars fan. How exciting is it to join the Star Wars galaxy?
Matarazzo: It feels surreal. If I could go back and tell my 7-year-old self that this is where I’d end up, I don’t think he would be able to grasp it. It’s a tremendous privilege, and to have the opportunity in a project as enjoyable as this, which seems to be created by and for fans, makes it even more special. Given the tension currently surrounding Star Wars, I believe this adds to the appeal because it seems less pressured.
Fans of Star Wars are often challenging to satisfy due to their high expectations. Over the years, they have consistently shown a knack for being tough to impress. Even when I find something to be objectively excellent, many Star Wars enthusiasts frequently express disappointment. As a result, when a project like this comes along, it’s better to step back, unwind, and simply appreciate the universe we’ve created together – allowing ourselves to have some fun with it.
In this imaginary realm, whatever you dream of coming true, does! And imagine, characters from the Star Wars universe becoming part of it – that’s mind-blowing! Take Mark Hamill for example, when he agreed to join the project, we were overjoyed! The same goes for Ahmed Best. It’s simply enjoyable to participate in this, and even more delightful to watch it unfold.
Recent Reactions to Star Wars Projects Shouldn’t Affect Rebuild the Galaxy or Its Cast
As a die-hard Star Wars enthusiast, I can certainly relate to the passion and sometimes heated discussions surrounding the latest installments in the saga. With regards to the project I’m working on, it does stir up a bit of anticipation, knowing that the fandom is so invested and has strong opinions. It’s both exhilarating and challenging to be part of something that means so much to so many people.
Matarazzo: I believe this project, being relatively casual compared to others, is more about having fun since there’s not much at stake here. If someone were to delve into the typical YouTube Star Wars lore, it strikes me as amusing. It’s not profound; it’s simply a dose of nerdy entertainment. We’re here to appreciate it and rekindle the same joy we felt when first watching Star Wars as children. Hopefully, this serves as a delightful reminder for all of us to do that again.
As a gamer, I can’t wait to share my excitement about this! It seems like it’ll offer a fresh perspective on the universe, which could be absolutely thrilling. I believe many others will find it cool too, given the chance to witness lightsaber-wielding heroes battling through droids. This universe, one of the most captivating ever crafted for television, is something I’m certain folks will enjoy immersing themselves in. Here’s hoping it lives up to its potential and offers a refreshingly fun new twist!
Q: What is your favorite Star Wars movie and why?
Matarazzo: I firmly believe that among Star Wars films, Empire Strikes Back is arguably the best and likely ranks among the top five greatest movies ever made. However, my personal favorite remains Return of the Jedi. It’s the one I secretly watched in my room using a DVD player I discovered in the attic, even on school nights so that it would help me fall asleep.
I memorized the first act of that movie right up to the Sarlacc pit. I would never make it past the Sarlacc pit because I’d fall asleep. That’s my favorite, but I fully understand that Empire is, without a doubt, the most impressive movie of the franchise. I do have a soft spot for the lightsaber battles in Revenge of the Sith. I could just watch them on repeat. They’re just perfect.
As a devoted fan, I’ve always found the prequels to be extraordinary due to their remarkable world-building. It’s captivating to witness this expansive universe unfold in detail for the first time, with its stunning animation and other elements. In my opinion, George Lucas, in crafting the prequels, seemed to have finally realized his vision of fully immersing us in the world he had conceived so many years ago, and he truly succeeded. It’s heartening to see that the prequels are now receiving the recognition they deserve, too. Nowadays, it often feels like there are more enthusiasts discussing the prequels than the original trilogy when I browse online forums.
LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy’s Setting is an Interesting One
A: Could you provide some information on the background of LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy, specifically its setting, and how it slots into the chronology of the Star Wars saga?
Matarazzo: It’s exciting that this new Saga seems to be a complete reinvention of the timeline we’re familiar with. It doesn’t have to adhere strictly to established lore since the series is all about disrupting that lore and combining elements freely, like playing with LEGO bricks. However, it begins later in the narrative, following the events of the First Order, the Empire, the Rebellion, and the Jedi Order. By this point, these stories are so ancient that they’ve become more mythological or legendary.
It paves the way for people in this universe to become obsessed with these stories. Which is who my character, Sig Greebling, is. He’s basically a Star Wars fan in the Star Wars universe. He sits around the campfire and tells the stories of Anakin, Luke, and Rey, and all of his friends are like, “Yes, we know,” “Yes, we get it.” I guess, in context, he would be like a history nerd or a mythology nerd. Then he gets whisked away on an adventure when he finds out that those stories that he loves are all real.
He finds a Jedi Temple and he ends up accidentally messing with a very important LEGO piece called the Cornerstone. When removed from this temple, the Cornerstone rearranges the galaxy, completely reshuffling everything we know and love about the Star Wars universe, so good guys are bad, bad guys are good. All bets are off. Tatooine becomes a swamp planet, everything switches around. It’s crazy.
LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy’s Sig Greebling Shares Some Characteristics With Gaten Matarazzo
Q: Does Sig Greebling have any defining character traits that you can identify with?
Translation: Matarazzo: Absolutely, I’d agree. He’s incredibly enthusiastic about being a “nerf herder,” showing deep passion for the things he cherishes. Family-oriented is an understatement for him. He’s quite content with his life as a “nerf herder.” The humor in that role never fades. His preference for a simple, small-town lifestyle with his family is evident. He adores his brother deeply, cherishes his friends, and sometimes finds it challenging to fully express himself.
Initially shy, he unexpectedly gets drawn into an exciting journey, discovering hidden reserves of adventure within himself. Unbeknownst to him, he turns out to have surprising abilities. An intriguing twist unfolds as he realizes his potential for Force-sensitivity, making the experience incredibly thrilling. It’s fantastic!
A: In your line of work, you’ve had a lot of experience with voice acting. Could you share some pros and cons when comparing this to live-action performances?
Matarazzo: Here’s the deal: Voice acting in a booth is an entirely distinct activity compared to on-screen or stage work. The beauty of it lies in the freedom to move your body however you wish. In contrast, when you’re on-camera or onstage, you need to be mindful of your physical presence and the reality of the performance.
In the booth, feel free to move around as you please: dance, do jumping jacks, push-ups, wave your arms, or express yourself however you want with your face. It’s a chance for you to showcase your unique vocal performance, with no rules to hold you back. It’s an enjoyable and liberating experience, reminiscent of acting exercises, that I truly enjoy!
A: How has the experience been collaborating with iconic Star Wars actors such as Mark Hamill, Anthony Daniels, and Billy Dee Williams?
Matarazzo: We didn’t have any face-to-face interactions since our recordings were done at different stages. I’m looking forward to meeting them during promotional events, screenings, or similar occasions. I’m a huge admirer of their work in this universe and beyond it. During the initial recording phase, I was already a big fan of their work. So, as they were signing on, one by one, I would ask daily, “Have we secured them yet?” They replied that negotiations and script discussions were still ongoing.
When Mark agreed, rather cordially, to join our venture, we all felt thrilled. After all, he’s not just a legendary actor known for his work in the Star Wars universe, but also an exceptionally gifted and accomplished voice artist. Amongst a multitude of remarkable Joker performers, Mark Hamill is arguably the finest, and I firmly believe this. Of course, there are Joaquin Phoenix and Heath Ledger who delivered outstanding performances as the Joker, but having Mark on board for our project was simply astonishing.
A: Have you noticed that Stranger Things has been incredibly popular? Given this success, have you found that your work on it has impacted your broader projects, and if so, in what ways?
Matarazzo believes the ability to step into a room, craft a character, and enjoy the process consistently is a rare privilege not all actors experience. He expresses gratitude for this opportunity, as it has only served to ready him for future endeavors, and he eagerly anticipates discovering what lies ahead.
Additionally, it displayed various paths I could pursue, as my schedule during filming a season leaves little room for film or theater work. Thus, voice-acting has become one of my few feasible options. I believe part of the reason I appreciate voice-acting is due to its limited availability while filming. My fondness for it largely stems from my involvement in Stranger Things, and I am deeply appreciative of that opportunity. On weekends or days when I’m not shooting, I can visit the recording booth, unlike being able to spontaneously travel to another city or set.
Fans New to Star Wars May Struggle to Follow Rebuild the Galaxy
For individuals who are yet to explore the Star Wars universe personally, could this be an ideal chance for them to dive in? Is it suitable for novice fans as an introduction point?
As a dedicated Star Wars fan, I’ve got to say what draws me to this series is the fact that it seems tailor-made for us enthusiasts. It feels like it’s been crafted by fellow fans, and I believe that’s who will truly appreciate it. If you’re someone who’s watched the movies, lived them, breathed them – then this show is right up your alley. It’s a thrill to see a production that caters so perfectly to our specific tastes, given how many of us there are who adore Star Wars.
I will say that if you have not seen Star Wars and don’t know it, I would love to see a reaction video watching the show and being so confused, then watching the originals and piecing it all together. There’s got to be somebody out there that can do that.
Is LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy targeted towards an audience that appreciates mature jokes, like the animated LEGO projects do?
Matarazzo: I absolutely agree! What stands out to me is the abundance of Star Wars references, both from the entire saga and the early stages of creating those iconic original films. Those who grew up with it will cherish it just as much as enthusiasts delving into the rich universe. The writers for LEGO projects and animations have always been exceptionally clever and witty. I strongly believe that children’s television doesn’t necessarily have to be subpar.
In simpler terms, I believe LEGO, alongside other outstanding companies such as Disney and Pixar, consistently produce content that is universally appealing and high-quality, particularly for families. It’s like having the best squad of creators to work on a family-oriented project. I think we did a fantastic job with it.
Are there any upcoming projects planned for you following the conclusion of Stranger Things?
Matarazzo: I have a couple of projects in the works, but it’s tricky to pin down as we’re not exactly sure how long we’ll be filming Stranger Things. There are two projects that I’m really eager to start on right after wrapping up. Ideally, I’d prefer to work consistently in New York City. If there are suitable projects available there, then that would be perfect.
If given the opportunity, I’m eager to continue my career in theater to return to the stage. I adore singing, yet it can be quite challenging, particularly when surrounded by exceptionally trained vocalists who add immense pressure. Ideally, I’d like to star in a play, one that allows me to showcase my on-screen talents live on stage. This could become a significant aspiration of mine in the near future.
[END]
LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy is now streaming on Disney+.
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2024-09-13 19:25