SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Last December, "The Rise of Skywalker," the ninth film in the "Skywalker Saga," the central story of the Star Wars franchise, brought to close a story that began in 1977 with what would come to be known as "A New Hope." Born in 1976, I have essentially lived my entire life in the shadow of the grand epic. It hasn't been the smoothest of rides and opinions of the saga's highs and lows differ from person to person, but it has been a frequent source of joy for me nonetheless. So, as "The Rise of Skywalker" comes to physical DVD, Blu-ray and 4K this week, let's take a look at what's new and coming soon in the Star Wars universe.
"Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker" is now available on DVD, Blu-ray, 4K and digital.
The Rise of Skywalker: Supplemental Reading
One thing that sets the Star Wars franchise apart is its massive and interconnected storylines. What takes place in the comics, novels, television show and movies is all part of the same universe. It's one of the many things I talked toJennifer Heddle and Caitlin Kennedy, two of themembers of the Disney Lucasfilm Press editorial team, last month. Those looking to dig deeper into the stories leading to and surrounding "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker" have plenty of options.
Novels
Comics
For Younger Readers
Reference and Academia
For an expanded look at the toys and collectiblesthat were released for "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker" including Funko Vinyl Pop! figures see my Star Wars Gift Guide from December.
The Skywalker Saga in 4K
Alongside the 4K release of "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker," Best Buy will have an exclusive "Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga" box set release of all nine films, a letter from Mark Hamill and special packaging that's adorned with Ralph McQuarrie concept art. The set includes the most recent versions of the films that are currently streaming on Disney+. Those hoping for HD scans of the original theatrical releases of "A New Hope," "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi" will have to wait.
Expanding the Star Wars Galaxy
Go deeper into the Star Wars galaxy with these series-spanning books, comics and poster collections. My personal favorite is "the Galaxy Needs You." It reminds me of my childhood connection to all thingsa long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. That said, the "Ultimate Pop-Up Galaxy" is pretty awesome.
Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order
The Star Wars franchise has produced some classic video games. The newest release, "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order" is one of the most enjoyable as you walk into the shoes ofCal Kestis, a Jedi Padawan who has evaded the attention of Darth Vader's Imperial Inquisitors. Until now.
Now if we could only getRespawn Entertainment and Electronic Arts to offer up an expansion pack, those of us who have already played our way through the storyline two or three times.
The Mandalorian
It might not be the first time that the Star Wars franchise experimented with television series, but "The Mandalorian" is the best of the live-action projects to date (not that Christmas special or the two Ewok movies put up much of a fight). For me the series works because it, like the original film, is heavily influenced by Japanese art (check out "Lone Wolf and Cub"). There's also The Child (AKA Baby Yoda). Release dates are a little up in the air for the various toys and collectibles, but here's a look at some of what will be available.
Funko's POP! vinyl figures have become a staple of fandom and their selection of figures from "The Mandalorian" will be no exception.
It's hard to say exactly when they'll get here, but there will be an ample amount of The Child to brighten your days. Is there really too much of a good thing? No, I didn't think so.
There are a myriad of T-shirts featuring The Child available or coming soon from the Disney Shop and from Fifth Sunto choose from.
The Clone Wars
It's a brief reprieve, but "The Clone Wars" animated series has been resurrected for a final season on Disney+. You need something to binge watch? This is it. In the near future Fifth Sun will be releasing a variety of Star Wars: The Clone Wars T-Shirts to celebrate the return of the beloved animated season.
Star Wars Galaxy of Adventures 5-Inch Ashoka Tano Figure (Spring 2020)
Star Wars Mission Fleet: Captain Rex Clone Combat Vehicle and Figure (Fall 2020)
Star Wars Mission Fleet: Ashoka Tano Aquatic Attack Micro Vehicle and Figure (Fall 2020)
Star Wars Mission Fleet: Anakin Skywalker Jedi Starfighter Vehicle and Figure (Fall 2020)
Star Wars Galaxy of Adventures 5-Inch Ashoka's Clone Trooper Figure (Spring 2020)