Director George Lucas joined Attack Of The Clones actors Samuel Jackson, Christopher Lee and Hayden Christensen for the movie’s London premiere on Tuesday. Also on hand to support her friend Samuel was Oscar winning actress Halle Berry.
The Star Wars creator, who was celebrating his 58th birthday, was greeted by a rendition of Happy Birthday from fans of the epic science fiction film series waiting outside the Leicester Square cinema. He told the crowds that the best birthday present he could receive is, “that everybody likes the movie”.
“It’s very special to be here. It’s amazing that it’s stood up all these years and it’s still as popular as it’s ever been,” he said.
Other celebrities at the event included members of Atomic Kitten, Pop Idol judge Nicki Chapman, chat show host Frank Skinner and comedian Johnny Vegas.
Samuel, whose co-stars Ewan McGregor and Natalie Portman were unable to attend the premiere due to work commitments, revealed that his role in the epic is “ one of the coolest things I’ve done,” adding: “My light sabre skills are impeccable.”
Indeed, the Pulp Fiction actor’s light sabre has caused something of a stir among Star Wars fans. Unlike other sabres, Sam’s is purple. Apparently the actor had specifically requested the new hue but Lucas originally said no. The director seems to have relented, however. “I have the only purple light sabre in the universe and that’s supercool,” says Samuel.
The new movie, which has received significantly better reviews than its predecessor, The Phantom Menace, goes on general release throughout the UK and US on May 16.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
