Have a few bucks? Want to help a great charity? Oh, and maybe get a walk-on part in J.J. Abrams’ Star Wars: Episode VII? Today may be your lucky day.
The director released the above video from the Abu Dhabi set of Star Wars: Episode VII teasing "Star Wars: Force for Change." The winner of this ongoing contest would win a trip to London to participate in the filming for Star Wars at Pinewood Studios. It’s a behind-the-scenes dream come true for some rabid, die-hard fan… a chance to meet the cast, see J.J. Abrams in action, and go through the hair and makeup process to actually BE in Star Wars: Episode VII. Pretty cool, no?
Disney spilled official details in a press release this morning, stating:
The first Star Wars: Force for Change campaign will raise funds and awareness for the United Nations Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF) Innovation Labs and its innovative programs that are benefiting the world’s most vulnerable children. Disney has committed US $1 million to support the launch of Star Wars: Force for Change. Fans can now contribute directly at Omaze.com/StarWars for a chance to appear in Star Wars: Episode VII. For each $10 contribution made through the Omaze fundraising platform, eligible participants will be automatically entered for a chance to win this once-in-a-lifetime experience. The campaign runs from 12:01am PST on May 21st until 11:59 p.m. PST July 18th.
The "Star Wars: Force for Change" grand prize includes airfare and accommodations to London for one winner and a guest; behind-the-scenes access on the closed set of Star Wars: Episode VII as VIP guests of J.J. Abrams; and more.
"The Star Wars fans are some of the most passionate and committed folks around the globe," says director J.J. Abrams. "We’re thrilled to offer a chance to come behind the scenes as our VIP guests and be in Star Wars: Episode VII. We’re even more excited that by participating in this campaign, Star Wars fans will be helping children around the world through our collaboration with UNICEF Innovation Labs and projects."
It’s fun seeing J.J. Abrams geek out on the actual set of an upcoming Star Wars movie. And the comedic bit with the puppet trudging along past him was a welcome, sentimental nod to the physical props and classic approach Abrams has been saying he wants to restore to the franchise. Also, this production, so far, has been very open, with table-read photos and this video from the set. A new leaf for Abrams?
Still, a tremendous geek opportunity that benefits a great cause? What’s not to love? Visit StarWars.com/ForceForChange to learn more about this new charitable initiative and the work of UNICEF’s Innovation Labs and programs, and enter through contribution or free entry for your chance to win at Omaze.com/StarWars.
