30 bits of trivia about Star Wars

I just came across some bits of trivia about the Star Wars series, and found it interesting enough to share. (The fact that I used to be a die-hard Star Wars fan is another factor, but that’s for another post.)

Some of the bits of trivia that really caught my eye:

7. Sir Alec Guinness made a ton of money from the film having recognised its potential success and negotiating a deal for two per cent of box office takings. He also refused to do any promotional work for the film.

I’m not having any luck finding a source right now, but I read a long while back that he also regularly talked trash about the films, saying they were total junk. I think he felt this way because he was always known for the Star Wars films, instead of his more serious roles. But, like I said, I’m not having any luck finding a source, so I can’t be sure if that’s the correct reasoning.

12. The Wookiee Chewbacca was inspired by George Lucas’ beloved dog Indiana - an Alaskan malamute.

Speaking of, Indiana Jones was named after that same dog. (It’s about 3/4 down the page. There’s also some stuff on that page about Star Wars characters, etc. making appearances in the Indiana Jones films.)

24. On the first day of filming in the deserts of Tunisia, the country experienced its first major rainstorm in 50 years and a rest day had to be called.

The only comment I have for that is “lol.”

30. Lucas’ stress levels reached such a height that he thought he was having a heart attack. He was diagnosed with hypertension and exhaustion and told to rest - something the punishing schedule would not allow.

Hmm. I could be wrong (it happens all the time), but this might have something to do with Lucas generally being a bit of a jerk. In all of the interviews I’ve ever seen, he’s always come across as an anal retentive snob. Maybe that’s changed, though; I’ve not seen or read much about him since losing interest in Star Wars a few years ago (again, for another post). Hell, maybe he never was a jerk, and that’s just the impression I had of him.

Anyway, here’s all of the trivia bits. Enjoy!