Disney, Target, and an intergalactic AAA

Ever since I watched the “Star Wars” movies, I have loved them. The acting may not be perfect, but the action and plot make up for it.

I remember how every time my family would go on roadtrips I would demand that we bring the films. So naturally, I am extremely excited for the new trilogy coming out, and I am not the only one.

I decided to buy nine tickets for opening night. To many people I probably seem a little overly enthusiastic, especially by buying tickets two months in advance. I purchased mine with no issues the day after they went on sale.

I’m glad I did so early.

Within only a few days of the early sale, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” sold eight times the previous record set by the first installment of “The Hunger Games” trilogy.

Pre-sales for large films usually average at about $1 million in revenue before the first report. “Star Wars” destroyed the record by selling $6.5 million within the first few days.

Now you can see I’m not crazy.  Many theaters are already sold out through Christmas Day. San Ramon’s Regal Crow Canyon Stadium has sold out all six theaters for the weekend. Opening night tickets on eBay are going for $200 apiece.

“Star Wars” hasn’t just overrun the Internet. I walked into Target to find a life-sized cardboard Chewbacca that talked (or roared) at me when I walked by him. Of course the new cute BB-8 droid has plush and remote controlled forms.

What really strikes me is the array of weird stuff.

Toasters, life size pillows, car chargers, special limited-edition Campbell soups, even a makeup line. I probably will splurge on a new lightsaber, although C3PO Spaghetti-O’s sound pretty awesome.

If the hype and the merchandise wasn’t enough, you are in for a real treat.

Disney is creating Star Wars Land at Disneyland and Disney World. Yes, it is happening and I will not feel shame for staying there for the duration of the trip. Disney has said it will take up 14 acres of land in Disneyland alone.

The land will be highly immersive, meaning every employee will act and be dressed in “Star Wars” attire. Additionally, food will be “Star Wars” themed, including my favorite: blue milk from Tatooine.

Of course, part of me is worried. With the creation of the prequel trilogy in the early 2000s, I am scared that the new movies will not have the quality of the originals.

But don’t think new director J.J. Abrams will be allowing another Jar Jar Binks-like mistake.

We are less than two weeks away from the big night!

I would like to recommend you get your ticket(s) now, before they get more expensive than the insurance claims for the Death Star.