See the 501st Legion in Action at the Imperial Star Cruiser Party at Xian Jan 23

We interviewed Vincent Rondia, a member of the 501st Legion Chinese Garrison (a name that has more to do with jeans than with science fiction), to talk about all things Star Wars ahead of the Imperial Star Wars Party at Xian this Saturday (Jan 23). And when I mean “interviewed,” I’m actually referring to our epic three-hour-long WeChat conversation, by which Vincent (err … I mean TK20100, his registration number in the 501st) elaborated on everything from their Force Parade in Shanghai to his favorite Star Wars memes. To say Vincent, and his fellow 501st Legion members, are regular Star Wars fans, would be a gross understatement; these guys are diehard fanatics (in a good sense), and hopefully this post will bring some light (as opposed to dark) to their cause.

The Beijinger: What is the 501st Legion? What kind of people compose its Chinese garrison?
TK20100: The 501st is a group of highly dedicated and knowledgeable fans of Star Wars. We have over 10,000 members spread around the world and we express our passion through the fabrication of exact replica costumes and props from the movies. We are organized through a global network, following similar structures, rules and obligations, both in terms of detailing of the costumes and the do-good attitude we showcase. We also use our visibility to promote charities and do fundraising.

In China we are about 50 member with the commanding officer and executive officer being Chinese. Most of our members are your typical working professionals, however, we are all volunteers at heart. There are no “fees” to be a member; the only requirement: you must own an approved – by HQ and based on hard criteria – costume.

Author's\s note: At this point the Q&A session proceeded on a tangent, as many WeChat conversations do, with TK20100 explaining their unbelievable dedication to making their costumes.

All of our members are, of course, really big fans. You have to be! The time you spend researching, sourcing, building each costume is enormous. You can only achieve it if you are dedicated. A Stormtrooper needs to be put together (imagine a giant model kit), in order to have it customized to your size, and may take over 200 hours to complete. Chewbacca took me 18 months of work, weaving each thread of hair by hand.

Some [costumes] are cheaper to make, but most can be quite expensive. Each of us in China own several costumes … on average three, others more, and a few of us have way too many. And of course everything is handmade. The great thing is that you learn quite a bit. Everyone is able to find something that matches their skill set. One of our members in Beijing developed mad skills in 3D printing for the last few months and completed a BB-8 unit solely from 3D printing.

Patience is one of the skills you must master. The most rewarding skills I’ve learned is the basics of working with leather; so now I can make my own belts, holsters, and other accessories. Then there are the pains and hurts that come with the process. I recently got five stitches in my leg when my knife slipped as I was cutting a piece of armor.

Is The Force strong in Beijing?
It’s getting there … more people were exposed [to the Star Wars franchise] with the release of the movie, so there is at least a better understanding or idea of what the brand is. I wouldn't say that we are flooded with new membership requests [to join the 501st Legion] but we’ve definitely seen a sharp increase in inquiries. I expect more people to really get on board with the next movie Rogue One, starring Donnie Yen, which will be released around December this year.
 

How is the 501st Legion going to make the Imperial Star Cruiser Party an epic event to attend?
We have about 10 members in full gear that will be “trooping” (our internal term designating how we go about during events). There will be opportunities, of course, to take pictures and to interact with us. Some activities will be put up by East to spice up the event, and I’ve heard about a certain slave, Leia, being there.

In a sentence or less, sum up how you feel about the Force Awakens.



All the old favorites [characters] with an awesome new generation … and no Jar Jar!

Photos courtesy of the 501st Legion Chinese Garrison