May the Fourth: A day when you’re reminded by all your family, friends and colleagues just how much they love Star Wars.
Never having seen a single film in the franchise, I’ve also never owned a lightsaber nor attempted a Chewbacca call. So, I’ve never quite understood the cultural importance of May the Fourth.
So I turned to a Geek Squad Agent and Star Wars aficionado to find out just what this series means to its loyal following.
Star Wars has a storyline that has continued through the decades
“Star Wars was the first big sci-fi movie to take the world by storm in the ‘70s, and it’s been a phenomenon ever since,” said Agent Adam Silkey.
Think back nearly four decades, he says, to a time when the silver screen didn’t exactly show major blockbusters with incredible effects. Moviegoers headed to the theater for a film about space pirates and laser swords, not knowing what to expect.
“That shot of the Star Destroyer chasing the Rebel Cruiser for the first time was a pivotal moment in cinematic history that made audiences really sit up and pay attention,” Adam said.
And since then, the story has continued with more films, TV shows, video games and a massive following.
Star Wars has become the link among generations, Adam said.
Fans who first saw it in the theaters as kids are now adults, sharing the excitement with their kids – even grandparents are now taking their grandchildren to see these films for the first time.
As for why it connects generations, Adam says it’s the right combination of sci-fi action and thrilling characters – and lightsaber duels.
“It’s that space and Wild West feel of the films. It has this charm that will never get old to fans,” Adam said.
A Geek Squad holiday
Geek Squad celebrates many cultural holidays throughout the year (think Pi Day), and May the Fourth is no exception. There are several ways Geek Squad encourages people to join the celebration. Here are seven of them:
- Introduce a future fan to Star Wars by watching the series with somebody who has never seen it before. Be sure to grab the box set of all the movies before you settle in for a marathon.
- Participate in (friendly) lightsaber duels.
- Speak in as many Star Wars catchphrases as you possibly can or even let out a few Chewbacca calls.
- When asked for today’s date, always reply with “May the Fourth.”
- Play your favorite Star Wars video games, such as Star Wars Battlefront.
- Enjoy a distraction at work, or entertain yourself at home by playing with Sphero BB-8 or the Plox Levitating Death Star Speaker.
Looking for more ways to celebrate May the Fourth? Check out BestBuy.com or your local Best Buy store for savings on select Star Wars video games, toys, accessories and more.