Life-size ‘Star Wars’ spaceships unveiled in Manila, Cebu

MANILA, Philippines — Celebrities like TV hosts RJ Ledesma, Ariella Arida and Daphne Osena-Paez flocked in the unveiling of a life-size “Star Wars” spaceship replica in SM Mall of Asia, in time for the IMAX opening of Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” on Wednesday night.

The spaceship, The Tie Silencer, is the angular fighter of the film’s chief villain, Kylo Ren. The replica will be on display until January 8.

During the unveiling, Storm Troopers, Jedi and Rebel Pilots from the 501st Legion made a special appearance. The legion is an exclusive club of “Star Wars” fans wherein precise measurements for costumes are required to acquire membership.

Another realistic spaceship copy from the movie, The X-Wing, has been unraveled in SM Seaside City Cebu last December 1. The X-Wing is the Rebel Alliance’s Starfighter designed for long missions and intense battles. The life-size installation will be on display until January 21.

To enhance the “Star Wars” experience, the film’s last episode has been digitally re-mastered in IMAX, which boasts of vivid three-dimensional colors and effects. A mobile application, which can be downloaded for free from Android Google Play, can be used for online booking.  

"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" is written and directed by Rian Johnson and produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Ram Bergman. J.J. Abrams, Tom Karnowski and Jason McGatlin are the executive producers. It is now showing in Philippine cinemas and is distributed by the Walt Disney Company (Philippines).

The film stars Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Gwendoline Christie, Kelly Marie Tran, Laura Dern and Benicio Del Toro.

Ariella Arida with Storm Troopers and Kylo Ren of the 501st Legion, with the The Tie Silencer spaceship at the background. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo

Daphne and her daughters with Storm Troopers and Kylo Ren of the 501st Legion. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo

The Jedis, Kylo Ren, and Storm Troopers of the 501st Legion. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo

Kylo Ren and First Order members in front of the unveiled Tie Silencer fighter. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo

501st Legion members in front of the unveiled Tie Silencer fighter. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo

Jedi costumes and memorabilia were also on display. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo

Life-size Tie SIlencer replica.  Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo