This is an pertinent to the prior articles (Research & Dialogue About Importing Firearms to the UK, the Update to that article), which raised issues and questions related to the implementation of the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 in the UK and the affect of this legislation on prop collectors and dealers. Thanks to Simon Lee of DieHardProps.com for the heads up on this new development. [Read more…]
The Last Samurai? UK to Ban “Imitation” Swords…
According to recent news reports, there is a plan to outlaw replica and imitation Samurai swords in England beginning April 2008. Under this plan, those in violation of this proposed law will face stiff fines and up to six months in jail. It appears that exemptions will include genuine Japanese swords owned by collectors and enthusiasts.
This is an interesting development, following the October 1, 2007 implementation of new laws in the UK restricting the manufacture, import, and sale of imitation firearms under the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 (see “Research & Dialogue About Importing Firearms to the UK“).
Obviously, this trend of banning replica/imitation firearms and now certain bladed weapons does have an impact on the collection of original props for hobbyists in the UK. [Read more…]
“Off The Shelf” and “Found” Props & Wardrobe
One of the most inherently problematic props, in terms of issues with authenticity, are of the “off the shelf” or “found” variety.
What are “off the shelf” props?
Props, wardrobe pieces, set pieces, and any other artifacts used in a production that are:
1) Mass produced (past or present),
2) for non-production purposes (i.e. not specifically manufactured for use in the production), and
3) are or were available for purchase from those not associated with the production. [Read more…]
Elstree Props Return of the Jedi Lightsaber Auction – Update 6
The Borehamwood & Elstree Times have published a news story yesterday about Elstree Props offerings at SpecialistAuctions.com, including the Luke Return of the Jedi lightsaber prop discussed in prior articles (see Elstree Props “Original” Return of the Jedi Lightsaber at Auction, Update 1, Update 2, Update 3, Update 4, Update 5) .
The initial 28-day auction at SpecialistAuctions.com ended November 12th with no bids (Expired Auction Link) and has since been relisted as a new 28-day listing (Relisted Auction Link) which currently shows as active, with 16 days remaining.
Obviously, the questions raised about the piece here, on the Movie Prop Forum (LINK), and the Replica Prop Forum (LINK) remain unanswered.
Interestingly, the article indicates that the lightsaber is no longer available for sale, though the listing is still active: [Read more…]
Elstree Props Return of the Jedi Lightsaber Auction – Update 5
It appears that the Elstree Props Luke Skywalker Return of the Jedi lightsaber prop at auction on SpecialistAuctions.com ended today with no bids (Expired Auction Link) and has since been relisted as a new 28-day listing (Relisted Auction Link). [Read more…]
Research & Dialogue About Importing Firearms to the UK: Update
This is an update to the prior article (Research & Dialogue About Importing Firearms to the UK), which raised issues and questions related to the implementation of the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 in the UK and the affect of this legislation on prop collectors and dealers. [Read more…]
Elstree Props Return of the Jedi Lightsaber Auction – Update 4
There is a news story, including an interview with Paul Harrison of Elstree Props, about the Luke Skywalker Return of the Jedi lightsaber at auction on SpecialistAuctions.com. This has had continuing coverage on the OPB (see Elstree Props “Original” Return of the Jedi Lightsaber at Auction, Update 1, Update 2, Update 3).
This is an interesting article, in that it provides more information from the viewpoint of Elstree Props and it illustrates the mainstream media’s lack of consideration regarding any challenge to authenticity. [Read more…]
Elstree Props Return of the Jedi Lightsaber Auction – Update 3
This is a follow-up to the other two topics (LINK, LINK, LINK) discussing the Elstree Props Luke Skywalker Return of the Jedi lightsaber offered at auction by Auction Specialists.
There has been ongoing discussions in dedicated topics on the Movie Prop Forum and Replica Prop Forum:
The Replica Prop Forum (the RPF): Elstree Props “Original” ROTJ Lightsaber
The Movie Prop Forum: ROTJ Lightsaber
The RPF is a great resource for learning the details and history of a great many props, those from Star Wars films in particular. [Read more…]