This is an update to a series of articles about two prop lightsabers marketed by Paul Harrison, at the time owner of Elstree Props, which were described as original pieces made for the film, Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. No such lightsabers appear in the finished film. Though it has been some time since the last update, published in late 2007, I have obtained new information. Included in this feature are photos of one of the props that I’ve been told were taken in late 2005, of a newly made custom replica lightsaber, prior to delivery to Paul Harrison. The prop in these photos clearly matches one of the two Elstree Props lightsabers. Was a newly made replica prop listed for sale to the public for $50,000.00? [Read more…]
Harrison/Elstree Props/Norank: Raiders of the Lost Ark ‘Staff of Ra’ Headpiece Props in the Marketplace
As a continuation of recent articles, the focus of this feature is the recent activity in the marketplace concerning the “Staff of Ra” headpiece props attributed to Raiders of the Lost Ark – all of which appear to have originated from the Harrison family (who retired from and sold the “Elstree Props” business in early 2008 and now sell unlicensed replica props as “Norank Engineering” and on eBay as “unisusu”). With one purchased for $450 and another offered for resale for $30,000 (along with a German hat), it certainly raises a number of questions and concerns, and warrants investigation, debate, and discussion. [Read more…]
“Who is N. Harrison?”: Update on Questions About Certificates of Authenticity Issued By Prior Owners of Elstree Props
As a continuation of the article published a few days ago (see ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’, ‘Return to Oz’, Return to eBay, and Return of The Harrisons (formerly “Elstree Props”) from Retirement?) and direct update to one published back in February 2009 (see Elstree Props, Fertility Idols, Light Gods, Danziger Collection COAs (Multiple Topic Update)), I have secured additional information related to the outstanding question, “Who is N. Harrison?”, as signatory on “The Danziger Collection” of “Elstree Film Studios”, found on the previously issued Elstree Props COAs, prior to the change of ownership in early 2008. [Read more…]
“The Cinema of George Lucas” Movie Artifact Exhibit at NASA’s Space Center Houston
Space Center Houston in Texas is hosting “The Cinema of George Lucas” through September 20, 2009. The exhibition includes original props and other artifacts from the Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises and other films that Lucas has been involved with producing/writing/directing. [Read more…]
Shepperton Design Studios Expands Line of “Post Lawsuit” Unlicensed Replica Star Wars Props
Following legal battles in both the United States and the United Kingdom over the sale unlicensed Stormtrooper helmets – which resulted in both Andrew Ainsworth’s Shepperton Design Studios and George Lucas’ Lucasfilm Ltd. claiming victory – Ainsworth’s SDS today announced the sale of “E11 Blasters”, that boast “all the features of the most complicated blaster used in ANH“. [Read more…]
Bonhams June 2009 “Entertainment Memorabilia” Auction in Knightsbridge Catalog Available Online
Bonhams second of two Entertainment Memorabilia auctions next month will be held in Knightsbridge, UK on June 16, 2009. [Read more…]
Photos from The Prop Store of London, Los Angeles
In my visit to the Prop Store of London in Los Angeles last month, I did take the opportunity to take some photos of the facility and props and costumes on display in the offices and warehouse in Burbank. [Read more…]
“Star Wars” in “Star Trek” – Spot R2-D2 for Chance to Win Movie Prop
The latest Star Trek film from J.J. Abrams includes an “Easter Egg” style R2-D2 hidden somewhere in the movie, and Paramount Pictures has announced a contest by which those who find it and write in have a chance to win an original prop. [Read more…]