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star wars' die-hards brave the elements, ridicule to be the first in line for the film's opening-- and to raise a little money for charity, too
By Jayson Peters
Special to the State Press Magazine
The Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood is famous for the celebrity handprints and footprints in the Forecourt of the Stars outside.
But the footprints about 50 feet away from them are currently getting most of the attention.
Since April 7, about 250 Star Wars fans have been taking turns standing in line at movie houses on both coasts, determined to be among the world's first frenzied folks to see Star Wars: Episode I -- The Phantom Menace. They won't get their wish until May 19, when the first all-new Star Wars film in 16 years will make its debut in 2,500 theaters nationwide.
That wish is not the only one at stake, however. By standing, sitting and sharing their Star Wars memories, these fans are also raising money to help make kids' dreams come true. For every hour they spend in line, each is making at least 25 cents in pledges that will go toward the Starlight Children's Foundation, which grants wishes to seriously ill children.
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