There’s a palpable degree of anticipation in the air, and it’s not for great Black Friday deals on vacuum cleaners.  No, tomorrow marks a different holiday of sorts, as Disney and Lucasfilm will unveil the very first trailer for Star Wars: The Force Awakens.  Episode VII in the sci-fi saga marks the first new Star Wars film in nine years and the first entry in the franchise without George Lucas’ official involvement as a director, writer, or producer.  Indeed, The Force Awakens is the beginning of a new era kicked off by director J.J. Abrams, producer Kathleen Kennedy, and a stellar cast led by John Boyega and Daisy Ridley.  In preparation for our introduction to the film tomorrow, now feels like an opportune time to look back at how all of the previous Star Wars films were introduced with their first trailers.

After the jump, watch the very first Star Wars trailers for all previous six entries in the franchise, and be sure to check back here early tomorrow to watch the debut teaser trailer for Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

One of the funny things about the original Star Wars trailer is that it’s billed as being from George Lucas, “the man who brought you American Graffiti.”  How weird it must have been to see that the guy who made that talky, 1960s-set coming-of-age drama was making this big, weird space opera.  Also weird/cool: the very first trailer for The Empire Strikes Back consisted of no footage whatsoever, and instead was just a montage of Ralph McQuarrie's concept art.  Anyway, enjoy the trailers below!

Star Wars

Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back

Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi/Revenge of the Jedi

Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace

Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones

Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith

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