Paul Ens’ fan site caught the eye of the Star Wars creator and he became director of Lucas Online in 1999
Watching Star Wars: The Force Awakens was exciting and nostalgic for Saskatoon-born Paul Ens. For the first time in 16 years he was not involved in the making and promotion of a Star Wars film.
Ens was six years old when he saw the first movie in 1977. An instant enthusiast of the franchise, he went on to create his own online fan page.
His site caught the attention of Star Wars creator George Lucas and in 1999, at only 28 years old, he left the bridge city for California and became the director of Lucas Online.
“At first it was a little bit surreal. Star Wars was a huge part of my childhood and to step foot onto Skywalker ranch and meet George and all that kind of stuff was, at first, a little bit intimidating,” Ens said.
“I think it’s kind of like being drafted into the NHL when you are 18. You get to have a couple of moments of being excited where you are, but then you are expected to produce.”
Ens said he was able to work on promotions for the movies, DVD bonus material, related television shows, and even helped to open a store.
“Obviously working with Star Wars every day was a dream come true. There are not many jobs where my knowledge of the names of every alien in the cantina comes in handy,” he said.
Through his position, Ens communicated with Lucas on a weekly basis and was shown a level of creativity and a work ethic he still holds with him.
He moved on from the role and now works in Calgary as a software developer and comic publisher but Star Wars is still a part of his life. He went to the new movie Thursday night.
Source: cbc.ca
