The May 2025 issue of SWITCH magazine (published by Switch Publishing), released on April 20, is dedicated to a comprehensive Star Wars feature in honor of the upcoming Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025—the first to be held in Japan in 17 years. Marking a first for the publication, the issue's cover features Grogu from The Mandalorian, appearing solo for the first time.

Set in “a galaxy far, far away,” Star Wars has continued to spin new tales for generations. This 86-page deep-dive feature investigates the creative legacy left by George Lucas and how it is carried forward today. Through exclusive interviews with the creative leaders at Lucasfilm, the magazine connects the saga's rich past with its ongoing evolution.

Inside Lucasfilm: Exclusive Interviews with the Saga’s Creators

The SWITCH editorial team visited Lucasfilm’s headquarters in San Francisco to interview key figures shaping today’s Star Wars, including those at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM).

Highlights include:
Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm
Doug Chiang, who joined as a concept artist on The Phantom Menace and now leads the art and design division
Dave Filoni, a protégé of George Lucas and creative force behind The Clone Wars, The Mandalorian, and Ahsoka
Masanari Narita, a former outsider to the film industry who became a 3D modeler on The Force Awakens
Athena Portillo, a leading figure in Star Wars animation production

These exclusive interviews offer insights into their creative processes, lessons learned from Lucas himself, and the future direction of the franchise. The issue also includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the Lucasfilm studio, showcasing rare posters and memorabilia decorating the walls.

Nine Creators Examine The Mandalorian and Its Inheritance of the Star Wars Spirit

As anticipation builds for the upcoming film The Mandalorian & Grogu, nine Japanese creators reflect on how The Mandalorian inherits and updates the spirit of Episode IV. Contributors include:

Yoshiki Takahashi (Art Director)
Takashi Yamazaki (Film Director)
Yudai Bando (Composer/Musician)
Junnosuke Okita (Sound Designer)
Junji Okubo (Izumo Heavy Industries, Designer)
Takeo Matsuoka (Architect)
Aki Kondo (Illustrator)
Daisuke Iga (Stylist)
Koh Kentetsu (Culinary Expert)

Each contributor shares a unique perspective on the legacy, innovation, and cultural reach of the Star Wars universe through the lens of The Mandalorian.

Immersive Worlds: From Galaxy’s Edge to Global Merchandising

The issue also explores immersive Star Wars experiences and product development:

An interview with Asa Kalama, Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering and key creator behind Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Disneyland in Anaheim

A feature on Leslie Evans, who developed the new BDX droid now appearing at Tokyo Disneyland

A conversation with James Waugh, Executive Producer of Star Wars: Visions, about global anime collaborations

A spotlight on Derek Stothard, who oversees Star Wars merchandise worldwide, discussing his passion for collectibles and toys

This issue explores Star Wars beyond the screen, delving into the experiential and product-based dimensions of the beloved saga.

Source : ORICON NEWS