All over the world, avid "Star Wars" fans are counting down the days until "The Force Awakens" premieres. While some have planned ahead by pre-purchasing tickets online, others are planning to join cinema queues early on Dec. 18 as part of the fun of the whole experience.
Now, as a treat for the most hardcore fans of the franchise, a theater chain has announced a contest to see who can sit through the most screenings of "The Force Awakens," and the winner will receive a number of prizes -- and bragging rights as well.
According to Entertainment Weekly, Alamo Drafthouse announced a viewing endurance contest that will screen the "Star Wars" saga for seven of the franchise's most loyal fans.
"At Alamo Drafthouse we're big fans of 'Star Wars' and testing the boundaries of human endurance," said Alamo CEO and founder Tim League. "What better way to anoint the ultimate super fan than inviting them to watch these remarkable films on the big screen until they drop? Literally."
While a number of cinemas around the country will be screening marathons of all the "Star Wars" movies on Dec. 18, Alamo Drafthouse has decided to add a new twist to the experience.
As for the mechanics of the contest, anyone 21 years of age or older from any of the 13 states where Alamo has a theater can apply to enter the competition. To enter, fans will have to prove their devotion to the franchise on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook using the #AlamoJedi hashtag.The contest begins at 4 a.m. on Dec. 17 and will start with a screening of "Episode I: The Phantom Menace." Contestants will have to watch episodes 1 to 6 and will be among the first ones to see "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."
Once contestants have seen "The Force Awakens," the movie will play again as many times as it takes until only one contestant is left.
The rules of the contest dictate that the contestants have to stay awake during the marathon—napping or taking illegal drugs to stay awake are absolutely not allowed. The theater's no talking or texting policy will also be enforced, and anyone who is caught doing so will be eliminated from the competition. Contestants will be given breaks between movies to stretch their legs.
The winner will receive a seven-year movie pass to Alamo theaters nationwide, a set of 2015 and 2016 Topps Star Wars Card Reader cards, a variety of Star Wars Mondo poster prints, and the winner will have a seat named in their honor in a special ceremony. The winner will also be reimbursed for food and drinks consumed during the marathon up to $300.
For more information about the Alamo Drafthouse marathon contest, click here.
"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" premieres on Dec. 18.
