"Star Wars'" BB-8 droid is about to give the iconic R2D2 a run for its money, as the newest droid poster boy for the franchise gets a commercial showing off its mechanical prowess.
In a Verizon commercial for a "Star Wars"-themed smartphone plan, the resourceful droid is seen in the cockpit of an X-Wing commandeered by Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac). Poe's fighter ship had apparently taken some severe damage and caused them to be a sitting duck. BB-8 did his mechanical know-how and interfaced with the X-Wing to repair it and give it a boost, giving Poe the edge in the space dogfight.
This is similar to how R2D2, the droid poster boy of the original "Star Wars" trilogy which started in 1977, repaired and hacked into machines. R2D2 has also seen action in the cockpit of Anakin Skywalker's Jedi Star Fighter in the prequel trilogy, repairing his fighter and acting as a navigator for the Jedi. However, it seems R2 was indisposed during "The Force Awakens" and did not hold a candle to BB-8's mobility and mechanical skills.
This commercial shows a lot of fan service especially to those who wanted more Poe and BB-8 action, as both are lacking screen time in "The Force Awakens." The commercial also strengthens the bond between the droid and his owner, as Poe trusts BB-8 enough to smuggle crucial information into safety; not only is the droid reliable, but it is also a good friend and companion of the pilot.
The said commercial from Verizon may also be one of the scenes in the upcoming "Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi," where fans can expect to see more Poe and BB-8 tandem. This means that the droid is returning for another critical mission to save the galaxy from the First Order. This time, it will be helping Poe instead of Rey or Finn.
"Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi" is set to arrive in theaters on Dec. 15 worldwide.
