Video: We forced the R2D2 builders association to reveal its raison d’etre

This video is part of our series on Lille’s Maker Faire. To stay up-to-date on releases (and to find out more), check out our master post here.

Despite science’s continual advances, there are mysteries we’ve still never solved. You know, things like what went on at the Dyatlov Pass? What’s the deal with the Great Attractor? And, most pressingly, why does R2D2 builders association exist?

On our trip to Lille, we tried to solve one of these questions. Specifically, the last one. Check out the video above to see if we got to the core of the matter and revealed some pure, true meaning.

So what is the R2D2 builders association?

As the name suggests, it’s a group of people who get together and build models of R2D2. Worldwide, it’s also referred to as Astromech and has a thriving community of people creating the intrepid robot from Star Wars.

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The individuals we spoke to were from the French arm of the organisation, known as l’association communauté francophone des constructeurs de R2.

Now, I understand why this club exists – I truly do. The thing is, I don’t get why.

Yes, I get that R2D2 is the reason the forces of good eventually win in the Star Wars universe, with the robot instrumental in the Rebel Alliance coming out on top in many make-or-break moments.

Undoubtedly, R2D2 is a cool character. It’s a left-field hero from one of the most beloved franchises of all time, but a group devoted to building models of just that? Why?

And did you find out?

Well, you’re going to have to watch the video to get that answer, aren’t you?

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Story by Callum Booth

Callum Booth is a freelance journalist with over a decade of experience. Previously, he was the Managing Editor of TNW, where his reporting (show all) Callum Booth is a freelance journalist with over a decade of experience. Previously, he was the Managing Editor of TNW, where his reporting was cited widely, including in VICE, the FT, and the BBC. Callum’s writing has appeared in The Verge, The Daily Telegraph, Time Out, and many more. He covers the full spectrum of technology, with a particular focus on how it shapes our daily lives. And a lot of regulation stuff too. Outside of work, Callum’s an avid bookworm, a Fisherman’s Friends addict, and resolutely unshaven. Follow him on Twitter @CallumBooth or visit www.callumbooth.net.