Proof that Common Sense, Ain't So Common

With the advent of TheGimp, GraphicConverter, and so many other shareware and freeware apps that can do for Special Effects what 10 years ago was only doable on Photoshop (and 20 years ago required a whole team of effects experts), you'd think low-tech approaches to light saber animation would no longer be needed. But apparently, a British couple thought differently. Against all reason and common sense, they took a different approach.

TWO Star Wars fans are in a critical condition in hospital after duelling with lightsabres made by filling fluorescent light tubes with petrol. The pair - a man aged 20 and a girl of 17 - are believed to have been filming a mock fight when one of the devices exploded in woodland on Sunday.

For those not up on the latest British lingo, "petrol" is another name for gasoline. I hope and pray their burns heal quickly, but I also hope and pray their sense of shame is wounded enough to ensure no one every does anything like this again.