To understand the conflicted emotions that some of the most passionate Star Wars fans have as they anticipate the first new movie in the franchise in 10 years, it helps to appreciate the decades of loss and abandonment they have felt. It helps to know the story of Chris Giunta.

In his basement Mr. Giunta has a life-size replica of Han Solo frozen in carbonite. (It’s what happened to Harrison Ford’s character in “The Empire Strikes Back”). Part of Mr. Giunta, who loved the original three Star Wars films, wants to be thrilled...