Ok, here is a one second clip with my new process (both 1920x818 and 2560x1090 versions). I finally got it where I want it. I built my new rig today and made this very short clip. It was relatively painless, and WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY easier than before. Let me know what you think and I will finally reveal my process.
Like my previous clip, this is best viewed in Windows Media Player because for whatever reason, VLC has higher brightness levels. Wish someone could tell me why. I suggest to loop it since it is so short. This is immediately before the final Death Star blowing up scene that I released before. I might decide to go back and redo that last scene, but not until I am all done with the rest of the trailer.