At the heart of The Acolyte, the all-new Star Wars series on Disney+, there are myriad mysteries at play. Which masked figure is killing the Jedi? How does the peaceful High Republic era of the galaxy give way to the political turmoil of The Phantom Menace, 100 years down the line? And what’s the deal with Amandla Stenberg’s Mae, the enigmatic assassin seen doing serious damage to several Jedi Masters in the show’s action-packed trailers?
Empire sat down with Stenberg to tease out some early information about her part to play in the story, devised by series creator Leslye Headland – also discussing the unique way she was cast in the show, her ‘adorable’ martial arts master, and the time she teared up while meeting Lucasfilm legend Dave Filoni.
Empire: At Star Wars Celebration last year you cosplayed as Padmé. You're clearly a huge fan – where did your love of Star Wars begin?...
Empire sat down with Stenberg to tease out some early information about her part to play in the story, devised by series creator Leslye Headland – also discussing the unique way she was cast in the show, her ‘adorable’ martial arts master, and the time she teared up while meeting Lucasfilm legend Dave Filoni.
Empire: At Star Wars Celebration last year you cosplayed as Padmé. You're clearly a huge fan – where did your love of Star Wars begin?...
- 5/23/2024
- by Ben Travis
- Empire - TV
Dave Filoni at the Clone Wars premierePhoto: Natalia Stewart (Shutterstock)
To describe something in the Star Wars galaxy as divisive is merely to say that it exists. With each new movie or TV series that comes out, the fandom gets increasingly fractured, with factions picking sides and digging in on multiple fronts.
To describe something in the Star Wars galaxy as divisive is merely to say that it exists. With each new movie or TV series that comes out, the fandom gets increasingly fractured, with factions picking sides and digging in on multiple fronts.
- 5/17/2024
- by Cindy White
- avclub.com
One of the most heart-pumping and enthralling action set pieces in The Phantom Menace is the pod racing scene, which sees Anakin Skywalker demonstrate the full scope of his raw talent. The sequence remains one of the better-received aspects of the film, which is why fans might be surprised to learn just how challenging it was to execute.
The pod racing scene in The Phantom Menace is one of the film’s best moments.
John Knoll, the renowned visual effects supervisor who worked on the film, spoke about crafting the pod racing scene in The Phantom Menace. Knoll highlighted how Ilm lacked the necessary technology and tools to execute the scene and had to come up with compelling solutions for the same. Here is what Knoll said about the creation of The Phantom Menace‘s pod racing scene.
John Knoll Talks Challenges of The Phantom Menace‘s Podracing Scene
John...
The pod racing scene in The Phantom Menace is one of the film’s best moments.
John Knoll, the renowned visual effects supervisor who worked on the film, spoke about crafting the pod racing scene in The Phantom Menace. Knoll highlighted how Ilm lacked the necessary technology and tools to execute the scene and had to come up with compelling solutions for the same. Here is what Knoll said about the creation of The Phantom Menace‘s pod racing scene.
John Knoll Talks Challenges of The Phantom Menace‘s Podracing Scene
John...
- 5/15/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
"Star Wars" has one of the biggest worlds in fiction, a vast universe with extensive mythology, a sense of history, locations that feel tangible, and characters that come across as real, living beings.
This last bit is important, because "Star Wars" has given plenty of memorable characters, where even small players can turn out to have galaxy-changing importance. Then there are the villains, of which "Star Wars" has plenty, including some of the most memorable villains in cinema history, with their own stories worth exploring.
But while we all know the menacing man-turned-machine Darth Vader or the devil-looking Maul, are they really the worst villains in the franchise? As "Star Wars" has evolved and grown over the years, its villains have become less flashy and more, well, evil. That's why we're ranking the most evil and villainous characters in George Lucas' galaxy far, far away. As a note, this list...
This last bit is important, because "Star Wars" has given plenty of memorable characters, where even small players can turn out to have galaxy-changing importance. Then there are the villains, of which "Star Wars" has plenty, including some of the most memorable villains in cinema history, with their own stories worth exploring.
But while we all know the menacing man-turned-machine Darth Vader or the devil-looking Maul, are they really the worst villains in the franchise? As "Star Wars" has evolved and grown over the years, its villains have become less flashy and more, well, evil. That's why we're ranking the most evil and villainous characters in George Lucas' galaxy far, far away. As a note, this list...
- 5/12/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
Starting with the 2002 film Attack of the Clones, Hayden Christensen has taken on the role of Anakin Skywalker in the epic space opera, Star Wars. The subsequent movies and shows have showcased how the character slowly finds himself on the dark side of the Force and his transformation into the iconic villain Darth Vedar.
Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vedar | Credit: Disney/Lucasfilm
Christensen has since reprised his character multiple times. However, one particular scene alongside co-star Natalie Portman’s Padmé Amidala stands out as especially meaningful for the actor.
Hayden Christensen Reflected on Anakin’s Confession Scene in Attack of the Clones
Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones features a subtle and explicit hint at Anakin’s future as the Sith Lord Darth Vedar. After witnessing his abducted mother’s death at the Tusken campsite, an enraged Anakin Skywalker slaughters the whole tribe, which he later confesses to Padmé Amidala.
Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vedar | Credit: Disney/Lucasfilm
Christensen has since reprised his character multiple times. However, one particular scene alongside co-star Natalie Portman’s Padmé Amidala stands out as especially meaningful for the actor.
Hayden Christensen Reflected on Anakin’s Confession Scene in Attack of the Clones
Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones features a subtle and explicit hint at Anakin’s future as the Sith Lord Darth Vedar. After witnessing his abducted mother’s death at the Tusken campsite, an enraged Anakin Skywalker slaughters the whole tribe, which he later confesses to Padmé Amidala.
- 5/9/2024
- by Laxmi Rajput
- FandomWire
Natalie Portman is one of the most recognized faces in the world. Such an achievement does not come easy, and it is safe to assume that she worked very hard to get to where she is today. The actress has been a part of some extremely successful projects, having important roles in two of the biggest franchises of all time and having three Oscar nominations to her name.
Natalie Portman in Black Swan (2010)
However, she once went back to her roots and talked about the film that started it all for her; Léon: The Profession. The actress revealed that she does not think that the movie could be released in today’s time, and such a sentiment is not surprising.
Natalie Portman Does Not Think Léon: The Professional Can Be Made Today
Natalie Portman gave an interview with Empire, via Business Standard, where she reminisced on her past works, specifically...
Natalie Portman in Black Swan (2010)
However, she once went back to her roots and talked about the film that started it all for her; Léon: The Profession. The actress revealed that she does not think that the movie could be released in today’s time, and such a sentiment is not surprising.
Natalie Portman Does Not Think Léon: The Professional Can Be Made Today
Natalie Portman gave an interview with Empire, via Business Standard, where she reminisced on her past works, specifically...
- 5/8/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
7 Most Attractive Characters in the Star Wars Prequels - Main Image
The Star Wars prequel trilogy introduced memorable characters and awkward dialogues, but you can't deny many of the characters were hot. Whether it's their charm, charisma, or just plain good looks, these characters have cemented themselves in Star Wars lore.
Here's a list of the seven sexiest characters from the Star Wars prequel trilogy, ranked from attractive to please hear us out first; we promise he's the hottest.
7. Jango Fett
Jango Fett is a man of mystery and action. His rugged good looks become apparent when you remove the iconic Mandalorian helmet. Clad in his sleek armour, he's the blueprint for the entire clone army, which tells you everything you need to know about his visual appeal.
Unfortunately, he didn't get much screen time, but what he did have was memorable. Jango is the quintessential bounty hunter, with a...
The Star Wars prequel trilogy introduced memorable characters and awkward dialogues, but you can't deny many of the characters were hot. Whether it's their charm, charisma, or just plain good looks, these characters have cemented themselves in Star Wars lore.
Here's a list of the seven sexiest characters from the Star Wars prequel trilogy, ranked from attractive to please hear us out first; we promise he's the hottest.
7. Jango Fett
Jango Fett is a man of mystery and action. His rugged good looks become apparent when you remove the iconic Mandalorian helmet. Clad in his sleek armour, he's the blueprint for the entire clone army, which tells you everything you need to know about his visual appeal.
Unfortunately, he didn't get much screen time, but what he did have was memorable. Jango is the quintessential bounty hunter, with a...
- 5/7/2024
- EpicStream
During the production of Episode II of the galactic saga, Attack of the Clones, a weird tension brewed behind the scenes while filming a sequence that required Natalie Portman and Hayden Christensen to improvise. Both actors joined the beloved franchise as Padmé Amidala and Anakin Skywalker in the prequel trilogy, who initially meet on The Phantom Menace and eventually fall in love in Star Wars: Episode II.
Natalie Portman and Hayden Christensen in Star Wars: Episode II | Credit: Lucasfilm
However, while filming one of the scenes for the 2002 film, the star cast found themselves navigating through an unexpected discomfort after Anakin’s Jedi abilities were incorporated into the scene.
Natalie Portman Recalled Filming the Awkward Attack of the Clones Scene
Attack of the Clones follows Jedi Knights Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker as they investigate a separatist conspiracy, leading to the revelation of a secret clone army and the outbreak of the Clone Wars.
Natalie Portman and Hayden Christensen in Star Wars: Episode II | Credit: Lucasfilm
However, while filming one of the scenes for the 2002 film, the star cast found themselves navigating through an unexpected discomfort after Anakin’s Jedi abilities were incorporated into the scene.
Natalie Portman Recalled Filming the Awkward Attack of the Clones Scene
Attack of the Clones follows Jedi Knights Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker as they investigate a separatist conspiracy, leading to the revelation of a secret clone army and the outbreak of the Clone Wars.
- 5/6/2024
- by Laxmi Rajput
- FandomWire
Star Wars is a franchise that has been entertaining audiences since the late 1970s. Created by George Lucas, the first movie, Episode IV: A New Hope starring Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford in the lead, went on to gain massive success. The sci-fi genre found a new home in a galaxy far, far away, and fans clamored to their nearest theatres to enjoy an experience like never before.
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope
After the original trilogy, which ran from 1977 to 1983, Lucas came back with the prequel trilogy, which he wrote and directed himself after a 22-year hiatus.
It started with Episode I: The Phantom Menace, which came out in 1999, but this time with a different set of actors. Although the idea for the prequel trilogy had already formed in the creator’s mind before the trilogy was even released, he only revived it after the...
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope
After the original trilogy, which ran from 1977 to 1983, Lucas came back with the prequel trilogy, which he wrote and directed himself after a 22-year hiatus.
It started with Episode I: The Phantom Menace, which came out in 1999, but this time with a different set of actors. Although the idea for the prequel trilogy had already formed in the creator’s mind before the trilogy was even released, he only revived it after the...
- 5/2/2024
- by Swagata Das
- FandomWire
“Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.” This quote from “Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace” not only fits in the context of Anakin Skywalker’s doomed journey to the dark side, but also reactions from super fans of the space opera franchise when this prequel released in 1999. ‘The Phantom Menace’ introduced a whole new cast of characters and was set 32 years before ‘A New Hope,’ during an era of turmoil in the Galactic Republic. George Lucas took a massive risk by pursuing Anakin Skywalker’s story after the success of the original trilogy. Would ‘Star Wars’ survive without Harrison Ford’s devilish charm, Carrie Fisher’s spunk and Mark Hamill’s pure goodness? The short answer is yes, but the road to get there was not easy. On its face, ‘The Phantom Menace’ was a commercial triumph — it saw intensive coverage from...
- 4/26/2024
- by Kaitlyn Murphy
- Hollywood Insider - Substance & Meaningful Entertainment
George Lucas’ Star Wars franchise has been popular for well over four decades and continues to enjoy plenty of fanfare. After completing the original trilogy of films, Lucas returned to the franchise for the prequels, which explore Anakin Skywalker’s fall to the dark side and transformation into the nefarious Darth Vader.
Natalie Portman and Hayden Christensen in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones
However, for Vader’s backstory to work, Lucas had to kill off a fan-favorite character in the final installment of the prequels. Nonetheless, Lucas’ original plans for the prequels did not involve the death of Vader’s love, Padmé. Here is everything you need to know about Lucas’ original plans for Padmé and her fate.
George Lucas’ Original Star Wars Prequels Plan Avoided Padmé’s Untimely Death
Natalie Portman‘s Padmé Amidala serves as the primary love interest for Anakin Skywalker in the Star Wars prequel trilogy.
Natalie Portman and Hayden Christensen in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones
However, for Vader’s backstory to work, Lucas had to kill off a fan-favorite character in the final installment of the prequels. Nonetheless, Lucas’ original plans for the prequels did not involve the death of Vader’s love, Padmé. Here is everything you need to know about Lucas’ original plans for Padmé and her fate.
George Lucas’ Original Star Wars Prequels Plan Avoided Padmé’s Untimely Death
Natalie Portman‘s Padmé Amidala serves as the primary love interest for Anakin Skywalker in the Star Wars prequel trilogy.
- 4/26/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
Sofia Coppola’s distinguished career as a screenwriter and director came much later. Well before her fame with several acclaimed titles including The Virgin Suicides and Lost in Translation, she made an unexpected Star Wars debut.
Sofia Coppola. Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Star Wars— an immaculate creation of George Lucas— went on to become one of the most celebrated and most popular franchises of all time. Coppola’s father, legendary filmmaker, Francis Ford Coppola has been a good friend of Lucas, and she had the opportunity to hang out on the set.
Sofia Coppola’s Star Wars Debut
Sofia Coppola’s Star Wars cameo in The Phantom Menace with Natalie Portman and other actors
For any star, it would be a dream to be a part of the Star Wars franchise. It is huge and still standing and enduring the test of time. Sofia Coppola, although she almost forgot, Coppola appeared...
Sofia Coppola. Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Star Wars— an immaculate creation of George Lucas— went on to become one of the most celebrated and most popular franchises of all time. Coppola’s father, legendary filmmaker, Francis Ford Coppola has been a good friend of Lucas, and she had the opportunity to hang out on the set.
Sofia Coppola’s Star Wars Debut
Sofia Coppola’s Star Wars cameo in The Phantom Menace with Natalie Portman and other actors
For any star, it would be a dream to be a part of the Star Wars franchise. It is huge and still standing and enduring the test of time. Sofia Coppola, although she almost forgot, Coppola appeared...
- 4/17/2024
- by Lachit Roy
- FandomWire
A fun piece of trivia you'll often hear about "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace" is that Keira Knightley played Queen Padmé Amidala's handmaiden, Sabé. The character was notable because of how much she looked like Padmé; it allowed her to be easily disguised as the Queen during risky trips into enemy territory. Sabé's job was basically to make sure that if anyone tried to assassinate the real Queen, they'd kill her instead; it's not the best job in the world, but we're sure it pays well.
At the time, Knightley's involvement in the film wasn't noteworthy. It would be another two years before she starred in "Prince of Thieves," and another two years before she got her breakout role in "Pirates of the Caribbean." Back in 1999, she was an unknown actress playing a bit part, notable only in that she looked like Natalie Portman if you put them in the same makeup and outfit.
At the time, Knightley's involvement in the film wasn't noteworthy. It would be another two years before she starred in "Prince of Thieves," and another two years before she got her breakout role in "Pirates of the Caribbean." Back in 1999, she was an unknown actress playing a bit part, notable only in that she looked like Natalie Portman if you put them in the same makeup and outfit.
- 3/12/2024
- by Michael Boyle
- Slash Film
The handmaidens of Naboo are some of the coolest — and probably least explored — characters in "Star Wars" history. They served queen-turned-senator Padmé Amidala (Natalie Portman) dutifully in "Episode I - The Phantom Menace" and its sequel, "Attack of the Clones." But aside from the odd switcharoo and near-death situation, the films don't reveal much about the handmaidens' interior lives, or their personal connection to Padmé.
Worse still, Padmé's most famous decoy, Sabé (Keira Knightley), was never seen again after her introduction in "The Phantom Menace." That's probably due to the fact that Knightley was off shooting a new franchise, the "Pirates of the Caribbean" films, while George Lucas continued work on the prequels. But that left a kind of void in "Attack of the Clones" and "Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith," one that novels and comics would only fill years later.
A recent Darth Vader-centric storyline even Sabé's arc in earnest.
Worse still, Padmé's most famous decoy, Sabé (Keira Knightley), was never seen again after her introduction in "The Phantom Menace." That's probably due to the fact that Knightley was off shooting a new franchise, the "Pirates of the Caribbean" films, while George Lucas continued work on the prequels. But that left a kind of void in "Attack of the Clones" and "Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith," one that novels and comics would only fill years later.
A recent Darth Vader-centric storyline even Sabé's arc in earnest.
- 3/3/2024
- by Lyvie Scott
- Slash Film
As the legendary Anakin Skywalker, it was on Hayden Christensen to show us how an idealistic teenager lost his way, becoming cinema’s most iconic villain. He talks exclusively to Empire about taking on Tusken Raiders, younglings, and the weight of expectations.
This is where the fun begins. For years, we’d wondered — dreamed — how it happened. How the almost mythical figure, Anakin Skywalker — Luke’s dad! — came to be clad in pitch-black armour, serving as the right-hand enforcer of galactic tyrant Emperor Palpatine, and striking fear through the hearts of everyone in the galaxy, Force-choking his way across the stars. Then finally, after over two decades of us pondering it all, George Lucas’ prequel trilogy was announced, promising to answer our feverish, lingering questions.
The one chosen to play the Chosen One was Hayden Christensen, destined to lead Star Wars down a bold new path and bring balance and empathy to the burgeoning,...
This is where the fun begins. For years, we’d wondered — dreamed — how it happened. How the almost mythical figure, Anakin Skywalker — Luke’s dad! — came to be clad in pitch-black armour, serving as the right-hand enforcer of galactic tyrant Emperor Palpatine, and striking fear through the hearts of everyone in the galaxy, Force-choking his way across the stars. Then finally, after over two decades of us pondering it all, George Lucas’ prequel trilogy was announced, promising to answer our feverish, lingering questions.
The one chosen to play the Chosen One was Hayden Christensen, destined to lead Star Wars down a bold new path and bring balance and empathy to the burgeoning,...
- 2/28/2024
- by Amon Warmann
- Empire - Movies
Part of the beauty of the "Star Wars" universe is how big and populated it is. Not only did the original trilogy deliver groundbreaking visual effects, but George Lucas wrote enough backstory and worldbuilding while working on the first film to sustain decades' worth of "Star Wars" movies. That worldbuilding also resulted in hundreds of smaller background characters that became overnight fan favorites once the movies — and the merchandise — started arriving. Even the most inconsequential one-off characters suddenly became beloved by audiences despite there being little to no official information available about them — at least, until we got entire novels and books devoted to every Glup Shitto and Max Rebo out there.
Of course, not every character gets that treatment. In fact, there is one character we only know the name of because the actor decided to take matters into his own hands during shooting — Quarsh Panaka. You remember that guy,...
Of course, not every character gets that treatment. In fact, there is one character we only know the name of because the actor decided to take matters into his own hands during shooting — Quarsh Panaka. You remember that guy,...
- 2/25/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
In honour of Empire's new Star Wars prequels issue, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the trilogy's launch, we're asking – which of the prequel movies is the best? Read the case for Episode III – Revenge Of The Sith below, and find the issue on newsstands now.
That Revenge Of The Sith is the darkest chapter in George Lucas’ Star Wars prequel trilogy has never been in any doubt. The first PG-13 film in the Skywalker Saga, Episode III starts with the promise of “War!” and spends the next 140 minutes delivering precisely that. Decapitation! Child murder! Genocide! The death of democracy and the rise of a fascist regime! Pretty intense for a family blockbuster released in the same month as Madagascar, right? But having been there on opening night in May 2005 as a wide-eyed seven-year-old – and writing this now almost 20 years later – Revenge Of The Sith represents the apotheosis of Lucas’ grand vision for the prequels.
That Revenge Of The Sith is the darkest chapter in George Lucas’ Star Wars prequel trilogy has never been in any doubt. The first PG-13 film in the Skywalker Saga, Episode III starts with the promise of “War!” and spends the next 140 minutes delivering precisely that. Decapitation! Child murder! Genocide! The death of democracy and the rise of a fascist regime! Pretty intense for a family blockbuster released in the same month as Madagascar, right? But having been there on opening night in May 2005 as a wide-eyed seven-year-old – and writing this now almost 20 years later – Revenge Of The Sith represents the apotheosis of Lucas’ grand vision for the prequels.
- 2/22/2024
- by Jordan King
- Empire - Movies
In honour of Empire's new Star Wars prequels issue, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the trilogy's launch, we're asking – which of the prequel movies is the best? Read the case for Episode II – Attack Of The Clones below, and find the issue on newsstands now.
When the camera pans up from the opening crawl in Attack Of The Clones — the only film in the Skywalker saga to buck the tradition of the pan down — George Lucas promises us a different kind of Star Wars movie, and he delivers from the very first frame. Every time Lucas set out to make a Star Wars film, he worked to make it different from the others in the most unexpected ways — and Attack Of The Clones is somehow more unique and brilliant amongst the entire Skywalker saga.
As the first film shot entirely digitally, George Lucas didn’t just set out to change...
When the camera pans up from the opening crawl in Attack Of The Clones — the only film in the Skywalker saga to buck the tradition of the pan down — George Lucas promises us a different kind of Star Wars movie, and he delivers from the very first frame. Every time Lucas set out to make a Star Wars film, he worked to make it different from the others in the most unexpected ways — and Attack Of The Clones is somehow more unique and brilliant amongst the entire Skywalker saga.
As the first film shot entirely digitally, George Lucas didn’t just set out to change...
- 2/21/2024
- by Bryan Young
- Empire - Movies
In honour of Empire's new Star Wars prequels issue, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the trilogy's launch, we're asking – which of the prequel movies is the best? Read the case for Episode I – The Phantom Menace below, and find the issue on newsstands now.
Has more insurmountable hype ever rested on the shoulders of a single film than The Phantom Menace? Back in 1999, Episode I quite literally represented a new hope for Star Wars fans. It was the revival of a genuine cinematic phenomenon that had shaped the childhoods (and adulthoods) of an entire generation, finally back after 16 years. Unsurprisingly, it couldn’t fulfil every expectation. For decades, reception to The Phantom Menace was decidedly rocky – but to my mind, for all its flaws, it’s the greatest of the prequels; a vibrant and charming return to the galaxy far, far away.
Beyond any particular moment or sequence, it’s...
Has more insurmountable hype ever rested on the shoulders of a single film than The Phantom Menace? Back in 1999, Episode I quite literally represented a new hope for Star Wars fans. It was the revival of a genuine cinematic phenomenon that had shaped the childhoods (and adulthoods) of an entire generation, finally back after 16 years. Unsurprisingly, it couldn’t fulfil every expectation. For decades, reception to The Phantom Menace was decidedly rocky – but to my mind, for all its flaws, it’s the greatest of the prequels; a vibrant and charming return to the galaxy far, far away.
Beyond any particular moment or sequence, it’s...
- 2/20/2024
- by Ben Travis
- Empire - Movies
The "Star Wars" universe is full of thousands of colorful, distinct creatures and characters, with plenty of aliens and other beings that make the galaxy feel bigger and lived-in. Likewise, many of the creatures serve as cool references, like the Zillo Beast being a big homage to Godzilla, or arguably the best reference in the franchise — E.T.
Yes, E.T. the titular extra-terrestrial from "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial." The lovable naked alien has a little role in "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace" as a senator seen in the Senate scene when Padmé moves for a vote of no confidence on Chancellor Finis Valorum — an unfortunate moment that allowed Sheev Palpatine to become chancellor and eventually emperor.
It's a short and sweet reference, one that doesn't imply a larger role and certainly not a tragic fate for the character (officially named Grebleips -- more on that later) ... or does it?...
Yes, E.T. the titular extra-terrestrial from "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial." The lovable naked alien has a little role in "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace" as a senator seen in the Senate scene when Padmé moves for a vote of no confidence on Chancellor Finis Valorum — an unfortunate moment that allowed Sheev Palpatine to become chancellor and eventually emperor.
It's a short and sweet reference, one that doesn't imply a larger role and certainly not a tragic fate for the character (officially named Grebleips -- more on that later) ... or does it?...
- 2/17/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
Back in 1999, no cinema event was as hotly anticipated as the return of Star Wars. Thus the prequel trilogy began, unfolding George Lucas’ epic tragedy – vastly expanding the galaxy that fans loved, while pioneering the future of digital production. Now, to celebrate 25 years of the prequels, Empire presents an epic new look back at the trilogy that changed everything – packed with brand new interviews, rarely-seen concept art, and explorations of the greatest set pieces.
The issue hits newsstands on Thursday 15 February, with collectible light side and dark side covers – but in the meantime, here’s a sneak peek inside the mag.
Star Wars: 25 Years Of The Prequels
This is where the fun begins. Empire celebrates the Star Wars prequels on a landmark anniversary in a massive special – packed with brand new interviews. Including…
Hayden Christensen
Anakin speaks! The man who would become Darth Vader revisits his wild ride with Star Wars,...
The issue hits newsstands on Thursday 15 February, with collectible light side and dark side covers – but in the meantime, here’s a sneak peek inside the mag.
Star Wars: 25 Years Of The Prequels
This is where the fun begins. Empire celebrates the Star Wars prequels on a landmark anniversary in a massive special – packed with brand new interviews. Including…
Hayden Christensen
Anakin speaks! The man who would become Darth Vader revisits his wild ride with Star Wars,...
- 2/14/2024
- by Ben Travis
- Empire - Movies
Darth Vader didn't always have a red lightsaber. Early concept art by Ralph McQuarrie (pictured below) shows Vader wielding a blueish-white blade, the same as the Jedi. After all, Vader was always a fallen Jedi (though making him Anakin Skywalker came later).
Lucasfilm/Ralph McQuarrie
Whatever the case, the change to red was the right call. The color complements his black armor better, contrasts with the blue and green blades he duels onscreen, and radiates evil. Symbolically, red is also the color of both anger and blood. The red lightsaber is such a memorable part of Vader's presence that when the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy came around, all the Sith Lords there had red lightsabers too. Ergo, red became the de facto color of evil lightsabers.
We first see a lightsaber when Ben Kenobi (Alec Guinness) gives one to Luke (Mark Hamill), saying the blue blade belonged to his father.
Lucasfilm/Ralph McQuarrie
Whatever the case, the change to red was the right call. The color complements his black armor better, contrasts with the blue and green blades he duels onscreen, and radiates evil. Symbolically, red is also the color of both anger and blood. The red lightsaber is such a memorable part of Vader's presence that when the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy came around, all the Sith Lords there had red lightsabers too. Ergo, red became the de facto color of evil lightsabers.
We first see a lightsaber when Ben Kenobi (Alec Guinness) gives one to Luke (Mark Hamill), saying the blue blade belonged to his father.
- 2/10/2024
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
"Star Wars" has some great female characters that have made the franchise the cultural phenomenon that it is today. Characters like Leia Organa, the badass that ended the reign of Jabba the Hutt and stood up to Darth Vader like he was just a darkly-clad bully, or Padmé, who helped start the Rebel Alliance and saved Grogu from death. Sure, they may not get flashy medals at a ceremony or a battle against a Sith, but these characters are as essential to the fabric of the galaxy far, far away as any Jedi.
Still, the franchise has an unfortunate track record of forgetting about its female characters — for example, deleting the scene where Padmé starts the Rebellion. Such is the case with the all-time second female character we ever see in the franchise, Aunt Beru, a character who shows up for just a few minutes before dying in the original "Star Wars" movie.
Still, the franchise has an unfortunate track record of forgetting about its female characters — for example, deleting the scene where Padmé starts the Rebellion. Such is the case with the all-time second female character we ever see in the franchise, Aunt Beru, a character who shows up for just a few minutes before dying in the original "Star Wars" movie.
- 2/10/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
The epic Darth Maul vs. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon Jinn duel. The thunderous Boonta Eve Podrace. The battle of Naboo. Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace is packed with moments best witnessed on the big screen, spooling back to the very beginning of the Skywalker Saga to depict Anakin Skywalker’s first encounter with the Jedi, the beginnings of the galactic civil war, and the menacing meddling of Palpatine. Well, good news: to mark 25 years since the film first hit cinemas in 1999, it’s coming back to cinemas later this year. Cue the fanfare!
This May the 4th weekend, The Phantom Menace will be re-released in cinemas for a limited time, meaning you can revisit all your favourite moments as large and loud as George Lucas intended. Not only that, but the release is accompanied by epic new poster art from Matt Ferguson – with Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon ready to head into battle,...
This May the 4th weekend, The Phantom Menace will be re-released in cinemas for a limited time, meaning you can revisit all your favourite moments as large and loud as George Lucas intended. Not only that, but the release is accompanied by epic new poster art from Matt Ferguson – with Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon ready to head into battle,...
- 2/10/2024
- by Ben Travis
- Empire - Movies
The fall of Anakin Skywalker. The collapse of the Galactic Republic. The rise of Emperor Palpatine and creation of Darth Vader. It’s been 25 years since the Star Wars prequels changed everything – back in 1999, The Phantom Menace exploded into cinemas in an unprecedented cultural event. In its wake followed Attack Of The Clones and Revenge Of The Sith, unspooling George Lucas’ visionary, technically ambitious, and thematically-dense trilogy of tragedy. The reception at the time was unsteady; today, they’re hailed as a vital and beloved era of Star Wars history.
The new issue of Empire is an epic celebration of Episodes I, II, and III, revisiting the movies with the people who made them. Inside, we have brand new cast interviews, including major conversations – and exclusive photo shoots – with Anakin Skywalker himself, Hayden Christensen, and the one and only Emperor Palpatine, Ian McDiarmid; also speaking to Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman,...
The new issue of Empire is an epic celebration of Episodes I, II, and III, revisiting the movies with the people who made them. Inside, we have brand new cast interviews, including major conversations – and exclusive photo shoots – with Anakin Skywalker himself, Hayden Christensen, and the one and only Emperor Palpatine, Ian McDiarmid; also speaking to Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman,...
- 2/9/2024
- by Ben Travis
- Empire - Movies
The Skywalker Saga wouldn't have been much of a story without Padmé Amidala, who not only shaped the prequel trilogy but at three surprisingly different ages.
Played by Natalie Portman, the story of Anakin Skywalker's better half begins when she's a teen queen and ends well into her political career and on the brink of motherhood.
For fans questioning Padmé's personal Star Wars timeline, here's the age of George Lucas's second trilogy heroine in every movie.
Read full article on The Direct.
Played by Natalie Portman, the story of Anakin Skywalker's better half begins when she's a teen queen and ends well into her political career and on the brink of motherhood.
For fans questioning Padmé's personal Star Wars timeline, here's the age of George Lucas's second trilogy heroine in every movie.
Read full article on The Direct.
- 1/14/2024
- by Savannah Sanders
- The Direct
It's fair to say that Padmé Amidala is one of the "Star Wars" saga's most underappreciated characters. She played something of a thankless role throughout the prequel trilogy; while she's probably known best as Anakin Skywalker's romantic foil, she was so much more in the grand scheme.
Much ink has been spilled on Padmé's importance to the Galactic Republic, especially in "Episode II — Attack of the Clones." It's her fierce independence and general aversion to authority that made her such a threat to then-chancellor Palpatine. Most of his dastardly plans include efforts to remove Padmé entirely from the equation, either through the invasion of Naboo in "The Phantom Menace," or through a handful of assassination attempts.
Fortunately, Padmé managed to stick around longer than anyone expected her to. Her presence was a welcome challenge to the tyranny of the fledgling Empire, but also to the prequels' overwhelmingly male ensemble.
Much ink has been spilled on Padmé's importance to the Galactic Republic, especially in "Episode II — Attack of the Clones." It's her fierce independence and general aversion to authority that made her such a threat to then-chancellor Palpatine. Most of his dastardly plans include efforts to remove Padmé entirely from the equation, either through the invasion of Naboo in "The Phantom Menace," or through a handful of assassination attempts.
Fortunately, Padmé managed to stick around longer than anyone expected her to. Her presence was a welcome challenge to the tyranny of the fledgling Empire, but also to the prequels' overwhelmingly male ensemble.
- 1/14/2024
- by Lyvie Scott
- Slash Film
The 2024 Golden Globes was a very special night for Mark Hamill!
The 72-year-old Star Wars actor made an appearance at the awards show on Sunday night (Jan. 7) to present an award, and while he was backstage, he “finally” got to meet Natalie Portman, who played his mother in the movie franchise.
Keep reading to find out more…
“Now I have finally met my ‘mother’, thanks to the @goldenglobes,” Mark wrote on Instagram along with a photo of him and Natalie, 42.
For those unaware, Mark played Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars franchise and Natalie starred as Padmé Amidala in the prequel trilogy. In Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, it was revealed that Padmé is the mother of Luke and Leia, who was famously played by the late Carrie Fisher.
In a recent interview, Mark addressed the possibility of playing Luke Skywalker again.
View this post on Instagram
A post...
The 72-year-old Star Wars actor made an appearance at the awards show on Sunday night (Jan. 7) to present an award, and while he was backstage, he “finally” got to meet Natalie Portman, who played his mother in the movie franchise.
Keep reading to find out more…
“Now I have finally met my ‘mother’, thanks to the @goldenglobes,” Mark wrote on Instagram along with a photo of him and Natalie, 42.
For those unaware, Mark played Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars franchise and Natalie starred as Padmé Amidala in the prequel trilogy. In Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, it was revealed that Padmé is the mother of Luke and Leia, who was famously played by the late Carrie Fisher.
In a recent interview, Mark addressed the possibility of playing Luke Skywalker again.
View this post on Instagram
A post...
- 1/8/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Natalie Portman appeared on “Watch What Happens Live” to promote her buzzy Netflix drama “May December” and once again told “Star Wars” fans that she is more than open to reprising her role of Padmé Amidala on screen. Portman was just a teenager when she landed a leading role in George Lucas’ “Star Wars” prequel trilogy. Her first entry, “The Phantom Menace,” opened in 1999 when Portman was 18 years old.
Asked by host Andy Cohen what it was like meeting the British royal family at “The Phantom Menace” premiere (see photo below), Portman recalled: “I remember Prince Charles, he was then Prince Charles, asked me if I was in the originals. I was like, ‘No, I’m 18!’ But he was very friendly.”
Portman said “no one has asked” her about returning to the “Star Wars” franchise, but “I’m open to it.” She said working on the prequel trilogy was “amazing,...
Asked by host Andy Cohen what it was like meeting the British royal family at “The Phantom Menace” premiere (see photo below), Portman recalled: “I remember Prince Charles, he was then Prince Charles, asked me if I was in the originals. I was like, ‘No, I’m 18!’ But he was very friendly.”
Portman said “no one has asked” her about returning to the “Star Wars” franchise, but “I’m open to it.” She said working on the prequel trilogy was “amazing,...
- 12/5/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
This article contains spoilers for all of Star Wars.
The Star Wars universe is no stranger to galaxy-shifting events. The massacres on Dathomir and Mandalore nearly wiped out the Nightsisters and Mandalorians, respectively. The Empire obliterated Alderaan with the Death Star just to prove they could. The Battle of Yavin is such an important turning point in the Rebellion against the Galactic Empire that we still use it as the basis to determine how time passes – like the birth of Jesus Christ, events take place before the Battle of Yavin (Bby) or after (Aby). And yet despite the massive tragedies and victories that this universe has witnessed, Order 66 is still considered to be one of the most drastic and deadly.
Darth Sidious enacted Order 66 at the end of the Clone Wars as a way to wipe out as many Jedi as possible while simultaneously encouraging the galaxy to turn on them.
The Star Wars universe is no stranger to galaxy-shifting events. The massacres on Dathomir and Mandalore nearly wiped out the Nightsisters and Mandalorians, respectively. The Empire obliterated Alderaan with the Death Star just to prove they could. The Battle of Yavin is such an important turning point in the Rebellion against the Galactic Empire that we still use it as the basis to determine how time passes – like the birth of Jesus Christ, events take place before the Battle of Yavin (Bby) or after (Aby). And yet despite the massive tragedies and victories that this universe has witnessed, Order 66 is still considered to be one of the most drastic and deadly.
Darth Sidious enacted Order 66 at the end of the Clone Wars as a way to wipe out as many Jedi as possible while simultaneously encouraging the galaxy to turn on them.
- 11/28/2023
- by Brynnaarens
- Den of Geek
"Ahsoka" was a pretty mixed bag of a "Star Wars" show. It suffered from some truly horrendous pacing and a rather sour tone. At the same time, it gave us some of the most exhilarating "Star Wars" moments in years, embraced cartoonish physics for some old-school space opera fun, and even included some fan service that doubled as legitimately good character development. That's to say nothing of the inventive lightsaber action in "Ahsoka," which is some of the best that "Star Wars" has done in a while.
The show also gave us one of the biggest developments for the franchise at large since we learned Anakin Skywalker was born through immaculate conception. In the first episode of "Ahsoka," we learned that in the decade since the "Star Wars Rebels" finale took place, the characters Ezra Bridger and Grand Admiral Thrawn have been stranded in an entirely different galaxy. Indeed, the...
The show also gave us one of the biggest developments for the franchise at large since we learned Anakin Skywalker was born through immaculate conception. In the first episode of "Ahsoka," we learned that in the decade since the "Star Wars Rebels" finale took place, the characters Ezra Bridger and Grand Admiral Thrawn have been stranded in an entirely different galaxy. Indeed, the...
- 11/22/2023
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
"Star Wars" is a story for kids. There's no denying that. While the scripts written for the films are not the best or most nuanced ever written, they still offer something unique to audiences. Watching Anakin Skywalker's (Hayden Christensen) journey through the prequels may have been the first time many a kid experienced a character they liked turning to evil. The fallen Jedi redefined "Star Wars" as the prequel era turned the more simplistic good vs evil space fantasy story of the original trilogy into a complex (if not convoluted) tale with political intrigue and themes of corruption.
With the twin falls of Anakin and the Republic, "Star Wars" became a world where evil was not immediately recognizable or cartoonishly obvious, but one that hides in the shadows, in the hearts of good people who do nothing as institutions crumble away. Anakin showed the flaws of the Jedi, the flaws of humans,...
With the twin falls of Anakin and the Republic, "Star Wars" became a world where evil was not immediately recognizable or cartoonishly obvious, but one that hides in the shadows, in the hearts of good people who do nothing as institutions crumble away. Anakin showed the flaws of the Jedi, the flaws of humans,...
- 10/16/2023
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
Before the "Star Wars" prequels came out, people were really excited to get the backstory of Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen). I certainly was. While I'm not a huge prequel fan, there were some really fascinating story points in there, and between those three films and the animated series "The Clone Wars," many of us know more about Anakin's story than any other character in the history of the galaxy far, far away.
Though we also learned a lot about Padmé (Natalie Portman), Obi-Wan (Ewan McGregor), Jar-Jar (Ahmed Best), Mace Windu (Samuel L. Jackson), and Yoda (Frank Oz), the real focus of the prequels -- particularly "Revenge of the Sith" -- was Anakin Skywalker and his transformation into Darth Vader. However, when it comes to the final chapter of the prequels, that wasn't always the case, according to the 2005 book "The Making of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith" by J.W. Rinzler.
Though we also learned a lot about Padmé (Natalie Portman), Obi-Wan (Ewan McGregor), Jar-Jar (Ahmed Best), Mace Windu (Samuel L. Jackson), and Yoda (Frank Oz), the real focus of the prequels -- particularly "Revenge of the Sith" -- was Anakin Skywalker and his transformation into Darth Vader. However, when it comes to the final chapter of the prequels, that wasn't always the case, according to the 2005 book "The Making of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith" by J.W. Rinzler.
- 10/7/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
This post contains spoilers for episode 7 of "Ahsoka," "Dreams and Madness."
"A Jedi uses the Force for knowledge and defense, never for attack," Master Yoda advises a young Luke Skywalker in "The Empire Strikes Back." This line seems to be the foundation for the reason why the Jedi do not use the Force to fight as often as they can, and rely on their trusty lightsabers to do the job instead. However, during exceptional circumstances, some Jedi (and Sith) have relied upon a somewhat unique hand-to-hand force combat style to ward off foes. In the latest episode of "Ahsoka," Ezra Bridger (Eman Esfandi) uses a similar combat style, relying solely on the Force to fend off an attack on his Noti friends, while Sabine (Natasha Liu Bordizzo) promptly takes the enemies down with her blaster and lightsaber.
As Ezra has been in hiding for quite some time, and he had...
"A Jedi uses the Force for knowledge and defense, never for attack," Master Yoda advises a young Luke Skywalker in "The Empire Strikes Back." This line seems to be the foundation for the reason why the Jedi do not use the Force to fight as often as they can, and rely on their trusty lightsabers to do the job instead. However, during exceptional circumstances, some Jedi (and Sith) have relied upon a somewhat unique hand-to-hand force combat style to ward off foes. In the latest episode of "Ahsoka," Ezra Bridger (Eman Esfandi) uses a similar combat style, relying solely on the Force to fend off an attack on his Noti friends, while Sabine (Natasha Liu Bordizzo) promptly takes the enemies down with her blaster and lightsaber.
As Ezra has been in hiding for quite some time, and he had...
- 9/27/2023
- by Debopriyaa Dutta
- Slash Film
Since the first "Star Wars" film came out in 1977, the sci-fi universe has continued to spawn fan debate. At what moment did Darth Vader figure out that Luke was alive and his son? Why doesn't Darth Vader recognize R2-D2 (Kenny Baker) and C-3Po (Anthony Daniels)? Why in the world would Luke still keep the last name Skywalker when his father Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) might find him? How did Leia (Carrie Fisher) remember her mother's sadness if she'd just been born when Padmé (Natalie Portman) died?
We ask these questions with love ... mostly. One that has always bugged fans (including me) is this: If both Obi-Wan Kenobi (Sir Alec Guinness) and Yoda (Frank Oz) disappear when they die, before becoming Force ghosts, why doesn't the same happen for the redeemed Anakin Skywalker? If you recall, Obi-Wan's brown robes just fall to the ground after Darth Vader kills him.
We ask these questions with love ... mostly. One that has always bugged fans (including me) is this: If both Obi-Wan Kenobi (Sir Alec Guinness) and Yoda (Frank Oz) disappear when they die, before becoming Force ghosts, why doesn't the same happen for the redeemed Anakin Skywalker? If you recall, Obi-Wan's brown robes just fall to the ground after Darth Vader kills him.
- 9/17/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
There's a new "Star Wars" show centered on a Jedi, and you know what that means: lightsaber fights! They'd best be good ones, too, since Ahsoka Tano (Rosario Dawson) is an active Jedi. She's not aging and out of practice like Obi-Wan Kenobi, or utterly absent Force training like so many characters who have tried wielding the Darksaber on "The Mandalorian." Ahsoka's foes are no slouches. Baylan Skoll (Ray Stevenson) and Shin Hati (Ivanna Sakhno) may not be Jedi, nor formally Sith, but they're certainly Force wielders. The mysterious, masked Marrok, meanwhile, sure looks like a Dark Side-empowered Inquisitor.
In ranking lightsaber battles on the show, we're counting every fight that involves the use of an actual lightsaber. Only one participant need have one for it to count, but training fights without real lightsabers do not qualify, even if the training session involving Ahsoka, Sabine (Natasha Liu Bordizzo), and...
In ranking lightsaber battles on the show, we're counting every fight that involves the use of an actual lightsaber. Only one participant need have one for it to count, but training fights without real lightsabers do not qualify, even if the training session involving Ahsoka, Sabine (Natasha Liu Bordizzo), and...
- 9/5/2023
- by Luke Y. Thompson
- Slash Film
In Timothy Zahn's "Heir to the Empire" trilogy, a legendary "Star Wars" character was birthed. Zahn's work reinvigorated the franchise's Extended Universe (EU) by introducing antagonists that were not Sith but motivated by ambitions that did not align completely with that of the Empire. The big bad in Zahn's work was a tactical genius who cared about his men for pragmatic reasons and emerged as someone dangerous without wielding special sabers or Force-sensitive abilities. We're talking about Grand Admiral Thrawn, the blue-skinned Chiss officer who took it upon himself to dismantle the freshly-built New Republic that was still finding its footing.
The key to understanding Thrawn is Zahn's "Thrawn Ascendancy" trilogy, which serves as a prequel to "Star Wars Rebels" and takes place sometime after the events of "Attack of the Clones." The trilogy introduces the Chiss Ascendancy, a relatively-unknown oligarchic autocracy hidden deep within the galaxy, whose...
The key to understanding Thrawn is Zahn's "Thrawn Ascendancy" trilogy, which serves as a prequel to "Star Wars Rebels" and takes place sometime after the events of "Attack of the Clones." The trilogy introduces the Chiss Ascendancy, a relatively-unknown oligarchic autocracy hidden deep within the galaxy, whose...
- 8/8/2023
- by Debopriyaa Dutta
- Slash Film
Anakin Skywalker is arguably the most important character in all of "Star Wars," the guy who helped bring about the end of the Republic and the rise of the Empire -- sneakily the best era of "Star Wars" -- the guy who destroyed Palpatine (the first time), and the guy who inspired Kylo Ren to turn to the dark side. He is a hero, a fan-favorite character, a terrible husband, a war criminal, a mass murderer, and a villain. Above all else, however, Anakin is a guy who doesn't like sand.
But 15 years ago, a new, original "Star Wars" character was introduced who quickly took fandom by storm and became one of the biggest characters in the entire franchise: Ahsoka Tano. First introduced in "The Clone Wars" feature film as Anakin's new padawan, Ahsoka was essentially a female version of Anakin from "Attack of the Clones," a naive, annoying teenager sure of herself,...
But 15 years ago, a new, original "Star Wars" character was introduced who quickly took fandom by storm and became one of the biggest characters in the entire franchise: Ahsoka Tano. First introduced in "The Clone Wars" feature film as Anakin's new padawan, Ahsoka was essentially a female version of Anakin from "Attack of the Clones," a naive, annoying teenager sure of herself,...
- 7/30/2023
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
The dirty open secret about "Star Wars" is that it's always been assembled on the fly. George Lucas made dramatic changes to his script for what would become "Star Wars: Episode IV -- A New Hope" over the course of writing it, scrapping character names and overhauling the plot. He would continue this practice as he developed the original trilogy, even as Anakin Skywalker's fall to the dark side and evolution into Darth Vader became the focal point around which both the trilogy and, in time, the entire Skywalker Saga would come to revolve.
Perhaps that's why fans continue to have a hard time grasping Anakin's downfall and what caused it to this day. Lucas is on the record as believing that Anakin was the individual fated to bring balance to the Force in a prophecy that proved to be far more convoluted than originally interpreted. (Aren't they always?...
Perhaps that's why fans continue to have a hard time grasping Anakin's downfall and what caused it to this day. Lucas is on the record as believing that Anakin was the individual fated to bring balance to the Force in a prophecy that proved to be far more convoluted than originally interpreted. (Aren't they always?...
- 5/28/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
“To those who act as agents of chaos, I say this…please, let me play Padmé again!” Natalie Portman, who played Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequel trilogy, may be down to reprise the role…if only anybody bothered to ask her.
In a new interview with GQ as part of their “Actually Me” video series, Natalie Portman said that returning as Padmé Amidala, the teenage queen of Naboo who later becomes senator, would be something to consider, although no offer has been made. “No one’s ever asked me to return, but I’m open to it.”
Padmé was of course a key character in the trilogy, which ran from 1999’s The Phantom Menace to 2005’s Revenge of the Sith, with Natalie Portman doing her best to get through those scripts, which were coarse and rough and irritating, to say the least. But the character was actually indirectly...
In a new interview with GQ as part of their “Actually Me” video series, Natalie Portman said that returning as Padmé Amidala, the teenage queen of Naboo who later becomes senator, would be something to consider, although no offer has been made. “No one’s ever asked me to return, but I’m open to it.”
Padmé was of course a key character in the trilogy, which ran from 1999’s The Phantom Menace to 2005’s Revenge of the Sith, with Natalie Portman doing her best to get through those scripts, which were coarse and rough and irritating, to say the least. But the character was actually indirectly...
- 5/24/2023
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
As Luke Skywalker stated so accurately in "The Last Jedi," "No one's ever really gone." Franchises these days have been working overtime to keep fans and general audiences hooked from one installment to the next, pulling out all the stops to make sure that the surrounding buzz is only matched by the box office profits. The Marvel Cinematic Universe has turned resurrections and surprise returns into a cottage industry, living up to the comic book creed that characters are never truly dead unless you see the body -- and even then, that's no guarantee either. Meanwhile, the "Fast & Furious" films had already brought back Michelle Rodriguez's Letty and Sung Kang's Han from certain death before the latest movie, "Fast X," ended with the inexplicable return of yet another long-dead hero.
But none of these examples can quite compare to the precedent set by "Star Wars" over the years.
But none of these examples can quite compare to the precedent set by "Star Wars" over the years.
- 5/23/2023
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
Natalie Portman told GQ magazine that she’s open to returning to the “Star Wars” franchise, 18 years after “Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith” served as her exit from the long-running space saga. Portman starred in all three of George Lucas’ prequel films as Padmé Amidala, who wins the heart of Anakin Skywalker.
“I have no information on this,” Portman said when a fan floated the idea of her coming back to the franchise. “No one’s ever asked me to return, but I’m open to it.”
Portman’s Padmé died in labor after giving birth to Luke and Leia in “Revenge of the Sith,” but the “Star Wars” franchise has a history of bringing back long-presumed dead characters (see “Phantom Menace” villain Darth Maul popping back up in “Solo.”).
Portman’s “Thor: Love and Thunder” director Taika Waititi told a widely shared story in summer 2022 about asking Portman...
“I have no information on this,” Portman said when a fan floated the idea of her coming back to the franchise. “No one’s ever asked me to return, but I’m open to it.”
Portman’s Padmé died in labor after giving birth to Luke and Leia in “Revenge of the Sith,” but the “Star Wars” franchise has a history of bringing back long-presumed dead characters (see “Phantom Menace” villain Darth Maul popping back up in “Solo.”).
Portman’s “Thor: Love and Thunder” director Taika Waititi told a widely shared story in summer 2022 about asking Portman...
- 5/23/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Natalie Portman has been waiting almost 20 years to reprise her “Star Wars” prequel role.
The “May December” actress revealed during a GQ career retrospective (below) that after starring as Padmé Amidala in the “Star Wars” prequel trilogy films, she is “open” to returning to the franchise but hasn’t been asked.
“I have no information on this. No one’s ever asked me to return, but I’m open to it,” Portman told GQ.
Portman’s final appearance as Padmé was in 2005 film “Revenge of the Sith,” in which the character seemingly died. Padmé was the love interest of Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) and the mother to twins Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa.
Portman additionally responded to her “Thor: Love and Thunder” director Taika Waititi forgetting that she was in “Star Wars.” Waititi is set to be writing and directing an upcoming “Star Wars” feature film that deviates from the core franchise characters.
The “May December” actress revealed during a GQ career retrospective (below) that after starring as Padmé Amidala in the “Star Wars” prequel trilogy films, she is “open” to returning to the franchise but hasn’t been asked.
“I have no information on this. No one’s ever asked me to return, but I’m open to it,” Portman told GQ.
Portman’s final appearance as Padmé was in 2005 film “Revenge of the Sith,” in which the character seemingly died. Padmé was the love interest of Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) and the mother to twins Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa.
Portman additionally responded to her “Thor: Love and Thunder” director Taika Waititi forgetting that she was in “Star Wars.” Waititi is set to be writing and directing an upcoming “Star Wars” feature film that deviates from the core franchise characters.
- 5/23/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Natalie Portman won hearts everywhere as Padmé in the Star Wars prequel movies and she wouldn't be against reprising the role - if someone would only ask.
"I have no information on this," she said during a GQ video series on May 19 in response to a fan's Reddit post about whether she'd reprise her role. "No one's ever asked me to return, but I'm open to it."
Portman played Padmé in George Lucas's three Star Wars prequels, which aired in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Unfortunately, Portman's character dies in the third movie, 2005's "Revenge of the Sith," which has made it difficult for her to reprise her role. Still, Padmé's story has been continued in the animated TV show "Clone Wars" and a trilogy of young adult novels, per IGN, meaning that there may be room for her to reappear somewhere along the way.
Related: Natalie Portman...
"I have no information on this," she said during a GQ video series on May 19 in response to a fan's Reddit post about whether she'd reprise her role. "No one's ever asked me to return, but I'm open to it."
Portman played Padmé in George Lucas's three Star Wars prequels, which aired in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Unfortunately, Portman's character dies in the third movie, 2005's "Revenge of the Sith," which has made it difficult for her to reprise her role. Still, Padmé's story has been continued in the animated TV show "Clone Wars" and a trilogy of young adult novels, per IGN, meaning that there may be room for her to reappear somewhere along the way.
Related: Natalie Portman...
- 5/22/2023
- by Eden Arielle Gordon
- Popsugar.com
Anakin Skywalker murdering Younglings in George Lucas's "Star Wars: Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith" might be both one of the most brutal and darkly ridiculous "Star Wars" moments ever ... from a certain point of view. (*adapts Darth Vader voice* All too easy.)
Upon arriving at the eleventh hour to assist Darth Sidious/Palpatine in defeating Mace Windu (sending Samuel L. Jackson's purple lightsaber-wielding Jedi out like the badass he is), Anakin pledges his loyalty to the Sith lord. Our "Chosen One" then proceeds to march an army of Clone Troopers over to the Jedi Temple on Coruscant. Not long after, we cut to Anakin cornering a group of Younglings in the Jedi Council's chambers. Cue Anakin extending his lightsaber as he prepares to mow down a room of wide-eyed and terrified children.
In context, of course, this scene is extremely effective in showing just how far...
Upon arriving at the eleventh hour to assist Darth Sidious/Palpatine in defeating Mace Windu (sending Samuel L. Jackson's purple lightsaber-wielding Jedi out like the badass he is), Anakin pledges his loyalty to the Sith lord. Our "Chosen One" then proceeds to march an army of Clone Troopers over to the Jedi Temple on Coruscant. Not long after, we cut to Anakin cornering a group of Younglings in the Jedi Council's chambers. Cue Anakin extending his lightsaber as he prepares to mow down a room of wide-eyed and terrified children.
In context, of course, this scene is extremely effective in showing just how far...
- 5/9/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
The conclusion of Star Wars Celebration 2023 ushered in a new era for the franchise with plenty of thrilling projects announced and highly-anticipated productions finally being previewed. Lucasfilm is finally taking some risks with its storytelling and is finally beginning to incorporate the Legends timeline as part of that.
The video game side of the Star Wars universe is expanding as well with Jedi: Survivor, Quantic Dreams’ Eclipse, and Ubisoft’s open-world Star Wars project. The expansion of the Star Wars game universe is welcome, though it makes it easy to think back on the Star Wars games we’ve lost to the franchise’s canon reboot. Yet, one particular project remains notoriously absent from the canon despite its popularity: The Force Unleashed games from LucasArts.
The Force Unleashed, and its crucial protagonist, Galen Marek, could return to the current Star Wars continuity if the powers that be willed it to be so.
The video game side of the Star Wars universe is expanding as well with Jedi: Survivor, Quantic Dreams’ Eclipse, and Ubisoft’s open-world Star Wars project. The expansion of the Star Wars game universe is welcome, though it makes it easy to think back on the Star Wars games we’ve lost to the franchise’s canon reboot. Yet, one particular project remains notoriously absent from the canon despite its popularity: The Force Unleashed games from LucasArts.
The Force Unleashed, and its crucial protagonist, Galen Marek, could return to the current Star Wars continuity if the powers that be willed it to be so.
- 4/27/2023
- by Matthew Byrd
- Den of Geek
If there's one thing the Naboo Queen-Senator Padmé Amidala has taught us in the "Star Wars" galaxy, you're not a true politician unless you're worthy of the fashion runway. Her iconic prequel trilogy wardrobe blazed a fashion trail for her fellow galactic politicians — and cosplayers at Star Wars Celebration.
"The Mandalorian" season 3 continues Padmé's fashionista legacy by introducing a regentess played by singer Lizzo (who herself graces the concert stage as a dancing and flute-playing fashion icon). In season 3, episode 6 "Guns for Hire," Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal), his adorable foundling Grogu, and Lady Bo-Katan Kryze (Katee Sackhoff) venture to Plazir-15 where they are greeted by its lavish regents, the Duchess and Captain Bombardier (Jack Black). The Mandalorians — save for the enchanted Grogu — find themselves weirded out by the upper-crust atmosphere and out of place in their beskar armor.
If you were shocked by the "Star Wars" casting of Lizzo...
"The Mandalorian" season 3 continues Padmé's fashionista legacy by introducing a regentess played by singer Lizzo (who herself graces the concert stage as a dancing and flute-playing fashion icon). In season 3, episode 6 "Guns for Hire," Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal), his adorable foundling Grogu, and Lady Bo-Katan Kryze (Katee Sackhoff) venture to Plazir-15 where they are greeted by its lavish regents, the Duchess and Captain Bombardier (Jack Black). The Mandalorians — save for the enchanted Grogu — find themselves weirded out by the upper-crust atmosphere and out of place in their beskar armor.
If you were shocked by the "Star Wars" casting of Lizzo...
- 4/6/2023
- by Caroline Cao
- Slash Film
Since its debut on Disney+ back in December of 2019, "The Mandalorian" has delivered a number of memorable moments that have quickly become true standouts in the "Star Wars" canon. The adventures of Din Djarin and Grogu have taken them to a few new locales, but the series is at its best when it's tying in beloved characters like Ahsoka Tano from the animated series "Star Wars: Rebels" and filling in gaps that give a little more insight into what legacy characters like Luke Skywalker were up to after "Return of the Jedi." When "The Book of Boba Fett" took a left turn to catch up with Luke and Grogu in "Chapter 6: From the Desert Comes a Stranger," Luke taps into Grogu's traumatized memories of being inside the Jedi Temple during the night that Emperor Palpatine gave the dreaded "Order 66" that eliminated the Jedi.
Of course, "From the Desert Comes...
Of course, "From the Desert Comes...
- 4/4/2023
- by Drew Tinnin
- Slash Film
Trying to have a nuanced conversation about George Lucas' "Star Wars" prequels is a little like attempting to thread the Stone Needle in Beggar's Canyon on Tatooine. Thanks to the toxic fan discourse that sprung up around them, it's difficult to discuss these movies without wondering how much of your reaction is being colored by their rather complicated legacy -- both the good and the bad.
Take Hayden Christensen. At first, critics weren't exactly wowed by his turn as the man who would become Darth Vader, Anakin Skywalker, in his moody young adult years. Then again, they weren't exactly wowed by any of the acting in Lucas' prequels. Roger Ebert, reviewing "Attack of the Clones" in 2002, wrote that the film's leads — Anakin, Padmé (Natalie Portman), and Obi-Wan (Ewan McGregor) — "seem so strangely stiff and formal in their speech that an unwary viewer might be excused for thinking they were the clones,...
Take Hayden Christensen. At first, critics weren't exactly wowed by his turn as the man who would become Darth Vader, Anakin Skywalker, in his moody young adult years. Then again, they weren't exactly wowed by any of the acting in Lucas' prequels. Roger Ebert, reviewing "Attack of the Clones" in 2002, wrote that the film's leads — Anakin, Padmé (Natalie Portman), and Obi-Wan (Ewan McGregor) — "seem so strangely stiff and formal in their speech that an unwary viewer might be excused for thinking they were the clones,...
- 4/3/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
For all the good things the "Star Wars" franchise has given pop culture, for all its joy and creativity, it is also a franchise plagued by bullying and harassment. From Kelly Marie Tran and Jake Lloyd to John Boyega and Ahmed Best, fans have made life hell for people associated with the franchise.
Since his debut in "The Phantom Menace," Jar Jar Binks has always been the butt of every joke about "Star Wars," in parodies like "Robot Chicken" and a cameo that never was in the film "Chip 'N Dale: Rescue Rangers." The backlash against the character was so bad it led actor Ahmed Best to contemplate suicide.
Thankfully, it seems Ahmed Best is coming back around on the franchise, and the audience is embracing him again, from his appearances at Star Wars Celebration to Best hosting the reality competition series "Jedi Temple Challenge," where he played a Jedi master named Kelleran Beq.
Since his debut in "The Phantom Menace," Jar Jar Binks has always been the butt of every joke about "Star Wars," in parodies like "Robot Chicken" and a cameo that never was in the film "Chip 'N Dale: Rescue Rangers." The backlash against the character was so bad it led actor Ahmed Best to contemplate suicide.
Thankfully, it seems Ahmed Best is coming back around on the franchise, and the audience is embracing him again, from his appearances at Star Wars Celebration to Best hosting the reality competition series "Jedi Temple Challenge," where he played a Jedi master named Kelleran Beq.
- 3/22/2023
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
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