The Mystery of Anakin Skywalker’s Force Ghost in Star Wars IX: Why He Was Left Invisible
At the end of Star Wars IX, viewers are left in awe as Rey encounters a mysterious figure that is later revealed to be Anakin Skywalker. However, he does not appear physically but speaks as a force phantom. This moment raises numerous questions and has sparked extensive discussions among fans. In this article, we delve into the possible reasons behind Anakin’s depiction as a force phantom in Star Wars IX.
Why Anakin Skywalker Should Have Been a Force Ghost
The inclusion of Anakin Skywalker as a force phantom at the end of Star Wars IX is intriguing, especially for those who believe he should have had a more visible presence. The iconic blue-hooded figure is reminiscent of his love interest, Obi-Wan Kenobi, who appears as a force ghost to help Rey defeat the Emperor in The Rise of Skywalker (TROS). Many fans have speculated on the reasons behind the decision made by the filmmakers to keep Anakin inaudible rather than visible.
The Role of Emperor Palpatine
One theory suggests that Emperor Palpatine (the Sith Lord) was so powerful that he blocked out all force ghosts, including Anakin’s, until the end of the battle. According to this theory, Emperor Palpatine needed undivided attention to direct his final assault on the Rebellion, resulting in the temporary blockage of force ghosts. This theory, however, is somewhat complicated when considering the previous appearances of Yoda and Luke as force ghosts in The Last Jedi (TLJ) and TROS, respectively, during the same historical context of the battle.
Marketing and Celebrity Influence
The mystery surrounding Anakin’s force ghost could also be attributed to the influence of Kathleen Kennedy and J.J. Abrams. Kathleen Kennedy, an executive producer, and J.J. Abrams, the director behind Star Wars IX, have been widely critiqued for their marketing strategies, which have been accused of exploiting historical and cultural references. Some speculate that their decision to make Anakin’s force ghost inaudible was a strategic move to manage fan expectations and maintain suspense. It is theorized that naming important characters or figures directly in the dialogue could inadvertently reveal plot twists too early, leading to a less impactful finale.
The Irony of the Chosen One
For many fans, the very essence of Anakin Skywalker as the Chosen One is irrevocably tied to his mission to bring balance to the Force. His failure to achieve this is a central theme in the Star Wars saga. Logically, Anakin fulfilling his role as the Chosen One would mean achieving balance through death. Therefore, his voice at the end of Star Wars IX presents a subtle conflict between the grandeur of the title and the reality of his incomplete journey.
Conclusion
The Star Wars saga consistently challenges and redefines the boundaries of its mythology. The decision to keep Anakin Skywalker as a silent force phantom at the end of Star Wars IX adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. Whether it was a strategic marketing move, a tribute to the original Star Wars trilogy, or simply a flawed narrative decision, this choice remains a subject of much debate among Star Wars fans.
Exploring Further
For a deeper understanding of this contentious topic, we recommend watching fan made edits and alternative theories where Anakin appears as a force ghost. These interpretations offer compelling alternatives and challenge the official narrative. Additionally, digital discussions and forums dedicated to Star Wars provide extensive analysis and fan theories that expand on the implications of Anakin’s absence.