Beginning on April 25, the Star Wars film “Revenge of the Sith” was re-released in theatres to celebrate its 20th anniversary. This re-release marked the start of celebrations for not only the anniversary but also Star Wars Day on May 4.
“Revenge of the Sith,” the last installment of the prequel trilogy, was not received well when first released due to its performances and unfamiliar plot lines, which caused long-time fans to have mixed opinions on the trilogy. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of love for the films, with audiences applauding their story-building and complex characters.
The film began with lead actor Hayden Christensen giving a message to all the fans. The message essentially conveyed how proud he was of the movie and the love it had been receiving, concluding his speech with the iconic line, “This is where the fun begins!”
For me, “Revenge of the Sith” is one of the best Star Wars movies in the entire franchise. This movie is essential in understanding the fundamental characters in the franchise, both the what and why of their actions. It presents a question to the audience of who is truly in the wrong. It prompts them to question the motives and actions of the Jedi Order.
The slow, foreboding evolution of Anakin Skywalker to Darth Vader is extremely well done because it shows how his shift to the dark side was motivated only by love. It humanizes Darth Vader even more than we had seen at the end of Return of the Jedi.
The theory of Padme dying of a “broken heart” is completely wrong in my opinion. That idea just undermines who Padme is, a strong and independent senator. Relatively, the only way Anakin was able to survive what he endured in the fight at Mustafar was through the powers of the Sith. Padme dying at the same time that Darth Vader rose only further proves her life was a symbolic sacrifice for the birth of Darth Vader.
The re-release was not the only way the Star Wars Community celebrated the holiday. From March 28 to May 11, Disneyland held the “Season of the Force” Event, which included new projection shows, fireworks and limited-edition food. On select nights through May 9, Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite was held, which was sold as a separate event ticket and featured different shows, shorter wait times and character meet-and-greets for rides.
