Is Finn Too Short to Be a Stormtrooper in Star Wars: The Force Awakens?

Introduction

The character of Finn, played by John Boyega, in the 2015 film Star Wars: The Force Awakens raises a peculiar question: is he too short to be a stormtrooper? This article explores the historical and practical aspects of stormtrooper conscription and height standards in the Star Wars universe, providing insights into why such a detail is both humorous and meaningful to the plot.

Historical and Practical Context

In the original Star Wars: A New Hope, stormtrooper armor was designed to fit a variety of actors, leading to some variations in height. This flexibility is evident in the Force Awakens, where Finn stands out as relatively short compared to his fellow stormtroopers. However, this detail serves a purpose beyond mere aesthetics. It plays into the themes of individuality and identity, as Finn ultimately breaks free from his stormtrooper role to find his own path.

A plausible explanation for Finn's shorter stature could be practical: to avoid head injuries when working in confined spaces, such as the Millennium Falcon’s fuselage and other spacecraft. This consideration might have been particularly important for the First Order, which has less stringent standards than the Galactic Empire.

The Height of Stormtroopers

During the Galactic Empire era, there was a standard height requirement for stormtroopers, which was approximately 1.6 meters. This means that characters like Luke Skywalker, who are shorter than this standard, would be less common among stormtroopers. By The Force Awakens, it seems that the First Order is less concerned with height, reflecting a shift in their standards and perhaps their methods of recruitment.

Biological and Psychological Factors

The decision to make stormtroopers shorter could also be rooted in biopsychological factors. In the subsequent episodes, we learn that stormtroopers are conscripted from a very young age, which could mean they are not subject to height screening or specific physical requirements. This implies that the First Order may also be more open to diverse candidates, including those who do not strictly meet conventional physical standards.

Another intriguing aspect is the mention of Finn being reassigned from waste management to stormtrooper. This suggests he might have been a very junior stormtrooper, possibly undergoing a trial period before being fully integrated into the ranks. In this context, his shorter stature might not have been a significant issue, especially given the lack of uniformity in earlier stormtrooper designs.

Conclusion

The question of whether Finn is too short to be a stormtrooper in Star Wars: The Force Awakens is both amusing and thought-provoking. It highlights the complex and evolving nature of the First Order's military recruitment and the broader themes of identity and individuality within the franchise. As we explore the intricacies of the Star Wars universe, such details add layers of depth to the story and engage fans with intriguing questions and discussions.