Reasons Why the Star Wars Original Trilogy Changes Made Sense

When discussing the changes made to the Star Wars original trilogy, certain alterations have resonated with fans and critics alike. This article will explore a few key changes that made sense, providing insights into the consistency and emotional depth of the franchise.

The Timing and Emotional Impact of the Victory Celebration

The victory celebration scene at the end of Return of the Jedi stands out as a genuine improvement over the 1983 ending. The music is more emotionally evocative, and the montage of the celebration spanning across all major worlds in the movies reinforces the grandeur and significance of the Rebel victory. This addition provided a more satisfying conclusion to the conflict, making the triumph feel more monumental and emotionally thrilling. It also offered a sense of closure and optimism for the future of the galaxy far, far away.

Palpatine Evolution: From Wood to Mastery

Another notable change was the casting of Ian McDiarmid as Darth Sidious/Palpatine in The Empire Strikes Back. The 1980 version with Clive Revill or Marjorie Eaton felt wooden and underwhelming. McDiarmid, on the other hand, brought a new level of intensity and gravitas to the role, making every scene he was in captivating. His performance added depth and complexity to the character, making The Empire Strikes Back a more engaging and suspenseful film. This change enhanced the overall quality of the trilogy and showcased the power and menace of the Emperor more effectively.

Sebastian Shaw's Replacement by Hayden Christensen

One of the most controversial yet necessary changes was replacing Sebastian Shaw with Hayden Christensen as Anakin's Jedi ghost in the final scene of Return of the Jedi. This decision aligns both with continuity and logic. Shaw was an older actor, which didn't make sense for a young Anakin who was transitioning into the jedi knight Obi-Wan had once been. Changing Shaw to Christensen not only improved the visual aesthetic but also resolved a long-standing issue. It made the scene more convincing and emotionally resonant, enhancing the narrative's consistency and the story's arc of redemption and loss.

The Swedish Perspective: "It Smells Like Cereals Here"

From a Swedish fan's perspective, one of the most amusing changes in the prequel trilogy was the replacement of the Ewok celebration lyrics in Return of the Jedi. The original ending included the line "det lurkar flingor h" which translates to "it smells like cereals here," a line that was jarring and disconnected from the overall tone of the film. While the prequel trilogy version might be more smoothed over, it's worth noting that this change is particularly appreciated by fans who prefer a more coherent and emotionally satisfying ending. The prequel ending provides closure and avoids the cringe-inducing lines that were a letdown for many viewers.

Ultimately, these changes in the original trilogy were not just about casting or musical enhancements. They were about creating a more cohesive and engaging narrative, reinforcing the emotional impact of the story, and providing a sense of resolution that the original ending lacked. Fans and critics alike can agree that these changes made the Star Wars saga richer and more satisfying, contributing to its enduring legacy in the cinematic universe.