The Hidden Musical Connections in Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Why Do We Hear Parts of Anakin’s Dark Side Theme?

As I delved deeper into the intricacies of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, I noticed something quite fascinating. While exploring this video shared by Ben Packer, I uncovered a potential explanation for a musical cue that has puzzled fans for years: the recurring segments of Anakin Skywalker's Dark Side theme heard when Luke Skywalker is first revealed.

Uncovering the Truth Behind Luke's Dark Side Moment

In the video, the story gradually unfolds, suggesting more than just the straightforward narrative that Kylo Ren killed all of Luke's apprentices. Instead, the theory posits that Kylo Ren converted many of them to the Dark Side before a sudden surge of fear, anger, and hate pushed Luke over into the Dark Side, leading him to eliminate the converted apprentices, save for Kylo. It is a moment of great fear and shame, mirroring his father Anakin's betrayal of Obi-Wan.

This theory adds a new layer of complexity to the plot, suggesting that Luke's actions are not just based on fear but also on a deep-seated sense of duty and blame for a betrayal that echoes his own father's.

The Musical Connection with the Imperial March

As Mo Kas points out, there is a clear musical similarity to the Jedi Steps/Finale theme and the Imperial March in the video. This is particularly noticeable at 0:16 and further emphasized at 1:11 when the Imperial March is overlaid onto the Jedi Steps/Finale. The official trailer of The Force Awakens features this very same segment.

John Williams, the mastermind behind the musical score, would not have made this intentional coincidence. The recurring segments of the Imperial March likely serve to underscore an uncertainty in Luke's state of mind, suggesting that he is on the verge of a great transformation.

A Link to Vader and a New Theory

Considering the connection between the Imperial March and the father-son relationship between Anakin and Darth Vader, it is tempting to draw a parallel between Luke and Rey. After the revelation that Darth Vader is Luke's father, the Imperial March was played. Similarly, the theory suggests that the music might be hinting at the father-daughter relationship between Luke and Rey. It could be that Rey is ultimately the daughter of Luke, and this music serves as a reminder of that bond.

This is, of course, a theory I developed with a friend, and it remains a hypothesis. However, the dedication John Williams shows to his musical creations is evident, and it surely would not be a coincidence for an orchestrated segment of the Imperial March to play during a pivotal moment in the film.

Future Films and the Doctrine of the Force

As fans eagerly await future films in the Star Wars saga, it will be fascinating to see how these musical cues tie into the overall narrative. The musical score is an integral part of storytelling, and John Williams has leveraged these musical motifs to create a rich tapestry of emotions and meaning. Whether this is intentional or a stroke of genius, it certainly adds another dimension to the complex narrative of The Force Awakens.

Conclusion

The musical connections in The Force Awakens offer a deeper understanding of the characters and their journeys. As we continue to explore and unpack these themes, the Star Wars universe reveals its complexity and depth. Whether you are a seasoned fan or a newcomer, the musical motifs in the film invite repeated viewings and further analysis.

Share your thoughts and theories in the comments below, and stay tuned for more insights into the Star Wars saga!