Unkar Plutt's Role in the Wardrobe of Rey: An In-Depth Analysis of The Force Awakens

Star Wars: The Force Awakens marked the return of Rey, a character who captured the hearts of many fans with her journey from scavenger to hero. One of the foundational elements of Rey's character is her outfit—initially a practical scavenger gear provided by Unkar Plutt, a junk dealer on the desert planet Jakku. This article delves into the significance of Rey's wardrobe and the role of Unkar Plutt in her early days, exploring how these elements contribute to the development of her character and the overall narrative of the film.

The Impact of Rey's Scavenger Outfit

Many fans remember Rey's iconic outfit, a piece of visual storytelling that provides insight into her background and circumstances. When Rey was discovered scavenging on Jakku, Unkar Plutt, a well-known junk dealer on the barren and desolate planet, provided her with the necessary attire. This outfit, a practical and makeshift design, serves multiple purposes beyond just clothing.

It highlights Rey's status as a scavenger, a role that places her in the margins of society. It symbolizes her resourceful and survival-oriented nature, aligning with the practical and utilitarian aspects of scavenging. It reflects the harsh and resource-scarce environment of Jakku, where every piece of clothing is a valuable commodity.

The Evolution of Rey's Wardrobe

As the film progresses, Rey's wardrobe undergoes a transformation. When she leaves Jakku and meets Han Solo, she opts for a different outfit, which signifies her departure from her former life and her entry into a world with its own rules and challenges. This change in attire also reflects her changing circumstances and character development.

The original scavenger outfit serves as a narrative anchor, connecting Rey's past to the present and her journey ahead. It also sets up a stark contrast with the more formal and battle-ready clothes she acquires in the latter parts of the film, which are essential for her role in the Resistance.

The Significance of Unkar Plutt

Unkar Plutt, played by Peter Mark Richman, is a character whose role is often underestimated. He is more than just a supplier of clothing; he is a reflection of Rey's survival and the harsh realities of her world. His haggling and the transactions he facilitates through the exchange of materials and supplies with Rey highlight the pragmatic and commoditized nature of their relationship.

Unkar Plutt also embodies the world of Jakku, a place where survival is the primary concern, and every interaction is based on practical, often grueling, exchanges. His character serves as a bridge between Rey's initial state of scavenger and the bigger, more complex universe she enters later on. Through Plutt, we see a slice of life on Jakku, a world of scarcity and survival.

The Wardrobe as a Tool for Character Development

The clothing Rey wears symbolizes her growth and transformation. From scavenger to hero, her wardrobe evolves to reflect this change. Initially, she wears practical and utilitarian gear, which was essential for her survival. This gear was a sign of her resourcefulness and her ability to adapt to harsh conditions.

As the film progresses, Rey's outfit evolves to more formal and battle-ready attire, signifying her transition into a key member of the Resistance. The change in her wardrobe mirrors her journey from a young girl struggling to survive in a harsh environment to a capable and dedicated member of the first order to fight for what she believes in. This transformation in her appearance is not just visual; it is a powerful symbol of her inner development and the new responsibilities she shoulders.

The evolution of Rey's wardrobe, from her scavenger gear to her battle-ready attire, is a testament to her character and the narrative arc of the film. This change not only provides visual interest but also serves as a metaphor for her growth and the challenges she faces as she learns to navigate the larger world beyond Jakku.

Conclusion

Rey's wardrobe and the role of Unkar Plutt in providing her initial outfit are integral to the narrative of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The scavenger gear not only sets the tone for her character but also ties her to the harsh realities of her world. The evolution of her wardrobe reflects her growth and development, from a scavenger to a hero, and completes the journey of Rey.

Understanding the significance of Rey's wardrobe and Unkar Plutt's role provides deeper insights into the character of Rey and the story of The Force Awakens. These elements make Rey's journey all the more compelling, offering a nuanced portrayal of her character and her place in the larger Star Wars universe.