Why Midichlorians Are Not Mentioned in the New Star Wars Movies

Since their introduction in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, midichlorians have played a significant role in the Star Wars universe as a biological explanation for Force sensitivity. Measuring the concentration of these microscopic life forms within cells, midichlorians were a fascinating scientific aspect of the prequels. However, the subsequent movies, particularly the sequel trilogy The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, and The Rise of Skywalker, focused more on the mystical and spiritual elements, leading to the omission of midichlorians.

The Departure from Scientific Explanation

The newer films move away from the scientific approach, emphasizing the mystic and spiritual aspects of the Force. Director J.J. Abrams, in his approach to The Force Awakens, deliberately shifted towards a more mystical interpretation, unshackling the franchise from the prequels' scientific and bureaucratic undertones. This creative direction played a crucial role in evoking the original trilogy's sense of wonder and mystery. The subsequent films by Rian Johnson and Jon Kab Hicks similarly focused on legacy, balance, and personal connections, distancing themselves from the prequels' established lore.

Public Reception and Controversy

Midichlorians were a highly controversial concept, often criticized by both fans and critics. The idea that Force sensitivity is biological rather than metaphysical is a significant departure from traditional beliefs. The introduction of midichlorians in the prequels was met with mixed reactions and harsh criticism, particularly after the release of The Phantom Menace. This led critics to question the balance between science and mysticism in the Star Wars universe. The audience's rejection of midichlorians was so severe that the concept is unlikely to be revisited in future films.

In-Universe Perspective

From an in-universe perspective, the existence of midichlorians might be considered lost knowledge. The decline of the Jedi Order, as depicted in the prequels, could be seen as a result of their over-reliance on scientific explanations. The idea that midichlorians quantify the Force and can be measured might be seen as a sign of the Jedi's fall from grace, a departure from their spiritual and mystical roots. This narrative choice, while controversial, serves to highlight the importance of maintaining the spiritual and mystical aspects of the Force.

The Future of Midichlorians

Despite attempts to soften the impact of midichlorians, the concept remains controversial. While the original trilogy never contradicted the existence of midichlorians, they are unlikely to reappear in future films or spin-offs. The new writers and directors recognize the difficulties in making midichlorians work within the established Star Wars universe. Instead, they focus on themes that align with the franchise's core principles, such as legacy, personal connection, and the Force's mystic nature. References to elements like Life Day are treated with humor, further reinforcing the sentiment that midichlorians are best left in the past.

In conclusion, the omission of midichlorians in the new Star Wars movies reflects a deliberate creative choice to focus on the mystical and spiritual aspects of the Force. This decision, while controversial, aims to maintain the franchise's sense of wonder and mystery, distinguishing it from its past narrative elements.