Would 'The Rise of Skywalker' Have Been Better with Darth Plagueis as the Main Villain?

Speculating on alternate scenarios in the rich universe of Star Wars is always an intriguing exercise. One such thought experiment revolves around Darth Plagueis as the main antagonist in 'The Rise of Skywalker.' Considering the potential impact and narrative possibilities, this hypothetical scenario offers several compelling arguments for a different direction for the narrative.

1. Character Depth and Backstory

Darth Plagueis, introduced in 'Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith,' comes with a rich backstory that goes beyond the standard evil villain. His ability to manipulate the Force to create life and prevent death makes him a character with deep roots in the lore. In contrast, Darth Sidious (Palpatine), while a powerful and iconic villain, relies primarily on established themes and character dynamics. By choosing Plagueis as the main villain, 'The Rise of Skywalker' could have opened new storytelling avenues and explored more complex character arcs.

2. Thematic Exploration

Themes of Power and Mortality can be explored more deeply with Plagueis' connection to life and death. This could enhance the narrative's exploration of the consequences of seeking immortality and the natural order of life, contrasting with Rey's journey and her connection to the Force. Additionally, Plagueis' legacy as part of the Sith could provide a more nuanced discussion of the Sith philosophy versus the Jedi ideals, adding layers of complexity to the conflict between the two factions.

3. Plot Dynamics

New Conflicts: If Plagueis were the main antagonist, it could create new and compelling narrative conflicts. For instance, Rey and Kylo Ren might have to deal with the consequences of Plagueis' experiments or his desire to reclaim power. This would introduce a fresh element to the storyline. Another potential plot twist could involve Kylo Ren's arc, where he could be positioned as more of a pawn in Plagueis' schemes rather than a direct rival to Rey. This complex relationship could add significant depth to both characters' narratives.

4. Fan Reception and Expectations

The fanbase of Star Wars is notoriously passionate and has shown a strong interest in the lore surrounding Darth Plagueis, particularly after his brief mention in 'Revenge of the Sith.' Implementing him as the main villain could have not only satisfied fan expectations but also provided a more cohesive narrative for the sequel trilogy. This change could have given a fresh perspective to a storyline that, at times, was critiqued for its reliance on nostalgia and lack of character development.

Conclusion

The decision to bring back Darth Palpatine (Darth Sidious) in 'The Rise of Skywalker' was a bold choice that aimed to tie together the broader saga. However, by having Darth Plagueis as the main villain, the film could have offered a more thematically rich and layered story, with new conflicts and character developments. Ultimately, it would all depend on how well the narrative was executed, but the potential for a more compelling antagonist cannot be ignored. Plagueis' complex backstory and unique connection to the Force undoubtedly have the potential to offer fresh insights and engaging storytelling.