10 Shocking Ways Revenge of the Sith Changed Star Wars Forever You Never Noticed

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The first two movies in George Lucas’ prequel series have sparked a lot of debate among fans. However, the third one, titled “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith“, is widely regarded as one of the strongest entries in the saga. This is due to several reasons. “” lays the groundwork for ““. It connects the prequel trilogy with the original one, providing essential pieces to complete the puzzle. Important events, storylines, and character developments are revealed in it, explaining how things unfolded in the first three movies.

The pivotal moments in “Revenge of the Sith” have left an indelible mark on the distant galaxy of Star Wars, and they’ve also reshaped our understanding of various elements within the Star Wars universe. Some might find it surprising, but this year marks the 20th anniversary since the release of “Revenge of the Sith.” To honor this milestone, let’s revisit the film and explore how it indelibly shaped the Star Wars saga.

10
It’s the Foundation of Many Disney Star Wars Stories

In many aspects, “Revenge of the Sith” isn’t just the end of George Lucas’ prequel trilogy; it also marks the start of a new chapter in the “Star Wars” universe. The happenings within “Revenge of the Sith,” particularly Order 66, significantly influenced various Disney-produced “Star Wars” projects that came after.

In these original Disney+ shows – Ahsoka (Star Wars: Rebels), Star Wars: The Bad Batch, and Obi-Wan Kenobi – all take place following the occurrences in Revenge of the Sith. The remnants of the Jedi Order’s demise and the sweeping impact of Order 66 can be clearly perceived and sensed in these post-Jedi era settings.

9
We Learned That Emperor Palpatine Is Actually Disfigured

In “Return of the Jedi,” we encounter Emperor Palpatine/Darth Sidious (Ian McDiarmid) in person for the first time. He appears as a sinister sorcerer-like figure, an old and venerable character who seems to have been around for ages, much like wise Jedi master Yoda. It’s unclear if he is a human or an alien species, but he bears a striking resemblance to humans.

As a devoted film enthusiast, I must say that Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith takes the typical idea and flips it completely. While Palpatine might seem elderly, his weathered visage isn’t simply a product of aging. In truth, those grotesque lines and wrinkles are a gruesome manifestation of the very Force Lightning that Palpatine himself unleashed upon his own being.

8
Order 66 Became One of the Most Infamous Events in Star Wars Canon

In the initial journey to the distant galaxy portrayed in “A New Hope”, the once powerful order of the Jedi has all but vanished. They were tragically eliminated by Darth Vader and the Empire, leaving only a scant few survivors in hiding.

In the movie “Revenge of the Sith,” we witness the tragic unfolding of these events. The Jedi Order is devastated by the simultaneous execution known as Order 66, where their own stormtroopers betray them. Jedi Knights across the galaxy are betrayed in this way, while Anakin takes part in a horrific act at the Jedi Temple – the slaughter of innocent younglings. The dark Order 66 left an indelible mark on the “Star Wars” universe, transforming the Jedi into a long-forgotten relic. This event is now one of the most pivotal and widely recognized in “Star Wars” history.

7
It Changed How We View the Jedi

By the time “A New Hope” was set, the Jedi were largely extinct. To most in the galaxy, and to the viewers, they seemed like legendary figures from a fairy tale. In our initial trilogy, we portrayed them as mythical warriors and noble knights who fought for the greater good of the galaxy. However, the prequel trilogy questioned this innocent viewpoint.

In “Revenge of the Sith,” the Jedi Order was shown to have significant flaws and hypocrisy, with their actions often driven by political motives. Furthermore, their overconfidence (or hubris) prevented them from seeing the danger posed by Palpatine and the rising power of the Sith. These factors contributed to a change in our perspective on the Jedi, altering our perception of their purpose, role, and image within the “Star Wars” universe.

6
Obi-Wan and Yoda’s Isolation, Explained

It wasn’t entirely obvious why Obi-Wan (Alec Guinness) chose to reside secluded on Tatooine or why Yoda dwelled in a swampy, unappealing location on Dagobah. What circumstances led these formidable warriors to such dismal locales? Why didn’t they perish along with the rest of the Jedi Order? Could it be that the Jedi have a penchant for living in isolated and enigmatic environments?

In the movie Revenge of the Sith, crucial questions were addressed. Although Obi-Wan (Ewan McGregor) and Yoda successfully evaded the clutches of the Sith, they were unsuccessful in halting Palpatine’s ascension to power. Yoda was banished to Dagobah as a form of punishment, while Obi-Wan concealed himself on Tatooine to watch over Luke. The film offered insightful answers regarding the reasons for these characters’ solitude and their minimal engagement with the Rebel Alliance.

5
Witnessing the Birth of Luke and Leia

In the concluding chapter of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith, there’s a grim resolution. The forces of darkness have triumphed, ruling the galaxy for the ensuing 19 years. However, there’s a glimmer of optimism. Characters who would later become the heroes of the original trilogy, Luke (Mark Hamill) and Leia (Carrie Fisher), are born at the end of Revenge of the Sith.

In the upcoming trilogy of movies, both characters play crucial roles in defeating the Galactic Empire, with Luke being particularly significant. Witnessing the scene where they are born and separated holds a deep symbolism and provides a healing experience.

4
We Learned That Despite Her Supposed Memory, Leia Never Lived with Padmé

In the movie “Return of the Jedi”, it’s revealed that Luke learns Leia is his twin sister. He then queries, “Do you recall your biological mother? The one who gave birth to you?” To which Leia replies, “She was quite lovely. Gentle yet melancholic.” This implies to viewers that Leia might have been raised by their birth mother, Padmé (Natalie Portman), during her formative years.

In “Revenge of the Sith,” it was unveiled that I, as Leia, was yet a newborn when Padmé breathed her last. The truth is, I was never nurtured by Padmé at all, which leaves me, as a dedicated Star Wars fan, pondering an intriguing question: How come I remember Padmé vividly but Luke doesn’t?

3
The End of the Old Republic and the Birth of the Empire

How did the Galactic Empire gain control? This was a major question throughout the original trilogy. Lucas’ prequels give us insight into the Old Republic, the long-standing government of that distant galaxy. For two entire movies, Palpatine skillfully manipulates and alters events to increase his own power and influence over the Senate.

In “Revenge of the Sith,” we witness Palpatine’s strategy being successfully executed. The Old Republic is replaced by a Galactic Empire under the guise of ensuring safety and security, as Palpatine explains to the Senate. This decision is met with applause, causing Padmé to remark one of the film’s most memorable lines: “This is how democracy ends…with loud cheers.” Unlike what some fans initially assumed, the democratic system in “Star Wars” didn’t collapse due to sudden chaos. Instead, the Empire gained power through a slow undermining of liberties, and it was supported by its people who were deceived along the way.

2
We Learned That Anakin Wasn’t Really Seduced by Power

In the first Star Wars movie, A New Hope, Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness) informs Luke that Vader had been lured towards the dark side of the Force. Throughout the original trilogy, Darth Vader keeps emphasizing to Luke, “The Dark Side’s power is something you don’t understand yet.” The original trilogy portrays Anakin Skywalker as a young Jedi who was tempted by the allure of more power, eventually falling into the dark side.

However, as depicted in “Revenge of the Sith,” this isn’t entirely accurate. While it’s true that Anakin was drawn to the Dark Side by its power, his real motivation was a particular ability. Palpatine deceived Anakin into thinking that the Dark Side held the key to saving Padmé from her impending death, which he had foreseen in a vision. It was this false promise that led Anakin astray, not the allure of increased power per se.

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1
Witnessing How Anakin Transforms Into Darth Vader

To put it simply, the primary reason Star Wars enthusiasts eagerly went to see the prequels was to uncover Anakin’s journey into becoming the legendary Darth Vader. The intrigue surrounding his past, such as how he acquired those scars and what led him to the Dark Side, had been a captivating enigma throughout the original trilogy. The movie “Revenge of the Sith” offered long-awaited explanations for these questions. Anakin was lured by Palpatine’s deceptive pledges before ultimately adopting the title of Darth Vader, even before donning his suit and mask. He chose to side with Darth Sidious and assist in the hunt for the Jedi under the new Emperor.

In what is arguably the most memorable lightsaber battle within the Star Wars universe, we discover that Obi-Wan, Anakin’s dearest friend, is the one who severs and disfigures the fallen Jedi. Palpatine then collects the charred remains. The climactic moment arrives as a mask is fitted over Anakin’s face, marking the first time we hear his labored, mechanical breath. The transformation of Anakin into Darth Vader and his subsequent demise are pivotal events in Star Wars lore. The consequences of Vader’s life, which have profound effects on the galaxy, both positive and negative, continue to be felt long after his death.

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2025-04-28 03:36