The original Star Wars film, released in 1977, quickly establishes the high stakes of the story and introduces Darth Vader, who instantly became one of cinema’s most memorable villains. Brought to life by David Prowse and voiced by James Earl Jones, Vader became more than just a character—he’s a recognizable figure even today, often seen in costumes, and redefined how popular movie villains could be. Three years later, in The Empire Strikes Back, Vader cemented his legendary status with what is still considered one of the biggest plot twists and most famous lines in film history.
Though released three years after The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi began to demystify Darth Vader, revealing his face and hinting at his past. Since then, countless stories have expanded on Vader’s life, adding depth to his character and history. However, this has also led to some contradictions and confusing plot points. Despite this, Darth Vader remains a truly iconic villain, though his complex backstory has become somewhat convoluted over time.
5) Meeting Leia and Having No Idea She’s His Daughter
Early in the original Star Wars film, Darth Vader interrogates Princess Leia, suspecting she has the plans to the Death Star and is a rebel leader. At the time, that was all their relationship was shown to be. However, as the Star Wars story has expanded, we now know this was actually the first time a father and daughter were meeting. Considering Vader’s ability to sense potential in others through the Force, it’s surprising he didn’t realize Leia was strong with the Force, let alone his own daughter. While the scene worked perfectly well as a standalone movie, after decades of additional Star Wars stories, this moment feels particularly noticeable and out of place.
4) His Standing in the Empire
It’s a bit unclear what Darth Vader’s role actually is within the Empire. While his connection to the Emperor in Revenge of the Sith and Return of the Jedi suggests he’s second-in-command, the original Star Wars film makes him seem more like a mid-level manager with limited authority compared to figures like Grand Moff Tarkin. Even when he’s commanding his own Star Destroyer in The Empire Strikes Back, he’s still following orders. The scene where Vader force-chokes an officer who doesn’t seem to respect him further complicates things, raising questions about how much power he truly holds. This brings us to…
3) How Many Apprentices He Had This Whole Time
Throughout the vast Star Wars universe, even considering stories that are no longer considered official, Darth Vader has trained several apprentices while serving the Empire. These include Galen Marek from Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, a descendant from the Vader Immortal VR experience, and the numerous Jedi hunters known as the Inquisitorius (with at least eighteen members). It’s hard to understand what Vader’s role actually is within the Empire. How could he possibly fulfill the Emperor’s orders, pursue his own goals like finding Luke Skywalker, and manage so many direct subordinates? There simply aren’t enough hours in the day to do everything!
2) “A Presence I’ve Not Felt Since…”
A memorable scene from the original Star Wars – and one that’s become more complex with the franchise’s expansion – is when Vader says, “I sense something; a presence I’ve not felt since…” This line builds anticipation for his showdown with Obi-Wan on the Death Star, setting in motion Luke Skywalker’s journey and ultimately leading to Vader’s defeat. The way the line is delivered is also effective; we can almost hear Vader’s thoughts as he starts to realize what’s happening and who he’s about to face.
You know, that line – “I feel a great disturbance in the Force” – used to be so simple. But after watching the Obi-Wan Kenobi series, it’s become surprisingly complicated! We actually know when Vader last sensed Obi-Wan: nine years before the events of A New Hope. They even fought twice, on different planets! And get this – Obi-Wan totally defeats Vader in their second duel, which really fuels Vader’s desire for revenge. It’s wild to think he held onto that rage for nine years, just…going about his Empire stuff, before finally acting on it.
1) The Hallway Scene in Rogue One
Okay, so I love Star Wars, and I get why everyone loves that scene with Darth Vader in Rogue One. It looks amazing, and it really shows off his power. But honestly, as a fan, it kind of bothers me. The timing just doesn’t add up. Rogue One ends and A New Hope starts almost immediately after, and it feels weird to see Vader burst onto the scene already fighting like crazy with his lightsaber blazing. It doesn’t feel like the same Vader we meet in A New Hope; he feels more like a video game boss than the imposing figure we know. It’s cool to see him being powerful, but it feels like someone just imagined what would be awesome to see, rather than what would actually make sense for the story and his character at that point.
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2026-01-05 16:42