Mind-Blowing VFX: Unveiling the Fascinating Transformation of Hayden Christensen's Anakin Skywalker

Summary

Hayden Christensen's return in Ahsoka showcases the best de-aging technology from ILM to date, impressing VFX artists.

ILM utilizes a combination of multiple cameras and infra-red filming to generate highly intricate 3D models for the purpose of de-aging.

There is speculation surrounding Lucasfilm's possible utilization of similar technology in upcoming projects, which might involve the inclusion of the beloved heroes from the original trilogy.

Top VFX artists have praised Star Wars for its impressive de-aging of Hayden Christensen's character in Ahsoka. Hayden Christensen reprised his role as Anakin Skywalker in the Ahsoka Disney+ TV show, delighting viewers with his dynamic interactions with Rosario Dawson's Ahsoka Tano. Through a meeting in a mystical dimension called the World Between Worlds, Star Wars brilliantly showcased significant moments from the Clone Wars and depicted Anakin as he appeared in the prequel era.

Corridor Crew's latest video serves as a tribute to Christensen's comeback, featuring a group of talented VFX artists who were awe-struck by ILM's exceptional de-aging techniques, which are considered the best to date.

ILM has been actively engaged in the experimentation of de-aging techniques and deepfake technology for quite some time now. They have previously achieved remarkable results with notable appearances such as Princess Leia in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Luke Skywalker portrayed by Mark Hamill in The Mandalorian season 2 and The Book of Boba Fett, and Indiana Jones featured in Indiana Jones & the Dial of Destiny. However, the return of Christensen surpasses all previous efforts in terms of sheer brilliance and execution.

How ILM De-Aged Anakin Skywalker

Corridor Crew provides an exceptional overview of ILM's latest technology. The VFX vendor has discovered that utilizing multiple infrared cameras, filming at the same speed, does not impact regular photography. This technique allows for highly detailed triangulation to generate 3D models. Initially developed during the production of The Irishman, ILM further refined the method with the inclusion of various Mark Hamill cameos. Interestingly, the positive fan response to the Luke Skywalker scenes led to an additional layer of deepfake being added, a technique that seems to have been employed for Christensen's portrayal of Anakin Skywalker as well.

There is significant speculation as to whether Lucasfilm will employ similar technology for their upcoming movie set during The Mandalorian era, which will introduce Grand Admiral Thrawn as the main antagonist. It remains uncertain at this time, but the possibility of featuring some of the original trilogy heroes seems more likely, especially after the subtle reference to Leia Organa in the Ahsoka finale. With ILM gradually perfecting de-aging and deepfake technology, it is hopeful that the process will become more cost-effective and streamlined with each iteration.

Source: Corridor Crew