The Brilliant Redemption: Hayden Christensen Resolves the Anakin Skywalker Predicament Once and for All

Warning! This article contains spoilers for Ahsoka episode 5.

Summary

In Ahsoka, Hayden Christensen's depiction of Anakin Skywalker addresses a crucial problem present in George Lucas' prequel films by presenting a more appealing and relatable aspect of the character. The Star Wars prequel trilogy fell short in endearing Anakin to the audience, but the animated series, The Clone Wars, greatly enhanced his development, enabling viewers to form a deeper connection with him.

In Ahsoka episode 5, Christensen beautifully enhanced Anakin's personality, combining elements from The Clone Wars, resulting in a more enjoyable character portrayal. This, in turn, effectively emphasized the tragic loss when he succumbed to the dark side. Hayden Christensen's role in Ahsoka rectified a flaw found in George Lucas' Star Wars prequel movies. Star Wars mainly revolves around the tragedy of Anakin Skywalker, the pivotal figure in the Skywalker saga, intricately connected to nearly everyone and everything. Consequently, when the prequels depicted the transformation into Darth Vader, it was crucial to convey Anakin's downfall in a devastating and emotionally impactful manner, thereby magnifying the significance of Luke Skywalker's redemption of Darth Vader in Return of the Jedi.

Lucas’ Star Wars prequel trilogy effectively depicted Anakin’s downfall, albeit with some limitations. Christensen expertly showcased Anakin’s seething anger, his desperate and all-consuming love for Padmé Amidala, the explosive rage triggered by his mother’s death, and the sense of betrayal he experienced when Obi-Wan Kenobi betrayed him. The issue with Anakin’s portrayal in the Star Wars prequels was not necessarily his darker side once he had fallen beyond redemption, but rather the lighter side that existed before he succumbed to Palpatine’s manipulations – the side that would have allowed audiences to empathize and cheer for him.

Anakin Skywalker Was Never Likable In George Lucas' Star Wars Movies

Anakin's character in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith lacked likability. He appeared immature and whiny before transforming into Lord Vader. His behavior was petulant when things didn't go his way, and his infatuation with Padmé seemed juvenile. This portrayal of Anakin differed greatly from the menacing figure he would become, making it difficult for the audience to connect the two personalities.

These issues can be attributed, to a large extent, to the writing and directing of the films. One example that stands out is Anakin's infamous line, "I don't like sand," which has become an eternal meme. The tragedy of Anakin Skywalker's downfall lies not only in his fall to the dark side but also in the fact that someone who was once filled with hope, love, humor, and joy could be corrupted by someone else's thirst for power and their hidden anger. The prequel movies failed to truly showcase the unburdened side of Anakin Skywalker, except for a few fleeting moments with Obi-Wan and Padmé. Fortunately, Star Wars: The Clone Wars was able to address and rectify most of these issues.

The Clone Wars Massively Improved Anakin's Character (But Live-Action Still Needed Fixing)

In the world of animation, Matt Lanter's portrayal of Anakin Skywalker allowed his true self to shine. His bond with his Padawan Ahsoka Tano brought out a more playful, protective, and generous side to his personality, while his rapport and openness with Obi-Wan truly made them feel like brothers, surpassing what the prequel trilogy was able to accomplish. The Clone Wars transformed Anakin into a character that the average viewer could root for, worry about, and empathize with, adding depth to his tragic destiny.

Despite a few lingering issues, The Clone Wars immensely improved Anakin Skywalker's characterization. The show consistently depicted his immature jealousy when it came to Padmé, but also made their relationship more relatable. Overall, Anakin became a much more authentic and believable character as a result of the animated series. However, even after The Clone Wars' success, the live-action portrayal of Anakin still required a revamp — and that's where Ahsoka stepped in and succeeded.

Hayden Christensen Finally Makes Anakin Skywalker Likable In Ahsoka Episode 5

In Ahsoka episode 5 "Part Five: Shadow Warrior," Hayden Christensen returns as live-action Anakin, reprising his role after appearing in the Obi-Wan Kenobi show. This episode focuses on Anakin and Ahsoka's relationship during the Clone Wars and allows Christensen to showcase a new side of Anakin's personality. While still displaying wisdom as Ahsoka's Jedi Master, Anakin also reveals his terrifying dark side. However, viewers can see traces of the animated version of Anakin from The Clone Wars in Christensen's performance, which enhances the character's depth.

Anakin is lighthearted and playful with Ahsoka, evoking an older brother-younger sister dynamic. He playfully teases her about looking older, rolls his eyes at her suggestion that he became a major problem in the galaxy, and speaks to her with a familiarity that demonstrates his deep understanding of who she is and who she will become. This portrayal of a caring and generous Anakin aligns with how audiences came to know him in The Clone Wars and even in Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi. Christensen seamlessly incorporates the animated Anakin into his live-action performance, resulting in emotionally moving flashbacks for Ahsoka in episode 5. These scenes illustrate the profound loss experienced when Anakin and Ahsoka went their separate ways, ultimately leading to his descent into the dark side.

Ahsoka releases new episodes Tuesdays at 6 pm PT / 9 pm ET on Disney+.