The nine entries in Star Wars’ Skywalker Saga have generated more than a few conversations over the last several decades. It feels like fans can unanimously agree on some of the films (which are streamable with a Disney+ subscription) being great. However, some spark more mixed reactions, including 1983’s Return of the Jedi. Several moments in the film seem to rub some parts of the fandom the wrong way and, as I just found out, one key moment was begrudgingly added by the director only at George Lucas’ request.
Various aspects of Jedi have been chastised by audiences, from the battle scenes on Endor to the underutilization of Boba Fett. However, I would’ve never guessed the major moment that director Richard Marquand took issue with. When marking one of ROTJ’s anniversaries, SFX Magazine on CinemaBlend spoke with Richard’s son, Jim Marquand (and more) During the chat, Jim revealed that his father wasn’t keen on filming the shot of Obi-Wan Kenobi, Yoda and Anakin Skywalker as Force ghosts. Jim said this about his father’s feelings:
He cringed at having to do that, but it was the end of the trilogy, and it’s what Lucas wanted, so it’s what had to be done.
That particular moment comes into play at the tail end of the movie, at which point the members of the Rebel Alliance celebrate the destruction of the second Death Star with Ewoks on Endor. It’s shortly after Luke Skywalker holds a funeral for his late father, Anakin (played by Sebastian Shaw) that he reappears alongside Yoda and Kenobi. The trio then proceed to watch over Luke and the celebration with pride.
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I have to admit that I’m somewhat torn over these thoughts on that scene from Jedi (which I first watched on VHS years ago). On the one hand, I can understand how Marquand would find the moment somewhat cheesy and, even by 1983’s technical standards, there’s a slightly uncanny feel to it. However, George Lucas’ desire to have three impactful figures in Luke’s life watch him from the afterlife sounds incredibly fitting for the end of the trilogy. So, while I do find it mostly sweet, I get the Jagged Edge director’s point.
Regardless, Lucas may have been on to something, as there are definitely other fans who look upon that full-circle scene with satisfaction and warm feelings. Lucas has also adjusted the scene in the years since Return of the Jedi’s release. In the digitally restored version released in 2004, Hayden Christensen’s Anakin actually appears in place of Shaw’s. That marks just one of the alterations the filmmaker has made to the flick.
Jedi’s legacy certainly is interesting due to the mixed reception it has received. There’s, of course, a lot of nostalgia that surrounds it, and fans still seem to love any ROTJ set throwbacks that are shared online. However, even directors have varied views on the film, as Dune’s Denis Villeneuve believes it derails the Original Trilogy. However, Shawn Levy loves the flick and even said it even inspired his own upcoming Star Wars film, Starfighter.
Fans could probably debate the merits of Return of the Jedi until they’re as blue in the face as Max Rebo. However, regardless of where you fall on the film – including the Force ghost trio shot Richard Marquand had to add to appease George Lucas – know that you’re entitled to your personal opinion.