George Lucas thought of an intriguing alteration to the Jedi lore in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace that would have considerably altered the franchise’s trajectory.

In a latest interview commemorating the Twenty fifth anniversary of Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, famend idea and storyboard artist Iain McCaig shared fascinating insights about George Lucas’s authentic imaginative and prescient for the Jedi. He revealed that Lucas had contemplated a major twist within the Jedi mythology, one that may have reshaped how followers understand these iconic characters. This revelation provides a layer of depth to the lore, highlighting the inventive processes that go into storytelling throughout the Star Wars universe.

In the cinematic narrative of The Phantom Menace, we see Obi-Wan Kenobi, portrayed by Ewan McGregor, because the devoted apprentice to Qui-Gon Jinn, performed by Liam Neeson. However, through the early levels of the movie’s improvement, Lucas had deliberate to reverse this dynamic. Neeson’s character would have taken on the title Obi-Wan, whereas McGregor’s character would have been often called Qui-Gon. This change would have had profound implications, particularly within the climactic second when Obi-Wan is slain by Darth Maul, as Qui-Gon would’ve adopted his title in a solemn tribute, thereby injecting an emotional resonance into their relationship.

“It’s interesting how things evolve,” McCaig mirrored. “At one point, the older Jedi was called Obi-Wan, while the younger Jedi was named Qui-Gon. The poignancy of this concept lies in the idea that as Obi-Wan meets his end and Qui-Gon triumphs over Darth Maul, he not only inherits his Master’s mission but also his name. Thus, Qui-Gon evolves into Obi-Wan. This is why Alec Guinness, when he appears in A New Hope, expresses surprise at hearing the name, saying, ‘Obi-Wan? Now that’s a name I’ve not heard….’ He isn’t Obi-Wan but embodies Qui-Gon. Ultimately, George decided to change it.”

This idea is undeniably charming, and one can’t assist however surprise how completely different the Star Wars saga may need been had Lucas stored this narrative twist. Would it have established a practice amongst Jedi to undertake their mentors’ names? This raises intriguing questions on legacy throughout the Jedi Order. For occasion, would Luke Skywalker, performed by Mark Hamill, have chosen to honor his mentors by taking up the title of Obi-Wan or maybe Yoda? Such speculations invite followers to deeply interact with the wealthy tapestry of Star Wars mythology.

The Phantom Menace was re-released in theaters earlier this yr as a part of its Twenty fifth-anniversary celebration, a milestone that has prompted many followers to revisit the movie. It’s astonishing to appreciate how perceptions of the film have advanced over time. The preliminary reception was blended, with some die-hard followers expressing disappointment. However, as time has handed, a brand new era has embraced the movie, discovering worth in its storytelling. While it is probably not considered the head of the franchise, The Phantom Menace gives memorable moments, such because the exhilarating pod race and the epic lightsaber duel that includes Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, and the formidable Darth Maul.