While being as respectful as possible, Lucasfilm and J.J. Abrams have tried to distance "The Force Awakens" from the much-maligned prequel films ever since production started. Abrams has confirmed that there will be no talk of midi-chlorians or any appearances from Jar Jar Binks. When possible, he is trying to employ as many practical effects as possible so the movie does not rely too heavily on green screen CGI. Lastly, he's hoping his new take on lightsaber battles will help to differentiate "The Force Awakens" from "Episodes I, II and II."
Fans have already caught a few glimpses of John Boyega's Finn wielding the classic blue Skywalker lightsaber and there have been several occasions where Adam Driver's Kylo Ren has deployed his cross-guard laser sword in all the teasers, trailers and TV spots. But while Abrams believes the Prequel duels were well-choreographed, he wanted to bring something different to the table this time around. Talking with Empire Magazine (via Star Wars News Net), Abrams admitted that he looked to the original trilogy for inspiration.
"When you look at Star Wars and Empire, they are very different lightsaber battles, but for me they felt more powerful because they were not quite as slick [as the prequels]. I was hoping to go for something much more primitive, aggressive and rougher, a throwback to the kind of heart-stopping lightsaber fights I remembered being so enthralled by as a kid."
This approach makes sense for a few reasons. First, from a fan's perspective, distancing yourself from the prequels buys you good will and optimism. The Prequel fights were cool but ultimately hollow. But in a larger and more literal sense, this strategy works as well.
In "Episodes I-III," the Jedi Order is a highly successful and established entity. Iconic figures such as Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi have been training their entire lives. It's understandable why their skills with a lightsaber seem to outmatch latter versions, at least visually.
In "The Force Awakens," the Jedi have become nothing more than a myth or urban legend. They have been extinct for roughly 60 years. Outside of Luke Skywalker, who has been notoriously absent from the film's marketing campaign and was always a bit rough with a lightsaber, there probably isn't anyone else out there who could teach someone how to properly wield the elegant weapon from a more civilized time.
Whatever the case may be, all questions will be answered when "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" hits theaters next month.
