The Enigma of Jar Jar Binks: A Star Wars Character Study

George Lucas first brought the character of Jar Jar Binks to life through his written background, naming him with an eye toward making him appealing to preschoolers and a merchandising opportunity. The visual depiction, however, had its origins elsewhere. Notably, the characterisation was heavily influenced by Ahmed Best, whose portrayal included a unique blend of cultural and emotional depth. This article delves into the creation and reception of Jar Jar Binks, focusing on the contributions of Ahmed Best and the impact of the character on the Star Wars franchise.

The Creation of Jar Jar Binks

The inspiration for Jar Jar Binks came from the Gungan species in the Star Wars universe. Best, the actor cast as Jar Jar Binks, described the Gungan’s duck-like face and amphibious habitat as key elements in his performance. The long, floppy ears were inspired by dreadlocks, adding a visually distinctive and somewhat unconventional character to the films.
Moreover, there was a less publicised yet significant aspect of Binks’s portrayal. According to Ahmed Best, the character was intentionally designed to have a subtext of being banished for clumsiness and mental handicapped. This made Jar Jar a duck-frog from the Caribbean with special needs! This depth in the character's background is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in understanding his portrayal.

The film's creators did a substantial amount of groundwork to make Jar Jar Binks unique, with the Caribbean accent being a distinctive feature that helped flesh out the Gungan culture. However, it was the overall portrayal of Jar Jar that was unique, showcasing Best’s diverse talents and artistic interpretations.

The Reception and Controversy

When first introduced in 1999, Jar Jar Binks was met with a mix of reactions from both fans and critics. On one hand, many found him part of the story, with a questionable level of sophistication, bordering on cartoony. On the other hand, the character faced harsh criticism, leading to an intense backlash from the Star Wars community. Some fans disliked the overly cartoonish depiction, while others considered him a racist caricature.

The controversy sparked intense debates and intense media attention. Fans lashed out at Ahmed Best, resulting in a period of significant stress for the actor. Some reports suggested that he faced near-suicidal ideation due to the backlash. However, Best has since come back from the struggles, standing firm in his artistic decisions and continuing to work on the Star Wars franchise, even voicing Jar Jar Binks and other characters.

Arguably Forgotten but Undeniable Impact

Jar Jar Binks and the Gungan faction provide a unique opportunity to delve into a previously underrepresented culture within the Star Wars universe. Ahmed Best, though often overshadowed by other cast members, played a vital role in portraying Gungan society in full detail. His contribution extended beyond acting, as he demonstrated multiple talents including dancing, playing jazz music, and even writing poetry.

The character’s creation, portrayal, and impact on the franchise are testament to the complex nature of storytelling and the depth that can be achieved through a character as seemingly simple as Jar Jar Binks. The controversy he sparked has also made him a figure of enduring fascination in the Star Wars saga, with the fanbase itself becoming a key participant in shaping the narrative.

In conclusion, Jar Jar Binks stands as a character that continues to captivate and perplex Star Wars fans. The multifaceted contributions of Ahmed Best not only make him a standout figure within the universe but also underscore the importance of embracing complexity and diversity in storytelling.