The Sanctity of Star Wars: An Analysis of Dark Side Influences and Corporate Manipulation

Star Wars, the beloved science fiction franchise, continues to weave an intricate tapestry of lore and character development. However, recent manipulations by the corporation oversee the franchise have raised concerns from fans and critics alike. Specifically, the reveal that Anakin Skywalker's father is Darth Sidious has sparked debate.

In this article, we will explore the impact of this reveal on the character of Anakin and the Star Wars universe. We will also delve into the possible motives behind the corporate decision to streamline the continuity and its implications for the franchise's mystical and fan-driven elements.

An Impactful Reveal with Questions

On the one hand, the reveal that Anakin's father is Darth Sidious, a Sith Lord, adds a layer of tragedy to Anakin's fall to the dark side. It provides a concrete reason for why Anakin remained loyal to his master throughout their years of training. However, this revelation also plays into the trope of Virgin Birth and diminishes the tragedy of Anakin's journey.

Some fans, still mourning the Legends continuity, are glad to see this new canon nuanced. The corporate decision to annotate this continuity suggests an attempt to extend an olive branch to disheartened fans. However, it is questionable whether this new canon offers substantial enhancement to the characters or setting.

The Origins of the Ideology

This particular idea originates from the Darth Plagueis novel, which was part of the Legends continuity before its recanonization. The notion that Anakin's conception was tied to the Sith was first introduced in the Legends universe. It is important to note that the decision to include this in the new canon could be seen as a corrupt practice, similar to other decisions by the corporation that "rip[] an idea from Legends, file the serial numbers off, and then present it as something entirely new." This manipulation is detrimental to the franchise's original vision and character.

While some fans embrace this new canon, others are critical of the corporation's actions. They believe that the new canon is worse than the original idea, as it perpetuates the very tropes it seeks to subvert. This reveal further highlights the corporation's trend of stripping away the mystical elements of Star Wars in favor of "logical" and "scientific" interpretations.

The Declining Interest and Mystical Foundations

Companies like Disney have a habit of "screw[ing] up" the original properties they oversee. In the case of Star Wars, Disney's manipulations have led to a declining interest in the franchise. This can be seen in the constant changes to the continuity and the loss of elements that made the original Star Wars so appealing.

The recent jibe at George Lucas' ideas, suggesting that Palpatine is Anakin's father, is another example of a corporation twisting information to suit its narrative. This portrayal is a direct attempt at "spin[]" that some willingly believe, while others are skeptical. This manipulation further divides the fandom into two camps: those who prefer a "logical" and "scientific" explanation and those who hold onto the mystical aspects of the franchise.

The original Star Wars was filled with mystical elements. It was a world where the Force, spiritual beings, and metaphysical attributes played significant roles. By stripping away these elements, Disney is creating a new version of Star Wars that alienates the core fans who grew up with the original. This approach is not about belief but about imagination and faith, which are potent metaphysical concepts that made Star Wars the populist franchise it became.

Ultimately, the decision to make Anakin's father Darth Sidious is a reflection of the corporation's desire to cater to a specific subset of fans at the expense of the franchise's original vision. As the corporation continues to manipulate the Star Wars universe, it risks alienating the very fans it aims to appease. Only time will tell if this new direction will succeed or if it will lead to a further decline in the franchise's popularity.