" In a galaxy far, far away "
May 25, 1977, the day the first of many "Star Wars" movies came out. No one thought it would become a huge box office hit like it has become. Many theaters wouldn't show the movie because it was thought to become a huge failure.
Contrary to popular belief, the original trilogy blew the minds of many and has created one of the biggest fan bases statewide. While it may have become popular for the family drama between the Skywalkers and the war they created, the stories have a bigger meaning in the end. Princess Leia, Padmé Amidala, Rey, and Jyn Erso have more in common than just being characters in a movie. Each woman was a star in the series and proved women can fight in a “man’s war”.
While Leia and Padmé play key roles in showing women are strong and powerful within’ the franchise, Rey (“The Force Awakens”) and Jyn (“Rogue One”) take the stand. When “A New Hope” came out in the 70’s, Leia’s character was progressive for the time. She was not only the princess of the planet Alderaan, but a member of the Imperial Senate and agent of the rebel alliance to soon become a general. All big and powerful titles for anyone to have. But no one remembers her as these accomplishments, many see her as the woman who wore “that sexy bikini” or Han Solo’s love interest. Now many women across the country will go to Comic Con dressed as that, completely forgetting what a powerful woman she really resembles. The same can be said for Padme as well. She was the Queen of planet Naboo and senator in the Galactic Senate. However, now she is only remembered as being the mother of Luke and Leia, and once again another sexy halloween costume. Leia and Padme both represent strong female roles but are sadly looked at as “sex appeal” more so than their tremendous status.
In a galaxy not so far from our own, Rey and Jyn take the stage for the whole movie. Rey comes in learning new skills, fighting Kylo with the force and living. Rey steps out onto the scene already recognized as a powerful woman. Along with her wardrobe not being revealing at all. “ Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” is centered around Jyn completely. With the plot being Jyn and others go out to receive the plans for the Death Star that her father was helping to build. These two women are the focal point in each movie with their costumes representing who they are, warriors. You don’t remember them for wearing something revealing. They take action when it needs to be taken.
Star Wars has been more than just some movie to watch. It’s a movie progressing the idea of a stronger woman. While many remember Leia and Padme for their choice in clothing, they were still portrayed as powerful women. The idea of a more powerful woman has just become more prominent in the most recent movies. Feminism is moving in waves, and this is a big step in the right direction.
