This is a brief guide into the two most popular Vader variants amongst fans highlighting the Pro’s and Con’s for each portrayal, look and inspiration that we might have.
Movie Props and Appearance:
Pro’s: ANH Darth VaderGreater consistency of PropsAll Props are more or less the same from start to finish (with a possible exception of a second dome used ) in the movie, meaning one set was predominately used in which the ESB Vader definitely doesn‘t have.
Uniqueness of ANH VaderThe ANH while more basic in design offers a more unique Vader . The look stands out more due to the robes covering parts of the armour, the widows peak, the partially black tusk, the lighter lenses, the unlit coinslots, the gloves etc etc. Unlike the other Vader’s which are linked to lending themselves to the ESB look more so in terms of paint and design. All versions of Vader are different but more removed from the original costume look.
More Sinister LookingThe ANH looks meaner, especially because of the widows peak which doesn’t reveal Vader’s “surprised” look. The costume’s look is darker and grittier.
Battle Worn LookThe Empire Vader, while hardly pristine is not as beaten up as the ANH look. While same may count that as a negative, some say that’s more appealing.
Recreation at times can lead to greater artistic freedomYou can have more artistic freedom recreating ANH Vader. It’s littered with flaws scratches, subtle dents, paintwork and the occasional variance to the height of the dome. The costume picked up bumps and bangs along the way and the use of dulling spray on the glossy dome with the additional hand painted face and armour means you can aim for some scenes as a guide but you can have more control with hand paints and replicating the beaten up look.
The Star Wars “Holy Grail” Prop The original ANH Vader helmet is considered the “holy grail” of Darth Vader props due to it being the original piece that started the craze off. It’s whereabouts and un-catalogued journey is almost myth like which makes it even more sought after. After the early 80’s there is almost no evidence of the real helmet turning up and the archives ANH is not considered THE original unless re-painted which the original was. Many believe the original is in private hands, got turned into a promotional piece or used as one of the Empire helmets but as yet it has not been located by the community.
Con’s:Eye LensesSome say the lenses show Prowse’s eyes in a few scenes which is a point of distraction
Sloppy Dome PositioningThe dome doesn’t sit right in a few scenes such as some in the Conference room, some Tie Fighter scenes etc, etc.
Chestbox is more basicThe chestbox doesn’t light up which may deem it as inferior to the more realistic ESB. It is also simpler in the design. ANH fans may naturally prefer the simplicity of this version, plus it stands out in it's own right, it lends itself well to the darker ANH look.
Robes over the armourThe look of the robes over the armour could be considered a more dated look in the design, as a plus point it stands out alone from the other Vader variations.
Pro’s: ESB Darth VaderSophisticated glossy lookThe ESB Vader props show a more refined and sophisticated look to the dark lord. With more complexity compared to a more basic ANH costume. Some may prefer the glossier image over a more subdued and partly hand painted beaten up paint scheme.
Chestbox is more complexThe Chestbox is a significant set up from ANH. It is far more complex with greeblies (parts) and it lights up giving the dark lord some apparatus that looks like it is functional and breathing for him. This ESB Chestbox is amongst many people’s favourite design which further inspired the ROTJ Chestbox.
Armour worn over the robesAfter the original Vader display was in the Star Wars Room at the World science convention in Kansas in 1976 some of the feedback was that the set up looked meaner and better showing the armour over the robes. Although the original ANH costume went on tour for some time after with the robes displayed how they were in ANH, the look came about in Empire featuring the new dress code, which has since featured for Vader in all the other movies. Some like the unique ANH style but Vader is associated with the robes under the armour.
ESB look carried overThe props from Return of the JedI and to a small extent Revenege of the Sith (Glossy paint scheme, armour over robes, etc) follow more in line to the look of ESB Vader when compared to A New Hope. Meaning they get to see similar style props on screen for a greater period of time which extends the ESB look to Vader in 2 out of the 3 original movies.
Con’s: InconsistencyThe true Hero set up is very scattered on screen to a point of not sharing much screen time. 2 different helmets and 2 cape sets make up the ESB hero as well as things like the armour subtle differences so linking a particular favourite look to a scene is harder than it is compared to ANH. The stunt set takes up a more consistent chunk in one go and inter-cut with hero shots, featuring some props mixed with the wrong piece. The Hero’s are also mixed at times due to later edited material being inserted. To cover all the ESB Vader’s you have to give credit to 3 predominantly different set ups, unlike ANH which is just one costume.
Refined LookThe helmet is more refined than ANH as is the paint work for the most part. The brows show more which makes the Empire Vader look softer with the cut peak and raised dome. The dome is more polished than ANH in appearance without it being dulled down. Both tusks have been installed and the armour is outside and more shiny than ANH Vader. Accommodating this look is the more handsome chestbox and more up to date looking belt box components. However, this look shows Vader isn’t as battle worn and may be perceived like he doesn’t do as much, even though the costume is far from pristine. It's actually fairly beat up. The movie shows us Vader just doesn't sit around in it that's for sure.
Flipped scenes relating to paintEmpire suffers from various flipped scenes, although ANH also features them it is not to the severe degree of Empire. These are shown in some Star Destroyer scenes, the Palpatine Hologram conference, the duel and later on at the end with Luke. This also may be why some companies have painted the gunmetal on the incorrect cheek, as they used one of these scenes as a guide, once again it‘s inconsistency.
Movie Impact:Pro’s: ANH Darth Vader Tantive EntranceNever before has an entrance been deemed so iconic. It’s visually a masterpiece in it’s simplicity. The very white hall, the cloud of smoke, the entrance of the tall dark robot emerging and then the music.
Strangling Captain Antillies As we know nothing about the force at this stage back in 1977 we get to see Vader’s hint of strength for the first time. As many people are also right handed, as a kid, I assumed he used his weaker arm for the lift too. One of my favourite scenes of all time. Classic!
Choking MottiThe first time we experience the force from the dark lord. Simply done giving some restored faith to the mouthy Imperial Officer.
DuelAlthough slower, this duel is the most unique out of the trilogy. A different style of kendo swordsmanship with both hands on the “heavy” powerful sabers. It still stands out to this day and it ranks highly in opinion polls, sometimes winning them.
Tie FighterRather than sit back a little we get to see Vader go straight into battle as any warrior would with his custom Tie Fighter. While the massive Executor Star destroyer is a significant step up for Empire, this is the vehicle more commonly associated with the image of Vader.
Mystique (Back in 1977)Back on cinema screens in 1977 there was mystery surrounding Vader. No back story other than what Obi Wan tells Luke. It is said that Obi had a Duel with Vader that left Vader in the iron suit after him falling into a Volcano etc but this is not said on screen. It gives no clue as to whether he is human a cyborg or a complete robot. Some fans view this as a plus point without any further need to either see Vader’s true face or for the storyline that developed.
Con’s: Tarkin’s ControlWhile Vader only answers to the Emperor, he was instructed to go to the Death Star which would remain under Tarkin’s control. This meant that Tarkin had final say so within the Death Star. Vader is perceived as a henchman or a lackey even though if people pay attention Vader does what he wants with trying to obtain the stolen plans, confronting Obi Wan on his own terms and going off Tie Fighting, he doesn’t ask permission of any kind, he also doesn’t give Tarkin the kind of tone to show that he is under his command .
Saber DuelSome fans would remember it as the classic duel. Before all of this I’m your Father stuff Vader was older and the lightsabers were heavy. The style was more kendo and not all this holding with one hand doing twists and twirls. However, this duel can be viewed as the slowest and weakest of the saga. It may be Vader taking it easy on the old man but you don’t get the idea that Vader would have the pace he has in ESB. That’s open to interpretation, some say it’s with respect and he was clearly toying with Obi Wan as he had with Luke but we all know the real reasons why the duel was slower. It’s Prowse in the suit with the same ANH costume on and not a stunt (although the dome may be a spare in some scenes). So you can draw many positives from the thinking man‘s duel.
Most memorable lines in the movie:Where are those transmissions you intercepted? WHAT have you DONE with those plans?
[holding Captain Antilles off the floor, the Captain's feet are dangling at Vader's knees]
You are part of the Rebel Alliance and a traitor! Take her away!
Don't be too proud of this technological terror you've constructed. The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant next to the power of the force.
“I find your lack of faith disturbing“.
"It will be a day long remembered. .
"I've been waiting for you, Obi-Wan. We meet again, at last. The circle is now complete. When I left you, I was but the learner; now *I* am the master.
“Your powers are weak, old man“.
“This will be a day long remembered. It has seen the end of Kenobi, it will soon see the end of the Rebellion“.
“Several fighters have broken off from the main group. Come with me“!
Movie Portrayal Summary- ANH Vader:Fans were left wanting more from Darth Vader after Star Wars ended in 1977 in which the dark lord became so popular Kenner was taken by surprise. He was not part of the initial line up for the first 4 action figures in which many children were disappointed. Villains back then were set up to be just that and they didn’t normally rate as highly as the hero characters but Vader was the exception to the rule.
Vader’s portrayal and mystique had everyone talking. Obi Wan told us he killed Luke’s Father but details were very sketchy. The look and character were unique.
Viewing Darth Vader in Episode IV today with the prequels in mind puts a different spin on some aspects as it does with all the Original movies. As the image of Vader has been given to us by way of ESB/ROTJ, ANH Vader could be considered a fraction dated, older and slower, as well as more mechanical in a sense and it’s the one version that stands out and draws both positives and negatives. The voice was softened compared to the initial release.
When some think of Darth Vader they envision the iconic portrayal from ANH, perhaps with that excellent poster of Vader in their mind (displayed above) or perhaps the nostalgic memory of their first Kenner figure with the image of ANH Vader on the front. Definitely this movie is where Vader is born and where the craze started.
The mechanical breathing, the appearance, the voice and the powers that Vader demonstrates is appealing and he set his own bench mark for the following movies to develop his characterization.
Vader is under Tarkin’s control while on the Death Star but apart from “release him” and “Terminate her, immediately ”. Vader does as he wishes as mentioned in previous notes. He doesn’t perhaps have the reign of terror that he display’s in Empire but it’s the subtle things such as him in the interrogation cell with Leia and that look on his unreadable mask that’s haunting. This is no doubt the most sinister looking version of Vader throughout the saga, which has impacted on all of us who have a passion for the ANH Vader. For some people there is only one version of the definitive Vader and that is this version.
Pro’s: ESB Darth VaderKilling Admiral OzzelSome may say the little finger gesture to Motti was impressive, but here Vader causally chats with his new Admiral while strangling his victim without raising a finger, they aren't even in the same room.
Hoth Like in ANH, Vader gets to go to Hoth himself to collect his rebels, displaying on from ANH that he isn’t one to let the hired help do all the work.
Dagobah While definitely not a moment for Vader the darkness of this scene and the defeat of the Dark Lord is impressive, sometimes you like to see you’re favourite bad guy defeated, even for a brief moment to know how much they can tolerate before they are finally defeated, even if an illusion.
Killing Captain NeedaAnother effortless performance from Vader. Displaying that he won’t tolerate failure, if this is hinted at in ANH he really shows who the boss is by killing people in his own team. You just knew as soon as Needa was going to “personally apologise” face to face that Vader was going to kill him.
Bounty Hunters This shows yet again that Vader thinks outside the box and where he think’s the Empire is failing him he recruit’s the help of Bounty Hunters. The addition of the hunters is a bonus to the movie but shows Vader is the one controlling everything.
Bespin Confrontation One of my favourite scenes of all time. There’s such a calmness and confidence to Vader. We had seen laser bolts kill a vast majority of people throughout the movies up till then where as on Vader, he causally sticks out one hand and absorbs/deflects the effect with ease, removing Solo’s weapon with the force followed by the delivery “We would be honoured if you would join us”. And you thought Han was cocky, Classic!
Duel The duel picks up pace from ANH. Vader is causal for much of the start (as he has been the whole movie while not breaking a sweat, until now), toying with Luke, using one hand, looking effortless, before Luke starts passing his tests. The 2nd act of the 3 act duel shows Vader’s power with his mind making the character of Darth Vader ever more powerful. Forget the Prequels, go back to 1980 and compare the movies. This was a great display from Vader. Cue round 3 he starts turning up the heat and after a point of frustration it’s time to end the game. Great duel and a massive step up in action on from the ANH Duel.
ConfessionThis normally rates in the top 10 of movie shockers in many polls around the world. Before the Prequels this put a vital twist on the original movies. It gave another dimension to Vader. Some thought he was lying just to get Luke to join the Darkside and over throw the Emperor until it was confirmed 3 years later in Jedi.
One LinersSome die hard fans may not care for the in cheek humour that Vader displays but some of his quotes from Empire go hand in hand as the most memorable. Vader’s timing of his actions with the delivery is priceless. It gave the ESB Vader a more human image although wicked streak. Enhancing his evilness as a villain.
Character Development (regarding 1980)You get to see another side of Vader that is more established thanks to the story line. We now know he is not a complete cyborg but a human. The mystique is still present as you don't see him unmasked while we've been teased in the Med Chamber shot.
Con’s:One Liner’sSome may view the Vader one liners as classic, others view them as corny and non humorous.
I am your Father
We have all had time to adjust to George Lucas’s developed storyline but back in 1980, some people preferred the idea of Vader killing Luke’s Father, Not being his Father.
Most memorable lines in the movie:“He’s as clumsy as he is stupid“.
“Apology Excepted, Captain Needa”
“Don’t fail me again, Admiral”.
“There will be a substantial reward for the one who finds the Millennium Falcon. You are free to use any methods necessary but I want them alive - No disintegrations“!
“We would be honoured if you would join us“.
“I am altering the deal. Pray I don't alter it any further”
“The force is with you, young Skywalker, but you are not a Jedi yet“.
“All too easy”.
“Impressive, most impressive”.
“There is no escape. Don't make me destroy you.”
“If you only knew the power of the Dark Side”
“Join me, and together we can rule the galaxy as father and son“.
“No! I, am your Father”.
Movie Portrayal Summary- ESB Vader:Some say ANH is Luke’s movie, ESB is Vader’s movie and ROTJ is the Emperor’s movie. Those would be the guys that would receive Oscars.
Picking up 3 years after ANH, Vader is back and meaner than ever. When Star Wars first came on the scene in 1977 villains like Vader took off far more than what George Lucas expected. However, I wonder if not for the portrayal in Empire though whether Vader would be amongst the best villains of all time today? Vader would’ve still been considered a great villain I have no doubt there but not perhaps as cementing his role in our minds as he did after Empire. In Return of the JedI, while still the evil guy that we know it’s only off the back foot of Empire that he gets that form of credibility. Empire set it up so that in JedI (apart from the duel )he didn’t have to do anything other than to develop into the torn Anakin Vader while he isn’t bowing at the Emperor’s feet, he just has to hint at being Vader and we recall what a nasty **** he can be. Credit still goes to ANH Vader with the character building from that foundation.
Vader is free to reign without Tarkin in ESB. Doing evil deeds, in his flashy Star Destroyer containing his little Meditation Chamber, with his own theme (Imperial March) playing every time he’s on screen. He almost seems at times not in control and he paints a picture of a villain throughout, so much so that many people thought for 3 years until JedI came out that he was lying about being Luke’s Father.
The deflection of Han’s lazer bolts, the finger pointing to “All too easy” and imperial officers dropping like flies (well), it’s Vader at his best with a combination of many points that make up a truly great Villain. With the exception of the ANH Vader face (perhaps costume additionally) being meaner looking, this movie is what propelled the character of Darth Vader into one of the best Villains of all time still more than 30 years on and perhaps the epitome of what he represents if you ignore the Prequels.
ESB Vader Is definitely the reason why I personally liked Vader throughout my childhood and continue to naturally do so (along with ANH I might add).
Merchandise:ANHMore ANH Vader figures, kits and merchandise are available these days thanks to companies like Sideshow who have released the Premium Format, the fairly recently released 12inch figure the Diplomatic mission Diorama and the soon to be "The circle is now complete" Diorama. Just 3-4 big steps towards ANH within the last 2 years, not forgetting the top line Bronze statue. Hasbro has also over the years along with other companies since 1995 made efforts to tackle various ANH Vader versions but for many who had the original Kenner figure, Takara and 12 inch version of Vader it seemed like ANH was the dominant face of the Vader figure line(excluding all other merchandise) that was available for what seemed like forever from 1978 onwards. You could barely get an ESB Vader kit, figure or statue until years after Empire was out for the mass public . Times are slowly changing in more favour for ANH with companies nowadays but there remains more saturation in the market aimed at ESB/ROTJ looking products.
ESBAlthough Kenner let Empire fans suffer for years with just the ANH Vader from ANH and just changed the logo’s over on the cards. One of the few things most children even notice are the robes over the armour. As a kid this bothered me and I recall doing some very amateur mods even back then in the form of trying to paint the complete armour on the figure.
Apart from some vinyl kits and plastic models it was not really until 1995 that Vader started getting mass produced in Lucas’s vision of ESB/ROTJ. ROTJ Vader was and perhaps still LFL preferred preference. Little by little Hasbro incorporated the ANH style of figure but it’s only built up over the last 10 years or so along with kits and statues. JedI based Vader’s dominated the scenes, more to a point the Hybrid of ESB/ROTJ Vader dominated the scenes and still does to this day but ANH fans have their Vader catching up.