Jar Jar Binks has undeniably been a controversial addition to Star Wars: The Phantom Menace. While initially intended to provide comic relief with his pseudo-Caribbean accent, he became the most hated character in the entire galaxy. Fans expressed dissatisfaction and viewed him as an annoying companion that detracts from the main storyline.
A still from George Lucas’s Star Wars: The Phantom Menace | 20th Century Studios
So when the prequel trilogy unfolded, creators diminished his role and instead focused on his interactions with Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson) and Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) on Naboo. Even in those moments, the frustration of Qui-Gon was evident as he criticized Gungan for his lack of intelligence and dismissed him. These encounters set the tone for the audience’s perception of Jar Jar throughout the trilogy.
Despite the character being disliked for his sarcastic nature, Star Wars fans may be surprised to learn that...
A still from George Lucas’s Star Wars: The Phantom Menace | 20th Century Studios
So when the prequel trilogy unfolded, creators diminished his role and instead focused on his interactions with Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson) and Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) on Naboo. Even in those moments, the frustration of Qui-Gon was evident as he criticized Gungan for his lack of intelligence and dismissed him. These encounters set the tone for the audience’s perception of Jar Jar throughout the trilogy.
Despite the character being disliked for his sarcastic nature, Star Wars fans may be surprised to learn that...
- 5/18/2024
- by Shikha Arya
- FandomWire
Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom MenacePhoto: Lucasfilm
Regardless of how you feel about the Star Wars prequels—maybe they don’t actually deserve our hate, maybe The Phantom Menace is at least important, if not traditionally good, maybe they’re actually just terrible—there’s no denying that there...
Regardless of how you feel about the Star Wars prequels—maybe they don’t actually deserve our hate, maybe The Phantom Menace is at least important, if not traditionally good, maybe they’re actually just terrible—there’s no denying that there...
- 5/17/2024
- by Jen Lennon, Drew Gillis, Cindy White, Matt Schimkowitz, Matt Mitchell, Jacob Oller, William Hughes
- avclub.com
For a while, Jar Jar Binks seemed to be the most hated character in cinema. The backlash against him was something to behold following the release of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace 25 years ago, but attitudes towards the Gungan have softened somewhat as a new generation has embraced the character. While speaking with Inverse, Best revealed that Star Wars creator George Lucas gave him a valuable piece of advice at the height of the Jar Jar backlash.
“I think it’s wonderful the younger generations are embracing not only the prequels, but Jar Jar specifically,” Best said. “This is something that George kind of predicted when all the backlash happened. He was like, ‘Thirty years from now, nobody’s going to be talking about this.’ And it was tough to realize that in the moment, but now here we are, 25 years later, and he was right.“
Related Jar Jar Binks actor: Gollum,...
“I think it’s wonderful the younger generations are embracing not only the prequels, but Jar Jar specifically,” Best said. “This is something that George kind of predicted when all the backlash happened. He was like, ‘Thirty years from now, nobody’s going to be talking about this.’ And it was tough to realize that in the moment, but now here we are, 25 years later, and he was right.“
Related Jar Jar Binks actor: Gollum,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
"Star Wars" has one of the biggest worlds in fiction, a vast universe with extensive mythology, a sense of history, locations that feel tangible, and characters that come across as real, living beings.
This last bit is important, because "Star Wars" has given plenty of memorable characters, where even small players can turn out to have galaxy-changing importance. Then there are the villains, of which "Star Wars" has plenty, including some of the most memorable villains in cinema history, with their own stories worth exploring.
But while we all know the menacing man-turned-machine Darth Vader or the devil-looking Maul, are they really the worst villains in the franchise? As "Star Wars" has evolved and grown over the years, its villains have become less flashy and more, well, evil. That's why we're ranking the most evil and villainous characters in George Lucas' galaxy far, far away. As a note, this list...
This last bit is important, because "Star Wars" has given plenty of memorable characters, where even small players can turn out to have galaxy-changing importance. Then there are the villains, of which "Star Wars" has plenty, including some of the most memorable villains in cinema history, with their own stories worth exploring.
But while we all know the menacing man-turned-machine Darth Vader or the devil-looking Maul, are they really the worst villains in the franchise? As "Star Wars" has evolved and grown over the years, its villains have become less flashy and more, well, evil. That's why we're ranking the most evil and villainous characters in George Lucas' galaxy far, far away. As a note, this list...
- 5/12/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
When “Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace” debuted on May 19, 1999, few movies before (or since) were greeted with more fevered anticipation. Not only was the movie the first new “Star Wars” movie in a generation, but it was touted as the first of a prequel trilogy charting the tragedy of Anakin Skywalker, the Jedi Knight fated to turn to the dark side as Darth Vader.
Despite the breathless build up, by the end of that summer, the near-universal consensus was that “The Phantom Menace” was, at best, a colossal disappointment and, at worst, a calamitous embarrassment. Some blamed the decision by George Lucas — directing for the first time since 1977’s “A New Hope” — to start the story with a precocious 9-year-old Anakin (Jake Lloyd). Others railed against the slapstick antics and pidgin English of Jar Jar Binks (Ahmed Best), hyped as the first-ever CG main character in a live-action movie.
Despite the breathless build up, by the end of that summer, the near-universal consensus was that “The Phantom Menace” was, at best, a colossal disappointment and, at worst, a calamitous embarrassment. Some blamed the decision by George Lucas — directing for the first time since 1977’s “A New Hope” — to start the story with a precocious 9-year-old Anakin (Jake Lloyd). Others railed against the slapstick antics and pidgin English of Jar Jar Binks (Ahmed Best), hyped as the first-ever CG main character in a live-action movie.
- 5/11/2024
- by Adam B. Vary, Angelique Jackson and Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
Has the thought of John Wick exchanging his bullets for a lightsaber in the Star Wars universe ever crossed your mind? Now, get your imaginations going because Ahmed Best—best known for playing Jedi Kelleran Beq in Jedi Temple Challenge and The Mandalorian—has recently pitched an exhilarating vision that could revolutionize our galaxy far, far away.
In a recent exclusive chat with ComicBook, Best, 50, expressed his desire to bring “Jedi John Wick as Kelleran Beq” to life on the silver screen. For the unversed, the actor also played Jar Jar Binks in George Lucas’ Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999), a memory he cherishes to this day.
Ahmed Best in The Mandalorian (Image via Lucasfilm)
Having said that, Jar Jar’s inclusion in Star Wars marked a significant turning point in the film industry 25 years ago.
The Mandalorian Star Unveils ‘Jedi John Wick’ Concept for Star Wars...
In a recent exclusive chat with ComicBook, Best, 50, expressed his desire to bring “Jedi John Wick as Kelleran Beq” to life on the silver screen. For the unversed, the actor also played Jar Jar Binks in George Lucas’ Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999), a memory he cherishes to this day.
Ahmed Best in The Mandalorian (Image via Lucasfilm)
Having said that, Jar Jar’s inclusion in Star Wars marked a significant turning point in the film industry 25 years ago.
The Mandalorian Star Unveils ‘Jedi John Wick’ Concept for Star Wars...
- 5/9/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace recently returned to theaters to celebrate its 25th anniversary, and while it was a real treat to see the first prequel movie on the big screen once again, some fans have brought up how different the film looks from its original release.
Of course, Star Wars fans are accustomed to the many changes the movies have undergone over the decades, and The Phantom Menace has not escaped unscathed. Throughout its history on DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K Ultra HD, we’ve seen the addition of new scenes, altered dialogue, and the replacement of puppet Yoda with a CG version, but perhaps the most divisive change actually affects the entire movie — a very liberal application of Dnr (digital noise reduction).
Related Jar Jar Binks actor: Gollum, Thanos, more don’t exist without meesa
The use of Dnr has been controversial, notably in the recent releases of James Cameron...
Of course, Star Wars fans are accustomed to the many changes the movies have undergone over the decades, and The Phantom Menace has not escaped unscathed. Throughout its history on DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K Ultra HD, we’ve seen the addition of new scenes, altered dialogue, and the replacement of puppet Yoda with a CG version, but perhaps the most divisive change actually affects the entire movie — a very liberal application of Dnr (digital noise reduction).
Related Jar Jar Binks actor: Gollum, Thanos, more don’t exist without meesa
The use of Dnr has been controversial, notably in the recent releases of James Cameron...
- 5/9/2024
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
The public's consideration of George Lucas' 1999 film "Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace" has dipped and swerved like a roller coaster. Those of us who were alive in 1999 are likely astonished to have witnessed "Phantom Menace" go from being one of the most successful films of all time, to one of the most disappointing franchise movies of all time, to one of the most outwardly hated blockbusters of all time, to one of the most unjustly maligned films of all time, to finally being considered a vital (if clunky) part of a long-running sci-fi saga with its share of highs and lows.
In truth, "The Phantom Menace" is rather bad. Lucas' dialogue is dry and dull, his characters staid and bland. It's the stiffest, most mannered sci-fi blockbuster one might ever see, lacking in personality, wit, humor, fun, or excitement. The story of "The Phantom Menace" infamously surrounds...
In truth, "The Phantom Menace" is rather bad. Lucas' dialogue is dry and dull, his characters staid and bland. It's the stiffest, most mannered sci-fi blockbuster one might ever see, lacking in personality, wit, humor, fun, or excitement. The story of "The Phantom Menace" infamously surrounds...
- 5/8/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Jar Jar Binks is one of the more reviled characters in the entire Star Wars franchise, and while he’s largely harmless, some fans wonder if he’s not hiding something darker and more sinister. Some have even theorized that Jar Jar is secretly a Sith Lord, and the new teaser trailer for Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy definitely plays into that by giving us… Darth Jar Jar. Check out the teaser below!
Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy will find the entire Star Wars Galaxy getting completely mixed up when “an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling (Gaten Matarazzo), unearths a powerful artifact from a hidden Jedi temple. He finds himself thrust into adventure in a new, wondrously wild and twisted version of the galaxy where good guys are bad, bad guys are good, and the fate of all depends on Sig becoming the hero who can put all the pieces back together.
Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy will find the entire Star Wars Galaxy getting completely mixed up when “an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling (Gaten Matarazzo), unearths a powerful artifact from a hidden Jedi temple. He finds himself thrust into adventure in a new, wondrously wild and twisted version of the galaxy where good guys are bad, bad guys are good, and the fate of all depends on Sig becoming the hero who can put all the pieces back together.
- 5/6/2024
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
For years, Jar Jar Binks took a beating from "Star Wars" fans who were less than thrilled with the computer generated character's slapstick antics when he debuted in "The Phantom Menace" back in 1999. The bumbling Gungan was so hated that actor Ahmed Best fell into a deep depression. In more recent years, the actor has taken on a new "Star Wars" role as Jedi Kelleran Beq, who rescued "The Mandalorian" bounty Grogu from the Jedi Temple when Order 66 was enacted during the events of "Revenge of the Sith." But soon, Ahmed Best will bring together both Jar Jar Binks and the power of the Force by bringing us a dark side version of the character that finally pays off a ridiculous fan theory.
Despite appearing to be a complete dimwit, there's a popular theory that Jar Jar Binks is actually a brilliant Sith lord, and his antics have all been...
Despite appearing to be a complete dimwit, there's a popular theory that Jar Jar Binks is actually a brilliant Sith lord, and his antics have all been...
- 5/6/2024
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
When the whole Star Wars saga started, the Jedis and the Siths started taking over our lives. And none of us probably thought there would come a day when Lucasfilms would give us a Star Wars movie with Darth Jar Jar. But here we are today, as Disney dropped the trailer for Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy, and this is exactly what we got!
Darth Jar Jar in Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy | Lucasfilm / Disney
The Darth Jar Jar theory is longstanding and amusingly absurd, and still something that makes you think twice. So when fans get an official nod to this absurd theory and see Jar Jar Binks in his Sith version, they are undoubtedly going to be losing their minds. Even if it is lego!
Disney Just Released The Trailer for Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy
The trailer for an animated special was recently released,...
Darth Jar Jar in Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy | Lucasfilm / Disney
The Darth Jar Jar theory is longstanding and amusingly absurd, and still something that makes you think twice. So when fans get an official nod to this absurd theory and see Jar Jar Binks in his Sith version, they are undoubtedly going to be losing their minds. Even if it is lego!
Disney Just Released The Trailer for Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy
The trailer for an animated special was recently released,...
- 5/6/2024
- by Swagata Das
- FandomWire
“Bring the clown. We want to see the clown. We like it how he juggles glombo shells, or spits fish up in the air and catches them, or how he dances around and falls on his butt.” So demand the orphan children on the planet Naboo, according to an interlude in the post-Return of the Jedi novel Aftermath: Empire’s End by Chuck Wendig.
And the clown acquiesces, happy to find any form of acceptance. “The adults, though,” continues the narrator, “they don’t say much about him. Or to him. And no other Gungans come to see him, either. Nobody even says his name.”
The name, if you haven’t guessed, is Jar Jar Binks. For some Star Wars fans, Empire End presents a fitting end for Jar Jar. After all, he was once one of the most hated characters in pop culture history. But there’s one...
And the clown acquiesces, happy to find any form of acceptance. “The adults, though,” continues the narrator, “they don’t say much about him. Or to him. And no other Gungans come to see him, either. Nobody even says his name.”
The name, if you haven’t guessed, is Jar Jar Binks. For some Star Wars fans, Empire End presents a fitting end for Jar Jar. After all, he was once one of the most hated characters in pop culture history. But there’s one...
- 5/6/2024
- by Joe George
- Den of Geek
We got a good feeling about this: Disney+’s latest Star Wars special is revealing Darth Jar Jar.
The trailer (below) for the animated special Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy unveils a menacing Sith Lord version of the much-maligned Gungan character, who was infamously introduced in 1999’s The Phantom Menace.
From the official description, the premise for the special is “the Star Wars Galaxy gets completely mixed up when an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling (Gaten Matarazzo), unearths a powerful artifact from a hidden Jedi temple. He finds himself thrust into adventure in a new, wondrously wild and twisted version of the galaxy where good guys are bad, bad guys are good, and the fate of all depends on Sig becoming the hero who can put all the pieces back together.”
That Jar Jar Binks might be have secretly been a villain has been a fan theory for years in...
The trailer (below) for the animated special Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy unveils a menacing Sith Lord version of the much-maligned Gungan character, who was infamously introduced in 1999’s The Phantom Menace.
From the official description, the premise for the special is “the Star Wars Galaxy gets completely mixed up when an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling (Gaten Matarazzo), unearths a powerful artifact from a hidden Jedi temple. He finds himself thrust into adventure in a new, wondrously wild and twisted version of the galaxy where good guys are bad, bad guys are good, and the fate of all depends on Sig becoming the hero who can put all the pieces back together.”
That Jar Jar Binks might be have secretly been a villain has been a fan theory for years in...
- 5/6/2024
- by James Hibberd
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Star Wars is still a cherished part of many people’s childhoods. Beyond the nostalgia, its sheer coolness and grandeur make it perfect for the theaters. However, it’s no secret that the Star Wars universe is expansive, with a plethora of spin-offs and sequels, which amounts to a $10 billion franchise.
Hollywood director George Lucas (image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
It’s remarkable to think that the franchise remains relevant with new movies still coming out to this day. Nevertheless, it’s only natural that, despite its popularity, Star Wars has had its occasional oopsie-daisy moments. One such instance is The Phantom Menace, which even George Lucas, the creator of the universe, admits to being a bit “disjointed.”
Even George Lucas Agrees This Star Wars Movie Was Hard to Watch
Despite its commercial success, The Phantom Menace was a critical disaster. Of course, it was a commercial success, as the fans...
Hollywood director George Lucas (image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
It’s remarkable to think that the franchise remains relevant with new movies still coming out to this day. Nevertheless, it’s only natural that, despite its popularity, Star Wars has had its occasional oopsie-daisy moments. One such instance is The Phantom Menace, which even George Lucas, the creator of the universe, admits to being a bit “disjointed.”
Even George Lucas Agrees This Star Wars Movie Was Hard to Watch
Despite its commercial success, The Phantom Menace was a critical disaster. Of course, it was a commercial success, as the fans...
- 4/24/2024
- by Sampurna Banerjee
- FandomWire
Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace celebrates a major milestone this year, and fans will never forget how the movie created a divisive opinion among its viewers, particularly on the matter of Jar Jar Binks.
Jar Jar Binks
The character was beloved by some and hated by many, and this remains a mystery among the cast and crew. Fans did not like the figure because of his clownish behavior and was too cartoonish for the movie.
Star Wars Actor Liam Neeson Reacted To Jar Jar Binks Issue
In an interview with Empire, Liam Neeson recalled how much he loved working with Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best. He admitted feeling offended after the surge of backlash on the character and the actor.
“Ahmed was so funny and inventive. Myself and Ewan were personally hurt and offended by the critical reaction to the character.”
Suggested“I want this to...
Jar Jar Binks
The character was beloved by some and hated by many, and this remains a mystery among the cast and crew. Fans did not like the figure because of his clownish behavior and was too cartoonish for the movie.
Star Wars Actor Liam Neeson Reacted To Jar Jar Binks Issue
In an interview with Empire, Liam Neeson recalled how much he loved working with Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best. He admitted feeling offended after the surge of backlash on the character and the actor.
“Ahmed was so funny and inventive. Myself and Ewan were personally hurt and offended by the critical reaction to the character.”
Suggested“I want this to...
- 4/24/2024
- by Ariane Cruz
- FandomWire
"Fear is the path to the dark side..." Time to return to that galaxy far, far away. 20th Century has revealed a brand new trailer for the 25th anniversary re-release of Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace in theaters this May. This highly anticipated prequel in the Star Wars series opened in the summer of 1999, some 25 years ago, and the hype was through the roof. I remember waiting in line just to get tickets, and all the mania waiting for it to open. Then everyone went to see it and did not like it. Now all these years later, is it time for a re-appraisal? In The Phantom Menace, two Jedi escape a hostile blockade and come across a young boy who may bring balance to the Force, but the long dormant Sith resurface to claim their original glory. We're introduced to Anakin, Jar Jar, Qui Gon, Amidala,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Ahmed Best is known for his iconic role as Jar Jar Binks in the Star Wars movies including The Phantom Menace (1999), Attack of the Clones (2002), and Revenge of the Sith, but he’s more than that. Best is a versatile actor, musician, and creator and his talents go beyond just this role.
Jar Jar Binks actor, Ahmed Best in The Mandalorian
Now, it’s reported that the 50-year-old actor might be joining another Star Wars project. It seems he’s being pulled back into the franchise despite past controversies and the abuse he faced.
Suggested“Such a downgrade”: Fans Revolt Against Denis Villeneuve Directing a Star Wars Film After Dune: Part Two’s Epic Success
Ahmed Best Revisits Star Wars Amidst Controversial Circumstances
Disney might be working on another Star Wars project, after Ahmed Best gave an update about his involvement in it.
Best, the actor who played Jar Jar Binks,...
Jar Jar Binks actor, Ahmed Best in The Mandalorian
Now, it’s reported that the 50-year-old actor might be joining another Star Wars project. It seems he’s being pulled back into the franchise despite past controversies and the abuse he faced.
Suggested“Such a downgrade”: Fans Revolt Against Denis Villeneuve Directing a Star Wars Film After Dune: Part Two’s Epic Success
Ahmed Best Revisits Star Wars Amidst Controversial Circumstances
Disney might be working on another Star Wars project, after Ahmed Best gave an update about his involvement in it.
Best, the actor who played Jar Jar Binks,...
- 2/28/2024
- by Shreya Jha
- FandomWire
2024 marks the 25th anniversary of George Lucas' mediocre mega-hit "Star Wars: Episode I -- The Phantom Menace." One cannot understate the enormity of this film's release back in 1999; there were news stories for months postulating its content and what its success levels might be. People camped out for weeks wanting to be the first to buy tickets. When the film's trailer was released, people would pay a full ticket price to watch it and then leave before the feature it preceded. Others would watch the trailer online, but in the days before streaming technology, this took several hours of dial-up-supported downloading.
One also cannot understate how disappointing the movie was. The story was dry and difficult to follow, involving with a trade route blockade, a treaty signing, and a wicked conspiracy with no known conclusion. The characters were either shrill or thin, delivering dull, ridiculous dialogue that felt out-of-place in...
One also cannot understate how disappointing the movie was. The story was dry and difficult to follow, involving with a trade route blockade, a treaty signing, and a wicked conspiracy with no known conclusion. The characters were either shrill or thin, delivering dull, ridiculous dialogue that felt out-of-place in...
- 2/12/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
We take CGI for granted these days. It seems the only time we notice it is when something is wrong. If you get into acting in 2023, you know that there is a strong likelihood that you'll be working in front of a screen, imagining characters that aren't there and scenery that you can't really see. It's a very specific skill, trying to make people believe that you, too, can see what the audience is seeing. When "Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace" (1999) was filming, however, star Natalie Portman, who played Padmé Amidala, hadn't had much experience with it at all.
This amount of work in front of a blue screen added a lot of issues that she hadn't dealt with in the industry before. To be fair, "The Phantom Menace" had a lot more CGI than most films at the time. Whether you believe that was to the...
This amount of work in front of a blue screen added a lot of issues that she hadn't dealt with in the industry before. To be fair, "The Phantom Menace" had a lot more CGI than most films at the time. Whether you believe that was to the...
- 12/10/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
This Star Wars: Ahsoka article contains spoilers.
Ever since the Nightsisters of Dathomir first appeared in canon in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, they have been the epitome of “if evil, why cool?” Their Dark Magick and witchy Force powers have long made them formidable opponents of the Jedi and those who would dare cross them. During the Clone Wars, they caught the ire of Count Dooku after he betrayed Asajj Ventress, and were mostly wiped out by General Grievous and the Separatist army.
Dathomir’s Great Mother Talzin survived, however, and reappeared sometime after on the Bardottan moon Zardossa Stix. To try to regain her power, she creates a cult of followers that help her kidnap people to absorb the Living Force from unsuspecting victims. One of those potential victims is the Bardottan Queen Julia, whose people distrust the Jedi despite their Force-sensitivity. Julia is also a close friend of Jar Jar Binks,...
Ever since the Nightsisters of Dathomir first appeared in canon in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, they have been the epitome of “if evil, why cool?” Their Dark Magick and witchy Force powers have long made them formidable opponents of the Jedi and those who would dare cross them. During the Clone Wars, they caught the ire of Count Dooku after he betrayed Asajj Ventress, and were mostly wiped out by General Grievous and the Separatist army.
Dathomir’s Great Mother Talzin survived, however, and reappeared sometime after on the Bardottan moon Zardossa Stix. To try to regain her power, she creates a cult of followers that help her kidnap people to absorb the Living Force from unsuspecting victims. One of those potential victims is the Bardottan Queen Julia, whose people distrust the Jedi despite their Force-sensitivity. Julia is also a close friend of Jar Jar Binks,...
- 10/4/2023
- by Brynnaarens
- Den of Geek
The following article contains spoilers for "The Mandalorian" season 3.
Whether you were a fan of the "Star Wars" prequel character Jar Jar Binks or one of his original critics, your heart was probably lifted when you saw actor Ahmed Best in the third season of "The Mandalorian." By now, most of us know that Best went through absolute hell because of his portrayal of the Gungan senator in the prequels, leading him to consider suicide.
The character was hit with complaints that he was racially insensitive, subservient to white characters, and using a speech pattern that enforced these stereotypes. When Best posted about his harrowing experience, according to a feature in The Guardian about the new podcast "The Redemption of Jar Jar Binks," fans rallied around him. He was given the persona of Jedi Master Kelleran Beq and hosted the children's game show "Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge."
In the feature,...
Whether you were a fan of the "Star Wars" prequel character Jar Jar Binks or one of his original critics, your heart was probably lifted when you saw actor Ahmed Best in the third season of "The Mandalorian." By now, most of us know that Best went through absolute hell because of his portrayal of the Gungan senator in the prequels, leading him to consider suicide.
The character was hit with complaints that he was racially insensitive, subservient to white characters, and using a speech pattern that enforced these stereotypes. When Best posted about his harrowing experience, according to a feature in The Guardian about the new podcast "The Redemption of Jar Jar Binks," fans rallied around him. He was given the persona of Jedi Master Kelleran Beq and hosted the children's game show "Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge."
In the feature,...
- 9/4/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
Might Natalie Portman be the next former “Star Wars” actor to return to the galaxy far, far away? The Oscar-winning star – who could be a Best Actress contender again in 2024 thanks to her new film “May December” – recently told GQ she’d be “open” to a “Star Wars” return.
“I have no information on this,” Portman said in response to a fan comment in the GQ video. “No one’s ever asked me to return, but I’m open to it.”
Starting in “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace,” Portman played Padme Amidala, the Queen of Naboo and a senator in the Galactic Senate. Padme had a lengthy romantic relationship with Anakin Skywalker (played as an adult in “Episode II” and “Episode III” by Hayden Christensen) and was the mother of Luke and Leia. She died shortly after giving birth to the twins due to a broken heart...
“I have no information on this,” Portman said in response to a fan comment in the GQ video. “No one’s ever asked me to return, but I’m open to it.”
Starting in “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace,” Portman played Padme Amidala, the Queen of Naboo and a senator in the Galactic Senate. Padme had a lengthy romantic relationship with Anakin Skywalker (played as an adult in “Episode II” and “Episode III” by Hayden Christensen) and was the mother of Luke and Leia. She died shortly after giving birth to the twins due to a broken heart...
- 5/23/2023
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
Disney promised a new “Star Wars” movie every year after it acquired Lucasfilm, but the big-screen saga seemed to hit a pause with “Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker.” But while many would call themselves “Star Wars” fans, even they will admit that the movies in the saga are by no means created equal.
In reverse order, here is a rundown of the best and worst that these films have to offer.
11. “Episode I: The Phantom Menace”
We waited 16 years for George Lucas to return to this universe, and what did we get? Trade routes and political intrigue, blood tests for the Force, and perhaps worst of all, Jar Jar Binks. “Menace” isn’t terrible because it’s a kid’s movie; it’s terrible because it’s a terrible kids movie.
Highlight: The light-saber battle between Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson) and Darth Maul (Ray Park) – they’re the two...
In reverse order, here is a rundown of the best and worst that these films have to offer.
11. “Episode I: The Phantom Menace”
We waited 16 years for George Lucas to return to this universe, and what did we get? Trade routes and political intrigue, blood tests for the Force, and perhaps worst of all, Jar Jar Binks. “Menace” isn’t terrible because it’s a kid’s movie; it’s terrible because it’s a terrible kids movie.
Highlight: The light-saber battle between Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson) and Darth Maul (Ray Park) – they’re the two...
- 5/4/2023
- by Alonso Duralde
- The Wrap
Those who were alive in 1999 will be able to recall the tremendous drama surrounding the release of George Lucas' "Star Wars: Episode I -- The Phantom Menace." It was perhaps one of the most anticipated films of all time, with some audience members camping out on sidewalks for days, waiting to get tickets (a necessity in a time prior to internet ticket sales). Before streaming technology was widely available (YouTube didn't debut until 2005), people used their dial-up modems to download the "Phantom Menace" trailer, a practice that took the better part of a day. The film bow to respectful, if modest, applause from critics.
But very quickly, public perception turned sour. Many soon recognized that the script was clunky, the story wasn't terribly interesting, and the characters were flat, dray, and inhuman. Many pointed specifically to Jake Lloyd, who played the young Anakin Skywalker, as one of the central reasons the film didn't work.
But very quickly, public perception turned sour. Many soon recognized that the script was clunky, the story wasn't terribly interesting, and the characters were flat, dray, and inhuman. Many pointed specifically to Jake Lloyd, who played the young Anakin Skywalker, as one of the central reasons the film didn't work.
- 4/7/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
This Star Wars article contains spoilers for The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett.
While Pedro Pascal’s Din Djarin and Katee Sackhoff’s Bo-Katan Kryze are at the heart of The Mandalorian, there are no shortage of great actors and new characters making their way to the Star Wars galaxy this year. We’ve already seen Mark Hamill return as Luke Skywalker as well as Rosario Dawson bringing fan-favorite Ahsoka Tano to live-action. And of course, the series is anchored by returning cast like Carl Weathers as Greef Karga, Emily Swallow as the Armorer, and Giancarlo Esposito as Moff Gideon.
Let’s take a look at all the characters, both new and returning, that have made their way to The Mandalorian season 3:
Pedro Pascal is The Mandalorian aka Mando aka Din Djarin
Pedro Pascal is returning as the titular Mandalorian Din Djarin for season 3. The former bounty...
While Pedro Pascal’s Din Djarin and Katee Sackhoff’s Bo-Katan Kryze are at the heart of The Mandalorian, there are no shortage of great actors and new characters making their way to the Star Wars galaxy this year. We’ve already seen Mark Hamill return as Luke Skywalker as well as Rosario Dawson bringing fan-favorite Ahsoka Tano to live-action. And of course, the series is anchored by returning cast like Carl Weathers as Greef Karga, Emily Swallow as the Armorer, and Giancarlo Esposito as Moff Gideon.
Let’s take a look at all the characters, both new and returning, that have made their way to The Mandalorian season 3:
Pedro Pascal is The Mandalorian aka Mando aka Din Djarin
Pedro Pascal is returning as the titular Mandalorian Din Djarin for season 3. The former bounty...
- 4/5/2023
- by Brynnaarens
- Den of Geek
This post contains spoilers for "The Mandalorian" season 3
"Star Wars" fans were treated to quite the surprise in the middle of "The Mandalorian" season 3, with Chapter 20 of the series bringing back an actor who has, to say the very least of it, a complicated relationship with the franchise. That actor is Ahmed Best, who famously played Jar Jar Binks in the prequel trilogy, beginning with a very sizable part in "The Phantom Menace." But in the episode, titled "The Foundling," Best returned to the prequel era not as a Gungan, but as a Jedi.
In the episode, we flashback to Order 66 and the attack on the Jedi Temple, where Anakin Skywalker famously slaughtered many younglings on his path to becoming Darth Vader. During the fight, we see the incident from another perspective, with a Jedi named Kelleran Beq rushing in to save Grogu from the ensuing chaos. The Jedi is...
"Star Wars" fans were treated to quite the surprise in the middle of "The Mandalorian" season 3, with Chapter 20 of the series bringing back an actor who has, to say the very least of it, a complicated relationship with the franchise. That actor is Ahmed Best, who famously played Jar Jar Binks in the prequel trilogy, beginning with a very sizable part in "The Phantom Menace." But in the episode, titled "The Foundling," Best returned to the prequel era not as a Gungan, but as a Jedi.
In the episode, we flashback to Order 66 and the attack on the Jedi Temple, where Anakin Skywalker famously slaughtered many younglings on his path to becoming Darth Vader. During the fight, we see the incident from another perspective, with a Jedi named Kelleran Beq rushing in to save Grogu from the ensuing chaos. The Jedi is...
- 3/30/2023
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Last week's episode of The Mandalorian featured the debut — on the show at least, if not the galaxy — of Jedi knight Kelleran Beq. And it also marked the return of a Star Wars veteran to the fold in the shape of Ahmed Best.
Beq, who actually originated in Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge, a game show created for StarWarsKids.com and YouTube. But The Mandalorian offered a chance for the character to get some truly heroic action in a flashback to how he helped save Grogu from Clone Troopers during Order 66.
Best who brought Jar Jar Binks to life across the three prequels (and Clone Wars), famously dealt with critical fans and those lambasting the character. So you can understand his concerns about returning.
“Honestly, I had to think about it," he told Starwars.com. "I’ve been in the Star Wars world for such a long time and my...
Beq, who actually originated in Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge, a game show created for StarWarsKids.com and YouTube. But The Mandalorian offered a chance for the character to get some truly heroic action in a flashback to how he helped save Grogu from Clone Troopers during Order 66.
Best who brought Jar Jar Binks to life across the three prequels (and Clone Wars), famously dealt with critical fans and those lambasting the character. So you can understand his concerns about returning.
“Honestly, I had to think about it," he told Starwars.com. "I’ve been in the Star Wars world for such a long time and my...
- 3/27/2023
- by James White
- Empire - TV
Let's clear something up: You don't have to love Jar Jar Binks to appreciate both the character and especially actor Ahmed Best's place in film history. By the same token, you're allowed to feel the inelegant Gungan was an unsuccessful attempt by George Lucas to pay homage to silent comedy giants like Harold Lloyd in the context of his "Star Wars" prequel trilogy. Or perhaps you've always had a soft spot for the flappy-eared, blundering sidekick. You're allowed to feel whichever way you want about him, I promise!
Whatever your outlook towards Mr. Binks and the way Lucas conceived him, we should all be able to agree Best wasn't the problem. The actor was unfairly maligned by toxic fans for his portrayal of the character in the wake of "The Phantom Menace" hitting theaters in 1999. Taken on its own terms, his performance as Jar Jar is quite remarkable -- seriously!
Whatever your outlook towards Mr. Binks and the way Lucas conceived him, we should all be able to agree Best wasn't the problem. The actor was unfairly maligned by toxic fans for his portrayal of the character in the wake of "The Phantom Menace" hitting theaters in 1999. Taken on its own terms, his performance as Jar Jar is quite remarkable -- seriously!
- 3/27/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Ahmed Best had to think long and hard about guest-starring in the latest episode of Disney+’s The Mandalorian, due to the “rollercoaster ride of emotions” he endured as the prequel film trilogy’s Jar Jar Binks.
A floppy-eared Gungan introduced in 1999’s Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace, Jar Jar was met with some backlash — either framed as a blatant ploy by Lucasfilm to cater to kiddies, or criticized as a “Rastafarian Stepin Fetchit on platform hoofs” (as the Wall Street Journal put it back in the day). Regardless of the accuracy of such attacks, “Because of the backlash,...
A floppy-eared Gungan introduced in 1999’s Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace, Jar Jar was met with some backlash — either framed as a blatant ploy by Lucasfilm to cater to kiddies, or criticized as a “Rastafarian Stepin Fetchit on platform hoofs” (as the Wall Street Journal put it back in the day). Regardless of the accuracy of such attacks, “Because of the backlash,...
- 3/27/2023
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
In the latest episode of “The Mandalorian,” longtime “Star Wars” fans were given a major surprise when Ahmed Best — the actor behind CGI prequel trilogy character Jar Jar Binks — made a return to the franchise as a different character, Jedi Master Kelleran Beq.
But while Best’s casting may be a shot of nostalgia for many viewers, the actor himself had his reservations about heading back to the galaxy far far away.
“Honestly, I had to think about it,” Best said in an interview with the official StarWars.com website. I’ve been in the Star Wars world for such a long time and my story is such a rollercoaster ride of emotions. So coming back to Star Wars wasn’t an easy decision for me. It wasn’t something I could have immediately said yes to. I did have to marinate over it for a bit.”
Jar Jar, a...
But while Best’s casting may be a shot of nostalgia for many viewers, the actor himself had his reservations about heading back to the galaxy far far away.
“Honestly, I had to think about it,” Best said in an interview with the official StarWars.com website. I’ve been in the Star Wars world for such a long time and my story is such a rollercoaster ride of emotions. So coming back to Star Wars wasn’t an easy decision for me. It wasn’t something I could have immediately said yes to. I did have to marinate over it for a bit.”
Jar Jar, a...
- 3/24/2023
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
The Article Below Contains Spoilers For Season 3 Episode 4 Of The Mandalorian —
Chapter 20: The Foundling
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The team of F&f — Favreau and Filoni really love incorporating obscure deep cuts into The Mandalorian series. It’s actually a clever, subtle way to marry all the elements from the established universe in Star Wars. All the way back to the pilot episode, in almost a test of memory and fandom, Favreau added a creature only known from the Ewok spin-off movies from the 80s. The surprise references range from minute details, like a rifle that appeared in the infamous Star Wars Holiday Special, to an all-out appearance of a main character, like bringing Return of the Jedi-era Luke Skywalker back in the second season’s finale or the live-action debut of the popular character, Ahsoka.
Entertainment Weekly reports on an unlikely return of a former actor from the past Star Wars movies.
Chapter 20: The Foundling
.
.
.
.
The team of F&f — Favreau and Filoni really love incorporating obscure deep cuts into The Mandalorian series. It’s actually a clever, subtle way to marry all the elements from the established universe in Star Wars. All the way back to the pilot episode, in almost a test of memory and fandom, Favreau added a creature only known from the Ewok spin-off movies from the 80s. The surprise references range from minute details, like a rifle that appeared in the infamous Star Wars Holiday Special, to an all-out appearance of a main character, like bringing Return of the Jedi-era Luke Skywalker back in the second season’s finale or the live-action debut of the popular character, Ahsoka.
Entertainment Weekly reports on an unlikely return of a former actor from the past Star Wars movies.
- 3/23/2023
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
For all the good things the "Star Wars" franchise has given pop culture, for all its joy and creativity, it is also a franchise plagued by bullying and harassment. From Kelly Marie Tran and Jake Lloyd to John Boyega and Ahmed Best, fans have made life hell for people associated with the franchise.
Since his debut in "The Phantom Menace," Jar Jar Binks has always been the butt of every joke about "Star Wars," in parodies like "Robot Chicken" and a cameo that never was in the film "Chip 'N Dale: Rescue Rangers." The backlash against the character was so bad it led actor Ahmed Best to contemplate suicide.
Thankfully, it seems Ahmed Best is coming back around on the franchise, and the audience is embracing him again, from his appearances at Star Wars Celebration to Best hosting the reality competition series "Jedi Temple Challenge," where he played a Jedi master named Kelleran Beq.
Since his debut in "The Phantom Menace," Jar Jar Binks has always been the butt of every joke about "Star Wars," in parodies like "Robot Chicken" and a cameo that never was in the film "Chip 'N Dale: Rescue Rangers." The backlash against the character was so bad it led actor Ahmed Best to contemplate suicide.
Thankfully, it seems Ahmed Best is coming back around on the franchise, and the audience is embracing him again, from his appearances at Star Wars Celebration to Best hosting the reality competition series "Jedi Temple Challenge," where he played a Jedi master named Kelleran Beq.
- 3/22/2023
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
This Star Wars article contains spoilers for The Mandalorian.
No, your eyes weren’t deceiving you while watching “The Foundling,” Chapter 20 of The Mandalorian. That is indeed a Star Wars character and actor you’ve seen before and not just in the ways you might think. The actor who plays Grogu’s savior in the Order 66 flashback doesn’t need any introduction: it’s Ahmed Best, who is best known to Star Wars fans as the performer behind Jar Jar Binks. But that isn’t a Gungan saving a defenseless Baby Yoda from the clone troopers who are after him. It’s Jedi Master Kelleran Beq who has his own surprising Star Wars legacy that goes beyond the Mandoverse.
You see, Kelleran’s first appearance in Star Wars wasn’t in a movie, another scripted TV series, or in the pages of the books and comics. Kelleran was actually Best...
No, your eyes weren’t deceiving you while watching “The Foundling,” Chapter 20 of The Mandalorian. That is indeed a Star Wars character and actor you’ve seen before and not just in the ways you might think. The actor who plays Grogu’s savior in the Order 66 flashback doesn’t need any introduction: it’s Ahmed Best, who is best known to Star Wars fans as the performer behind Jar Jar Binks. But that isn’t a Gungan saving a defenseless Baby Yoda from the clone troopers who are after him. It’s Jedi Master Kelleran Beq who has his own surprising Star Wars legacy that goes beyond the Mandoverse.
You see, Kelleran’s first appearance in Star Wars wasn’t in a movie, another scripted TV series, or in the pages of the books and comics. Kelleran was actually Best...
- 3/22/2023
- by John Saavedra
- Den of Geek
Image Source: Getty / Daniel Boczarski
The newest episode of "The Mandalorian" season three, released on March 22, shows for the first time how a padawan Baby Yoda - aka Grogu - escaped the Jedi temple during the "Revenge of the Sith" era. That's when Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) and the clones followed Order 66 and attacked all Jedi and the younglings. Viewers - and Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) - first learned that Grogu had been present at the temple that day during season two, but episode four of the third season shows through Grogu's eyes how that terrifying day went. He was saved by one Jedi in particular, and that character is played by the same actor who also starred as Jar Jar Binks in the prequels! Here's how it went down.
Which Jedi Saved Grogu From the Jedi Temple?
As we see in a flashback, Grogu was rescued by the Jedi Kelleran Beq.
The newest episode of "The Mandalorian" season three, released on March 22, shows for the first time how a padawan Baby Yoda - aka Grogu - escaped the Jedi temple during the "Revenge of the Sith" era. That's when Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) and the clones followed Order 66 and attacked all Jedi and the younglings. Viewers - and Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) - first learned that Grogu had been present at the temple that day during season two, but episode four of the third season shows through Grogu's eyes how that terrifying day went. He was saved by one Jedi in particular, and that character is played by the same actor who also starred as Jar Jar Binks in the prequels! Here's how it went down.
Which Jedi Saved Grogu From the Jedi Temple?
As we see in a flashback, Grogu was rescued by the Jedi Kelleran Beq.
- 3/22/2023
- by Victoria Edel
- Popsugar.com
In a surprise cameo that nobody in a galaxy far, far away saw coming, Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best returned to the “Star Wars” universe in Wednesday’s episode of “The Mandalorian.” But instead of playing the infamous Gungan, Best made his return as a Jedi named Kelleran Beq.
In the newest episode, titled “The Foundling,” Best appears briefly in a flashback to Order 66, when the clone troopers betrayed the Jedi and ruthlessly murdered nearly everyone. Best’s Jedi knight Kelleran saves a young Grogu, who found himself alone facing a group of clone troopers. Kelleran saves the little alien and dispatches the enemies with his two lightsabers, allowing Grogu to escape with him on a ship. The episode ends without showing where Kelleran and Grogu fly off to, opening up the possibility of Best to reappear later on.
This isn’t the first time Best has played Kelleran.
In the newest episode, titled “The Foundling,” Best appears briefly in a flashback to Order 66, when the clone troopers betrayed the Jedi and ruthlessly murdered nearly everyone. Best’s Jedi knight Kelleran saves a young Grogu, who found himself alone facing a group of clone troopers. Kelleran saves the little alien and dispatches the enemies with his two lightsabers, allowing Grogu to escape with him on a ship. The episode ends without showing where Kelleran and Grogu fly off to, opening up the possibility of Best to reappear later on.
This isn’t the first time Best has played Kelleran.
- 3/22/2023
- by Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
This post contains spoilers for the latest episode of The Mandalorian.
The newest episode of "The Mandalorian" offers us a brand new window into how Grogu was able to survive the great Jedi Purge when Darth Sidious called for Order 66. In previous seasons, we've seen wisps of people defending him, but no clear story about how he got out of the temple, but that all changed today. We were introduced to the Jedi that whisked him from the temple: Kelleran Beq, played by the redoubtable Ahmed Best. Best is no stranger to "Star Wars" — he got his start in a galaxy far, far away playing Jar Jar Binks in "The Phantom Menace."
As Kelleran Beq makes his way out of the Jedi Temple, speeding through the traffic lanes of Coruscant with Grogu in tow, he heads to some friends that are going to help him and other Jedi escape the clutches of the Empire.
The newest episode of "The Mandalorian" offers us a brand new window into how Grogu was able to survive the great Jedi Purge when Darth Sidious called for Order 66. In previous seasons, we've seen wisps of people defending him, but no clear story about how he got out of the temple, but that all changed today. We were introduced to the Jedi that whisked him from the temple: Kelleran Beq, played by the redoubtable Ahmed Best. Best is no stranger to "Star Wars" — he got his start in a galaxy far, far away playing Jar Jar Binks in "The Phantom Menace."
As Kelleran Beq makes his way out of the Jedi Temple, speeding through the traffic lanes of Coruscant with Grogu in tow, he heads to some friends that are going to help him and other Jedi escape the clutches of the Empire.
- 3/22/2023
- by Bryan Young
- Slash Film
As someone who has been a "Star Wars" fan since I saw the first film as a little girl, I've been part of many debates about the original series. Years before the first prequel, "The Phantom Menace," came out in 1999, I was arguing for and against characters with my friends, defending the Ewoks (I was just the right age), and trying to figure out why so many characters couldn't keep their arms attached to their bodies.
The Ewoks were a big argument, though, which has often led to a debate on who exactly the films were made for. Were the "Star Wars" films for children? I'd always thought so — at least for the first trilogy. Often the argument was that the idea of a murderous father was too awful for kids. My defense was always that "The Hobbit," assorted fairy tales with parents who leave their children in the woods...
The Ewoks were a big argument, though, which has often led to a debate on who exactly the films were made for. Were the "Star Wars" films for children? I'd always thought so — at least for the first trilogy. Often the argument was that the idea of a murderous father was too awful for kids. My defense was always that "The Hobbit," assorted fairy tales with parents who leave their children in the woods...
- 3/18/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
Science fiction is ultimately the story of good versus evil. Whether it's the conflict between the Jedi and Sith in the "Star Wars" franchise, the war against the machines in "The Terminator" franchise, or the cruelty of Hal-9000 in "2001: A Space Odyssey," sci-fi movies require great heroes and villains. Neo (Keanu Reeves) wouldn't be nearly as heroic in "The Matrix" if he didn't have to face off against Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving).
Unfortunately, not every sci-fi movie can fulfill those expectations. There's nothing worse than a bland protagonist that you can't connect with. Perhaps, a movie like 2003's "Daredevil" wouldn't be nearly as bad if Matthew Murdock had at least been a compelling character. A dull protagonist can sometimes even bring down an entire movie. Although 2009's "Avatar" is a modern classic, Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) is hardly a likable character. However, a shocking plot twist can do a lot to change a film.
Unfortunately, not every sci-fi movie can fulfill those expectations. There's nothing worse than a bland protagonist that you can't connect with. Perhaps, a movie like 2003's "Daredevil" wouldn't be nearly as bad if Matthew Murdock had at least been a compelling character. A dull protagonist can sometimes even bring down an entire movie. Although 2009's "Avatar" is a modern classic, Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) is hardly a likable character. However, a shocking plot twist can do a lot to change a film.
- 8/24/2022
- by Liam Gaughan
- Slash Film
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