The ‘Star Wars’ saga is filled with iconic moments that have captured the hearts of fans worldwide. One such scene was the climactic duel between Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker on planet Mustafar.
Many consider the scene to be the most memorable in the entire franchise. However, did you know that the idea for this iconic sequence originated from a surprising source? Steven Spielberg to be specific.
Stunt Coordinator Nick Gillard Claims Steven Spielberg Was Behind The “High Ground” Scene
According to stunt coordinator Nick Gillard, the concept of the “high ground” scene was conceived by none other than legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg. In an interview with Chris Castellani, Nick confirmed that Steven was behind the iconic scene.
The high ground scene was a pivotal moment in ‘Star Wars’. It occurred during the climactic duel between Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker on the planet Mustafar. As the two Jedi Masters clash in a fierce lightsaber battle, Anakin gains the upper hand and inflicts severe injuries on Obi-Wan.
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However, Obi-Wan strategically retreats to a higher platform. By doing this, he gains some kind of tactical advantage which is still unexplained. From the high ground, he is able to deflect Anakin’s attacks and eventually dismember him, leaving Anakin crippled and helpless.
The high-ground scene is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and memorable moments in the ‘Star Wars‘ franchise. It has been referenced and parodied countless times in pop culture and is one of the most meme-able Star Wars scenes.
George Lucas’ Last Minutes Decision To Add Yoda In ‘Attack Of The Clones’
Nick Gillard also revealed that it was George Lucas who made the decision to include Yoda in the climactic fight just days before filming began. The iconic scene of Yoda’s lightsaber duel against Count Dooku was almost a last-minute addition to the film.
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“Originally it was Anakin and Obi in that fight, I think, it changed on the day. We went in that day to shoot another fight, and George had decided Yoda wanted to be in it,” Nick stated. He also talked about the difficulty the stunt team faced due to this.
To make things even more complicated, a mannequin was used as a reference for Yoda’s movements. Despite the short notice, the stunt team delivered a remarkable performance. Yoda’s entrance into the fight was a thrilling moment for fans, and his lightsaber duel with Dooku remains one of the most memorable sequences.
