Illuminous and powerful lightsabers are the iconic weapons of the Jedi, which were, by fluke, chosen to be the go-to weapon of the civilized aged. Of all the technological innovations, lightsabers have been consistent on the hands and belts of noble space warriors.
Jedi like Obi-Wan Kenobi, Luke Skywalker, and Yoda wielded lightsabers as gospel to the force. Over the galactic years, despite the difference in hilt size and blade shape, the basic layout and the mechanical counterparts have stayed the same.
Compared to other features, the shape of the lightsabers has changed drastically. From the thin blade art in the originals to the thick, elongated blades of the prequels, the hot plasma blades have long been changed into chunky designs throughout the Clone Wars.
Ultimately, the differences can be attributed to the artistic choice and the production costs of the live-action movies and the TV series. Our comparative analysis in this blog, between the films and animated series, will highlight the difference in the animation style and quality of lightsaber building over the cinematic years.
Visual Presentation
In Star Wars films, lightsabers are illustrated as artistic weapons beautifully crafted and presented to the audience. In the action-packed dueling scenes, the lightsaber-animated movements are graceful, the striking of the blade is edited meticulously, the transition hue of the kyber crystal is clear, and the hand-sized hilt is reasonably thick. The ultimate lightsaber example of this is the Draksaber, which gets more and more realistic as the trilogies progress.
Compared to that, animated series such as The Rebels have a contrasting stylized animation. The chosen art style by Ralph McQuarrie sets the series apart from the rest of the franchise. The toothpick-like blades have received a lot of hate. The audience has specifically pointed out Ahsoka lightsabers that look like fake strip lights in the Rebels., even though the blades look far better and more realistic in the Kenobi TV animation.
Characterization
Star Wars movies illustrate the journey from the discovery of the kyber crystal to the meditation of the Jedi with the neopixel lightsaber. Due to the exploration of the deep meaning behind the crystals, fans have overlooked any glitches in the concept art. Secondly, the basics of lightsaber colors are broken down into the force and non-force characters. Obi-Wan Kenobi’s blue lightsaber shows peaceful force standing compared to the evil crimson blade of Darth Vader.
In The Rebels, animated Clone Wars, and The Mandalorian, the focus is on the action and utilization of the plasma hot blades. Instead of characterizing the lightsabers to the wielder, the complex nature of lightsaber designs, combat techniques, and the impact certain blades have left on the wars that shaped the future after the Clone Wars are displayed artistically.
Lore & Tradition
The lore and traditions of Star Wars films reveal the idea and the concept behind choosing neopixel lightsabers as constant weapons. The overall concept of ‘Gathering,’ meditation, bleeding, and synthesizing crystals is revealed in the original trilogy. Darth Vader receives a deep lesson from Emperor Palpatine on the importance of infusing anger and hatred into a pure crystal to promote treacherous actions.
On the other hand, the animated series designed by Dave Fimoni explores lightsabers as well as other lore weaponry. When it comes to comparison, the audience’s attention is broadened to the viability of lightsabers compared to the advanced Sith machinery. Lightsaber construction and acquisition ways are more of a focus than tales of peace and nobility.
Combat Evolution
Lightsaber combat dynamics in the films reveal different fighting styles. The transition and formation of the eight major combat styles are awe-inspiring. Yoda was a Form II master, also known as sores, which is a defensive technique. As the combat styles developed, so did the prowess and the handling techniques of the wielders. Their body movements and fighting stance reflected an understanding of the force nature. Similarly, those who practiced Form VII Juyo knew when and where to strike for a damaging blow.
Whereas, the animated series range from light friendly dueling to heavy killing fights among the survivors of the war. Also the fighting style of the characters in the series is no longer black and white. Merging different styles is not an uncommon occurrence. That is why the duels in Battle of Corsucant and Seige of Mandalore displayed unconventional fighting styles, a plathora of spins, acrobatics and unexpcted blows.
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Conclusion
Whether in live-action films or animated series, the lightsabers have an integral part to play. Apart from their association with the lore of weaponry, lightsabers are a symbol of hope, peace, integrity, and a division between the good and bad sides. Different stances for lightsabers in the films and animated series have amazed the audience, exposing them to contrasting versions of the same weapon.
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