Revenge of the Sith: Theological Lessons 20 Years Later

May 2005 was a special time for Star Wars fans as they flocked to the movie theaters to see the completion of the prequel trilogy, Revenge of the Sith

Directed by George Lucas, the prequels tell the origins of Obi-Wan Kenobi and of Anakin Skywalker.

The third episode explores how Anakin falls away from the faith as he is seduced by the dark side of the Force, in part thanks to Supreme Chancellor Palpatine, who would play a double agent in the Clone Wars.

Revenge of the Sith focuses solely on how Anakin Skywalker would become the iconic villain of cinema, known to many Star Wars fans as Darth Vader. The film leaves us with faith lessons to explore as it turns 20 years old.

Desire for Power

Pride was the driving force behind Anakin’s fall to the dark side. He desired infinite power so that he can have to protect those that he loves, especially Padme, who is pregnant with their children.  He even wanted more. He was advised to train his thoughts to let go of these feelings, yet he grew more and more hungry for power, which corrupted him.

Selflessness and Humility

One scene that can be iconic in the exchange between Anakin and Supreme Chancellor Palpatine is how they share the differences between the Jedi and the Sith.

Supreme Chancellor Palpatine: “Remember back to your early teachings. ‘All who gain power are afraid to lose it.’ Even the Jedi.”
 
Anakin Skywalker: “The Jedi use their power for good.”
 
SCP: “Good is a point of view, Anakin. The Jedi point of view is not the only valid one. The Dark Lords of the Sith believe in security and justice, also. Yet they are considered by the Jedi to be...”
 
AS: “Evil?”
 
SCP: “The Sith and the Jedi are similar in almost every way, including their quest for greater power. The only difference between the two is that the Sith are not afraid of the Dark Side of the Force. That is why they are more powerful.”

During the exchange, Palpatine twists evil as a way to say that it is good.

The Jedi have been portrayed as those who use the Force for good. They want to maintain peace in the galaxy. Whereas the Sith are hungry for too much power and selfish ambitions.

Importance of Vulnerability

Anakin's fall is also attributed to his inability to be vulnerable and share his struggles with those around him. The film suggests that true faith involves being honest about one's weaknesses and trusting in the support of others.

Often, Anakin struggles with opening up about his struggles. He would confide to Palpatine, who would twist his thinking that everything would be resolved if he embraced the dark side. Meanwhile, he would push Obi-Wan and even Padme away when they wanted to help him the most.

It’s okay to be vulnerable. It shows us the art of being human. We must be sure to see the right advice from those we can trust.

Despair and Selfishness

What drew Anakin deeper into the dark side was how he wanted more. He was rejected for the rank of Jedi Master. He was denied permission to take down General Grievous, as Obi-Wan was selected instead and would survive a coup.

For Palpatine, he was in office for too long, and the Jedi were concerned. Palpatine would survive an attempt on his life and would establish the Galactic Empire with the help of Anakin.

This movie deserves a 4 out of 5. It has so many allegories of faith, like other Star Wars movies. There are many tense fight scenes, and a great way to show us how Anakin became Darth Vader.