New Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala cosplays recreate the iconic Star Wars characters in stunningly accurate detail. Although Anakin was technically first introduced in 1977 in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope in the form of Darth Vader, the version of the character known by many fans today is played by Hayden Christensen and introduced in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones. The character grapples with his commitments to the Jedi Order and his blossoming romance with Natalie Portman's Padmé.
The dynamic between Anakin and Padmé becomes even more important in Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, as Padmé reveals that she's pregnant. Anakin becomes plagued with visions of his wife's death and it's ultimately that fear of losing her that begins his descent into evil and his turn to the Dark Side. Although Christensen's journey as Anakin seemingly ended with Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith back in 2005, Disney+'s Obi-Wan Kenobi series recently brought the actor back to continue his journey as Darth Vader alongside Ewan McGregor's eponymous Jedi Master. Obi-Wan Kenobi earned largely positive reviews from critics, with many citing the dynamic between Obi-Wan and Darth Vader as a particular highlight.
In an impressive new cosplay duet shared by Instagram user @katssby, Anakin and Padmé are recreated in stunning detail. The post includes several photos depicting the characters from the era of Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, even featuring Anakin's distinctive Padawan braid. In addition to nailing the costumes, the two cosplayers also wonderfully capture the loving dynamic between the two iconic Star Wars characters. Check out the cosplay images below:
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Christensen's performance as Anakin was the subject of some criticism upon the release of the latter two Star Wars prequels, but many fans have since come to appreciate his work, and the trilogy in general. With Anakin recently making a return in Obi-Wan Kenobi, it's likely that many fans have revisited George Lucas' divisive prequel trilogy once more. Christensen and McGreggor themselves have previously expressed how gratifying it is that now, years later, the Star Wars prequels films have found a new, passionate audience.
Despite being heavily criticized upon their release, the Star Wars prequels are a prime example of how certain movies can be reevaluated and take on new meaning as they age. Although the romance between Anakin and Padmé was, in many ways, doomed from the very beginning, it's clear that the two characters remain beloved by many fans even today. With rumors swirling that Obi-Wan Kenobi might get a season 2, it's possible that Christensen will return once more as Anakin/ Darth Vader but, unfortunately, Padmé's definitive death makes her return to live-action Star Wars much more unlikely.
Source: @katssby/Instagram