2. Padme Amidala is a Better Character than Princess Leia
Even though Leia is allegedly a Princess, we never hear her talk about her political position or her concerns for her people. She is basically in the beginning just another distressed damsel for the hero to save. She’s neither very smart, nor very compassionate. She’s neither very tough, nor very sexy, especially in A New Hope. By Return of the Jedi, she has developed into a stronger character. However, to begin with she just seems like a spoiled, snarky rich girl without any sense of love or justice. Case in point: her most famous lines are “aren’t you a little short for a Storm Trooper” and “you scruffy nerf herder”, meaning, most of what she says and is famous for saying are catty, snide, petty comments. Also, she has no bosom. In short, she’s basically the Paris Hilton of sci-fi.
Now, compare that to Queen Amidala, a young elected official, who begins by pleading passionately and eloquently for the needs of her people. She feels more range of emotions than Leia. Padme falls deeply in love, whereas the romance that unfolds between Leia and Han is more the stuff of sitcoms than epic fantasy adventures. Like I mentioned before, she’s also more passionate about politics, cares about someone other than herself, and is stronger-willed than her bratty daughter. I think this has something to do with the manner in which women’s roles have changed and evolved in American culture since the 70’s.
1. Samuel L. Jackson.
Truly, what all the more should be said?
