2005's Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith is iconic in so many ways, but we can all agree that the moment that stood out the most, especially to avid fans of the franchise was Anakin Skywalker's descent to the dark side.
The Chosen One's turn to villainy was further solidified as Emperor Palpatine executed Order 66. Of course, we all know how that went down, with the soon-to-be Darth Vader eradicating his fellow Jedi, even the younglings who were asking for their salvation from the Sith onslaught.
The scene where Anakin confronts the children, flashing his lightsaber at Sors Bandeam (Ross Beadman) is an image forever etched in our minds, and apparently, Christensen made sure the whole scene felt as genuinely haunting as possible.
Also Read: Hayden Christensen on Anakin Skywalker's Youngling Killing Spree: "I Love that George Did it"
Hayden Christensen Apologized to Youngling Actor After Pulling Improv During Filming
Speaking with Empire Magazine, the Star Wars icon talked about the entire process of filming that youngling scene, and how he pulled some improv work to make it feel more natural.
He said: "Kids seem to forget about that scene when they meet me! There's not any fear or intimidation. They're just excited to meet Anakin. There was a lot of talk about us doing that scene, and I love that George [Lucas] did it. It was a bold move. And it's shocking."
Christensen would then reveal that he apologized to Beadman for what transpired during filming, years after Episode III was released. He continued: "When we were filming that, we were having a hard time getting the reaction that we wanted from the kid. And so I shouted, or growled at him, because we needed a genuine moment of him being startled. It got the response that we needed, and it makes that scene work really well ... I saw him years later. I said, 'Sorry about how that went.'"
Also Read: Ahmed Best Hints Star Wars Return in Secret Project
While Hayden's performance in the prequels initially generated a poor reception, fans would later learn to appreciate what he brought to the franchise and the actor would later achieve "redemption" through his appearances in Obi-Wan Kenobi and Ahsoka.
All your Star Wars favorites, from movies to series are available to stream on Disney+.
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!