Star Words: Episode III, Part 34

In this next line we see why Anakin is unmoved by Padmé's plea to run away with him. He has always struggled to some degree with arrogance and overreaching ambition -- who wouldn't, with a title like "the Chosen One"? -- but now the Dark Side has encouraged those traits into flaws of tragic proportion. He tells Padmé that they no longer need to hide, that he has single-handedly restored peace....that he is even more powerful than the Chancellor and can overthrow him.

"And together you and I can rule the galaxy -- make things the way we want them to be."

It's no wonder that this statement is the one that has Padmé starting to back away, declaring that her once-beloved husband has become a stranger. Just look at Anakin's chilling, wild-eyed smile here. Delighting in the notion of absolute power, of molding the galaxy in his own image. A long way from the boy at that meadow picnic who quickly replied, "Of course not me" when Padmé asked if he should be the "someone wise" to exert dictatorial control. (Though even then we saw the seeds of his belief that totalitarian rule is the right course, as long as it's right person in charge.) Now he's become convinced that he can and should rule the galaxy. A co-ruler with his wife at his side.

Padmé, as the very embodiment of the spirit of the Republic and democracy, is of course horrified by this offer. Anakin loses her, and loses his young healthy body and much of his prowess. For decades Vader broods in subservience to the Emperor. And then he meets Luke. This young, powerful boy revives all his lost hopes. He can overthrow his master; it is nothing less than destiny.

"And together we can rule the galaxy as father and son."


I get chills every time.

Next, Obi-Wan and his ill-timed entrance do not go over very well....