BATTLE OF THE STAR WARS SIDEKICKS
C-3P0 and R2-D2 vs. Jar Jar Binks vs. BB-8
The original Star Wars trilogy was notable for its mix of adventure and, most importantly, fun. Most of the laughs in those three films came courtesy of the series’ own robotic Abbott and Costello, C-3P0 and R2D2. So as a third trilogy dawns with
Star Wars: The Force Awakens, we pit the comic relief from each trilogy against one another. C-3P0 and R2-D2 A.k.a.: The Bert and Ernie of the Star Wars universe
Played by: Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker
Seemingly modelled after: Abbott and Costello
Best line: “Don’t call me a mindless philosopher, you overweight glob of grease.” — C-3P0 to R2-D2, from Ep
isode IV: A New Hope Most significant contribution to
the story: The message R2-D2 delivers from Princess Leia to Obi-Wan Kenobi is the McGuffin that kicks off the original trilogy. Jar Jar Binks A.k.a.: The No. 1 reason you hated
The Phantom Menace.
Played by: Ahmed Best (motion
capture)
Seemingly modelled after: Michelle Tanner (Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s character on Full House)
Best Line: “Senators! Dellow fele
gates!” — Episode III: Revenge of the
Sith Most significant contribution to
the story: Convinces the Galactic Senate to hand power over to Emperor Palpatine, giving rise to the Empire. BB-8 A.k.a.: The Elmo of the Star Wars universe.
Played by: Technically no one; he’s a remote-controlled robot operated by special effects artist Neal Scanlan.
Seemingly modelled after: A soc
cer ball
Best Line: Like R2, BB-8 speaks in blips and bleeps.
Let’s hope he has his predecessor’s sense of comic timing. Most significant contribution to
the story: Remains to be seen; however, according to Scanlan: “He has a very important mission that he has to accomplish.”
The verdict Although he’s already rolled into the hearts and minds of Star Wars fans, the jury is still out on BB-8. C-3P0 and R2-D2 are a classic comic duo who remain symbols for the entire franchise, giving them the ultimate edge.