George Lucas Nearly Cast a Different Actor as Darth Vader Changing the Flow of the Franchise Forever
Darth Vader is undeniably one of the most iconic fictional characters, known for his menacing black suit and distinctive voice. Many other works of fiction and art make reference to the character, making it a familiar presence.
But, did you know that the role of Vader nearly went to a different actor? One who, at the time, might have been even more preferred than James Earl Jones given the circumstances?
During the late 1970s, while filming ‘A New Hope’ in London, David Prowse, who portrayed Darth Vader physically, delivered all of Vader’s lines from behind the mask. However, the mask muffled his speech, necessitating dubbing in post-production. Prowse initially expected to dub his own lines, but logistical issues and concerns about his accent prompted George Lucas to seek another voice. Lucas sought a deep, distinguished voice befitting the enigmatic Darth Vader. Ultimately, James Earl Jones, then a relatively unknown actor,...
But, did you know that the role of Vader nearly went to a different actor? One who, at the time, might have been even more preferred than James Earl Jones given the circumstances?
During the late 1970s, while filming ‘A New Hope’ in London, David Prowse, who portrayed Darth Vader physically, delivered all of Vader’s lines from behind the mask. However, the mask muffled his speech, necessitating dubbing in post-production. Prowse initially expected to dub his own lines, but logistical issues and concerns about his accent prompted George Lucas to seek another voice. Lucas sought a deep, distinguished voice befitting the enigmatic Darth Vader. Ultimately, James Earl Jones, then a relatively unknown actor,...
- 4/25/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Fiction Horizon
Darth Vader is without a doubt one of the most iconic fictional characters, recognized by his ominous black suit and his voice. Plenty of other works of fiction and art reference the character, and it’s one of those references we can always easily spot.
But, did you know that the iconic role almost went to a completely different actor? The one that at the time would be perhaps even favored above James Earl Jones under the circumstances?
While filming ‘A New Hope’ in London during the late 1970s, David Prowse, the actor behind Darth Vader’s physical performance, spoke all of Vader’s lines from behind the mask. However, due to the mask muffling his speech, his lines had to be dubbed over in post-production. Prowse assumed he would do the dubbing himself, but logistical and accent concerns led George Lucas to search for another voice. Lucas sought a deep,...
But, did you know that the iconic role almost went to a completely different actor? The one that at the time would be perhaps even favored above James Earl Jones under the circumstances?
While filming ‘A New Hope’ in London during the late 1970s, David Prowse, the actor behind Darth Vader’s physical performance, spoke all of Vader’s lines from behind the mask. However, due to the mask muffling his speech, his lines had to be dubbed over in post-production. Prowse assumed he would do the dubbing himself, but logistical and accent concerns led George Lucas to search for another voice. Lucas sought a deep,...
- 4/25/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Comic Basics
Martin Campbell's "The Mask of Zorro" is one of the most rousing adventure films of the 1990s, a bracing throwback to old-school Errol Flynn swashbucklers that dazzles with masterfully staged sword fights. Perhaps most importantly, it's powered by an emotionally resonant narrative that raises the stakes sky-high, leading to a breathtaking climax that had audiences cheering all three times I saw the film theatrically.
Antonio Banderas is absolute perfection as Alejandro Murrieta, a rakish outlaw who becomes the unlikely successor to Anthony Hopkins' Don Diego de la Vega, aka Zorro. Murrieta also falls for Catherine Zeta Jones' beautiful and feisty Elena Montero, who does not know that her father, the evil Don Rafael Montero, stole her as an infant from de la Vega and his wife Esperanza (Julieta Rosen).
That Elena does not know her true lineage winds up being the heartfelt counterpart to the film's rollicking action. Indeed,...
Antonio Banderas is absolute perfection as Alejandro Murrieta, a rakish outlaw who becomes the unlikely successor to Anthony Hopkins' Don Diego de la Vega, aka Zorro. Murrieta also falls for Catherine Zeta Jones' beautiful and feisty Elena Montero, who does not know that her father, the evil Don Rafael Montero, stole her as an infant from de la Vega and his wife Esperanza (Julieta Rosen).
That Elena does not know her true lineage winds up being the heartfelt counterpart to the film's rollicking action. Indeed,...
- 12/12/2023
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
1977: Ryan's Hope's Maeve tried to reason with her son-in-law.
1983: Guiding Light's Silas held Quint at gunpoint.
1997: The final episode of ABC daytime soap opera The City.
2008: Guiding Light's Gus crashed his motorcycle."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."
― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1955: On Hawkins Falls, reporter Mitch Fredericks (Jim Bannon) and Millie Flagle (Ros Twohey) persuaded the biggest donor to the town's fair, Andy Anderson, that he had psychic powers.
1983: Guiding Light's Silas held Quint at gunpoint.
1997: The final episode of ABC daytime soap opera The City.
2008: Guiding Light's Gus crashed his motorcycle."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."
― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1955: On Hawkins Falls, reporter Mitch Fredericks (Jim Bannon) and Millie Flagle (Ros Twohey) persuaded the biggest donor to the town's fair, Andy Anderson, that he had psychic powers.
- 3/29/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
Nick Harley Dec 12, 2017
Strongman will focus on the man inside of Vader's suit, bodybuilder David Prowse.
David Prowse’s connection to the Star Wars universe is impressive. Most impressive. As the man that physically embodied Darth Vader inside of that iconic black getup, Prowse was a part of a team including James Earl Jones, Sebastian Shaw, and Bob Anderson that brought one of cinema’s most famous villains to life in the original Star Wars trilogy.
Yet, Prowse’s “eccentric” behavior led to him being banned by George Lucas himself from attending official Star Wars conventions. Despite the controversy, Prowse will find himself as the subject of the upcoming biopic, Strongman.
Strongman was written by Nicholas Jacobson-Larson and Dalton Leeb (The Well) and earned a spot on this year’s Black List, a Hollywood-curated list that chronicles the best unproduced screenplays of the year.
Chronicling his journey from champion weightlifter...
Strongman will focus on the man inside of Vader's suit, bodybuilder David Prowse.
David Prowse’s connection to the Star Wars universe is impressive. Most impressive. As the man that physically embodied Darth Vader inside of that iconic black getup, Prowse was a part of a team including James Earl Jones, Sebastian Shaw, and Bob Anderson that brought one of cinema’s most famous villains to life in the original Star Wars trilogy.
Yet, Prowse’s “eccentric” behavior led to him being banned by George Lucas himself from attending official Star Wars conventions. Despite the controversy, Prowse will find himself as the subject of the upcoming biopic, Strongman.
Strongman was written by Nicholas Jacobson-Larson and Dalton Leeb (The Well) and earned a spot on this year’s Black List, a Hollywood-curated list that chronicles the best unproduced screenplays of the year.
Chronicling his journey from champion weightlifter...
- 12/12/2017
- Den of Geek
As You Wish! 10 Inconceivable Facts for The Princess Bride’s 30th Anniversary As You Wish! 10 Inconceivable Facts for The Princess Bride’s 30th Anniversary Kurt Anthony10/9/2017 11:00:00 Am
“Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die!”
Oh, wait. You don’t have six fingers on your right hand? Sorry, our mistake.
A classic tale of true love and high adventure, The Princess Bride invaded theatres on October 9, 1987 and has been romancing audiences ever since. After all, true love is the greatest thing in the world! Well, except for a nice Mlt.
Based on William Goldman’s 1973 fantasy-romance novel, the film was directed by the legendary Rob Reiner (This Is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally…) and features a swashbuckling cast, including Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, Wallace Shawn, and André the Giant. After earning a modest $30.8M at the box office upon its release, the...
“Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die!”
Oh, wait. You don’t have six fingers on your right hand? Sorry, our mistake.
A classic tale of true love and high adventure, The Princess Bride invaded theatres on October 9, 1987 and has been romancing audiences ever since. After all, true love is the greatest thing in the world! Well, except for a nice Mlt.
Based on William Goldman’s 1973 fantasy-romance novel, the film was directed by the legendary Rob Reiner (This Is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally…) and features a swashbuckling cast, including Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, Wallace Shawn, and André the Giant. After earning a modest $30.8M at the box office upon its release, the...
- 10/9/2017
- by Kurt Anthony
- Cineplex
Hopefully you made the most of May the 4th! We did not get a new title for Episode VIII: Space Bear, so I’m a little disappointed. This is what happens when you set expectations for yourself based on what you want instead of any actionable information: disappointment.
There was some new info dumps via licensed products that seemed interesting. First off, as much as I wanted to take an evening speed reading Claudia Gray’s Star Wars: Bloodline, I made the decision to wait for reviews before reading it at a casual pace. Thankfully, the internet, so I know some stuff about how it intersects with the rest of the canon. From what I gather, Ben Solo and Luke are off training, but it’s vague as to where or what they are doing. There’s no mention of Snoke. Chewbacca is living with his family on Kashyyyk with his family,...
There was some new info dumps via licensed products that seemed interesting. First off, as much as I wanted to take an evening speed reading Claudia Gray’s Star Wars: Bloodline, I made the decision to wait for reviews before reading it at a casual pace. Thankfully, the internet, so I know some stuff about how it intersects with the rest of the canon. From what I gather, Ben Solo and Luke are off training, but it’s vague as to where or what they are doing. There’s no mention of Snoke. Chewbacca is living with his family on Kashyyyk with his family,...
- 5/6/2016
- by Da7e
- LRMonline.com
Potential Major Spoilers Ahead For "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story"
One of the most talked about shots of last month's "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" first trailer was one which seemed to imply an appearance by one of the old trilogy's key figures - Darth Vader.
Now, Making Star Wars has posted a lengthy report which says they have been able to verify from no less than three sources that Darth Vader is in the film. In fact they suggest the film's costume designers have gone to great lengths to match the character's look from the original 1977 "Star Wars" film:
"The costume is the A New Hope costume down to the fine details. The upper armor has the tunic going over the top of the shoulders, just as it did in Episode IV. The belt buckle is the same. The inside of the cape is that shiny type of material.
One of the most talked about shots of last month's "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" first trailer was one which seemed to imply an appearance by one of the old trilogy's key figures - Darth Vader.
Now, Making Star Wars has posted a lengthy report which says they have been able to verify from no less than three sources that Darth Vader is in the film. In fact they suggest the film's costume designers have gone to great lengths to match the character's look from the original 1977 "Star Wars" film:
"The costume is the A New Hope costume down to the fine details. The upper armor has the tunic going over the top of the shoulders, just as it did in Episode IV. The belt buckle is the same. The inside of the cape is that shiny type of material.
- 5/6/2016
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Filming is about to commence on Star Wars: Episode VII, Jj Abrams's hotly-anticipated sequel that picks up the story 30 years after the events of Return of the Jedi.
With almost 40 years of history - encompassing films, TV, comic books, video games and novels - there's a wealth of interesting facts and information about the vast universe hatched by George Lucas.
Here are ten fast facts we've discovered from a galaxy far, far away…
1. Inspired by the swashbuckling Flash Gordon adventures that began in the '30s, a young George Lucas initially wanted to bring that serial to the big screen, but found the rights to the character difficult to untangle. From there he began to fashion his own space epic - a project that would eventually become the Star Wars we know and love.
However, things could have been a lot different as Lucas's first draft script was...
With almost 40 years of history - encompassing films, TV, comic books, video games and novels - there's a wealth of interesting facts and information about the vast universe hatched by George Lucas.
Here are ten fast facts we've discovered from a galaxy far, far away…
1. Inspired by the swashbuckling Flash Gordon adventures that began in the '30s, a young George Lucas initially wanted to bring that serial to the big screen, but found the rights to the character difficult to untangle. From there he began to fashion his own space epic - a project that would eventually become the Star Wars we know and love.
However, things could have been a lot different as Lucas's first draft script was...
- 4/8/2014
- Digital Spy
What is Page 2? Page 2 is a compilation of stories and news tidbits, which for whatever reason, didn’t make the front page of /Film. After the jump we’ve included 46 different items, fun images, videos, casting tidbits, articles of interest and more. It’s like a mystery grab bag of movie web related goodness. If you have any interesting items that we might've missed that you think should go in /Film's Page 2 - email us [1]! Header Photo: Uggie the dog from The Artist poses with his Golden Globe. Ugo [2] lists 11 definitive reasons why Liam Neeson is a badass. Watch [3] the trailer for Miley Cyrus' new move Lol. Or don't... Netflix will be coming to Ps Vita, aiming [4] to launch on day one [5] Today's t-shirt of Ript Apparel [6] is a Star Wars-inspired design "Red 5 Standing By" Ugo [7] lists The Most Hilarious Fart Scenes In Film [8] Today's t-shirt of the...
- 1/17/2012
- by Peter Sciretta
- Slash Film
The Associated Press is reporting that stuntman and sword master Bob Anderson, who played Darth Vader in fight sequences in Empire Strikes Back and Return Of The Jedi has passed away at 89. In addition to being part of the good Star Wars films, Anderson’s five decades in cinema has seen him work with everyone from Errol Flynn in The Master Of Ballantrae in 1953, to Antonio Banderas in The Legend Of Zorro in 2005. In between you’ll find Highlander (’86), The Princess Bride (’87), the Lord Of The Rings films, and many, many more. The British Academy of Fencing reports Anderson died in an English hospital on New Year’s Day.
Here is a classic light saber battle, this one from Empire Strikes Back, featuring Anderson at his best. He will be missed, but his work will never go forgotten…...
Here is a classic light saber battle, this one from Empire Strikes Back, featuring Anderson at his best. He will be missed, but his work will never go forgotten…...
- 1/4/2012
- by Justin
- FamousMonsters of Filmland
'Swordmaster' and stunt double who fenced with Errol Flynn and swung the lightsaber for Darth Vader
As a stunt double, Bob Anderson, who has died aged 89, was among the many unsung, unknown, uncredited and partially unseen performers of motion pictures whose purpose is to remain anonymous while making the star look athletic, acrobatic, courageous or devil-may-care. For those in the business, Anderson reigned supreme in the fencing department, earning the title of "swordmaster". Given the partly Japanese genesis of the Star Wars franchise, it was an apt description of the man who wielded the lightsaber for Darth Vader in his duels in The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983).
In 1983 Mark Hamill, who played Luke Skywalker, blew Anderson's cover in an interview: "Bob Anderson was the man who actually did Vader's fighting. It was always supposed to be a secret, but I finally told George [Lucas, the creator] I didn't think it was fair any more.
As a stunt double, Bob Anderson, who has died aged 89, was among the many unsung, unknown, uncredited and partially unseen performers of motion pictures whose purpose is to remain anonymous while making the star look athletic, acrobatic, courageous or devil-may-care. For those in the business, Anderson reigned supreme in the fencing department, earning the title of "swordmaster". Given the partly Japanese genesis of the Star Wars franchise, it was an apt description of the man who wielded the lightsaber for Darth Vader in his duels in The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983).
In 1983 Mark Hamill, who played Luke Skywalker, blew Anderson's cover in an interview: "Bob Anderson was the man who actually did Vader's fighting. It was always supposed to be a secret, but I finally told George [Lucas, the creator] I didn't think it was fair any more.
- 1/4/2012
- by Ronald Bergan
- The Guardian - Film News
In the original "Star Wars" trilogy, Darth Vader was normally played by bodybuilder David Prowse. But when Prowse failed to master the swordsmanship required for iconic lightsaber fight scenes, master fencer Bob Anderson stepped in.
We are sorry to report that Anderson passed away a few hours after midnight on Jan 1, 2012. He was 89 years old.
Anderson, a legendary fencing trainer and choreographer, was six inches shorter than Prowse, so he had to wear considerable lifts under that Vader cloak. Still, he fought like a pro, weilding the lightsaber in scenes including the most memorable of the series, in which Vader cut off Luke's hand and revealed, "Luke, I am your father."
In fact, it was Mark Hamill himself who told the world about Anderson's considerable role in the series. "It was always supposed to be a secret, but I finally told George [Lucas] I didn't think it was fair any more,...
We are sorry to report that Anderson passed away a few hours after midnight on Jan 1, 2012. He was 89 years old.
Anderson, a legendary fencing trainer and choreographer, was six inches shorter than Prowse, so he had to wear considerable lifts under that Vader cloak. Still, he fought like a pro, weilding the lightsaber in scenes including the most memorable of the series, in which Vader cut off Luke's hand and revealed, "Luke, I am your father."
In fact, it was Mark Hamill himself who told the world about Anderson's considerable role in the series. "It was always supposed to be a secret, but I finally told George [Lucas] I didn't think it was fair any more,...
- 1/4/2012
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Pop2it
Bob Anderson, a former Olympic fencer who staged Darth Vader's light saber battles in two "Star Wars" movies, has died in West Sussex, England. He was 89. Anderson died peacefully Jan. 1 at a hospital, British Academy of Fencing President Philip Bruce wrote on the organization's website. "He was truly one of our greatest fencing masters and a world-class film fight director and choreographer and both the fencing community and film world will miss him," Bruce wrote. "My heart felt sympathies and thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this...
- 1/3/2012
- by Kurt Orzeck
- The Wrap
What’s the closest thing to a real-life Jedi Master? That would probably be Sword Master, the role Bob Anderson had on pretty much every big film that featured sword fighting during the past several decades.
Anderson, a former Olympic fencer who died on New Year's Day at age 89, was the one who made the lightsaber duels in the original "Star Wars" trilogy look so cool. Everyone knows that James Earl Jones was the voice of Darth Vader and David Prowse was the man behind the mask, but it was Bob Anderson handling the red lightsaber in “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi.”
Outside the Star Wars universe, Anderson made his mark on films such as “The Mask of Zorro,” “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl,” and the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy. Did you enjoy watching Cary Elwes and Mandy Patinkin’s...
Anderson, a former Olympic fencer who died on New Year's Day at age 89, was the one who made the lightsaber duels in the original "Star Wars" trilogy look so cool. Everyone knows that James Earl Jones was the voice of Darth Vader and David Prowse was the man behind the mask, but it was Bob Anderson handling the red lightsaber in “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi.”
Outside the Star Wars universe, Anderson made his mark on films such as “The Mask of Zorro,” “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl,” and the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy. Did you enjoy watching Cary Elwes and Mandy Patinkin’s...
- 1/3/2012
- by Tami Katzoff
- MTV Movies Blog
They say "the pen is mightier than the sword," but that old adage doesn't account for lightsabers.
When it came to mastering any kind of blade, be it the 18th-century fencing of "Barry Lyndon" to the epic laser sword duels of a galaxy far, far away, Bob Anderson was the go-to guy to train, choreograph and occasionally work as stunt double. The Associated Press reports the 89-year-old movie legend died early New Year's Day at an English hospital.
For years, many people assumed it was six-foot-six bodybuilder David Prowse, the man inside Darth Vader's suit, fighting Luke Skywalker in "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi," but behind-the-scenes it was Anderson, pushing age 60, clashing over the fate of the universe.
"Bob Anderson was the man who actually did Vader's fighting," said Mark Hamill. "It was always supposed to be a secret, but I finally told (director) George (Lucas...
When it came to mastering any kind of blade, be it the 18th-century fencing of "Barry Lyndon" to the epic laser sword duels of a galaxy far, far away, Bob Anderson was the go-to guy to train, choreograph and occasionally work as stunt double. The Associated Press reports the 89-year-old movie legend died early New Year's Day at an English hospital.
For years, many people assumed it was six-foot-six bodybuilder David Prowse, the man inside Darth Vader's suit, fighting Luke Skywalker in "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi," but behind-the-scenes it was Anderson, pushing age 60, clashing over the fate of the universe.
"Bob Anderson was the man who actually did Vader's fighting," said Mark Hamill. "It was always supposed to be a secret, but I finally told (director) George (Lucas...
- 1/3/2012
- by Max Evry
- NextMovie
Bob Anderson, the sword-master who worked on Star Wars, The Lord Of The Rings and The Princess Bride, has died aged 89. He passed away on 1 January, according to a statement by The British Academy of Fencing (via BBC News). Brit Anderson was an Olympic fencer before he moved into the movies. He began his film career working on stunts, before becoming better known under the undeniably awesome job title of Sword Master. Among the highlights on his filmography are Barry Lyndon, Highlander, The Princess Bride, The Lord Of The Rings trilogy and...
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- 1/3/2012
- by Matt Maytum
- TotalFilm
By now you've heard that Meryl Streep will be receiving an Honorary Golden Bear at Berlinale in February. The fun part of this news that you probably haven't heard elsewhere is this is the 62nd Berlinale Festival and Meryl is... 62! They grew up together! The best part of this news for those attending the festival? That would be festival screenings of Kramer vs. Kramer, Sophie's Choice, The Bridges of Madison County, A Prairie Home Companion and Out of Africa. I'd love to see all of those on the big screen again... even though they're not the five exact choices I would have made as a programmer (obvs you have to have Kramer & Sophie though). Coming next weekend we'll look at the Reader Streep Rankings. (Thanks for all your e-mails.)
Oscarables
The Wrap Will the Oscars move away from the Kodak Theater in two years? They're considering their options before recommitting to the contract.
Oscarables
The Wrap Will the Oscars move away from the Kodak Theater in two years? They're considering their options before recommitting to the contract.
- 1/3/2012
- by NATHANIEL R
- FilmExperience
English Swordmaster Bob Anderson, the man who performed the role of Darth Vader for the light saber fight scenes in Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back and Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi has passed away at the age of 89.
In addition to his roles in the aforementioned Star Wars films, Anderson has worked as an actor, stunt performer and swordmaster on more than four dozen projects over the course of a career spanning more than forty years, including The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Princess Bride, The Phantom, Highlander and Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.
Director Peter Jackson posted the following message about Anderson on his Facebook page:
“It is a rare, even within the film industry, that you get to work with a legend which was why I was thrilled when Bob Anderson agreed to come...
In addition to his roles in the aforementioned Star Wars films, Anderson has worked as an actor, stunt performer and swordmaster on more than four dozen projects over the course of a career spanning more than forty years, including The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Princess Bride, The Phantom, Highlander and Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.
Director Peter Jackson posted the following message about Anderson on his Facebook page:
“It is a rare, even within the film industry, that you get to work with a legend which was why I was thrilled when Bob Anderson agreed to come...
- 1/3/2012
- by Jason Moore
- ScifiMafia
The Force was strong in this one. Legendary swordmaster Bob Anderson, who donned the Darth Vader suit for some of the light saber battles in the original Star Wars trilogy, died Sunday in Sussex, West England, according to The New York Times. He was 89. More: Darth Maul resurrected! A Hollywood icon known for his work on the Lord of the Rings trilogy, the James Bond film From Russia With Love, several Three Musketeers adaptations and The Princess Bride, for which he provided instruction to the film's swashbucklers played by Carey Elwes and Mandy Patinkin—who reportedly were such ardent students that they would keep fighting after the cameras stopped rolling. Inconceivable! A former Olympic...
- 1/3/2012
- E! Online
Bob Anderson was more than an Olympic swordsman. He is also responsible for most of the greatest sword fighting scenes in all of modern cinema and television. In his passing today, please take some time to review some of the more famous scenes that would not have been possible had it not been for his hard work.
Zorro
It is important to note that Anderson was an un-credited actor and performed much of Darth Vader's lightsaber fighting in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of The Jedi.
Highlander (television series)
Pirates of the Caribbean
Lord of The Rings
Email Me: MickJoest@Geektyrant.com Twitter: @MickJoest...
Zorro
It is important to note that Anderson was an un-credited actor and performed much of Darth Vader's lightsaber fighting in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of The Jedi.
Highlander (television series)
Pirates of the Caribbean
Lord of The Rings
Email Me: MickJoest@Geektyrant.com Twitter: @MickJoest...
- 1/3/2012
- by Robot Reagan
- GeekTyrant
London (AP) — Olympic fencer and movie sword master Bob Anderson appeared in some of film's most famous dueling scenes — though few viewers knew it. Anderson, who has died at age 89, donned Darth Vader's black helmet and fought light saber battles in two of the three original "Star Wars" films, "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi." Anderson, who worked with actors from Errol Flynn to Antonio Banderas during five decades as a sword master, fight director and stunt performer, died early New Year's Day at an English hospital, the British Academy of Fencing said Monday. Vader,...
- 1/3/2012
- by Jill Lawless (AP)
- Hitfix
At some point in their lives, pretty much everyone on the planet has pretended to wield a sword, lightsaber or some kind of deadly blade in an epic battle to the death. However, Olympic fencer Bob Anderson actually handled swords in real-life as an Olympic fencer and one of the foremost sword-fighting trainers and choreographers in cinema. Sadly, we must report a tragic loss at the beginning of 2012 as TheOneRing.net reports that Anderson, who has worked on such iconic films as The Lord of the Rings trilogy and the original Star Wars trilogy, passed away early this morning at a hospital in the UK. Anderson's career started nearly 60 years ago when he staged fights for the 1952 Errol Flynn film The Master Of Ballantrae. However, he would go on to choreograph fight scenes in films like From Russia With Love and Die Another Day, The Legend Of Zorro, and ...
- 1/2/2012
- by Ethan Anderton
- firstshowing.net
Former Olympic fencer Bob Anderson, who has died aged 89, staged classic fights for films from Return of the Jedi to The Princess Bride. Here are a few swashbuckling scenes to remember
The Master of Ballantrae
Bob Anderson: stunts, coaching
The first film Anderson worked on, The Master of Ballantrae stars Errol Flynn as Jamie Durie, a Highlander who fought for Bonnie Prince Charlie and then went off to become a pirate. You don't see much sword-fighting in this clip, but you get the idea.
Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi
Bob Anderson: stunt performer
Anderson's role in the Star Wars series went unrecognised at first, until Mark Hamill, the actor who played Luke Skywalker, revealed all. "It was always supposed to be a secret, but I finally told (director) George (Lucas) I didn't think it was fair any more," he said in an interview with...
The Master of Ballantrae
Bob Anderson: stunts, coaching
The first film Anderson worked on, The Master of Ballantrae stars Errol Flynn as Jamie Durie, a Highlander who fought for Bonnie Prince Charlie and then went off to become a pirate. You don't see much sword-fighting in this clip, but you get the idea.
Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi
Bob Anderson: stunt performer
Anderson's role in the Star Wars series went unrecognised at first, until Mark Hamill, the actor who played Luke Skywalker, revealed all. "It was always supposed to be a secret, but I finally told (director) George (Lucas) I didn't think it was fair any more," he said in an interview with...
- 1/2/2012
- by Theresa Malone
- The Guardian - Film News
In sadder news for the start of 2012, the world has lost a talented swordsman. Olympic fencer Bob Anderson passed away this week at the age of 89. While you may not recognize his name right away, there's a good chance you're familiar with his work, especially if you've seen the original Star Wars, the Lord of the Rings trilogy or Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl . Entertainment Weekly posted the unfortunate news, listing the British Academy of Fencing as the source, stating that Anderson died on New Year.s Day at a hospital in England. The English fencer.s achievements not only include representing Great Britain in the 1952 Olympics, but going on to lend his expertise to the movie industry by staging some extremely memorable sword-fighting scenes, including Star Wars, The Princess Bride and the 1993 version of The Three Musketeers. And among the slightly...
- 1/2/2012
- cinemablend.com
Former Olympic swordsman who staged fights for films including the Star Wars and Lord of the Rings series has died
Bob Anderson, a former Olympic swordsman who staged fights for films including the Star Wars and Lord of the Rings series, has died, British fencing authorities said today. He was 89.
The British Academy of Fencing said that Anderson died early on New Year's Day at an English hospital.
Anderson donned Darth Vader's black helmet and fought light saber battles in two of the three original Star Wars films, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.
The villainous character was played by David Prowse and voiced by James Earl Jones, and Anderson's role was not initially publicised.
But Mark Hamill, who played Luke Skywalker, said in a 1983 interview that "Bob Anderson was the man who actually did Vader's fighting."
"It was always supposed to be a secret, but I...
Bob Anderson, a former Olympic swordsman who staged fights for films including the Star Wars and Lord of the Rings series, has died, British fencing authorities said today. He was 89.
The British Academy of Fencing said that Anderson died early on New Year's Day at an English hospital.
Anderson donned Darth Vader's black helmet and fought light saber battles in two of the three original Star Wars films, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.
The villainous character was played by David Prowse and voiced by James Earl Jones, and Anderson's role was not initially publicised.
But Mark Hamill, who played Luke Skywalker, said in a 1983 interview that "Bob Anderson was the man who actually did Vader's fighting."
"It was always supposed to be a secret, but I...
- 1/2/2012
- The Guardian - Film News
One of the men behind Stars Wars villain Darth Vader has died. Bob Anderson, an Olympic fencer, film swordsman, fight director and stunt performer passed away at 89 in his native United Kingdom. The AP reports the British Academy of Fencing confirms his Jan. 1 death. Working with famous players such as Errol Flynn and Antonio Banderas, Anderson's most famous scenes were done nearly anonymously in the Star Wars franchise. He dueled with light sabers in both The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Photos: Hollywood's Notable Deaths Anderson was just one third of Vader. James Earl Jones
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- 1/2/2012
- by Michael O'Connell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A master swordsman who performed stunts in Star Wars and the Lord Of The Rings franchise has died aged 89.
Former Olympic fencer Bob Anderson passed away in England on New Year's Day.
After serving in the Royal Marines during World War II, he represented Britain at the 1952 Olympic Games before moving into movie stunt work.
His first big screen fight scene was when he staged sword battles and coached Errol Flynn in The Master of Ballantrae. He became one of Hollywood's most sought-after sword masters, and worked on stunts for films including From Russia With Love and Die Another Day, The Legend of Zorro and The Princess Bride.
He also donned Darth Vader's iconic black costume to perform the character's light saber bouts in the three original Star Wars movies
. Anderson is survived by his wife Pearl and three children.
Former Olympic fencer Bob Anderson passed away in England on New Year's Day.
After serving in the Royal Marines during World War II, he represented Britain at the 1952 Olympic Games before moving into movie stunt work.
His first big screen fight scene was when he staged sword battles and coached Errol Flynn in The Master of Ballantrae. He became one of Hollywood's most sought-after sword masters, and worked on stunts for films including From Russia With Love and Die Another Day, The Legend of Zorro and The Princess Bride.
He also donned Darth Vader's iconic black costume to perform the character's light saber bouts in the three original Star Wars movies
. Anderson is survived by his wife Pearl and three children.
- 1/2/2012
- WENN
London — Olympic fencer and movie sword master Bob Anderson appeared in some of film's most famous dueling scenes – though few viewers knew it.
Anderson, who has died at age 89, donned Darth Vader's black helmet and fought light saber battles in two of the three original "Star Wars" films, "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi."
Anderson, who worked with actors from Errol Flynn to Antonio Banderas during five decades as a sword master, fight director and stunt performer, died early New Year's Day at an English hospital, the British Academy of Fencing said Monday.
Vader, "Star Wars'" intergalactic arch-villain, was voiced by James Earl Jones and played by six foot six (1.98 meter) former weightlifter David Prowse, but Anderson stepped in during the key fight scenes.
"David Prowse wasn't very good with a sword and Bob couldn't get him to do the moves," said Anderson's former assistant, Leon Hill.
Anderson, who has died at age 89, donned Darth Vader's black helmet and fought light saber battles in two of the three original "Star Wars" films, "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi."
Anderson, who worked with actors from Errol Flynn to Antonio Banderas during five decades as a sword master, fight director and stunt performer, died early New Year's Day at an English hospital, the British Academy of Fencing said Monday.
Vader, "Star Wars'" intergalactic arch-villain, was voiced by James Earl Jones and played by six foot six (1.98 meter) former weightlifter David Prowse, but Anderson stepped in during the key fight scenes.
"David Prowse wasn't very good with a sword and Bob couldn't get him to do the moves," said Anderson's former assistant, Leon Hill.
- 1/2/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
An avid podcast listener (like me) could hardly stumble across better news today than this fresh item from the Zellner Bros: "Mike Plante has great taste and a vast knowledge of film. His venture Cinemad has been many wonderful things; a zine, a blog, a DVD almanac, a distributor and podcast. His latest podcast installment interviews the Zb's, hopefully we did it justice. A lot of important issues were covered from Sasquatches to Salo to Chuck Berry."
What's more, this is Cinemad's sixth podcast and, as it happens, for nearly every one of them, there's a relevant upcoming event worth noting. David and Nathan Zellner's new feature, Kid-Thing, for example, will be making its premiere at Sundance in a few weeks. As for the other five:
Nina Menkes. We've got a cinema devoted to her films even now; its virtual doors are open through July.
Azazel Jacobs. His touching...
What's more, this is Cinemad's sixth podcast and, as it happens, for nearly every one of them, there's a relevant upcoming event worth noting. David and Nathan Zellner's new feature, Kid-Thing, for example, will be making its premiere at Sundance in a few weeks. As for the other five:
Nina Menkes. We've got a cinema devoted to her films even now; its virtual doors are open through July.
Azazel Jacobs. His touching...
- 1/2/2012
- MUBI
Bob Anderson, a former Olympic swordsman who staged fights for films including the Star Wars and Lord of the Rings series, has died, British fencing authorities said Monday. He was 89. The British Academy of Fencing said Monday that Anderson died early New Year’s Day at an English hospital.
Anderson donned Darth Vader’s black helmet and fought light saber battles in two of the three original Star Wars films, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.
The villainous character was played by David Prowse and voiced by James Earl Jones, and Anderson’s role was not initially publicized.
Anderson donned Darth Vader’s black helmet and fought light saber battles in two of the three original Star Wars films, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.
The villainous character was played by David Prowse and voiced by James Earl Jones, and Anderson’s role was not initially publicized.
- 1/2/2012
- by Associated Press
- EW - Inside Movies
It has been confirmed that Bob Anderson passed away peacefully yesterday in hospital The British Academy of Fencing reports. He was 89. He's best known for his work as a sword master or trainer on The Lord of the Rings trilogy, the original Star Wars movies, Highlander, The Three Musketeers, The Legend of Zorro, Die Another Day and many, many more (including The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey). Digital Spy point out a 1983 interview with Mark Hamill in which he revealed that it was Anderson who was in the Darth Vader costume during A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi's lightsabre battles, not David Prowse. "Bob Anderson was the man who actually did Vader's fighting. It was always supposed to be a secret, but I finally told [George Lucas] I didn't think it was fair anymore. Bob worked so bloody hard that he deserves some recognition.
- 1/2/2012
- ComicBookMovie.com
Sword master Bob Anderson has died at the age of 89. The fighting trainer was best known for his work on Star Wars and Lord of the Rings - the latter of which involved the crafting of various fighting styles for the different races. Anderson played Darth Vader during the lightsaber duels in the original Star Wars trilogy. The former British competitive fencer passed away peacefully in hospital at 4am on January 1, reports The British Academy of Fencing. Mark Hamill highlighted Anderson's contribution to Star Wars for the first time in a 1983 interview. "Bob (more)...
- 1/2/2012
- by By Hugh Armitage
- Digital Spy
Some sad news to kick off 2012’s movie reporting: the team over at TheOneRing has announced that Bob Anderson, the stunts and sword fighting legend who worked on some of the best cinematic scraps across seven decades, has died at the age of 89.Having started working with the likes of Errol Flynn, Anderson’s work has been seen by millions of moviegoers. Chances are if you’ve enjoyed great filmic sword action in the last few decades, you were watching something choreographed and fine-tuned by Anderson. His list of credits includes First Knight, several Bond movies, Highlander, the more recent Zorro films and the first Pirates Of The Caribbean outing. He also made the swordplay on The Princess Bride into something special.But he’s probably best known for his work on two massive trilogies: Star Wars, for which he performed as Darth Vader during lightsaber fights and tutored cast members on their technique,...
- 1/2/2012
- EmpireOnline
Geoffrey Rush, who has played Captain Jack Sparrow's nemesis -- the irascible swashbuckler Barbossa – in all four "Pirates of the Caribbean" movies (including the latest, "On Stranger Tides"), was an Australian stage actor who was elevated to A-list status when he won an Oscar, Golden Globe every other award imaginable for 1996's "Shine."
The accolades haven't stopped for Rush. He's been O-nommed since for "Shakespeare in Love," "Quills" and most recently for his role as an eccentric speech therapist opposite Colin Firth's royal in "The King's Speech." He's also had big fun in films such as "Mystery Men" and "Finding Nemo," and he'll be the voice of that scaly green fish-faced alien scientist Tomar-Re in the upcoming "Green Lantern."
Rush talks with NextMovie about Barbossa's "marriage" to Johnny Depp's Capt. Jack and the truth about his "Pirates" pension plan.
You've described Barbossa's relationship to Jack Sparrow as being like a marriage.
The accolades haven't stopped for Rush. He's been O-nommed since for "Shakespeare in Love," "Quills" and most recently for his role as an eccentric speech therapist opposite Colin Firth's royal in "The King's Speech." He's also had big fun in films such as "Mystery Men" and "Finding Nemo," and he'll be the voice of that scaly green fish-faced alien scientist Tomar-Re in the upcoming "Green Lantern."
Rush talks with NextMovie about Barbossa's "marriage" to Johnny Depp's Capt. Jack and the truth about his "Pirates" pension plan.
You've described Barbossa's relationship to Jack Sparrow as being like a marriage.
- 5/10/2011
- by Elizabeth Snead
- NextMovie
A school becomes the backdrop for gory Brit horror F, written and directed by Johannes Roberts. For Duncan, it’s a short, sharp shock to the system…
At the core of F is a central theme that will strike a chord with anyone who's ever worked in contemporary education and, in a broader sense, anyone who's ever been frustrated at work. So, that's most of us, then.
F seems born from the out of frustrating political correctness that dominates our world with its ‘softly softly' approach, an outlook backed up by endless litigation from those who sue when burnt by boiling hot water, even if they did spill it on themselves.
Here the film is based around a hard working teacher, Robert Anderson (played by David Schofield), whose life and self esteem are ruined after a violent incident involving a student, even though the act of violence is perpetrated against him.
At the core of F is a central theme that will strike a chord with anyone who's ever worked in contemporary education and, in a broader sense, anyone who's ever been frustrated at work. So, that's most of us, then.
F seems born from the out of frustrating political correctness that dominates our world with its ‘softly softly' approach, an outlook backed up by endless litigation from those who sue when burnt by boiling hot water, even if they did spill it on themselves.
Here the film is based around a hard working teacher, Robert Anderson (played by David Schofield), whose life and self esteem are ruined after a violent incident involving a student, even though the act of violence is perpetrated against him.
- 9/16/2010
- Den of Geek
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