The renowned Star Wars franchise is known for its remarkable production design and costumes, which includes the iconic Stormtrooper uniforms that are instantly recognizable and deeply connected to millions of fans’ childhood memories. When Star Wars: The Force Awakens was announced, a new character named Captain Phasma was introduced, donning a stunning and unique chrome outfit with a flowing red-striped cape.
Interestingly, this iconic costume was not originally intended for Captain Phasma. The design was initially meant for Adam Driver’s character, Kylo Ren. However, director JJ Abrams felt that it did not suit Kylo Ren’s character, and the idea was rejected. But producer Kathleen Kennedy admired the design and insisted on incorporating it into the film. Hence, the costume found its way onto Captain Phasma, making her look one of the most striking in the Star Wars universe.
In the documentary, costume designer Michael Kaplan explained how the design caught Kennedy’s attention and earned its place in the movie. He showcased beautiful illustrations of Kylo Ren in a silver outfit, which intrigued Kennedy. Although Kylo Ren didn’t wear the costume, the knight in shining armor concept left a strong impression on her, and she was determined to have it featured in the film.
Captain Phasma’s appearance indeed became iconic, but unfortunately, her character’s potential was not fully realized in the movies. Similar to Boba Fett from earlier films, Phasma seemed to have untapped potential that the writers couldn’t fully explore on screen. In The Last Jedi, her character met an unceremonious end. Nevertheless, with the franchise’s tendency to revive characters, there remains a possibility for Captain Phasma’s return in the future.
Fans can witness Captain Phasma’s impressive look in The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi, both available on Disney+.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Star Wars costume
What is the significance of Captain Phasma’s chrome outfit in Star Wars: The Force Awakens?
Captain Phasma’s chrome outfit in Star Wars: The Force Awakens is iconic and visually striking. Originally intended for Kylo Ren, it became a masterpiece due to producer Kathleen Kennedy’s insistence on including it in the film. The outfit, with its flowing red-striped cape, is instantly recognizable as one of the standout costumes in the Star Wars universe.
Why was Captain Phasma’s outfit not initially meant for her character?
The chrome outfit with the red-striped cape was originally designed for Kylo Ren, but director JJ Abrams felt it didn’t suit the character. However, producer Kathleen Kennedy loved the design and ensured it found its way onto Captain Phasma, giving her a visually stunning appearance.
How did the idea of using the chrome outfit come about?
The costume designer, Michael Kaplan, created beautiful illustrations of Kylo Ren in a silver outfit. Although the idea wasn’t used for Kylo Ren, Kathleen Kennedy was fascinated by the knight in shining armor concept and insisted on having it featured in the film, leading to its adoption for Captain Phasma.
What happened to Captain Phasma’s character in the Star Wars movies?
Despite her striking appearance, Captain Phasma’s character didn’t receive the development many fans had hoped for. In The Last Jedi, she met an unceremonious end, similar to Boba Fett from earlier films. However, given the franchise’s tendency to resurrect characters, there may be a chance for her return in the future.
Where can fans watch Captain Phasma in action?
Fans can watch Captain Phasma in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi on Disney+. Her visually stunning chrome outfit and role as a Stormtrooper captain can be enjoyed in these films.
More about Star Wars costume
- Star Wars: The Force Awakens—Behind the Scenes (documentary): Link
- Star Wars: The Force Awakens on Disney+: Link
- Star Wars: The Last Jedi on Disney+: Link
