Unafraid of the Dark

Image credit: Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones: © & TM/Lucasfilm Ltd.

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Star Wars: Episode II -- Attack of the Clones

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How?
Ewan was always able to lighten up a situation. And there were odd moments. My pants split numerous times, right up to my crotch. It happened over and over when I was doing jumps. So there was always something to laugh at, even if it was me. Making a ''Star Wars'' is the most pleasant experience you could ask for.

Not sure everyone would say that. ''Episode I'' had Liam Neeson talking retirement.
Yeah, I remember. I was probably more accepting of the things that weren't, uh, typical, since I had more experience on stage [than in movies]. Maybe I'll feel differently when I see my performance. [Laughs] And I'll go, ''Those a--holes!''

What piece of ''Star Wars'' merchandise would you most dread seeing your face on?
Uh, probably Pepsi cans. I like Pepsi and I just don't think I could drink one that has my face on it.

You costarred in last year's ''Life as a House'' and are in the middle of a pretty tough play. Do you feel pressure to showcase your versatility before this role defines you?
I'm just letting it be. You can't control how the public sees you or wants to see you. I'm going to go after the roles I want to play. Still, actors are associated with one or two roles. People say, ''De Niro? 'Raging Bull' or 'Taxi Driver.''' But I think Darth Vader is a cool role to be defined by.

When did you first see ''Star Wars''?
I was 7 or 8. My brother sat me down and played all three [on video]. He was torn about me getting the part. You can't be the spectre of evil to the guy who beat the crap outta you.

Last question. This is important. Jar Jar Binks -- where do you come down?
Uh, okay. I actually am, uh, a big fan. [Laughs] Seriously, I can see why people have distaste for him, but I thought [the character] was appropriate considering the audience ''Episode I'' was directed at. It's really a question of whether you can create a digital character that you can care for. They [usually] don't deliver. I mean, how do you hug Jar Jar?

Good question.
It's very bizarre. Even when he's standing still, he's moving. When you're hugging nothing, you still have to rock along with him. You end up feeling like an ass.

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