JULY 10, 2000

GILLARD TALKS SW2 FIGHTING STYLES OFFICIAL


Episode II Stunt Coordinator Nick Gillard talks all about the different fighting styles we'll be seeing in the next movie in StarWars.com's latest update. Check out this revealing and slightly long excerpt below. And then head on over to StarWars.com for the full story.


"Mace Windu's fighting abilities are second only to Yoda," Gillard smirked. "If he gets within range, there's no question... you're dead." Gillard recently worked with Mace Windu actor, Samuel L. Jackson, on this summer's Shaft. "Sam's a good friend and he's such a fantastic presence. He arrived in Australia on Friday, but his first day is today. I'm anxious to see what he'll do."
Fans will be anxious to see Anakin Skywalker, the man who will be Darth Vader, in action. "Of course, he's the chosen one," whispered Gillard. "The audience will want to see that manifest itself. There needs to be flashes of brilliance. He's more skilled than Obi-Wan. Anakin always attacks. He's better and he knows it, which means he's brash on occasion."

Actor Hayden Christensen, playing Anakin as a young adult, has been in Sydney for about a month. "I've spent four weeks training with him. Gillard said. "He's fantastic. Not only is he a brilliant actor, but he has brilliant balance. He has all the ability, he's just so good. Hayden and Ewan will both be doing all of their own stunts and swordfighting."

According to Gillard, Ewan McGregor's fierce-fighting Obi-Wan Kenobi quickly returned to his Phantom form, but what about the vague references to Yoda in action? "I can't talk about that one yet," Gillard replied coyly.

Gillard is considering every aspect of movement from animation to ballet. "We spoke to Dominic Crisasak about classical kendo styles and Michale Smuin about ballet styles," says Gillard. "But I have one message for the Star Wars fans: "I'm trying my best to keep you happy with this one." Considering the public's reaction to the amazing stunts in Episode I, there should be a lot to be happy about.