In the Star Wars prequel trilogy, Anakin Skywalker’s appearance changes with each episode, but the transformation from Episode II: Attack of the Clones to Episode III: Revenge of the Sith is especially notable.
During this period, Anakin evolves from a Padawan to a mature Jedi Knight. This change in appearance was a deliberate choice by George Lucas to foreshadow Anakin’s eventual separation from the Jedi Order.
Keep reading to discover the details behind George Lucas’s vision for Anakin’s evolving look.
I’ve gathered insights that explain why Anakin’s appearance was designed this way.
So, without further ado…
Table of Contents
Anakin’s Evolving Appearance Over Time
In the Prequel Trilogy, specifically from Episode II: Attack of the Clones, Anakin’s appearance resembles that of a Jedi padawan. This look is similar to Obi-Wan in Episode I, when he was the padawan of Qui-Gon Jinn.
By Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, Anakin’s style has evolved, and he appears more like a Jedi master.
This transformation is explained by the events of the Star Wars: The Clone Wars series, which takes place between Episode II and Episode III.
The experiences Anakin undergoes during the Clone Wars shape him into the more mature figure we see in Episode III.
George Lucas Intended to Change Anakin’s Look in Episode III
In the concept art for Revenge of the Sith by Ian McCaig, we see how Anakin’s appearance was envisioned. McCaig mentioned, “George wanted Anakin to look more like Qui-Gon Jinn, to show that he was going beyond what Obi-Wan was teaching him—hence the long hair.”
This makes more sense when we consider the Star Wars timeline. After the Clone Wars series, Anakin was no longer just Obi-Wan’s padawan. By Episode III, Obi-Wan had been promoted to the rank of Master.
Furthermore, Anakin had become a Jedi Knight with Ahsoka as his apprentice.
If you’ve finished the Clone Wars series, you know that Anakin’s journey took him from a Jedi padawan to a Jedi Knight, and then to a Jedi General leading the 501st Legion of Clone Troopers against the Separatist Droids.
Through all these experiences, Anakin evolved significantly. His longer hair, darker clothing, and more mature appearance in Revenge of the Sith are a direct reflection of his growth and the challenges he faced during the Clone Wars.
Anakin’s Unique Appearance That Stands Out from the Jedi Order
In “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith,” Anakin’s appearance changes significantly from “Episode II – Attack of the Clones.”
This transformation isn’t just physical; it also hints at his growing separation from the Jedi Order.
Despite the lack of a strict dress code, most Jedi wear similar styles, as seen with the Jedi Council members in their traditional robes.
Anakin, however, stands out with his darker attire. His black clothing symbolizes his departure from Jedi norms and foreshadows his fall to the dark side.
Anakin’s changing appearance also marks his rebellion against the Jedi Order.
After being denied the rank of Jedi Master by the Council and feeling mistrusted by Padmé, Anakin’s disillusionment grows.
These rejections push him further towards the dark side, and his distinct look reflects his internal struggle and separation from the Jedi.