• 27:23 - 30:51
Robert W. Sullivan IV | Cinema Symbolism 2, Occult Casting, & More Movie Magic
Max von Sydow, Star Wars and The Exorcist
The casting of Max von Sydow in Star Wars: The Force Awakens is analyzed as a reference to his roles in The Exorcist and Dune. By placing von Sydow in a desert setting where he is struck down by a dark lord, the filmmakers subconsciously link Kylo Ren to the demon Pazuzu and the savagery of the Harkonnens. This "adroit" casting serves to invest new characters with established occult or villainous traits.