Darth Vader helmet - The Empire Strikes Back Comparison

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  • Опубліковано 9 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 160

  • @rhinograph
    @rhinograph Рік тому +53

    The A New Hope version had the most aggressive look. The widow's peak and the helmet obscuring the eyebrows a bit just gives it a meaner and more intimidating (IMO) expression, which is why it's my personal favorite of all of the Vader helmets.

    • @cesarmedina7080
      @cesarmedina7080 Рік тому +2

      I agree 100%. Something about the gun metal gray makes it look good in my opinion as well. New Hope is definitely a meaner looking mask/helmet.

    • @coledakers6127
      @coledakers6127 6 місяців тому

      1:01

  • @skylx0812
    @skylx0812 Рік тому +16

    The Empire Strikes Back helmet seems made to suit the lighting in the film especially the moody setting of the cave on Degoba and the Cloud City interiors. There's a lot of lighting through grillwork from above and below and it reflected very nicely off of the shinier helmet.
    I think it gave the sets a grander scale. And whereas the rest of the cast were always in motion in action scenes Vader just had to stand there and exhude a presance.

    • @peppermillers8361
      @peppermillers8361 Рік тому +2

      exactly. The scene with him looking out from his Star Destroyer wouldn't have been the same if he didn't have shiny reflections all over his helmet in my opinion.

  • @hunterkiller1440
    @hunterkiller1440 Рік тому +28

    I prefer ESB helmet more. It feels more dominating and bombastic, ANH helmet feels more stealth like.

  • @chibang492
    @chibang492 Рік тому +23

    Of all the versions of D.V helmits and masks, i like the Empire Strikes Back version the best. I also like the Empire Strikes Back suit and chest plate the best as well.

  • @jb0078887
    @jb0078887 Рік тому +8

    R1/ANH every time. I love the refinements in R1 that add to the ANH. ANH just looks so much more menacing.

  • @DrFranklynAnderson
    @DrFranklynAnderson 11 місяців тому +3

    I remember, as a kid, recognizing the glass that they made ANH Vader’s eyes from. We had an old TV remote control where the front plastic bit covering the infrared diode was cracked a bit, and it had that exact same “very very dark but actually brownish red when the light hit it from certain angles” look. It bugged me in Rogue One how they went full-on X-Men Cyclops Sunglasses red with the lenses.

    • @dan_hitchman007
      @dan_hitchman007 8 місяців тому +1

      I believe they were using Ray Ban type sunglass material, which often had that more dark amber color in the lenses.

  • @coltseavers6298
    @coltseavers6298 Рік тому +6

    Agreed.
    I so much prefer A New Hope helmet.
    The duller finish helps give it a more evil and mysterious feel than the shinier, ceremonial, parade ground helmet.

  • @stevenclubb7718
    @stevenclubb7718 Рік тому +7

    The case I'd make for the shinier helmet is you can use lighting and reflections to convey emotion, as the helmet isn't completely static.

  • @taldynamo8298
    @taldynamo8298 Рік тому +9

    I could watch these videos all day. Thanks for everything you guys do for the Vader community!

  • @H3RM1T_CR4B
    @H3RM1T_CR4B Рік тому +9

    Vaders first appearance on screen with the matte finish and amber hue of Vaders lenses make ANH the iconic helmet it will always be.
    Although could you imagine if Vader looked 100 percent what Ralph Macquarie had drawn on paper.

    • @JJohnston4Life
      @JJohnston4Life Рік тому

      His "first" appearance was in ROT, technically.

    • @H3RM1T_CR4B
      @H3RM1T_CR4B Рік тому +5

      @@JJohnston4Life My comment was regarding the first time Darth Vader was ever seen in a film. The first time moviegoers saw Vader on screen was in Episode IV: A New Hope. I'm not talking about the first time Darth Vader was placed in the suit in Episode III.

    • @MedicAthlete24W
      @MedicAthlete24W Рік тому +5

      ⁠@@JJohnston4Lifelast I checked 1977 came before 2005

    • @HayK47
      @HayK47 Рік тому +1

      @@MedicAthlete24Whence the “first”

  • @Workerbee-zy5nx
    @Workerbee-zy5nx Рік тому +1

    The skirting was trimmed up on Jedi. I gathered Vader had a collection of his helmets stored in his rooms, and he changed em out for the occasion.

  • @DeadAbeVigoda
    @DeadAbeVigoda Рік тому +3

    I like the more exposed eyebrows of the ESB model. It gives the helmet more of a human expression. By that same token, I suppose, it does make the ANH helmet look comparatively more battle-hardened as you said.

  • @AnadracOrganWorks
    @AnadracOrganWorks 10 місяців тому +1

    The first way is always the right/best way. The New Hope version is what I grew up with and I'm glad it was brought back for Rouge.

  • @commandercaptain4664
    @commandercaptain4664 Рік тому +8

    Empire’s looks more slim and sleek, whereas New Hope’s is more brawny and imposing. I can’t decide which is better. I want both!

  • @steveempire4625
    @steveempire4625 Рік тому +28

    ESB helmet is shinier and more artistic as a way of showing Vader's promotion and standing within the Empire. It's more ceremonial than the more combat-helmet of ANH.

  • @elzibiel
    @elzibiel Рік тому +2

    I liked ANH's helmet more than the later ones. The overall helmet design is a winner in all incarnations, it's just that good. But the subtle differences in ANH result in a helmet that makes Vader just look meaner, more aggressive, more angry, more blunt than the other variations. Add to that how he just seems to act more aggressive in ANH than any other of the orig trig, and you've got one scary villain there.

  • @thewayministries1652
    @thewayministries1652 3 місяці тому

    Excellent video!! I have always noticed the difference between the two but have been a fan of the Empire helmet as I think it looks MUCH better! Thanks again for the video!

  • @AlexandreOliveira1974
    @AlexandreOliveira1974 Рік тому +2

    Nice!! I've noticed, almost unawarely, some differences here and there (lenses, 'eyebrows') in the many times I watched the movies, but it's interesting to see you pointing them out in such a technical way, let's say. Greetings from São Paulo, Brazil.

  • @Llkc60
    @Llkc60 Рік тому +3

    I always preferred Vader's look including the helmet in the empire strikes back. It might have to do with how they are going for a more demonic image of him, also showing his merciless cruelty and machine like dedication to further the empire's goals. We also get more shots from below especially in the iconic "I'm your father" scene, where the new helmet looks better and more intimidating.
    Another thing i noticed is that in empire strikes back the helmet just send to fit the actor better, this applies to the mask in rogue one, where it almost seems to wobble on the actor's head

    • @michaelhoward142
      @michaelhoward142 Рік тому +1

      In the "I'm your father" scene of TESB, the back piece (neck guard) of the helmet definitely wobbles in the wind. I can't help but notice it every time I watch the film.

    • @Llkc60
      @Llkc60 Рік тому +1

      @@michaelhoward142 hm, you are completely right, I stand corrected. I never noticed the actual wobbling and I have seen that scene countless times... (is it intentional though?)
      I watched the rogue one scene again, and there is no 'wobbling', It's hard for me to put my finger on it: somehow some of the movements of the helmet feels off, like it was too big, but maybe it's just me. Don't get me wrong, I was really happy to see him back on the big screen.

  • @jezzalexander
    @jezzalexander Рік тому +1

    This was a really cool watch. I always knew there were differences between the various helmet designs in the films but being lazily unobservant never really paid attention to the details of what they actually were, I could just tell which one was which from each film (original trilogy at least) so was really good to get a point by point.

  • @BrendanYoungMusic
    @BrendanYoungMusic 5 місяців тому

    One other thing to note, the ESB has a SLIGHTLY shorter dome height overall, with the bottom edge not extending quite as far as the ANH version

  • @rastanz
    @rastanz Рік тому +1

    I personally prefer the slightly matte look of the new hope version, it has more of a weathered used aesthetic look to it. Both awesome looking versions with the shiny empire helmet but the new hope looks more menacing to me because of the lower brim line of the helmet.
    The chin grill looks bigger and the helmet thinner on the empire version too.
    MTFBWY.

  • @aardwolfweb
    @aardwolfweb Рік тому +1

    I always wished they had used the McQuarrie concept design for the RotS Vader reveal.

  • @Ro6entX
    @Ro6entX Рік тому

    Think the lenses in ANH is more of a dark amber color; I can’t remember the exact scene but when Vader is chasing Luke in the Death Star trench, the lightening shows the lens are more red than black, and you can see the actors real eye too.

  • @lander77477
    @lander77477 4 місяці тому +1

    I'm buying one, I have to. The ESB version for me. What an amazing replica, worthy of having a 35mm panavision movie camera pointed at it

  • @tperson8347
    @tperson8347 Рік тому +2

    The STAR WARS (77) helmet is my favorite out of all three.
    I love the original face mask better also,
    I think it looks angrier than the others.

  • @justinhaynes1085
    @justinhaynes1085 Рік тому +1

    ANH. Like you said and a more menacing true Vader vibe. Of course the first to impact me in 77

  • @DH-bw2rx
    @DH-bw2rx Рік тому +1

    Great video! I have your ESB helmet and love it. Building a 501st ESB Vader suit and I started with the thing that would keep me motivated for the process, your helmet and chest armor. Looking forward to the ROTJ helmet video! 😎

  • @josh1045
    @josh1045 Рік тому +1

    Great video! I remember the first time as a kid I noticed the helmets were different, I felt so betrayed!!! Haha. Hopefully one day we can see every iteration of his helmet all in one lineup! Cheers friend!

  • @gpgpgpgp1000
    @gpgpgpgp1000 Рік тому +1

    I would like the New Hope version, but with the shine of the Empire version.

  • @harlanabraham7772
    @harlanabraham7772 Рік тому

    The one that wasn't from A New Hope was my favorite. Larger area so Mr. Prowse could see his marks better helps the actor.

  • @Tar-Numendil
    @Tar-Numendil Рік тому +3

    I also prefer the ANH version because of how low the dome sits.

  • @Nerd_Squadron
    @Nerd_Squadron Рік тому +1

    Definitely need to add one of these to the collection!

  • @SmallGreenPlanetoid
    @SmallGreenPlanetoid Рік тому

    I prefer the mean look of the ANH version. I love the gloss on the ESB but I dislike how it doesn't look as intimidating unless it's from a very low angle.

  • @stephenburns429
    @stephenburns429 Рік тому +1

    i've noticed these differences for a long time. i've always appreciated the rough and dull appearance of the mask and helmet in "a new hope". the subsequent glossiness didn't fit the character, in my opinion.

  • @sarlaccbreath7701
    @sarlaccbreath7701 Рік тому +5

    New hope - no shiny car crap. Just all business haha
    Great video

    • @michaelhoward142
      @michaelhoward142 Рік тому

      Exactly! Shiny and polished has too much of a "look at me!" pomposity to it. I MUCH prefer the "form follows function" look.

  • @BlackAdder1970
    @BlackAdder1970 Рік тому

    I like the New Hope version but with a bit more shine to it and the bigger grill under the chin from TESB version

  • @Alzrad
    @Alzrad Рік тому +1

    Your “new hope” Vader needs more handprints

  • @michaelangelioliebers7601
    @michaelangelioliebers7601 Рік тому

    I'm a very big collector of star wars and met characters at San Diego Comic Con and won a star wars figurines its the Original 1977 New Hope Of Darth Vader helmet and I own a Imperial Stoormtropper helmet.

  • @sgttau977
    @sgttau977 Рік тому

    It would be interesting to see Darth Vader using that new super dark black they now have.

  • @okradiohead7430
    @okradiohead7430 11 місяців тому

    There are cinematic qualities to the ESB version that convey character better. I think that's appropriate for the film. The shiny aspect is used to great effect, and it's something that had to be carefully taken into account when lighting and shooting. But yeah, the ANH version is more intimidating and I love it.
    Personally, I think the respective designs fit the arc of the story in a way for each film. We go into ESB thinking he's no more than a big scary thug not realizing there is way more to this guy than what we've been told. I think the change pays off when the Falcon goes to light speed at the end and Vader gives a conflicted double take at the sea of stars his son just disappeared into.

  • @USAwarrior500
    @USAwarrior500 Рік тому

    I really like both versions of the Darth Vader helmets however I have the Empire Strikes Back version of this helmet! for Cosplay and Reenactment purposes for the group I'm a part of and for Halloween every year! Great video I appreciate you very much I'm now a new subscriber to your channel! May the Force be with you!!

  • @j-prins61
    @j-prins61 11 місяців тому

    I really like the shiny Empire one but I wish the dark red lenses wouldve stayed cause they look very intimidating

  • @shhtha
    @shhtha Рік тому +7

    Totally agree. Always preferred the 'a new hope' helmet

  • @skyrider4789
    @skyrider4789 Рік тому +1

    I love both helmets equally, as they're both masterpieces representing different times of Vader's life.
    One question: the mesh patter behind the lenses of the ESB helmet, is that a Skunkworks interpretation or did the actual screen-used prop have them?
    I have two Don Post Deluxe Vaders (which are cast from screen used helmet) and that's a detail which wasn't included, so I'm curious. Thanks!

    • @SkunkworksProps
      @SkunkworksProps  Рік тому +2

      The mesh behind the lenses is something that's used by costumers as it helps prevent people from seeing their eyes through the mask. We add it to all helmets that will be used as part of a costume. It's not present on the original prop though so we leave it out if someone wants a helmet as a display piece.

    • @skyrider4789
      @skyrider4789 Рік тому +1

      @@SkunkworksProps That's cool. Thanks for the reply & good work! 🙏

  • @dazthedarklord774
    @dazthedarklord774 Рік тому +6

    Totally agree with you mate. It's always been the ANH lid for me. Looks more sinister and mean.

  • @RobbieHaydtLMAO
    @RobbieHaydtLMAO Рік тому

    You guys GOTTA start the Kenobi helmet!!

  • @lake_cooper
    @lake_cooper Рік тому

    The Samurai structure is better, but I always like the shinier reflection of the latter version. So I'd prefer the 1st version with the polished color. I understand the conflict in "theory", but the shine of Vader's image always appeals to me in scenes, especially with all the light and dark contrasts on set.

  • @6gunn13
    @6gunn13 Рік тому

    ANH will ALWAYS be the iconic and definitive Darth Vader. OG all day!

  • @chasemiles2166
    @chasemiles2166 Рік тому +1

    I really like how Rogue One, and Kenobi modernized the A New Hope design. So yes, I prefer the A New Hope design.

  • @worldwideinterests1
    @worldwideinterests1 Рік тому

    The A New Hope helmet does look tougher. If you do another it might be nice to actually show the details you're talking about, while you're talking about them.

  • @machinesnoires
    @machinesnoires Рік тому

    Love the ESB one. And the ROTJ was quite perfect also. (maybe the same than ESB?)

  • @spockboy
    @spockboy Рік тому +1

    Agreed, the NEW HOPE helmet is far more intimidating.

  • @RodCornholio
    @RodCornholio Рік тому

    I like the evil, skull-like, blackness of the ESB version and the design. It seems just a tad small at times. If it could retain all the qualities but be, say, 5% larger, it would be more imposing and proportional sitting on the broad shoulder lines of the armor/cape.

    • @SkunkworksProps
      @SkunkworksProps  Рік тому

      It's worth noting that Vader's armour changes throughout ESB. It's set up a little differently for the Cloud City scenes so it's wider, which could be giving the impression you're getting. Obviously we need an armour comparison!

  • @Zakklovesfilms
    @Zakklovesfilms Рік тому

    I think people either forget or don’t think that the Darth Vader helmets are all different in every movie because they have to recreate it

  • @jamesn7156
    @jamesn7156 7 місяців тому

    Cool stuff. I think I prefer the Empire Strikes Back look, but probably only because I love that movie much better. They’re both very cool.

  • @ianfrancke9010
    @ianfrancke9010 Рік тому

    A new Hope Helmet looks more menacing which is what Vader instilled in his underlings Fear

  • @matthewhendy5785
    @matthewhendy5785 Рік тому

    I would almost feel star struck seeing one of those in real life! Like meeting someone famous!

  • @bgiles26
    @bgiles26 Рік тому

    Being a fan of Darth Vader, I have always liked his look, however, the look of Darth Vader changed because of.....Darth Vader. When ANH was released, Vader was more of a henchman serving Tarkin. Being a henchman, Vader didn't need a shiny uniform so the dull helmet, the red lens and the robes over the chest plate worked for the one doing the dirty work. After the release of ANH, Vader was quoting John Lennon, "bigger than Jesus" and he could not be a "henchman" in the next movie so they had to clean up his suit. The robe was now behind the chest plate, the lens were darker and the helmet was shine up because Vader was now of high importance. (of course this was because Lucas had to fix his flaws and Vader was his biggest flaw)

  • @thibaud1832
    @thibaud1832 Рік тому

    There was a shortage of Woodoo Hide around 0 BBY. Vader couldn’t get his hands on any due to budgetary restraints.

  • @maulekuul
    @maulekuul Рік тому

    No one is going to mention that there is at least one scene in Star Wars where you can clearly see David Prowse's eyes? They seemed to have fixed that in Empire. Also, pet peeve of mine, but I hate the name "A New Hope". It's just "Star Wars", thank you very much.

  • @evilzzzability
    @evilzzzability Рік тому

    IMO ESB is the best looking SW film and the ESB helmet well embodies that - it's sleeker, darker and the subtle redesign gives it more character.

  • @wadejacobs2011
    @wadejacobs2011 Рік тому

    I like the ANH version. Got the first Black Series helmet. There is no neck on it. I much prefer the New Hope/Kenobi look.

  • @cesarmedina7080
    @cesarmedina7080 Рік тому

    Im actually more curious about tbe differences between RTOJ and ESB Vader helmets.

    • @SkunkworksProps
      @SkunkworksProps  Рік тому

      We have that comparison too...you should take a look!

  • @steveleeart
    @steveleeart Рік тому

    What differences exist between say end of episode 3, Obi Kenobi series, end of rogue one and a new hope?

  • @MeniscoManeiro
    @MeniscoManeiro Місяць тому

    Sorry for the ignorance. What's the strange stormtrooper helmet?

  • @TANKTREAD
    @TANKTREAD Рік тому

    The helmet in "Empire" is just like the movie, superior in every way.

  • @genebaker511
    @genebaker511 Рік тому

    In Empire, the look also gives a more contrast comparison to Luke Skywalker's worn-out and tattered clothing throughout the film, where Vader is all clean and imposing.

  • @VirtualSG
    @VirtualSG Рік тому

    The helmet differences coincidentally reflect the overall difference between "A New Hope" and the rest of the franchise.
    The original Star Wars is a masterpiece action/adventure movie. There just isn't any wiggle-room for improvement 😁
    ua-cam.com/play/PLwfxx_7ZXUJgnss333QGbhsLwrxW6L5C0.html&si=TJY2DMdP33JFh1Ps

  • @cloverfield911
    @cloverfield911 Рік тому

    ESB mask looks more menacing! Def prefer ESB.
    I get it that Vader probably had many masks as back-ups.

  • @connorsimpson503
    @connorsimpson503 8 місяців тому +1

    The ANH helmet is better, looks more intimidating!

  • @TheAgentAssassin
    @TheAgentAssassin Рік тому

    STAR WARS 1977
    THAT IS THE NAME I SAW IN 1977 WHEN I WAS 8 YRS
    THIS "NEW HOPE" NAMING GETS UNDER MY SKIN.

  • @schnubbel76
    @schnubbel76 Рік тому

    A new hope is a bit more bulky and aggressive, straight forward, you know this guy means business. I was about to say it looks more menacing. But then again the empire helmet is more sleaky and devious, the "expression" leaves more room for interpretation what is going on behind the mask wich makes me feel very uncomfortable. I can not really decide, both are great in their own way.

  • @stratsteveo106
    @stratsteveo106 Рік тому

    Plus all the times he had that joint cut apart. He has to of had spares sitting around

  • @OriginalHologram
    @OriginalHologram Рік тому +1

    NEW HOPE 77 = OG GOAT

  • @batheavy2834
    @batheavy2834 Рік тому

    New Hope helmet has more of a gritty vibe👌

  • @melchiah_
    @melchiah_ Рік тому +1

    Are these both manufactured by EFX?

    • @SkunkworksProps
      @SkunkworksProps  Рік тому +2

      No, we make these.

    • @melchiah_
      @melchiah_ Рік тому

      ​@@SkunkworksPropsoh my bad I was half asleep when watching this earlier 😔, they look great!

  • @timparker533
    @timparker533 Рік тому

    I vote Rogue One. It’s got the shape of A New Hope, but the refined finish of Empire

  • @Morpheus0000
    @Morpheus0000 Рік тому

    The content seems fine, but the filming of the this is really frustrating. You don't see the comparative side by sides you should.

  • @bryanbishop2377
    @bryanbishop2377 Рік тому

    I have the Master Replica Ep III, and the Anovos Ep IV Vader helmets. I too prefer Ep IV.

  • @TruthnautBegins
    @TruthnautBegins 11 місяців тому

    A New Hope looked more like real life. Everything in Empire was fancied up.

  • @guitarmangordon.9286
    @guitarmangordon.9286 Рік тому

    New Hope to be sure.

  • @christianhoffman7407
    @christianhoffman7407 Рік тому

    You didnt allow enough time (or get a clear shot) for a thorough comparison.

  • @paulhugo1623
    @paulhugo1623 Рік тому

    New Hope... the later ones look like Vader is a bit 'surprised'.

  • @charliefedde3261
    @charliefedde3261 Рік тому

    Great, great video. Love it ✨👍👏👏👏👏👏

  • @marcustalman2756
    @marcustalman2756 Рік тому +1

    Brilliant ANH

  • @ibidesign
    @ibidesign Рік тому

    TESB all the way, baby. They also modified the helmet's flare a touch and increased the 'dome' of the TESB helmet.

  • @SmokeShow1971
    @SmokeShow1971 Рік тому

    I respectfully disagree. I love the look of both, but having watched the Star Wars movies dozens of times, Darth Vader looked the most terrifying, especially while sitting in his chamber pod, in "The Empire Strikes Back", which was also clearly the best Star Wars film of all time. "You have failed me for the last time, Admiral" is still iconic scene.

    • @SkunkworksProps
      @SkunkworksProps  Рік тому

      Respectful? On the internet? Are you new? Just kidding man, totally get why ESB is king for some folk, thanks for sharing your thoughts!

  • @waynebrowne1063
    @waynebrowne1063 Рік тому

    Definitely like the ESB helmet more

  • @markrichards5630
    @markrichards5630 Рік тому

    Wasn't the original also asymmetrical?

    • @SkunkworksProps
      @SkunkworksProps  Рік тому

      All of them except Revenge of the Sith are asymmetrical.

  • @CrashDesign
    @CrashDesign Рік тому

    Just both are awesome 😊

  • @michaellord9
    @michaellord9 Рік тому

    prefer ANH reminds of the initial impact and presence of Vader

  • @therealknapster
    @therealknapster Рік тому

    The original ' Star Wars ' no new hope B.S. being that he was never making a sequel let alone a trilogy ! The look being more superior and the lower to blend in with the material neck clothing and if course the fact everything is supposed to be old a worn in Star Wars . As I don't think he polished his helmet

  • @MrDogfish83
    @MrDogfish83 Рік тому

    Can somebody do a parody of this comparing star wars helmet vs spaceballs helmet

  • @Jawazplebs
    @Jawazplebs Рік тому

    I will watch any Vid of Vader helmet from you skunkworks props ..

  • @rabbitandcrow
    @rabbitandcrow 11 місяців тому

    Definitely ANH for me because it does look more like a helmet designed for battle.

  • @faisalmemon285
    @faisalmemon285 Рік тому

    Look, there’s more than which looks better. The actor who had to wear the helmet could breathe and see better in the ESB helmet. And the ESB helmet does look better. The shininess is better than the dull look of Star Wars (1977) and the over all costume is better in ESB, not just the helmet.

  • @thebob01
    @thebob01 15 днів тому

    I like them both

  • @sandorpazonyi8449
    @sandorpazonyi8449 Рік тому

    The most shiny helmet it's in the Return of the Jedi.

  • @crxmdx9199
    @crxmdx9199 Рік тому

    'The Empire Strikes Back' Vader helmet! His appearance, along with everyone elses, folks, is ANOTHER reason 'the Empire Strikes Back' is the GREATEST Star Wars movie EVER!! Remember, this movie raised the bar in terms of quality and expectations across the board! You know this to be true! 😉