Force Stasis Power of Kylo Ren: An Interpretive Link to Darth Vader
The mysterious villain from the Star Wars sequel trilogy, Kylo Ren, is well-known for his great respect of his grandfather, Darth Vader. This respect transcends simple reverence to include imitation of some of Vader's most famous skills. Force Stasis is one such ability that emphasizes Kylo Ren's link to Vader's legacy by a potent technique.
Force Stasis: A flexible capacity
Not a new ability in the Star Wars universe is Force Stasis—that ability to momentarily "freeze" objects or events in time. Although fans first thought it to be a fresh ability when Kylo Ren used it in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," other Force users in different eras have shown it most famously by Darth Vader himself.
Jedi's Mastery of Force Stasis
In the comic book "Darth Vader" by Charles Soule and Giuseppe Camuncoli, Vader exhibits his mastery of Force Stasis. In issue #2, Vader buys time to flee the blast by stopping a grenade from detonating using Force Stasis. Later, in issue #20, he shows the offensive power of the power by stopping a pair of renegade Inquisitors' attacks midway-swing and rerouting their own blades against one another.
Applications for Force Stasis
Force Stasis turns out to be a flexible ability having both defensive and offensive uses. Real-time stopping of an opponent's attack can help to essentially neutralize blaster shots, grenades, or even lightsaber strikes. Moreover, as Vader demonstrates, it can be used to turn an opponent's attack against the Force user, so turning a possible threat into a weapon.
Emulating Darth Vader, Kylo Ren
Kylo Ren's great respect of Darth Vader transcends simple appreciation. He deliberately tries to be like his grandfather, absorbing aspects of Vader's look, attitude, and skills. Ren's relentless respect of Vader's legacy includes using his signature ability, Force Stasis.
Symbolic Link
Kylo Ren links himself symbolically to Darth Vader by learning Force Stasis. Given that Vader is among the few Sith Lords recorded to have used the power wisely, this link is particularly strong. Kylo Ren's acceptance of this capacity highlights his aim to not only live up to Vader's standards but also to carry on his legacy.
Legacy of Darth Vader
The legacy of Darth Vader is multifarious, combining tragedy with power. Kylo Ren's acceptance of his grandfather's talents emphasizes the attraction and the risks of power, especially when applied for personal advantage and control. Kylo Ren reminds viewers of the possibility for atonement, as seen in his final acceptance of the light side, while also reflecting the seductive character of dark side ideas in his search to become a new Vader.
In summary, a forceful legacy
Adoption of Force Stasis by Kylo Ren acts as a physical reminder of his close relationship to Darth Vader and his aim to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather. This link emphasizes the complexity of legacy and the force of influence, so reflecting both symbolic and pragmatic aspects. It emphasizes the ongoing influence of Darth Vader, a person who still shapes the futures of next generations.
