In a Galaxy Far, Far Away, I Was Almost Anakin Skywalker | 'Almost Famous' by Op-Docs

[@ederbenavides27]

“Sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck”

[@mikejunior211]

Sometimes blessings come disguised as shortcomings.

[@RetrocadePodcast]

Amen to that, given how difficult life was for Jake Lloyd after playing the role. I wonder what George’s feeling are on that.

[@faisalmemon285]

@@RetrocadePodcast Yeah I think I saw an interview video where he was going to community college. Can’t George give him another million or two?

[@limitlesssky3050]

@@RetrocadePodcast he sold his studio to Disney because of all the criticisms, that's his reaction

[@jonathancooper4914]

Quite.

[@tyrannosaurusburke]

This isn't a story about self-sabotage. Devon tried his best, made it to the finals, and didn't get the part through no fault of his own. I admire him for not letting that rejection define the rest of his life.

[@MrDannyhak]

It's a story of self-sabotage on George's part..

[@TokyoXtreme]

There were many, MANY people who thought Devon was "the one" once they saw his audition. Even now... he still looks like "the real" Anakin Skywalker.

[@djd620]

well said

[@rogersisson8580]

What is really sad is that both actors lives were changed for the worse.

[@larniieplayz6285]

@@MrDannyhak I don’t think he would do that purposely

[@thalesrenato]

That deliver of "I won't always be" gave me chills, for real.

[@eyedunno8462]

That single line could have resonated and envigorated the whole prequel trilogy

[@thalesrenato]

@@eyedunno8462 He goes from that little kid to kind of a dark subtle tone and look. The kid knew who Anakin was. I like Jake tho, shame things ended badly.

[@BoYcLuE]

I thought the samething!

[@thalesrenato]

@@BoYcLuE Right?? The kid was on point!

[@dreamawake2670]

It had depth.

[@thebutterstick8659]

If I’m being honest, if I were George, I would’ve given the two losing boys a cameo or something just because of how crazy the idea of being in Star Wars is to young children.

[@FuzzyGlowCar]

Those throwaway parts were already given to George's three kids.

[@ScooterinAB]

Yeah. I would have stuck them in the movie or used my weight to try and get them into a different movie (Lucas was/is friends with Spielberg, for example). Granted, that would have been like getting a participation ribbon and a pat on the head, but Michael looked like he had a lot of talent, and it would have been cool if Lucas didn't let that go to waste. I wonder what the other kid's story is. There were 3 in the end after all.

[@quintus920]

@@ScooterinAB No need to go after George's weight now.

[@Schwansonian_Townsonian]

Nah, he decided to cast his own children......

[@ScooterinAB]

@@Schwansonian_Townsonian There are more than 3 or 4 children in the galaxy.

[@oriongear2499]

Jake Lloyd deserves a big apology from the fans who've bullied and harassed him for his role as Child Anakin (assuming those fans are still around).

[@mountaineernews2]

Fun fact the last time I checked I think Jake Lloyd is in prison I could be wrong, but I definitely remember him in prison

[@innocentrage1]

Not really, episode 1 sucked cuz of him and jar jar

[@AWinterLullaby]

@@innocentrage1 You're delusional if you think a movie sucks because of a child in it and not because of the decisions making people

[@OneGaurdian]

@@mountaineernews2 He's in a hospital. The guy has been struggling with schizophrenia his entire adult life.

[@mountaineernews2]

@@OneGaurdian interesting Glad he’s getting the help he needs.

[@duckywinks]

It’s strange, because looking at the auditions, he was clearly the best actor, and he deserved to get the part. And yet not getting it is the best thing that ever happened to him.

[@majorlazor5058]

I don't know if he was the best, but in retrospect he was the best for the role considering Hayden's choices.

[@jonathancooper4914]

Dodged a bullet on that score.

[@nicchris960]

I don’t agree I think jake did the best in the audition, jake was the most natural

[@mohammedmclovin4450]

In MY opinion, he was better than the third kid, but he kinda "UNDERacted". To be fair, I also feel Jake "OVERacted", but Jake did a bit better all things considered. In terms of looks though, he reminds me more of Hayden Christensen and Mark Hamill than Jake. It's sad (and somewhat weird) that being a part of something so magical had such a negative impact in both of their lives. I wonder how the third kid dealt with that as well. It's disgusting how toxic fans can be at times. I was a teenager back when EP 1 came out, a little older than them I think, and I really enjoyed the prequels. I disliked the sequels though, to the point of leaving EP 9 in the first 20 mins, but I never took it on the actors, after all it is so stupid to do so. Directors, producers, writers, these people are the ones to blame! They are ultimately the ones responsible for how the story unfolds, how the actors play their part in it, and how things end up in the big screen.

[@fundhund62]

Jake Lloyd was much better. And his performance in the films was great! I can't actually recall another performance by a child actor that felt so genuine and compelling.

[@BrightonDunkz]

I think he looked the part, he had a similar darkness behind his eyes that Hayden Christensen had in the role. Although not getting the part of Anakin was probably the best thing that ever happened to him. It completely broke and destroyed Jake Lloyd’s life.

[@mattsmoviemagic8123]

I've been thinking the exact same thing watching this the entire way through

[@spaceguitar3290]

It makes you wonder though… he was SO much better than Jake and the other kid in the screen test. He was told the casting crew wanted him, but George wanted Jake. Would it have been different? Could he have done something more- better- than Jake Lloyd had, or was it all George’s direction that fouled it up? “Some people audition better.” Yeah… Because they’re better actors, Georgie! I do feel bad for Jake Lloyd tho. It’s horrible what the fandom did to him.

[@mattsmoviemagic8123]

@@spaceguitar3290 y'know, even if he been cast it's possible his performance still could have failed due to the bad script, dialogue and directing.

[@heartblade8925]

I doubt it would have made a difference regarding the backlash. Haters didn’t like the fact that Darth Vader/Anakin was depicted as a precocious talented kid and wanted him to start out as a bad@ss jedi knight. I think haters would have attacked any actor regardless of their performance. They was a lot of hate directed toward Hayden too for being too whiny.

[@jitterbugbhoy]

@@spaceguitar3290 Jake had more sincerity and more of what George was looking for at that point for the character. George was fundamentally trying to tell the story of how an innocent, angelic kid could turn into Hitler - it's the very idea that made him want to make the PT in the first place. He wasn't looking for darkness behind the eyes at that point. He was looking for a sweet kid who could display earnestness, affection and generosity - the way the character was written on the page. To my eyes, Jake's audition was much more sincere and less coached than the others. Of the ones auditioned, I think he was 100% the best choice.

[@RingRoadSessions]

The empathy he showed towards Jake Lloyd really got me. Great vid. Devon seems like a nice dude

[@bendu8282]

I know right so beautiful

[@razofdead]

Really good vibe

[@Fulcrum1313]

same here

[@Delta-ass]

@@Fulcrum1313 yeah I’ve seen people say they came out with 7 to 9 no idea what they mean?

[@nathancruz9172]

@@Fulcrum1313 me too.

[@yokgor4675]

Devon’s performance of Anakin makes it believable that he is actually the same person as Hayden Christensen’s Anakin. 8:48 That look in his eyes tells you that he DESIRES something, and he’s gonna get there one day. That’s the same Anakin from Ep2 and Ep3! “I’ll become the most powerful Jedi ever!” “I’ll even learn how to stop people from dying!”, Anakin always WANTS something, and Devon portrayed that excellently.

[@MaryBrownIsTheBlairWitch]

As Jake Lloyd was Anakin Skywalker first, what you're really saying is Hayden Christensen was the wrong choice for adult Anakin.

[@yokgor4675]

@@MaryBrownIsTheBlairWitch The prequels came out a over decades ago, we’re not in 1999 anymore, Hayden Christensen IS the definitive Anakin Skywalker. Perceptions changes over time, it won’t always stays the same. I might not see Jake Lloyd’s version as a problem before this video came out. But once I’ve seen this video, I can say that Devon’s version could’ve been the better piece of puzzle that fits the first part of the prequels. The whole point of the prequels is to tell the story of Anakin’s fall to the dark side because he is the kind of person that I described in the OP. So what I’m really saying is George Lucas dropped the ball in picking Jake Lloyd over Devon if we’re looking at the overall picture of Anakin’s story

[@MaryBrownIsTheBlairWitch]

@@yokgor4675 So what you're really saying is you wanted the first actor to evoke a successor the casting team wouldn't meet for another three years? Err... ooookay 🤨

[@yokgor4675]

@@MaryBrownIsTheBlairWitch Well more like evoking a character that’s been existed for two decades. I can see the Vader in Devon’s Anakin, I can see the Vader in Hayden’s Anakin. My point being they CONNECTS, Jake’s version feels out of place in comparison to Devon’s. What’s done is done, I’m just saying what could’ve been better in terms of serving the flow of the overall story in my opinion

[@Sockimus]

@@MaryBrownIsTheBlairWitch No, Jake Lloyd was the wrong choice for Anakin, nitwit.

[@gabrielgalindo4083]

Devon Michael’s captured the mature aspect of Anakin’s personality, almost close to Hayden Christensen. But Jake Lloyd was the innocence of Anakin, a 9 year old boy who dreamt of flying away, a boy who would eventually loose his childhood. I think that’s what George wanted, to demonstrate the tragedy of Anakin Skywalker, the boy who become Darth Vader.

[@Euruk1]

My thoughts exactly. Devon's portrayal was too on the nose of a kid with a dark future. Jake's was much more innocent. Seems George wanted the latter.

[@raymondtan2415]

@@Euruk1 Innocent but wooden.

[@qwipperty]

Agreed. Lucas really wanted to emphasize the fall from innocence.

[@josephcasias9303]

Mature? Anakin was a whiny teenager, like most of us. Letting his emotions drive him. That's not mature lol

[@HollyHargreaves]

8:48 When he said 'I won't always be' there was so much depth behind it! Such a maturity. He would have been great in the role.

[@oliverford5367]

Jake would have been better in a pure comedy, something like Nativity. He didn't suit the fundamentally tragic character. But this is really an issue with Lucas, ep1 is very childish

[@samhain81]

@@oliverford5367 The way Jake said it though, was said with optimism. He didn't deliver the line the wrongly, just differently. Devon said it with a sombre almost foreboding tone, like he was already conflicted with something. They are both different takes which are equally effective.

[@oliverford5367]

@@samhain81 Devon's is way better for future Vader tho

[@jonzfriend]

He dodged a bullet, as far as I can see. He was far too good for Lucas's writing and directing - and both contributed to Jake Lloyd's (and Hayden Christensen's) ridicule for doing exactly what the writer/director wanted. I'm sure Devon actually wonders in those "what ifs" how he would have fared. He was clearly the best choice. Even as a child (with ONE line) there was something that showed the latent darkness lurking inside of Anakin through his delivery. It didn't have to be throughout the performance, just a few times, and what happened to him later would be more believable.

[@nestorperena8629]

yep

[@genemcn3579]

My heart breaks for Jake Lloyd. People really tried to destroy him.

[@fjoelprice]

They actually DID

[@badfoody]

tried? they did his schoolmates bullied him relentlessly

[@nitrosophelin]

thankfully, star wars fans never harassed any actors ever again

[@EdwardC.WilliamsII]

They did

[@yoyoyiggityyo17]

Those who say fans aren't toxic have never heard the tragedy of jake lloyd 😢

[@WeWiLLRefuse]

This shows that some dreams are best left unfulfilled

[@jonathancooper4914]

T. E. Lawrence talked of the dangers of the dreamers of the day.

[@Enkarashaddam]

That low key intensity of his performance. It's not that of an innocent little kid--which Anakin really wasn't, being a slave and all working for a trashy junk dealer. It's this Vaderish hint of intensity. It's thrilling.

[@DJ.KyloRen]

I picture him in the Jedi Council scene and how better the scene would've been with that kind of ominous performance, foreshadowing what Anakin would become in EP2 and 3..Unfortunately apparently George had a completely different idea in his mind for the movie with the role of Anakin acting opposite of Jar Jar lol. In a way there's a complete disconnect between EP1 Anakin and his EP2 and 3 counterpart, as a kid before I knew Star Wars all that well, I honestly had no idea that this Anakin and the grown one were the same person lol

[@Vespyr_]

Yeah I don't get why Lucas didn't cast him. Not sure what was going on in his noodle brain.

[@synthstatic9889]

That’s what I have always hated about this movie. Anakin’s turn to the dark side was never foreshadowed. Instead, yoda just tells the audience to their faces that the kid is dangerous. I grew up with the OT and expected better storytelling from Star Wars.

[@JLCL01]

​@@synthstatic9889George would be like "What do you mean? Yoda explaining is, uh, foreshadowing." lol

[@Vespyr_]

@@WestinOG Yeah but a slave child on Tatooine wouldn't have those things and it would have contrasted with Luke who also had an optimistic view on life while still being grounded and real. Sorry but nobody was taking to the idea of a fake, cheery doll of a child enslaved to a greedy man willing to sell his own mother for coin eventually becoming Darth Vader. Devon had a glow of hope in his eye that reminded us all of Luke. That a child with such a dark origin could have hope inside him defined Vader. It's wasted potential, that defines the prequels in general. Partially why TCW did so well because it spent years attempting to have it realized.

[@ollie2244]

Devin was definitely a deeper actor. His last line was delivered in a world of hurt. We all know where that leads. Jake was the most open and fun audition, that's what G.Lucas wanted. In hindsight, though, and knowing the grip the darkside has on Anakin, Devin would've been the right cast. I kinda wish they filmed it with both boys and chose at the end.

[@davidr1620]

I actually remember watching part of this documentary and I thought specifically that Devon was the superior actor in the auditions.

[@mgoblue9389]

And looked more like Luke Skywalker. George legit chose the wrong kid, imo

[@mightbepat]

Same here! Been thinking this for years, was so shocked to see this video exist. Felt like it was made for me

[@dreamawake2670]

Indeed.

[@euximgarcia4066]

guys please don't attack Jake Lloyd he did his best and It wasn't his fault

[@davidr1620]

@@euximgarcia4066 didn’t attack him. Just said Devon gave the best audition.

[@futurestoryteller]

Yep, I KNEW it, he was the one: when they showed the special features I was like "Why didn't they pick THAT kid?" All respect to Jake Lloyd though, he didn't deserve the cards he was dealt.

[@stevenobrien557]

this guy was worse than Jake Lloyd.

[@futurestoryteller]

@@stevenobrien557 Interesting take, have you tried not being wrong?

[@majorlazor5058]

He didn't get picked because George was in the room. George Lucas obviously was looking for happy go lucky and not introspective and a bit sad. I would have picked the subject of this documentary as well. He fit my imagined tone of what a child slave would be.

[@jamescampbell8482]

@@majorlazor5058 Introspective and sad is exactly what I got from Devon's audition too, and it seemed perfect for Anakin when I 1st saw the doc on the DVD. That "I won't always be" line feels sad, but with a bit of heat on it, like "The Good Son" film vibes.

[@stevenobrien557]

@@futurestoryteller after I left your mother, I swore I would never be wrong ever again

[@rph8704]

I worked with Devon over 10 years ago. Always considered him a friend and great guy. Learned a lot about Hollywood through conversations with him and his dad. That's awesome that someone at the NYT followed up with Devon to produce this story. Very neat!

[@spunkflunk]

Did you learn how evil holywood elites are and the true nature of the industry

[@xtraflo]

Clearly this kid should have played young Anakin...

[@DMalltheway]

He’s probably blessed he didn’t

[@xtraflo]

@@DMalltheway Maybe? I see an Alternative Universe where this kid plays a Young Anakin and Leonardo DiCaprio playing the Older Anakin...

[@redzO9]

I told a friend about this audition some years ago as I had seen it on KZbin. I said there was this kid, who was in the running for Anakin Skywalker and the moment he asks Natalie Portman “Are you an angel?” The hairs on my neck stood up, as I felt “this is the kid, this is the kid who grows up and puts on that helmet and wields that lightsaber and becomes Darth Vader! This is the person, who is now the focus of your documentary. Jake did a great job with what he was given but ultimately the call was down to George Lucas and what he was thinking, I’ll never know.

[@darkdragon7210]

He wanted Innocence not Dark/ Edgey.

[@DMalltheway]

@@darkdragon7210Perhaps he should’ve communicated better with the children

[@ggrinfan]

"I won’t always be." Your look and your eyes said it all, I don't know how you did it, but there was a ton of feelings there. To me your audition was the best, no one can say what would have happened to your life if you had gotten the part. But no one can deny that you were the best actor in that audition.... And your message to adults who rudely criticize children, just because they are a public figure, is worth gold. All the best to you and your future family

[@ggrinfan]

@Fornax1984 Thanks, never drink and comment at the same time on social networks.

[@Fenrir827]

Thank you, and the same to you and yours :)

[@Progger11]

Give him a part in one of the new Disney+ shows. He's earned it.

[@CollyDoo]

After what happened to Jake Lloyd's life because of winning the role, maybe deep down he's relieved....

[@sarcasticallyrearranged]

Earned it, how exactly?

[@artisticsolarninja]

Please don't limit him to be involved in star wars. Star wars at this point is a cursed

[@stormb3948]

He earned it by not getting this part and feeling sad about it? I empathise with him and understand that it would be heartbreaking but I wouldn't go so far as to say he earned it just because he wasn't given the role he wanted. If he earned it, then there are millions of people who are owed a movie role for their failures.

[@Progger11]

@@stormb3948 Found the libertarian.

[@sunnylilme]

He seems like a beautiful soul.

[@Fenrir827]

*tips hat*

[@Commander_Shepard.]

And also hot

[@sunnylilme]

@SARA HOTGIRL VLOGS why?

[@MiissAlexandraMakeup]

Right? Shame that he didn't pursue acting because he really would be great. He nailed that audition. Put a lot of depth into those lines at just 9.

[@MrBrewman95]

That's probably why Hollywood didn't want him. 😂😂

[@demonteprice5870]

It's so weird cause like, he actually had *natural* chemistry with Natalie Portman (and the literal best part of the orginal Star Wars was how natural they worked together) and still somehow didn't get this part. It could've sold the two characters friendship in the first movie soo much more.

[@fierypickles4450]

Teared up. What a turn around. Finding your own story instead of pursing the ideal one we all can see, really liberates you

[@MovieManMark]

The force is strong with this one.

[@joejacko1587]

how many times do you think this poor guy has been called brain laundrie this week

[@JozzFilms]

Hey movie man markkkkk

[@AngelaCovacs]

See, this is why Devon is lowkey one of the coolest and most chill people I’ve had the pleasure to meet, I never knew he audidioned for SW. What a cool experience to have. Very inspiring. Keep it up, Dev, you’re a real one.

[@yaboyjay7202]

I remember seeing the documentary and thinking they made a big mistake not choosing Devon. I'm glad he found his own path and you can tell by this doc that he is a fantastic storyteller. Not to forget to mention Ben, fantastic work once again!

[@annagitana1]

He’s still acting. He’s story telling seemed like he was working a script. Including carefully calculated facial expressions. Interesting.

[@Mike-t5r9q]

Its the best thing that happened to Devon. The movie ruined Jake's life mentally

[@CallMeCaroline]

Did this make anyone else cry? What a well made documentary that poses the question of how we treat children who are in the public eye. This documentary had me quiet emotional and I hope that both Devon and Jake are doing well.

[@DrFitzPhD]

Two things: 1. Devon Michael's performance stood out during the audition as the most striking. It was the eye contact he gave Natalie Portman. That's what sealed it for me. 2. Perhaps Disney should consider recasting Mr. Michael at some point. He seems like he's still got what it takes.

[@kateb2643]

His performance was so much more real and impactful. I wonder if this maybe ended up being a subconscious cuteness contest for George Lucas

[@sparklemotion101ni3]

I thiught he was cuter than Jake Lloyd, as well as giving a better performance, but it's all a matter of opinion.

[@latebloomerabroad]

I also thought his performance was better than Jake Lloyd's in the test, but Jake was good too. I think it's possible that Jake reminded George Lucas of himself at that age, and that's why he gravitated towards him. I thought Jake acted better in his screen test than in the movie itself, and that's not Jake's fault, that's the director's fault. I really like Devon's attitude about it, he's not trashing Jake. He's sorry he didn't get the role, but his life wasn't ruined because of it. Good for him.

[@kateb2643]

@@latebloomerabroad 100%

[@futurestoryteller]

What evidence is there in any of these movies that George Lucas understands naturalistic acting?

[@kateb2643]

@@futurestoryteller Ahahaha, such a good point 😂

[@djd620]

Sadly there are a lot of stories like Devon's but there aren't many stories like his. He didn't let Lucas' rejection of him define his life and he's now found peace and a new career and a lovely wife who loves him. That's a much better ending than The Phantom Menace.

[@rph8704]

I used to work for Devon’s dad and worked with Devon. I consider him to be a friend. I had conversations with him and his dad about child acting, Hollywood, and Star Wars. I believe he made peace with the fact he didn’t get the role, but it’s something he won’t ever forget. Talk to them long enough and you will learn that he didn’t get the Anakin role. Devon is an awesome guy and I would suggest you look up his book “Graveyard Children”. His brother played Rusty on Full House.

[@meeralrafee1875]

It really shows how disgusting we humans could be. Attacking a kid who just played a character of a movie they don't like, at the end causing personal issues in his life and ending his career. Mark Hamill spoke up about this issue. As times goes by, we are losing more and more of the beauty we humans had. It's so upsetting that we have to accept this reality. 😢

[@bighands69]

Very few people attacked him. There was a small number of weirdos out there who take certain things very seriously but they are a minority. I am afraid that young boys problem probably came about from being in entertainment.

[@yakm5385]

@@bighands69 um no. "very few" of a fanbase in the millions is still thousands of people

[@ivanandrade1375]

Star wars fans are toxic

[@bighands69]

@@ivanandrade1375 Most are not they are just normal people that love entertainment. They do not like a corporation taking advantage of their goodwill.

[@ransakreject5221]

Kind of the directors fault that he put terrible line deliveries in the movie. I mean acting matters but if u do enough takes u can get it right. Many of Loyds lines were just terrible. Like on a grammar school play. George doesn’t seem good at recognizing human behavior or dialogue

[@TravisRichey]

It took me YEARS to come to the terms with the fact that there’s so much that goes into casting that you have absolutely no control over. I’m so glad this was made. Ever since I saw the audition tapes in the special features I said that Devon was the one that should have been cast. I feel for you, bud. As an actor I know what rejection is like, but I can’t fathom what it must be to be a kid ~Trav

[@SP-qo3pd]

When you really want something badly and it's taken from you, it's the worst type of pain that will always be there. He doesn't care the film was poorly received, he wanted that role and he knows he could have made the film better. I hope he finds peace.

[@mrgabuchan2641]

He’s a good storyteller.

[@loveoffilm4327]

I think George didn't want any darkness in Anakin as a child to show the contrast when he was a teen, sadly it would've been much more interesting if he went with the other kid

[@Fenrir827]

I can't say I blame him. Objectively, we all knew who Anakin was gonna become, so we didn't need foreshadowing. He wanted the contrast, as you said. Also, thanks :)

[@allenism9671]

@@Fenrir827 Devon, I just finished watching this video and my praises for you are very extensive and superlative! What a GREAT and NATURAL ACTOR you are and a very compelling storyteller! And very, VERY HANDSOME as a kid and still now! You literally took my breath away! Literally Perfect! The Hair, The Eyes, The Face, The Style, The Talent, The Everything! Perfect, perfect, perfect...That's literally what I was thinking the whole time while I was watching this video! Don't know what George Lucas was thinking at the time but he sure missed out on you BIG TIME! Your partner is so lucky!! You're so perfect in every way OMG!!! Wish you were mine! I'm just 12 so forgive me for fangirling so hard like this!! But you literally made me fall in love in this video!!! Didn't think I'd ever have a type, but now I do! Now I know I'd love to be married to someone in the future who looks and acts EXACTLY like you! (Same blonde hair color as you, same bangs hair style as you, same eyes, same face!! I'm not even kidding, I literally fell in love and I think you're the most handsome guy I've ever seen! Please reply to me it would literally make my day! I LOVE YOU

[@Vandicoup]

I think Lucas didn't want the audience "go cold" watching Anakin. He wanted him to be the kind of kid people wouldn't ever think could turn out to be a mass murderer. I agree that Devon seemed to be the most talented, but he went for what he assumed tiny Vader should be. George had a different approach in mind. I wouldn't say Jake wasn't talented either. We shouldn't forget, these three were selected from 3000 kids. Jake was kind of a soap opera type, while Devon was like a little Batman/Bruce Wayne after his parents got killed (I'm exaggerating a bit). Different set of skills for different genres. And Lucas always loved the 1950s and '60s serials that were a little cheesy. Jake was closer to that. I'm sure Devon could have pulled off the Anakin George wanted to see, but I think George was aware that talking with the actors and giving them specific directions wasn't his strongest side. He looked for someone who is closest in attitude and personality, on his own, to the Anakin he imagined.

[@vellichor7676]

I was thinking the exact same thing. I think George wanted Anakin to display genuine hope and light as a child, saving the intensity and darkness for his later years. Regardless, I agree that the other child came across as more of what Anakin should have been.

[@johnnyskinwalker4095]

yea and I completely disagree with George. I think it's rather fairy tale-ish to go that root the most innocent kid becomes one of the darkest man. In my opinion Anakin should always have something in there, a possibility of darkness.

[@maythineeTV]

This was at once painful and lovely. I wish Devon Michael and Jake Lloyd peace and grace. The Hollywood machine, the fame machine, is cruel to children, and this is a poignant reminder that we are all complicit in that.

[@Seismitoad3]

Jake Lloyd needs as much as he can get

[@rph8704]

I used to work for Devon’s dad and with Devon. They taught me a lot about what happens behind-the-scenes in Hollywood. It’s a tough business and the worst part are the parents who will trample over anyone if they think it gives their kid an edge to get a role.

[@RumpleGold]

Oh man , the way he said “ I won’t always be “ he said it so darkly . Like THERES Vader . 100 percent he understood the role

[@psychedelicartistry]

Man so he's 34 now. I'm 35 now, so I'm right there with these guys. I feel for him man it's heartbreaking to not make it, but he's probably lucky he didn't get the role. Look what happened to poor Jake Lloyd. I always felt bad for that guy.

[@ShaunORourke]

I was almost Robin in Batman Forever. I felt the same way when Chris O'Donnell landed the part. When I watched the film I was glad I didn't get it. Totally understand his perspective. Great mini doc!!!!

[@TheSunderingSea]

Talk about dodging a bullet!

[@mariogamefreak1]

I heard that they wanted Leorando DiCaprio for Robin in that bullet.

[@michaelcordero5588]

Lol

[@blazingboi9913]

Nobody believes you shaun…

[@ShaunORourke]

@@blazingboi9913 Its the truth.

[@StrawberrySoaps]

He’s a handsome man, they should bring him in for The Mandalorian!

[@tygerstripes3752]

That is a GREAT idea!

[@UnBroken11100]

He certainly has some very striking eyes.

[@sundhaug92]

Yeah I think that'd be nice, even if it was a small role

[@Gemma-Bricks]

Kyle Katarn maybe?

[@andysalter7192]

Why ? Acting and being a celebrity isn't the be all end all of life. He seems pretty happy with his decision.

[@genki2705]

I don't understand how a child can think "this could be my way out". He sounds like an adult who has made some bad decisions and finally has a chance to turn things around.

[@ronaldtan8799]

Jake has this pure innocent dreamer aura. This one has this kid but conflicted aura.

[@jocelyndeguise]

Wow: Devon, to me, was the best. This video is another proof of how Hollywood can be ruthless. And parents are clueless if they push their kids into this hellhole. Glad to see a guy who survived it and gives such a peaceful vibe.

[@jewelseng9900]

Absolutely! He’d be the one ☝️

[@charmedgirl90]

I think he was the best actor, but I think George might have liked the way Jake played it more innocently. To have more of a contrast with darth vader. It’s interesting that they didn’t try and give them direction to play it in different ways though.

[@bronzergoth7598]

yeah, very obviously the best actor imho! but there's always factors beyond raw talent that go into casting. something i can think of with star wars specifically is merchandising- jake lloyd had a more distinct "look" than devon

[@X3000Chan]

It’s not just “Hollywood”, like that’s some kind of evil entity. It’s acting in general. ALL actors EVERYWHERE on the planet, from Ancient Greek plays and traditional Japanese Kabuki theater, to Broadway to Hollywood get rejected. It’s just a part of the process of auditioning in general. Musicians and also people in many other professions also experience rejection, but because actors tend to go on more auditions more often, they seem to experience rejection more than most people in other professions.

[@Brave_Sir_Robin]

Somebody get this man a cameo role in the next star wars tv show

[@razofdead]

Yeah that be cool

[@GabrielTorres-yx6nf]

Personally I think he resembles a young Sebastian Shaw aka Anakin from Return of the Jedi scene with Mark Hamil

[@FilonisHat]

If Lucas ends up doing a Luke Skywalker Jedi Temple show in the future, I’d love to have all three finalists show up as cameos, maybe even be small parts as Luke’s students. That’d be a great fan deep cut and just a redemptive moment for these guys, especially Jake. Then again, I don’t know if any of the three would like to be a part of it, seeing how the reaction turned out.

[@PingPongFilms]

I could see him starring in a Star Wars video game!

[@Pheebs77]

Mandalorian cameo needed. At least that show has some credit amongst the fans 👍👍

[@ceruleanblu3184]

That “All my life” line during the screen test had so much importance to the character. Lloyd says it like he was asked if he brushes his teeth, or cleans his room: with weariness and disinterest. The 2nd kid says the line flatly, no emotion. You said it as if you were pleasantly surprised at the question. Like, “Yeah, all my life, isn’t it cool?” But then, I’m not George Lucas.

[@blofeld39]

But look at what Lloyd is doing during the audition; he's interacting with what's on the table, he's not directly just looking right into Natalie Portman's eyes. He's acting like a kid who's tired at a junkshop and trying to get things done while he's talking to a customer. I think that, and the way he played "I won't always be" (in a way that didn't make the line sound absolutely disgusting when you think about what it means, but more like, "hey, life changes, you know"), are what sealed the deal, for Lucas. His absentmindedly fixing the stuff on the table is a good link back to Luke working on parts while he's talking to the droids about his life during his second scene in the movie in the first "Star Wars", and I can see Lucas innately appreciating that since he was the guy who directed Mark Hamill to do that during that scene in the first place.

[@bendu8282]

@@blofeld39 exactly!

[@vasyaandrushka7349]

they say it's never a good idea to meet your hero, it's true. obviously, the "wizard behind the curtain" didn't know what he's doing after all.

[@pseudonymousbeing987]

The way he said "I won't always be" was the only reading out of the 3 that reflected the gravitas of that line. That line refers to the central through line of the entirety of the Lucas saga. And he carries it with depth, yearning, darkness, and everything that it entails thematically. None of the others had that.

[@blofeld39]

@@pseudonymousbeing987 Ironically, the line was cut from the finished film.

[@Alazoom76]

When I saw his audition tape on the DVD special edition way back in 2000 me and my friends looked at each other and said "that kid should've been the obvious choice."

[@Bic3ps4Gunz]

Yep same here

[@DMalltheway]

Probably right, but the way the fans treated Jake, it probably wouldn’t have been any different.

[@qwipperty]

Honestly, all three boys in those clips did very well. It really all depended on what kind of Anakin you wanted to see in the film. The real problem was trying to live up to an impossible legacy of the original trilogy, and a rabid fanbase. Nothing would've been good enough compared to everyones dream about the origin of Vader they've been dreaming for decades.

[@matthewvanness6872]

Shoutout to the guy who wrote the music to this video. It's so perfectly Star Wars without being Star Wars

[@afvasque]

I went to high school with Jake. There were 1000 people on my class alone, so I didn't know him or met him. I didn't speak English back then, so that didn't help. He walked around highschool very quietly but the whispers of others were always there as the kid who played Star Wars. The Star Wars kid... I'm not sure he quite ever looked proud of having done the role. Maybe and hopefully he was, but he sort of never walked around like that

[@cosmici2261]

May The Force Be With You… Almost Anakin.

[@justjoy5549]

Ha

[@arijeanz]

absolutely mistified by this guy's piercing blue eyes. they have a very alien and deep quality to them

[@precoius]

The first time I saw that documentary, it was physically painful to see how great that kid was. I would have loved to see him in the movie. It helps to know he’s doing well regardless. I’m happy to see that losing this part didn’t ruin his life.

[@vellichor7676]

I remember watching the film of that audition process when it released; after having seen each boy's audition, I seriously though Devon was the best. Jake Lloyd didn't do poorly, but Devon embodied what I, at least, was what Anakin Skywalker would be at that age. In appearance and demeanor.

[@DMalltheway]

I agree but the movie overall was still bad, definitely not the actors fault.

[@nlb1138]

I always thought his audition was the best. Maybe George didn't want the intensity that was there because it was "too soon" in the story for there to be a darkness in anakin so he went with the seemingly happy go lucky delivery in Jake

[@Nick-lz5lx]

That’s a good point, but considering he was obviously be the best actor of the three, that could have been easily remedied through direction. Just because he was “dark” in his audition doesn’t mean that’s all he could play. He could have easily toned it down, had Lucas directed him to.

[@dreamawake2670]

Cause beeing a slave child is easy.

[@asmrbully6980]

@@dreamawake2670 bahaha

[@Vandicoup]

That makes sense, I think you basically summed it all up. But I'll try to go in-depth just a bit more: I think Lucas didn't want the audience "go cold" watching Anakin. He wanted him to be the kind of kid people wouldn't ever think could turn out to be a mass murderer. I agree that Devon seemed to be the most talented, but he went for what he assumed tiny Vader should be. George had a different approach in mind. I wouldn't say Jake wasn't talented either. We shouldn't forget, these three were selected from 3000 kids. Jake was kind of a soap opera type, while Devon was like a little Batman/Bruce Wayne after his parents got killed (I'm exaggerating a bit). Different set of skills for different genres. And Lucas always loved the 1950s and '60s serials that were a little cheesy. Jake was closer to that. I'm sure Devon could have pulled off the Anakin George wanted to see, but I think George was aware that talking with the actors and giving them specific directions wasn't his strongest side. He looked for someone who is closest in attitude and personality, on his own, to the Anakin he imagined.

[@Wabajak13]

@@Nick-lz5lx That would have required George Lucas to direct his actors, which he famously doesn't do

[@missybarbour6885]

But for real, how was he not cast? His audition tape was far and away the best of the three. The way he said "I won't always be" made me go cold realizing that was tiny Vader

[@rigzmoviediaries654]

Probably because George cast Jake Lloyd for his resemblance to Leonardo DiCaprio who he wanted to play grown up Anakin

[@starlighter93]

You answered the question. I think Lucas didn't want the audience "go cold" watching Anakin. He wanted him to be the kind of kid people wouldn't ever think could turn out to be a mass murderer. I agree that Devon seemed to be the most talented, but he went for what he assumed tiny Vader should be. George had a different approach in mind. I wouldn't say Jake wasn't talented, either. We shouldn't forget, these three were selected from 3000 kids. Jake was kind of a soap opera type, while Devon was like a little Batman/Bruce Wayne after his parents got killed (I'm exaggerating a bit). Different set of skills for different genres. And Lucas always loved the 1950s and '60s serials that were a little cheesy. Jake was closer to that. I'm sure Devon could have pulled off the Anakin George wanted to see, but... I think George was aware that talking with the actors and giving them specific directions wasn't his strongest side. He looked for someone who is closest in attitude and personality, on his own, to the Anakin he imagined.

[@Vandicoup]

@@starlighter93 Exactly. I love that assessment. While I don't blame anyone, people can be a bit too quick to already prefer a different actor/actress over the other. George had his reasons at the end of the day and I think you nailed the possible reasons!

[@detectivehawk4976]

Disagree. I think Jake had the best delivery and felt more natural

[@user-sb1pl1ln6b]

@@detectivehawk4976 not agree

[@KimNguyenpaul]

His performance so much better than Jake Lloyd's. Pity they didn't cast him. Pity what happened to Jake Lloyd in the end too.

[@zetamafia911]

Not Jake Lloyd's fault whatsoever, but yeah. You could really see it in the initial clip with Portman.

[@genki2705]

I really don't think it's performance. They were all pretty talented. With a few instructions, any of them could play Skywalker. He was just a little older and looked more mature than Jake. No matter who played Skywalker, the films were mediocre.

[@TokyoXtreme]

No one escapes Star Wars unscathed. Everyone pays a price.

[@jdavis234]

Prequels would have still sucked

[@Vandicoup]

I think Lucas didn't want the audience "go cold" watching Anakin. He wanted him to be the kind of kid people wouldn't ever think could turn out to be a mass murderer. I agree that Devon seemed to be the most talented, but he went for what he assumed tiny Vader should be. George had a different approach in mind. I wouldn't say Jake wasn't talented either. We shouldn't forget, these three were selected from 3000 kids. Jake was kind of a soap opera type, while Devon was like a little Batman/Bruce Wayne after his parents got killed (I'm exaggerating a bit). Different set of skills for different genres. And Lucas always loved the 1950s and '60s serials that were a little cheesy. Jake was closer to that. I'm sure Devon could have pulled off the Anakin George wanted to see, but I think George was aware that talking with the actors and giving them specific directions wasn't his strongest side. He looked for someone who is closest in attitude and personality, on his own, to the Anakin he imagined.

[@fe9253]

Most people here saying Devon was great in his audition and the line "I won't always be" was delivered to perfection, and gave people chills, comparing him to Hayden when he loses it in the next films... you're missing something fundamental. George always said he never meant for little Anakin to be this "dark child" from the beginning. The reason George picked Jake is because Jake had the exact childlike vibe (yes, the kind that says Yeeppiee!) he wanted which was the whole point. The other kids clearly didn't. You can't have a character that's always been evil because then there's no turn, there's no drama. George always knew what he was doing.

[@francophone.]

And George was wrong.

[@JonJonJonJonJonJonJonJon]

Hayden was terrible. Wooden. Hanmy. Garbage. The prequels were garbage

[@kubrickenigma7977]

Anakin at that point was just an exceedingly gifted, emotionally aware child who was damaged from: A) Being a slave B) His mother was a slave and resigned to it, which pained him even more C) They were trapped under threat of death via implanted explosive charges, and D) No positive male role models until these interesting Jedi and a very pretty and friendly girl stpped into "his" garage. His only lucky break up to that point was in Watto being pretty benign, saw cheap value in the boy, was not the most clever or strategically greedy. It would have made sense for a boy like Anakin to be... not dark... but certainly hurt and affected. What's more, from his point of view, he gets lucky and wins his freedom, but not his mother's! He has to leave her behind! That would be damaging, gutting to an emotionally aware kid like Amakin. I think this is what we the audience immediately saw as incongruant, on a subconscious level. Mr Lucas was mistaken with regards to child psychology insofar as syorytelling in film goes, if not in real life. There's no way Anakin should have been bright, innocent and optimistic; nor it would have worked if he were a dark brat. But soulful, determined... that would have made the difference. With the right performer. Then, when his Soul is twisted by Palpatine and the great Jedi he could have been falls BACK into enslavement... then the audience would grieve for the death of both Anakin as a young man and as the boy he had been... even though we knew it was coming. Young master Lloyd was the wasn't the best pick. His performance spoke to George, but it was clear there was a better pick who's performance could have spoken to and into the audience, which is what happened in the original trilogy. Peace.

[@parkatplays5899]

Wow his more serious and mature take on Anakin in that shop scene was honestly better. That almost felt like what anakin was supposed to be. He gave him that sinister undertone even as a child

[@BLTKellys]

But then Qui Gonn would never have believed in him, if he thought he was sinister.

[@Babaki]

Editor who edited this video is an absolute genius. Especially the ending portions videos

[@orlablack2412]

I love the way he talks about Luke Skywalker...it's just so comforting

[@caitlintiulenev9156]

As someone who was an assistant to an incredibly well known actress and didn’t have it go well… I get the “inescapable” almost torture of it. Can’t imagine that for a kid. But watching the union movement and shared stories from others working in the industry… my inner story has changed. I’m now relieved I left the industry.

[@jackbuchanan9085]

I did a TV show here in Toronto and the direction the series took was devastating and utter exploitation. The system is like a cult in terms of how things are done. I always wanted to work in show buisness, but with the advent of the internet and KZbin, this is the future of the entertainment industry. No longer run by the studios bias but by independent creators with no limits of imagination.

[@I_WANT_MY_SLAW]

How bad could it have been being Wynona Ryder's assistant? She's on Stranger Things. Big hit show.

[@kimberleywilliams7802]

@@I_WANT_MY_SLAW you don't know who it is, why are you assuming?

[@I_WANT_MY_SLAW]

@@kimberleywilliams7802 It's Wynona Ryder.

[@janedoll3237]

People almost always seem happy to leave that industry

[@davidcoachman1367]

I remember seeing Devon in an episode of ER as a kid who hurt or burned others on purpose. I came away from that episode thinking, "Man, that kid could play Anakin!" He was an excellent child actor, It was a small surprise to see he was a finalist when the documentary came out.

[@TheAmateurEditor]

Jake was the Anakin Lucas wanted. Devon was the Anakin the fans deserved.

[@Greppy-rv6fb]

and Carrot top was the JarJar fans wanted...j'k...maybe

[@ivandark95]

Now I crying .

[@jayguero2123]

Well then, it’s a good thing he didn’t play Anakin. He really dodged a bullet.

[@iMadrid11]

I’ll have to disagree. He could have portrayed young Anakin better or differently. So there’s no guarantee what the public reaction would be. Besides George Lucas directed it. Actors only follows the directors orders and vision for the movie.

[@jayguero2123]

@@iMadrid11 Exactly, you just proved my point. Unless the film itself was directed differently, it was always going to fail. Whether or not Jake was Anakin wouldn’t have fixed the other glaring issues this movie had. The only actors whose careers were not destroyed by this movie were Natalie Portman, Samuel Jackson and Liam Neeson.

[@sorintatarciuc]

@@jayguero2123 Harry Ford

[@jayguero2123]

@@sorintatarciuc talking about Phantom Menace specifically.

[@kaspinet]

@@jayguero2123 and Ewen McGregor

[@coffeespy1133]

His eyes look beautiful

[@L.Spencer]

He looks like Leonardo DiCaprio, even as a kid. He even talks like him.

[@Zaron_Gaming]

That's what George thought initially

[@vimos.9996]

Dude wtf, he does 😂

[@PurpleRanger69]

Him and Leo sound the same

[@BatALash]

It’s the eyes

[@L.Spencer]

@@Zaron_Gaming Interesting. I didn't know that.

[@bobabooey3103]

I couldn’t imagine being 10 years old and everyone crapping on your performance. It happened to Hayden too but he was much older. We need to have a Justice for Jake thing going on.

[@77Pictures]

What a wonderful story. Just recently I auditioned for the Galactic starcruiser hotel at Disneyworld. Made it past almost 4000 people. Ten others and I tried for rolls in LA. I ended up not making it and felt really heartbroken. This really put things in perspective. Thank you.

[@DementedDistraction]

Wow...in his audition he actually made that stilted, wooden dialog sound natural and gave it some emotional weight while conveying the inherent sadness and darkness of the character with his eyes. He couldn't of saved the movie had he got the part, but I feel he definitely would've made it better.

[@Progger11]

Couldn't have* saved the movie.

[@DementedDistraction]

Whelp...looks like we found that one kid who always reminded the teacher that they hadn't assigned homework yet.

[@Progger11]

@@DementedDistraction Sorry. It's just a really grating thing for me when I see that particular mistake in written English. Because I know it comes from people mishearing the spoken "would've," which just reminds me further that nobody is reading anymore. I fully acknowledge that it's my problem, but if you do care about having proper command of your language hopefully you will remember that "would of" is actually "would've." Or, you can keep writing it wrong just to prove to me that I can't influence you. Whichever.

[@zammmerjammer]

@@Progger11 You're correct. It's bad when people try to correct slang or a dialect. But "could of" is just a silly mistake made by illiterate people.

[@mariastephens1827]

@@zammmerjammer Just let people say things guys, it's not like they're addressing congress with a declaration or whatever. They're speaking in a comment section, so let them make mistakes just as a normal human would in regular speech. Slipping up doesn't make you stupid or illiterate, nor does using more unique patterns of speech such as "could of" make one a nuisance or destructive to the english language as a whole. No need to mess up someone's day by criticizing something so trivial.

[@danielm3192]

Wow, that was very well done and very moving. I’d wondered what became of him after the doc was released so long ago. He auditioned so well from the small clip released, I was always surprised George did not pick him. Glad he’s doing well.

[@Babaki]

I searched for these auditioned child artists years ago. Thank you for posting this video today.

[@tgs7515]

I remember watching the documentary for the first time, and getting to the auditions for Anakin. Jake obviously felt right since he was the one who was cast and who we'd seen on-screen, but when they showed Devon's rehersal with Natalie? It was like night and day how much better he was, and my instant reaction was to ask the gods why he wasn't cast. He was clearly the superior choice. Don't get me wrong - Jake was a Hollywood darling and it's clear that George wanted a charming, adorable little cherub for the role, but that's not what Anakin needed to be. Happy, bubbly, bright, and optimistic are not the traits of a character that develops into that universe's most notorious villain. What Devon gave the character, however - the emotion in his eyes, and that ever-so-slight undertone of darkness in that last line, the weight of personality he brought to the screen...he could have easily set the tone for what Anakin should have been in the prequels, and the movies would have been SO much better for it.

[@misssoso5859]

"Happy, bubbly, bright, and optimistic are not the traits of a character that develops into that universe's most notorious villain". But that's.... the entire point of Anakin's character. That he was a good, kind, optimistic person that turned bad.

[@Mari-fm3dj]

@@misssoso5859 "Happy, bubbly, bright, and optimistic are not the traits of a character that develops into that universe's most notorious villain" would have worked if Anakin is a freeborn. Intensity is needed to portray Anakin's slave background.

[@DngrDan]

Uh look at Jake Lloyd now. The happy bubbly optimistic kid doesn't exist anymore because he had a tough childhood just like Anakin.

[@yellowblob405]

Much more on-screen chemistry between him and Natalie too.

[@maxcallewaert4466]

Fun Fact: Michael Angarano (the other boy who wasn’t picked) went on to play Will Stronghold in Sky High among other roles

[@shelbyvillerules9962]

Also, although he didn't make the final three, Justin Tyler Berfield who played Reese in Malcolm in the Middle was also one of the kids who auditioned (you can see him in the BTS footage).

[@lilchaos4792]

He went to have quite the career.

[@darkdragon7210]

Wow that kid SCORED much BETTER as Sky High is one of my Favorites!!!

[@greatdelusion7654]

The crazy thing is that the adult version of him actually looks similar to when Vader removes his helmet at the end of Return of the Jedi.

[@Clonest]

time for a new Disney special edition release.......

[@oldbrownshoe52]

Imagine George watching this and being like “I should of cast that kid.” In his nonchalant unassuming down to earth George voice 😂

[@kyleplatz3751]

lmfao, I can hear it.

[@nutcrackernight2278]

I hear it in the Gob Bluth “I’ve made a huge mistake” voice.

[@asmrbully6980]

Bahaha, he' d be punchinf his desk

[@Vandicoup]

I think Lucas didn't want the audience "go cold" watching Anakin. He wanted him to be the kind of kid people wouldn't ever think could turn out to be a mass murderer. I agree that Devon seemed to be the most talented, but he went for what he assumed tiny Vader should be. George had a different approach in mind. I wouldn't say Jake wasn't talented either. We shouldn't forget, these three were selected from 3000 kids. Jake was kind of a soap opera type, while Devon was like a little Batman/Bruce Wayne after his parents got killed (I'm exaggerating a bit). Different set of skills for different genres. And Lucas always loved the 1950s and '60s serials that were a little cheesy. Jake was closer to that. I'm sure Devon could have pulled off the Anakin George wanted to see, but I think George was aware that talking with the actors and giving them specific directions wasn't his strongest side. He looked for someone who is closest in attitude and personality, on his own, to the Anakin he imagined.

[@artisticsolarninja]

It's not everyone's fault. Humans makes mistakes. Plus, star wars at this point is a curse. Every famous actors or any newer actors are having this curse and it would never go away. Everything is a mess and the fan community is a curse because ever fan or toxic fan would physically troll the actors and spreading lies and hate against them on Purpose. The star wars fans are just toxic and annoying. Some fans casually dislikes star wars and yelled "Boooooo I Hate Star Wars" in the theatre and then walking their way out.

[@whitezombified]

He really grew up to look at lot like Sebastian Shaw, crazy

[@Username-z2d]

I really liked the "I won't always be", it felt so cold, foreshadowing his future as a sith lord

[@212thTomTaha]

What a beautiful documentation about Michaels story! Thank you, especially to you Ben Proudfoot!

[@WookJnr]

Love ypur content man

[@johnnyfavorite1194]

Tears. You have those kids Devon and you continue to celebrate your beautiful life. The reason you weren’t chosen was because you simply outclassed the biggest Thud in cinematic history.

[@barbiquearea]

Shame this one rejection brought him down to the point where he decided to quit acting.

[@jeronimodeltoro9572]

you missed the point

[@johnnyfavorite1194]

@@jeronimodeltoro9572 H O W ?

[@wopr1231]

I still see that talent in his eyes even after all these years

[@worldwithinworld]

It was interesting hearing what Devon thought about how to play Anakin. His attempt to "look calm and focused" was probably what made him seem less natural to the casting group. I think he had the acting talent to give them what they wanted, though, if he'd only received clearer direction. Jake Lloyd lucked out that he guessed better at how they Lucas and the others wanted Anakin to be played. Unfortunately, Jake was then unlucky in that he still didn't get much good direction during the filming. You can tell even the experienced adult actors struggled with much of the dialogue in TPM. Jake was clearly talented, but he was still a kid and needed more direction.

[@Cagebreaker]

Indeed on Jake needing more direction. And unfortunately for him, George Lucas has not ever really been an “actor’s director,” so that issue especially crops up with child actors who are naturally going to need much more direction. Jake Lloyd needed a director more like Chris Columbus who was notoriously known for being a great director when it came to kid actors, hence why they got him for the first two Harry Potter movies.

[@darkdragon7210]

@@Cagebreaker Then maybe Geogre Lucas should've brought someone in to help with that part. Like Steven Speilberg or someone who has worked with kid actors before.

[@doctorstrobe]

I could never see Jake Lloyd as Darth Vader. But this kid... Yeah, he really had something. And he looks like he could really be related to Mark Hamill.

[@elizabethdegroot89]

I agree, he looks like a young Luke

[@darkdragon7210]

@@elizabethdegroot89 Maybe that was more Fuel to the Fire!

[@DMalltheway]

It wouldn’t have mattered, the movie sucked and this kid would’ve been ripped apart by the pathetic fans regardless.

[@isthiscry]

he wouldve PERFECTLY transitioned to Anakin in Attack of the Clones

[@Andrew_Warden]

Wow. That scene where he tells Padme "I won't always be"? I can see how the room in that moment would tear up. He was so earnest. I wanted to be a child actor at that age *desperately*. I'm glad it didn't work the way I wanted. I also hope Jake Lloyd is doing well. Fanboy fanatics are just as cruel now as they were then.

[@permiek]

Jake was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia in 2020. I hope he is getting the treatment he needs and that we continue to highlight the need to protect children in any business where a LOT of money is involved.

[@Rabastan]

I remember watching this documentary in the DVD back in 2000 and the first thing that came to my mind was "this guy was perfect for the part! He looks so mature and wise for his age". I'm so sorry Devon didn't get it.

[@jayyy996]

I always wondered what happened to him after I saw the Phantom Menace documentary back in the day. I vividly recall thinking how perfect his audition was. He was clearly the best choice for the role, but I guess George thought otherwise. I'm glad he's been able to make peace with what happened. Side note: Let what happened to Jake serve as an example of why it's important to be unconditionally kind to people, regardless of what you think of them and of their work.

[@joshhughes9628]

Him not getting the part was the right thing. He's too nice for Hollywood. I admire him.

[@evolutionsfake]

From the first day I ever saw young Anakin, to this video, I always said to myself "they picked the wrong actor."

[@chokoon21]

I always thought his eyes felt unsettling in the audition and that captures Anakin inner trauma pretty well.

[@evangomez11]

Just watch Natalie's natural reaction to every kid's line at 8:06. The strongest was definitely Devon.

[@Fenrir827]

I was so impressed by her - talent, presence, intensity - I'm surprised I got out a single line.

[@classicmartini]

@@Fenrir827 I got the lead role in a FF when I was 11. Funding "fell through" two weeks before filming was due to start. Remember thinking "what a ridiculous business to be in". As you know, everything that glitters ain't gold. (p,s I have a very good life). Be well.

[@indiegun]

​@@Fenrir827 I remember watching your audition years ago and thinking 'wow, that kid is good'. It turns out though that, just like Jake, your talent might not have been enough to spare you from a really dark fate. Even Natalie Portman's talent and presence was muted in the prequels to the point that she caught a lot of negative feedback from the fans as well. George has never been an openly emotive person and as such his directing skill tends to lack the ability to pull emotion from others. Neither Natalie or Jake deserved all the nasty and vicious attacks they received as they performed their roles exactly as asked. Your own natural talent for delivery, timing and storytelling are evident even in your interview here and it would be interesting to see you return to acting at some point in the future. Lastly, I truly admire your kind words for Jake. There are many, many of us who feel horrible for how his situation played out. He did a fantastic job and didn't deserve the weight of the world crushing his soul at that young age. I really do hope he is doing well these days.

[@Vandicoup]

I think Lucas didn't want the audience "go cold" watching Anakin. He wanted him to be the kind of kid people wouldn't ever think could turn out to be a mass murderer. I agree that Devon seemed to be the most talented, but he went for what he assumed tiny Vader should be. George had a different approach in mind. I wouldn't say Jake wasn't talented either. We shouldn't forget, these three were selected from 3000 kids. Jake was kind of a soap opera type, while Devon was like a little Batman/Bruce Wayne after his parents got killed (I'm exaggerating a bit). Different set of skills for different genres. And Lucas always loved the 1950s and '60s serials that were a little cheesy. Jake was closer to that. I'm sure Devon could have pulled off the Anakin George wanted to see, but I think George was aware that talking with the actors and giving them specific directions wasn't his strongest side. He looked for someone who is closest in attitude and personality, on his own, to the Anakin he imagined.

[@pho3nix-]

@@Vandicoup I don't think George really knew what he was doing at that point. Anakin needed to be dark, even as a kid.

[@IlhamKamaruddin]

An amazing story told by an amazing storyteller. Thank you so much to Devon Michael, Ben Proudfoot and the crew for bringing this to light.

[@blakereynolds8894]

His audition was WAY way way better. It always bewildered me that he didn't get it.

[@Mario_N64]

He was the best performer in the screen test.

[@LydiaIsSweet]

Really interesting to hear what happened to him. As soon as I saw the audition tapes Devon definitely caught my attention and seemingly most of the cast and crew. Just a bit sad to hear it was such a let down to him that that he quit acting all around, that there was no fun in it anymore... he seemed like a promising young actor. Funny how one event like that can change your whole life trajectory, and maybe it was better if that rejection came earlier rather than later. Must've also stung to be THAT close, second runner up, because you've subconsciously built up all that hope and excitement and thinking "maybe I can do this". I've had my fair share of auditions as a youngster too but I was more doing it for the experience/money than actual interest in acting so whenever I didn't get something it didn't bother me much. So close but so far away... I promise there's another universe where you got picked... but glad you found a way to leave that behind you in this one and not let it define you. Also my jaw dropped when you said Rusty is your brother ! Now I see the resemblance haha.

[@selkie698]

Its so weird that the guy who was sad in the short term became happy in the long run yet jake got anxiety and depression not even a month after the film dropped and ultimately ended up in prison

[@alexdalrymple]

Beautiful mini-doc. Disney should give him a cameo in one of their many upcoming Star Wars projects.

[@johnnyfavorite1194]

He deserves better than Disney’s interpretation of Star Wars.

[@plo617]

@@johnnyfavorite1194 lol

[@barbiquearea]

Since he's now an author maybe he can help write the script for the next Star Wars.

[@iceman00behave]

Why would he accept a role from Disney now? He's obviously made peace with his decision to leave acting behind. Accepting a random role in Star wars would be like Disney handing him a participation trophy, for 'almost being cast as Anakin,' roughly 18 years ago. That's bad enough, but then there's the fact that they had nothing to do with Star Wars back then.

[@kamdan2011]

5:09 This right here is probably what made Lucas second guess his decision on casting. Michael probably let on how much of a fan he was of the trilogy and Lucas didn’t want any of that sensibility in the prequels. None of the actors came off as fans.