A Star Wars fan just proposed an incredible theory about Jar Jar Binks that might change how you view the entire series.
Redditor Lumpawarroo claims that far from the ill attempt at comedic relief we all assumed he was, "Jar Jar Binks was a trained Force user" and "knowing Sith collaborator..."
In fact, Jar Jar Binks might be one of the most important characters in the series.
But let's start at the top: Lumpawarroo begins by proving that Jar Jar is "a skilled warrior," calling Binks' silly manner and lumbering techniques a "deliberate facade."
Sure, maybe feats like the dive above are just dumb luck, but let's not forget the words of Obi Wan Kenobi:
In fact, Jar Jar's "goofy and uncoordinated" mannerisms are a sophisticated form of martial arts focusing on "bodily momentum, deception, and unpredictability intended to lure and confuse opponents."
This technique is known as Zui Quan or Drunken Fist, and Lumpawarroo put together these side-by-side comparisons to prove Jar Jar's mastery of the form:
Kipping up:
Sloshing:
Sweeping the legs:
Centering:
But Jar Jar being a "secret Drunken Fist boxing master" is only the beginning of this fascinating theory. Next, Lumpawarroo argues that Binks is "a master of Jedi Mind Control."
"Jedi (and presumably Sith) exhibit telltale signs when using the Mind Trick to implant suggestions or influence behavior. For one, they always gesticulate and not-so-subtly wave their hands at the target."
With that in mind, take a look at "some pivotal Jar Jar moments" during his ascent to power:
Here we see Jar Jar casually gesturing as he's promoted to Bombad General of the Gungan Grand Army:
Here's Jar Jar subtly gesturing to Queen Amidala before being offered a seat on the Galactic Senate:
And here's Jar Jar waving toward the entire Galactic Senate while urging them to give supreme power to Palpatine:
But it doesn't stop there. Lumpawarroo goes on to theorize that Jar Jar Binks and Palpatine were actually "co-conspirators."
"If Jar Jar is putting forth an elaborate act to deceive people, it means he's not a fool... and if he's not a fool, it means his actions in Episode II [Attack of the Clones] that facilitate Palpatine's plans are not those of an unwitting tool- they are those of a partner."
Adding to that, "Palpatine still hangs out with Jar Jar" in Revenge of the Sith.
In fact, Jar Jar Binks and Senator Palpatine are both from the planet Naboo, which, Lumpawarroo points out, "in the scale of the Star Wars universe is like growing up as next door neighbors."
To dive even deeper into Lumpawarroo's theory, including his belief that Jar Jar Binks mirrors the character of Yoda, and how this will all affect the forthcoming Star Wars trilogy, check out the full Reddit thread.
Update: Ahmed Best, the actor who played Jar Jar Binks, most definitely believes:
I will say this, it feels really good when the hidden meaning behind the work is seen. No matter how long it takes. #TPM