There
were many admirals aboard the Death Star, the fearsome weapon of the
Empire, and Admiral Motti was one of those who control this "technological
terror". And also hew was brave enough to tease Darth Vader.
The actor, Richard LeParmentier, who has performed as Admiral Motti,
has gladly accepted to have an interview with YILDIZSAVASLARI.COM.
The actor now resides in the UK and gathers with the fans around the
world. We have asked the questions that most fans are wondering about,
and we hope you like it.
YS.COM: Star Wars was considered as a revolution in cinema industry
for its period. It is a known fact that most people had doubts about
it when it was first revealed. What did you think about this Star
Wars project when you first heard about it?
R.L.:
I knew it would be hit when I first read the script. It just had a
good feeling about it and I thought they wouldn't be making it if
they couldn't do the special effects. But I never knew it would be
this big!!
YS.COM:
Although you had only one scene throughout the Star Wars movies, it
is probably one of the most recognizable among all. What were your
feelings when you first heard of the role? How did you end up with
it?
R.L.:
I was sent a script and offered a two line role. I immediately turned
it down; I didn't do two line roles then. A friend took the role and
waited all morning and was told by George that the scene was cut and
he could go home. Two weeks later I was offered Admiral Motti which
was a six page scene and a choking scene - a perfect way for an actor
to steal a scene. When I arrived on set I had no idea what my Death
Star looked like; it was back at ILM in LA. I figured the big guy
in black robes and helmet was Darth Vader right away.
YS.COM:
Could you tell us about the atmosphere in the Imperial meeting room
scene? How long did it take to shoot it?
R.L.:
It took four days to shoot because of some technical problems. It
was very hot that summer and all the actors did the conference room
scene in their bare feet. Dave as Darth Vader was very hot.
YS.COM:
Have you ever had a moment which you can't forget about while you
were on the set?
R.L.:
In my second scene before I blow up Alderaan I remember Carrie Fisher
joking with Peter Cushing and Dave Prowse. She was and is still very
funny.
YS.COM:
How was your relation with Peter Cushing and Dave Prowse?
R.L.:
I've only gotten to know Dave by doing conventions with him. Peter
was very serious and such a fine actor that I was in awe of him for
the first two days.
YS.COM:
What were the reactions of the fans for your character? Did they think
that Admiral Motti is brave enough to tease Vader, or did they think
that he is out of his mind?
R.L.:
I have heard from so many fans who saw the film when they we're very
young how that scene really scared them. That is very cool for me.
He's the only character in the film who does stand up to him until
Obi Wan turns up on the Death Star.
YS.COM:
Something about Admiral Motti: Did he stand up against Vader because
he has a higher rank in the Imperial Fleet, or simply because he does
not believe in the Force?
R.L.:
Both. He was commander and chief of the Death Star...that's pretty
cool too and until the choke he didn't believe in the Force.
YS.COM:
How do you feel about being Admiral Motti?
R.L.:
I still think it's one of the best Imperial roles.
I only discovered the huge fan base about five years ago. I've been
very lucky to travel to many countries to meet the fans.
YS.COM:
Are you collecting any Star Wars merchandise?
R.L.:
I have a few of my figures but the only thing I collect are hats from
the various fan groups and 501st Stormtrooper Garrisons.
YS.COM:
It has been 20 years since you took part in Star Wars and the new
prequel movies showed up. What do you think about these new generation
Star Wars movies?
R.L.:
It's actually 30 years!! My son loves the new trilogy and we both
liked Episode III. But I am biased, I love the original trilogy.
YS.COM:
Are you going to take part in the new Star Wars TV series?
R.L.:
If I'm asked I certainly will do so.
YS.COM:
If not the TV series, what will be your next project?
R.L.:
I work as a screenwriter these days and I'm working on several scripts
and one project as a producer.
YS.COM:
What do you think about our web site?
R.L.:
One of the best I've seen. Can we link and can you send me a banner?
YS.COM:
What is your message to the Star Wars fans in Turkey?
R.L.:
Organize a Star Wars convention in Istanbul and invite me and Darth
and R2 and Boba Fett.
YS.COM:
We surely would like to see you here in Turkey, are there any plans
for a visit?
R.L.:
My friend Spat has a hotel in Bodrum and I'm planning a vacation there.
YS.COM:
Thank you for sharing your precious memories and experiences with
Star Wars fans of Turkey.
R.L.:
It was a real pleasure.
Click
here
to watch the video where Richard LeParmentier recommends to visit
YILDIZSAVASLARI.COM.
