BEHIND THE SCENES: IMPERIAL GATHERING!

The Death Star is nearing fully operational status as Grand Moff Tarkin and Darth Vader assemble to discuss the latest developments of the Empire and the Rebels stolen plans, in this great and iconic scene from the original STAR WARS.

Patrick Jordan as Cass (far left), with Richard LeParmentier far right as Motti.

Richard LeParmentier confers with Ann Skinner prior to filming.

Joining Peter Cushing's Tarkin and the Vader-suited Dave Prowse for the May 1976 filming at Elstree were a host of Imperial officers, diagram listed in Script Supervisor Ann Skinner's notes as played by Don Henderson (Tagge), Richard LeParmentier (Motti), Patrick Jordan (Cass) - fourth seat left from Tarkin, Charles Gray (not to be confused with BOND UK film actor Charles Gray), Ian Selby, and Robin Clarke. Another actor was listed, only as "Monk"? The empty seats around the conference table were always planned that way. Also noted and red ILM work underlined in her January 1st, 1976 script was the moment where "a cup mysteriously floats into Vader's hands"- a scene that was not filmed but made it to the Alan Dean Foster novel adaptation and the 1976 comic adaptation and has become a fan favourite legendary moment. Footage was shot of Dave Prowse as Vader referring to the Force as "the cosmic force", as written in the Revised Fourth Draft Script (15th March, 1976). ROGUE ONE director Gareth Edwards recently saw this scene/outtake material as part of his research in filming and directing upcoming scenes involving Vader.

The meeting continues.

Motti feels the Dark Side of the Force!

Skinner's costume notes for the "Imperial guards (human)"- "shiny wide hats with brim straps, gloves, boots, gun at hip".

With thanks to Ann Skinner and the BFI.

Photo thanks to STAR WARS ARCHIVES and Chris Baker.