traitor

It’s been almost a decade since the release of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and yet the legacy of one particular meme from the movie still lives on. The “traitor” meme, featuring a scene where John Boyega’s character Finn battles with an enemy stormtrooper who yells out “traitor,” has become a staple of Star Wars internet culture. Let’s take a closer look at the origins and impact of this meme.

The Origins of the Traitor Meme

The scene in question takes place during the opening battle sequence of The Last Jedi. Finn, who has defected from the First Order, faces off against a fellow stormtrooper wielding an electrified baton. The stormtrooper recognizes Finn and shouts “traitor” before attacking him. The scene itself is intense and well-choreographed, but it’s the stormtrooper’s single line that has captured the internet’s attention.

Soon after the movie’s release, the “traitor” meme began to spread across social media. Screenshots of the stormtrooper with his baton were edited to include humorous captions or to replace the baton with other objects. The line “traitor” itself became a catchphrase, used to describe anyone who has betrayed their beliefs or allegiances.

The Impact of the Traitor Meme

While the “traitor” meme may seem like just another internet joke, it has had a significant impact on Star Wars fandom. The meme has become a way for fans to connect and express their love for the franchise. It’s also a reflection of the way that Star Wars has become a part of mainstream culture, with even casual fans able to recognize and participate in the meme.

But the “traitor” meme has also had its detractors. Some fans feel that the meme has taken away from the seriousness of the scene and the character of the stormtrooper. Others feel that the meme reinforces negative stereotypes about Stormtroopers being mindless drones. There are also those who feel that the meme has been overused and has lost its original impact.

Responses from Fans and Cast Members

Many fans have shared their thoughts on the “traitor” meme over the years. Some have created their own memes and fan art featuring the stormtrooper, while others have criticized the meme’s use. Actor John Boyega, who played Finn in the sequel trilogy, has also weighed in on the meme.

In a 2018 interview with GQ, Boyega expressed his frustration with the meme, saying “It’s just not funny anymore. It’s been done.” He went on to say that the meme takes away from the serious nature of the scene and that he wished people would focus on other aspects of the movie.

Conclusion

Whether you love it or hate it, the “traitor” meme has become an enduring part of Star Wars culture. It’s a testament to the power of the franchise and the way that it has impacted people’s lives. As we look to the future of Star Wars, it will be interesting to see if any new memes or catchphrases emerge that capture the internet’s attention in the same way as the “traitor” meme.