9 Upcoming Movies That Are Tricking You (But Not How You Think)

7. Palpatine Isn't Really Alive - Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker

What You're Expecting

The shocking final stinger in the first teaser trailer for Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker seemed to flatly suggest that Emperor Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid) is very much alive, and will be making a glorious return to battle Rey (Daisy Ridley) and co. in the movie.

Many have speculated about the precise nature of Palpatine's resurrection, with a common theory being that Matt Smith's mystery character is in fact a reincarnated young Palpatine.

The REAL Trick

However, leaks from a reliable Star Wars fan-site indicate that Smith will not be playing Palpatine himself, but a "Dark Side acolyte" who willingly allows himself to be possessed by the Force spirit of the Emperor.

It's basically a storytelling compromise, avoiding the pure, unfettered fan-service of magically resurrecting the long-dead Emperor, but nevertheless allowing his presence to be palpably felt through a new vessel.

As such, don't expect to see much (if anything) of Matt Smith in the marketing leading up to the movie's release, assuming that this plot point will be kept under wraps until it hits cinemas.