The Phantom Menace Decoy Ruse: How Sabé Fooled the Trade Federation and Even Jedi Master Qui Gon Jinn

Queen Amidala's use of her handmaiden Sabé as a decoy in The Phantom Menace is a clever and effective ruse that highlights the queen's strategic thinking and leadership skills. The use of a decoy is not uncommon in politics and war, and Queen Amidala's decision to employ this tactic demonstrates her willingness to do whatever it takes to protect her people.

Sabé, who is played by actress Keira Knightley, is introduced in the film as one of Queen Amidala's handmaidens. However, it is later revealed that Sabé has been serving as a decoy for the queen, taking on the role of Queen Amidala in public appearances and dangerous situations. This allows Queen Amidala to move about more freely and protect herself from potential threats.

Director George Lucas said:

"The idea is that these people live in a very dangerous universe, and they need to be protected. They have doppelgängers and decoys and all sorts of things to keep them safe."

The use of Sabé as a decoy also speaks to Queen Amidala's leadership abilities. She trusts her handmaidens implicitly and is willing to put their lives on the line for her cause. In turn, her handmaidens are fiercely loyal to her and are willing to risk their own safety to protect her.

Before the ruse is revealed, Padme, as a handmaiden says to Sabe (as the Queen of Naboo) "We are brave, your highness." This is the real queen telling her disguised decoy how to proceed in the conversation.

In addition to fooling the Trade Federation and keeping viewers guessing, Queen Amidala's decoy ruse also managed to dupe the Jedi Master Qui Gon Jinn. Despite his years of training and experience, Qui Gon Jinn was initially unable to discern that Sabé was not the real Queen Amidala. This is a testament to the effectiveness of the decoy ruse and the skill of Sabé as an actress. It also showcases the limitations of even the most skilled Jedi when it comes to matters of politics and deception.

Overall, the use of Sabé as a decoy in The Phantom Menace is a clever and effective tactic that showcases Queen Amidala's strategic thinking and leadership skills. It also adds an element of intrigue to the film and keeps viewers engaged.

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