Captain Phasma, played by Gwendoline Christie, served as a high-ranking officer in the First Order. As the commander of the stormtrooper corps, Phasma ensured discipline and efficiency among the ranks. Ruthless and unwavering in loyalty to Supreme Leader Snoke and General Hux, this leader represented the militaristic strength of the First Order. The polished chromium armor set Phasma apart, making the captain a symbol of authority and fear.
Captain Phasma’s Role in the First Order
The First Order rose from the remnants of the Galactic Empire, determined to reclaim control of the galaxy. Phasma played a key role in this mission, overseeing the training and deployment of stormtroopers. Unlike the Republic’s clone troopers, First Order stormtroopers were taken from their families at a young age and conditioned for loyalty. Phasma personally ensured that these soldiers remained obedient, eliminating any signs of weakness.
During the destruction of the New Republic’s capital by Starkiller Base, Phasma remained stationed on the superweapon, coordinating operations. Orders were carried out without hesitation, demonstrating absolute commitment to the First Order’s cause. Supreme Leader Snoke relied on officers like Phasma to maintain control through fear and discipline.
Encounters with Finn in The Force Awakens
A former stormtrooper known as FN-2187, later called Finn, deserted after witnessing the brutality of the First Order. Phasma considered desertion a disgrace, viewing Finn as a traitor. While attempting to escape Jakku, Finn, Han Solo, and Chewbacca infiltrated Starkiller Base.
The group captured Phasma and forced the commander to disable the base’s shields, allowing the Resistance to launch an attack. Under normal circumstances, Phasma would never surrender, but the situation left no choice. Finn saw this as a moment of victory, turning the tables on the officer who once demanded unwavering obedience. After deactivating the shields, Phasma was thrown into a garbage compactor, but survival was inevitable.
Return in The Last Jedi
Phasma resurfaced after the destruction of Starkiller Base. As the First Order pursued the fleeing Resistance fleet, Phasma maintained authority over the stormtroopers. Order and discipline were essential, especially as the fleet engaged in a slow but relentless chase against General Leia Organa and her forces.
Onboard the Supremacy, Phasma once again encountered Finn. Alongside Resistance mechanic Rose Tico, Finn launched a mission to disable the First Order’s tracking system. The mission failed, leading to capture and execution orders. Before the execution could be carried out, Vice Admiral Holdo’s lightspeed maneuver tore through the Supremacy, causing chaos.
Amid the destruction, Phasma confronted Finn in a final battle. The fight was intense, with Phasma using a baton reinforced with electro-plasma energy. Finn, now fully committed to the Resistance, refused to back down. As the battle progressed, Phasma fell into the collapsing structure, disappearing into the flames.
The Legacy of Captain Phasma
Phasma’s influence remained significant even after the fall. The First Order’s stormtrooper program continued, shaping new soldiers into unyielding warriors. The idea of loyalty through fear remained deeply ingrained within the ranks.
Despite a limited presence in the overall conflict, Phasma’s role highlighted the First Order’s brutality. Starkiller Base’s destruction, Finn’s rebellion, and the final battle aboard the Supremacy all connected back to this commander’s actions. The legacy of Phasma extended beyond personal survival, shaping the future of the First Order’s military forces.
