Phasma

Phasma is a major character in the Star Wars franchise and is introduced in the sequel trilogy. She is a high-ranking member of the First Order known for her distinctive reflective chrome stormtrooper armor. Created by the director J.J. Abrams, her character was introduced in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Phasma is portrayed by British actress Gwendoline Christie, who plays a pivotal role in the sequel films.

Commander Phasma is unique because she is the first on-screen female Stormtrooper in Star Wars. Her character breaks the glass ceiling in terms of female representation in the Star Wars universe, and she is hailed as a symbol of women empowerment. Despite her limited screen time, she was quick to catch fan attention due to her unique armor, authoritarian position, and ruthless demeanor.

Phasma’s backstory is explored in the novel "Star Wars: Phasma," by Delilah S. Dawson. It reveals her origins on the brutal and desolate planet of Parnassos, where she was part of the Scyre tribe. Out of sheer survival, Phasma killed her own brother in a combat trial. Recognizing her ruthless survival instinct and capacity for leadership, General Hux offered Phasma a position in the First Order and she agreed to guide them to her homeworld's resources.

In "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," Phasma played a smaller but significant role. As one of the commanding figures in the First Order, she played a part in the training of Finn, who eventually defected. One of the movie’s memorable scenes involved Phasma being forced to help deactivate the shields around Starkiller Base, which led to its destruction.

The Resistance captured her, and in a comic tie-in to "The Last Jedi," she killed the only witnesses to her betrayal, protecting her status within the First Order. Unfortunately, in "Star Wars: The Last Jedi," she met her end during a confrontation with Finn.

Phasma's character epitomizes the stern and unmerciful aspects of the First Order's militaristic regime. Despite her limited screen presence, Phasma remains an undisputed icon in the Star Wars universe and serves as a testament to its rich and diversified character roster.