GUNNER
The Death Star Gunner Helmet was created for Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope in 1976 and manufactured by Andrew Ainsworth at Shepperton Design Studios. Worn by Imperial personnel operating the Death Star's weapons systems and technical stations, the helmet was designed to complement the distinctive uniform of the Death Star Gunners while maintaining the utilitarian aesthetic of the Galactic Empire.
Manufactured using vacuum forming techniques from high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), each helmet was hand trimmed, assembled and finished using the original production methods. Like other costume components produced for the film, the handmade nature of the manufacturing process resulted in subtle variations between individual helmets, reflecting the practical realities of film production.
Distinguished by its smooth, rounded form and prominent flared visor, the Death Star Gunner Helmet has become one of the most recognisable Imperial helmets from the original Star Wars film. Although produced in far smaller numbers than the Stormtrooper and TIE Fighter helmets, it remains an important part of the original costume legacy created by Andrew Ainsworth at Shepperton Design Studios.
MYSTERY
“LOW BROW & SLIT EYE...”
The very low brow implied a large powerful brain and with only one large ‘Slit Eye’ spreading from side to side. The character evoked a sinister attitude not to be messed with. The eye lens was made from translucent grey acrylic and although you could see out, no one could see in, very mysterious and unnerving.
HIGH GLOSS
“From the DARK SIDE...”
“Two new black helmets & three white ones”and that was all the information Andrew received. Inspired by medieval paintings from Hieronymus Bosch a strange but distinctive type of helmet was formed. This became known as the Imperial Gunner, but Andrew named it “Jawbone”…
JAWBONE
“FROM THE MIDDLE AGES”...
Under the eye Andrew designed an even stranger feature, a large protruding chin that protected, suggesting outward aggression. The rear swoop at the back of the helmet balanced out the structure and completed the slick, sinister appearance of the “Slit Eyed Monster”.
EAR PIECE
“ORDERS FROM THE MASTER...”
Like the rest of the characters, Andrew often included some sort of communication device. In this case it was small box on the left hand side of the helmet with a dial attached. Red and blue control knobs and switch were mounted on the front side of the communication earpiece.
MYSTERY
“LOW BROW & SLIT EYE...”
The very low brow implied a large powerful brain and with only one large ‘Slit Eye’ spreading from side to side. The character evoked a sinister attitude not to be messed with. The eye lens was made from translucent grey acrylic and although you could see out, no one could see in, very mysterious and unnerving.